As a disciple of Gwyneth, I’ve long been a lover of goop’s Ridiculous But Awesome Gift Guide. For some reason, they did not do them this year. So, I took it upon myself to make my own guide of things I cannot afford but would love to give someone.
The Dr. Dennis Gross Red Light Therapy Mask ($455)
My coworkers and I joke that we would love to have these and wear them at the desk. This is like the Ferrari of skincare tools that you can use at home, and not have to see a professional to have done. From the girls I see online that have them, the proof is in the pudding on results.
Higher Dose is 20% off for Black Friday, so I’m actually serving you a hot deal on a silver platter. My mom has a sauna blanket that I like to indulge in during visits home in the winter, and the idea of having access to infrared therapy in the comfort of your own house is extremely chic to me.
Allegedly, these are the best boots money can buy. I wouldn’t know, hence the price tag, but everyone who does have them says they’re the most comfortable, durable, practical shoes one could ask for. Giving someone the gift of practicality is truly the one that keeps on giving.
Acupuncture sessions ($100-200)
I recently was introduced to the magic that is acupuncture. The relaxation and healing that I felt is something I would love to introduce to all of my loved ones. I had them in my ears, my face, the top of my head, and all in my arms, so I feel I’m able to relay just how fantastic it was on good authority.
As I recapped in this blog post, my trip to INNESS was nothing short of spectacular. While I enjoyed it during the sunset of summer, the idea of cozying up in one of those cabins during a brisk winter day is something I fantasize about. It gave Nine Perfect Strangers and The White Lotus in a completely safe and non-murderous way.
I love Elsa Peretti (as does every other girl on the internet right now), and the idea of giving this to someone makes me feel very fancy. Tiffany pieces for the home truly will last a lifetime, and are such a special gift for someone in your life that deserves it.
Fancy soap ($50-80)
Realistically, I could give this. But, spending too much on something you could get for $20 is really cool to me. Loewe, Le Labo, Aesop, or Byredo—while basic—do fall under the category of being great to receive because someone would never buy it for themselves.
A spa gift card to the Hotel Chelsea ($300+)
I debated writing this one because I want to gatekeep one of the most famous hotels in New York City. I was given a treatment here as a gift this year and I think about it almost every single day. It was truly such a luxurious experience from start to finish. The spa aesthetic feels like you’ve escaped New York City somehow, you can enjoy a cup of tea or infused water while reading a book on the terrace or simply basking in the fireplace for up to an hour before or after your session, and there’s a complimentary sauna for you to indulge in as well. Not to mention the facial I got was the best I’ve ever had. Pro tip: enjoy a drink with some fries at the bar after.
Fancy candles ($100+)
I'm not talking just splurging $40 on a Boy Smells candle (no shade at all to Boy Smells), I mean that I want your giftee to be shocked when they inevitably Google the price. Loewe again, Diptyque, or Jo Malone are all at the top of my list.
A signet ring ($500+)
You could obviously get one of these for a lot less, but if you can, I’d splurge on real gold and real gemstones. I asked for a much more affordable pinky ring on my personal list, but I love this one from Paige Sargisson, this one from Seb Brown, or this one from Millie Savage.
This Friday, I’ll be posting the official Coffee Order Black Friday & Cyber Monday guide to all of the best sales and deals this weekend (even though most of them already started).