Holiday season knitwear gifts needn’t be limited to classic cashmere or Fair Isle sweaters. If you’re buying for someone who knows their Stone Island from their SAINT LAURENT, our tip for Christmas 2023 is to go wavy. We’re talking psychedelic, fuzzy knits crafted from enviably plush fabrics, like this eye-catching tie-dye patterned cardigan with tie waist from ZEGNA x The Elder Statesman, Marni’s grungy striped mohair or a chunky, shawl-collar cashmere style from Gabriela Hearst.

We’re calling it: a scarf might be the ultimate present. Cosy, long-lasting, no risk of it not fitting and a great canvas for colour, pattern or texture that might be considered too “out there” in another piece of clothing. For the fashion-forward friend or family member, may we suggest something from Acne Studios? The brand’s scarves are so desirable that they have been known to sell out within weeks (so step to it). We’ll guess that LOEWE is also top of their neck-wear Wish List – we love this dark moss green mohair style. Or, for a totally iconic choice, go for cashmere Burberry in cobalt blue.

There’ll be plenty of shoes-off time over the coming months, so make sure they can put their feet up in style. Toe-toasting socks are just the ticket, and ultra-soft cashmere is the obvious choice, whether it’s a two-tone pair from Ms Gigi Hadid’s Guest in Residence or a rust-coloured ribbed design by perennial cashmere aficionados, The Elder Statesman. Think they’ll prefer chunky cotton for everyday wear? KAPITAL’s trademark smiley face heel socks are a no-fail stocking stuffer for even the coolest of customers.

We don’t know about you, but we’re suckers for home fragrance. Scented candles bring a little festive hygge to any situation – and that just-extinguished smell is pure Proustian moment. Not all candles are created equal, however. As your well-informed compadre will know, your choice of candle is as much a marker of taste as the books on your coffee table. The most-wanted candle du jour has got to be from Loewe Home Scents – the brand’s plant-inspired scents are unsurpassed – but for a festive fireside atmosphere, Tom Dixon’s woodsmoke-scented wax is the one to go for. Paul Smith’s attractive blue and yellow glass candle offers a relaxing aroma that includes lavender and hay.

Beanie shmeanie. When buying a hat for someone truly trend setting, think outside the box. Gift wrap a brushed wool hot pink balaclava from Jacquemus and they’ll be the talk of the gathering for all the right reasons (styling tip: pair with a down bomber jacket and cargo trousers). Also on the balaclava flex is Rick Owens – this fine green cashmere style fits close to the head, making it a great ski option, too. AIREI is known for its unconventional design. The LA label’s distressed knitted silk bucket hat is handmade, so each piece is unique – just like the person receiving it.