Chic fashion gifts for women: Christmas 2019
Black clothing doesn't have to be boring: indulge your favourite style raven this Christmas
Chic, sleek, elegant: however you choose to label it, this look is all about keeping things simple with enough detail to create a point of difference without causing a fuss.
All well and good, but could you think of a more intimidating person to buy for? Enter Culture Whisper to steer you through this sartorial minefield and help you to strike the right note and balance your budget.
Scroll on for a curated selection of elegant fashion gifts that take things back to basics without becoming boring.
1 Metal logo cashmere rib-knit beanie, £175, Barrie
When it comes to cashmere, Barrie is the ultimate indulgence: owned by Chanel and operating from the Scottish Borders, the brand has been moving in a more fashion-forward direction recently but it's still a label with a fashion insider edge for now. This elegant black beanie is a canny investment that knocks other brands' offerings into a cocked hat.
Short faux fur piana coat, £345, Gerard Darel
Plush faux fur has become a winter style staple, and this refined navy number makes it easy to see why. Like a wearable hug, this classic coat can be styled with jeans and boots for a casual winter walk, or slung over a slinky party dress come New Year's Eve.
3 Lecce leather belt, £90, Isabel Marant
There are some things that are worth investing in, however boring it might seem, and the right belt is one of them. This obi-esque waist style is perfect for balancing the proportions of a chunky sweater or even a blazer now, and can be worn over a mannish shirtdress come summer. It's a piece that will last too: the waist becomes fashion's focus every few years.
4 Off-the-shoulder crepe midi-dress, £360, Self Portrait
Is there anything more exciting than unwrapping a new party dress on Christmas Day? It could only be improved upon with an unbeatable invitation to some upcoming revelry. When choosing a dress for someone else, consider the areas of the body they usually cover up and shop sympathetically to that, but don't be afraid to encourage a more body-positive point of view too.
On one hand this glossy pair of ankle boots is utterly practical and will go with everything, but that Marant flair make them simply sublime.
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Sebritte cropped leather flared pants, £1,000, EquipmentOnce a risqué fashion statement, leather trousers are now pretty commonplace and an easy alternative to jeans when you want to feel a bit more polished. Whether you opt for leather or a vegan alternative is a personal decision, but either makes a solid wardrobe investment. Choosing a style that's slim-fitting, well made and free of extraneous adornment, such as zips, will ensure that they're a long-wearing buy.
7 Braided velvet headband, £27, & Other Stories
For the party princess in your life. Hair accessories have been a big story this year, and the Sloaney Pony headband has been brought back with tongue firmly placed in cheek. This version is suitably chunky without being too bulky, has a nice texture from the velvet but lacks the diamantés and pearls that will inevitably fall off its rivals rendering them unwearable.
8 Postbox small velvet and textured leather tote, £895, Anya Hindmarch
A very grown-up bag that's sure to put a smile on your loved one's face. The Postbox collection from Anya Hindmarch is a mastery of technique and precision design, and just happens to be absolutely fabulous. An investment piece that will be loved for years to come.
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Monogram-clasp leather belt bag, £890, BurberryProving that elegance and edginess aren't mutually exclusive, this sleek leather belt bag has the all-important reworked Burberry logo centre-stage. The detachable strap means it can do double duty as a clutch. Two for the price of one? Bargain.
