The Classic Gift List 2023: The Always and Forever Style Presents

Overwhelmed with Holiday shopping?

Here’s a tip: Everyone needs essentials. Unlike a 6-pack of socks, classics don’t need to be mundane. Overriding ephemeral trends for these perennial and functional pieces will land you a permanent spot on the best-gifter list.

From delectable treats to velvety cashmere, delight with these cherished classics. Focus on definitive scents, winter elegance, ideal beauty, and timeless publications. Every item falls into any wish-list withstanding time. The BKDWN discovered and tested these gifts for you.

The Covetable Handbag

Who doesn’t like a gift that appreciates over time? The Prada Galleria has made a comeback at a few grand more than the original release in 2010. This handbag in the house’s Saffiano leather is best found vintage as the newer ones are not as well built for the considerable markup.

Say Merry Carrie with the Dior Saddle bag in a fantabulous color. This is one of the most wanted bags in a new more convenient size. Since the mini is more flip phone than iPhone-friendly, this little tidbit is appreciated by no-frills-but-style doshas. The pink (below) is no longer available and the cost of the mini increased within only 3 months of its 2023 debut. Purple from the same collection or their new Deep Fuchsia wine are standouts.

Big Impact Small Leather

Organizing those $2 bills never looked chicer with this Nicolas Ghesquière original. The Louis Vuitton Twist Wallet in the house’s Epi leather is another item that has appreciated over the last few years. Their US online selection is slim and better found in France- there is a high probability that the US stores carry ones made in NJ or Texas.

Louis Vuitton Twist Wallet $1230

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Iconic Cashmere

Sweater, Trousers, Scarf… That’s all. Keeping your nearest and dearest warm in style is a holiday tradition. These wardrobe-essential cashmere pieces last forever and override the need for extra layers.

“Pitta edginess benefits from cashmere’s softness. ”

— Ayurvedic Tidbit, Dr. Kuver

Irresistible Beauty Gifts

Nails, lips and scents add that essential pop to daily outfits. Red nails and plumped lips never go out of style. These have been researched for years by our beauty editor. The long handle on Louboutin’s original Rouge makes it easy to apply and the red defines classic. Off-White’s Paperwork No. 4 is a perfect blend of tobacco and sandalwood. The packaging is also a work of art that uses real metal valve hardware and debossed logoed glass.

The new Tatcha lip mask in Wisteria nourishes lips with a pretty tint. Hermès makes the list with their new Autumn/Winter cases designed by Pierre Hardy. These gorgeous ombre cartridges can be refilled with other shades and are a welcomed gift.

“Kapha needs the splash of red.”

— Ayurvedic Tidbit, Dr. Kuver

Legendary Candles

Light up the room with flair and unforgettable aromas. Fornasetti and Diptyque candles smell luxurious and decorate any room or dining table. These are as iconic as you get in candles for the holidays. Any host will appreciate these along with Santa Maria Novella’s Carta d’Armenia papers to refresh the space after a gathering. SMN's wax tablets are essential for fresh moth-free closets and drawers.

“Vata nerves are calmed with earthy, grounding scents of pine and sandalwood.”

— Ayurvedic Tidbit, Dr. Kuver

Luxury Sleepwear

Silk is the word for quality slumber. Winter dryness draws moisture away from the skin, which can cause uncomfortable sleep. High-quality silk has a luxurious feel while providing warmth. Sleep like Shirley Temple in “The Little Princess” to improve cognition, skin regeneration, and mood balance. These silk PJs and robes are a sumptuous way to end the day in relaxation.

Waltzing Shoes

Finding a pair of wearable art that will be on repeat is a formidable task. Count on Nicolas Ghesquière, Chanel and Birkenstock to deliver. Feeling sustainable? These NG-era Balenciaga heels made the best gift in 2011. Remember their avant-garde store on the West Side? These are worth scouring vintage or resale sites. A reliable back-up option is Pierre Hardy, a frequent NG collaborator.

Chanel opts for classic tweed and patent leather Mary Janes to amplify their omnipresent ballerina flats. For the homebodies, these Birkenstock Arizona’s raise the game on fuzzy slippers. Shearling and felt warm up gift wrapping sessions and long winter nights.

“Vata extremities get cold so a pair of warming shoes are essential.”

— Ayurvedic Tidbit, Dr. Kuver

Forever Silk

Hermès scarves are year-round favorites. These are kept for a lifetime and passed through generations. The double-face scarves add more variety and come in beautiful designs. The cashmere and silk shawls offer more coverage with some of the same designs.

Hermès Clair de Lune Shawl $1225

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Amplified Books

Inspiring books on life and art from science to fashion are welcomed treasures for every home. Cindy Crawford’s Becoming connects with the Dr. Aarti Kuver’s Little STEMmers. Both books tell the stories of women overcoming challenges and decision-making. Also, CC is an honorary woman in STEM because she was a chemical engineering major. STEMmers is beautifully illustrated by award-winning fashion designer and has become a classic for kids and adults.

Decades by Megan-Harry royal photographer Alexi Lubomirski adds remarkable color to any setting. Einstein is not only beautifully covered in cloth, but also includes engaging tidbits for a lifetime of evaluation. Both are published by Damiani.

“Pitta saves sensitive eyes with time away from screen perusing and spent book reading.”

— Ayurvedic Tidbit, Dr. Kuver

Eternal Jewelry and Trinkets

Diamonds and catchalls rescue the toughest gift lists. Cartier red is emblematic of holiday gifting. Small diamonds for everyday wear are a wardrobe essential. Hermès hand-painted change trays offer a charming way to hold them.

Satiating Eats and Drinks

Nothing is better than a satiated appetite. Wines and noshes from Wölffer and Breads Bakery feed the essence of any doshic palate. Wölffer’s reds like their Finca Malbec and Merlot compliment a wide range of dishes and budgets. The holiday chocolate babka pie by Breads is a must. For little treats, a new favorite is Ladurèe’s Eugénies. Caramel, Black Currant and Orange in their 18-flavor box is a perfect gift for the host. To top off the hosting presents, Marie Belle hot chocolate is absolutely the best served European or American style.