Last Minute Gifts for Those People You Haven't Thought Of (Yet)
Do your future self a favour with these perfect, last-minute gifts.
Growing up, I thought that a ‘present cupboard’ was a typical household occurrence. The type of common regularity you would find in your average suburban household, just like a deep-freeze or a dodgy-looking tyre swing in the backyard.
The ‘present cupboard’, as coined by my grandmother, was located in a closet, tucked away in one of the bedrooms, where she would fritter away small, reasonably priced trinkets and other miscellaneous gifts. Over the years, whenever she spotted something that “looked like a good gift”, she would buy it and pop it in the cupboard to await its yet-to-be-decided recipient.
As a typical child, I, of course, thought the idea of a cupboard full of presents was a wondrous thing - the kind of tradition I’d most certainly continue once I reached adulthood. No matter how late the invitation, how chaotic the week, or forgetful the mind, there was always something in that cupboard, ensuring you never turned up empty-handed.
However, as I morphed into my adult life, I came to learn that a ‘present cupboard’ isn’t as typical as I once thought. And, based on the spatial realities of my current apartment, isn’t likely something I’ll have the room for in the near - or probably distant - future.
Despite the impracticalities of a real-life ‘present cupboard’, its lessons have stuck with me; it’s now just a digital process. Any time I spot a sweet or special something, I save it to my ‘Present’ Pinterest board. Then, when the inevitable happens, I can avoid present-panic because I’ve got a pre-populated list of things to pick from that I know anyone in my life will love.
So, whether it’s a last-minute invitation, a Kris Kringle call-up or you’ve just found out your new-ish partner's mum will be ‘popping by’ on Christmas day, keep reading for our list of gifts suitable to have on hand (or pinned) for every short notice, gifting occasion.
1. La Fontelina 100% French Flax Linen Napkins (Set of Four)
Conversation-starting tableware? Yes, please. Wherever you are in the world, you can transport yourself to the Italian island of Capri with these vibrant linen napkins. The perfect gift for the globetrotter (or pasta enthusiast) in your life, these will add a dash of colour to any tablescape. Buon appetito!
2. Oatmeal 100% French Flax Linen Muslin Throw
Give the gift of cosiness with our ultra-soft Oatmeal & Olive Muslin Throw. Oatmeal is a fail-safe option, matching décor of any colour or style. Or, if you're buying for someone whose home you know well, you can also opt for Oatmeal & Olive, Terracotta & Hazelnut or Oatmeal & Mocha. Pro tip: pair it with their favourite chocolates or a book you know they'll love to make it extra thoughtful.
3. The Makers by Bed Threads
What started as our excuse to peek into the homes of our favourite creatives, has become flagship Journal series The Makers. Now, 50 of our most beloved home tours, from Courtney Adamo's 120-year-old Northern Rivers bungalow, to Zara Seidler's inner-city rental is immortalised in the pages of this beautiful linen-bound book. So if you know anyone looking for interiors inspiration or who's just a little voyeuristic (all of us, let's be real), this is the gift for them.
4. Rosewater & Sage Check Terry Hand and Face Towel
When it doubt, go for a universally-loved pattern and colour combo. Whether their aesthetic is minimal, eclectic or something in between, your loved one is guaranteed to be showered in compliments with these terry weave Hand and Face Towels on display. If they've been extra good this year, you can throw in matching Bath Mats and Bath Towels and make it a bundle.
5. Assouline Tulum Gypset - Travel from Home Candle
Aunt who has everything? Mysterious colleague? Hard-to-please sister-in-law? Bestie who you should have already bought a present for? Trust us, everyone loves a candle. The Assouline Tulum Gypset - Travel from Home Candle is the next best thing after plane tickets to the Mexican coast. Their home will be transformed into a beachside paradise year-round with a gift that looks as good as it smells.
6. Pink Clay & Hazelnut Petal Coasters (Set of Four)
Whether they're sipping champagne, eggnog or a fruity mocktail these holidays, everyone needs something to rest their glass on. Why not make it as pretty as possible? These cute two-tone coasters are ultra-absorbent, durable and easy to wash, so as the night goes on, stories become more animated and hands are flying, those inevitable spills are no big deal. Feeling generous? Style them with our matching Petal Placemats to give your giftee a complete look.
7. Sage & Crème 100% French Flax Linen Bedding Bundle
Let us do the hard work of finding the perfect linen combination with a 100% French Flax Linen Bedding Bundle. Go with what you think they'll love, but if you're unsure, we suggest Sage & Crème, one of our current favourites and all-time bestsellers. This crowd-pleasing set can be paired with pretty much every bedroom aesthetic, design scheme and seasonal vibe. A great night's sleep wrapped in plush linen? Priceless.
8. Lavender & Petrol 100% French Flax Linen Scalloped European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
With punchy colour and eye-catching curved edges, our Scalloped European Pillowcases add decorative flair to any room of the house. Inspired by iconic French designer Jean Royère, our scalloped range spans pillowcases, tableware and even candles. Modern classics for every person and every space.
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