BAM IT'S JOANNE

There is not one girl who doesn't need a new bag for Christmas. But a large bag is sometimes tricky to get as a gift. Some girls love to hold their bags on their arms, others like it on their shoulders, and yet some love cross-body bags for practicality. In contrast, the use of a clutch is, most of the time, universal. I mean, how else can you hold it besides clutching it? It’s called a clutch after all!  

CLARE VIVIER Haircalf Fold Over Clutch, $218.40 via Shopbop

Pick a scent that is unique to her. For example, if she loves pumpkin soup and soy chai latte is her signature coffee drink, why not personalize it and give her a Pumpkin Chai Candle?

Pumpkin Chai Candle – Nest $35.36 via Neiman Marcus

The oversized watch trend started a few seasons ago, but this trend is still sticking around. Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs make some of the most sought-after models. For cheaper alternatives, try Lovisa, Equipment or Diva.

Michael Kors Runway Twist Watch $250 via ShopBop

Since we Australians in the Southern Hemisphere miss out on white Christmas, make the most out of summer by giving out sunnies to all of your closest girlfriends! Then relax and enjoy your day on the beach with your new sunnies (of course she gave you a pair, too!) after a long, tiring day of opening presents (phew!).

Angled Cat Eye Sunglasses $22.88 via Oasap

The only catch to giving out earrings is to make sure this particular friend of yours has her ears pierced! There is nothing worse than watching her unwrap the present with excitement, only to be disappointed with an “oh, but my ears are not pierced.” Awkward!

Iosselliani Fused Stone Skull Stud Earrings $150.00 via Shopbop

A light summer scarf that can double up as a shawl for those late night Christmas/New Year’s party will definitely come in handy! Pick a neutral colour to be safe. But if her style is more adventurous, it’s always handy to note that the floral print is back again this season!

We Belong Together Floral Scarf $14.99 via ShopRuche

If there is one beauty item that most girls carry in their purse, it’s a lip product. A nude (or light pink) lip gloss is perfect for touch-ups during dinner parties, and adds that little bit of shine for picture-perfect moments! Snap (flash) away!

Ultra Shine Lip Gloss, Naked - Tom Ford Beauty $50.00 via Saks Fifth Avenue

Ahh, the fountain of youth in a bottle. Women like to try top-tiered skin care products that everyone raves about, at the risk of splurging and then finding out that it doesn’t work for her skin type. Which is why receiving a day cream product with a cult following as a gift is always welcomed. After all, she has always wanted to try this brand out, but won’t have to feel guilty if it doesn’t work- she didn’t spend a cent on it! And if it works miracles, you are the friend she’ll be eternally grateful for.

Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream Light 1oz $45.00 via SkinStore

I mean, come on. Even you have to admit that it’s nice receiving something with your initials engraved on it! It adds that hint of thoughtfulness and sentimentality into your gift, which is always a plus. Bonus point if it’s engraved on a piece of jewellery.

Gold Petite Signet Pinky Ring $430 via Max and Chloe

When there are so many celebratory parties to go to, it’s a little absurd to expect a woman to have different dresses for each occasion. That’s when you come in to save the day! She can wear the same LBD to two different parties and still get away with it, if she’s wearing the necklace you gave her as a present! It’s amazing how a statement necklace draws attention to her neckline. Shhh... No one has to know she’s in the same dress two nights in a row…

J.Crew Riviera Necklace $223 via J.Crew