Want To Find Unique And Stylish Gifts That Everyone Will Love? We've Got Some Handy Tips
By Sean Tham -
If you’re shopping for friend who either works in the fashion industry or is a fashionista obsessed with all things fashion, you’re definitely up for a challenge. She’s probably someone who is exquisitely stylish, which also means she is picky, has unique tastes, and would loathe the fashion-related item you have picked out for her — if they are not up to her standards.
But don’t despair! Everyone loves a chic gift, so it’s not too hard as long as you are savvy about it. A rule of thumb? Put yourself in their shoes and consider what they might prefer. Still unsure? Here are some tips from us to help make sure you bring your A-game when shopping for your gal pal.
Additional reporting: Aaron Kok / Images: Instagram, 123RF.
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The first thing you should consider is the omnipresence of your purchase. Ask yourself: How many people will be wearing this piece out in the streets? If the figure is anything more than five, give it a wide berth. Your friend is likely to eschew looking mainstream. Go for indie brands instead. They are niche (i.e. less well-known) and often have fresh perspectives that can mean unique and artisanal pieces.
Don’t cut corners and gift something that’s cheap if you feel obliged to appear with a present during a Christmas Eve party. Trust us, your fashionable friends would rather have you showing up empty handed.
Although pieces from fast-fashion brands are affordable and stylish, they may come across as insincere or basic as a gift. If you’re still at a loss, you can always go straight to the counter and load up a gift card. A gift card (especially from Sephora) always works.
There are two main reasons why fashion lovers splurge on designer goods. One is to show their appreciation for designers who painstakingly produce four to five collections each year, while the other is their quality: High-end products simply have better longevity than high-street ones.
While brand new designer products are certainly out of your budget when it comes to gifts, you can head to vintage stores which offer second hand designer goodies at a cheaper rate. Talk about getting a bang for your buck. Not just that, vintage pieces are hard to come by, so your friend will appreciate how unique the present is.
For something a little more special, consider Singaporean brands. Not only do some brands have designs that are cool, classy, contemporary and sometimes unconventional, they are also often more affordable (yet not lacking in style). You also get to support local, so why not!
The best way to ace your gift is to keep a keen ear out for hints your friend might knowingly (or unknowingly) drop. Has she been saying that she needs a new pair of jeans? Or is she struggling to find a mascara that she loves? By keeping an ear out to what she says, you can avoid buying something that she may not need.