There will always be something incredibly festive about hauling oversized shopping bags down your local high street, wrapped up in a winter coat and what feels like infinite layers, working up a sweat like no other. Whether you choose to brave the crowds or shop online, high-street brands can always be relied upon for purse-friendly gifts.
Personally, I owe a great deal to the Covent Garden Uniqlo store, which has provided me with a range of high-quality cashmere knits and colour-pop socks that I’ve given my family over the years. And, of course, to Marks & Spencer for the festive PJs that topped my stocking throughout my childhood – which my mother no doubt secured in a last-minute, pre-Christmas rush to the store.
Shop edit of the best high-street gifts:
High-street labels should be your first port-of-call if you’re in the market for a small gesture, be it a scented candle in an aesthetic ceramic jar, or mini hampers filled with delicious festive snacks. And if you’re after more of an investment, the likes of Cos and Arket stock a variety of winter coats made from sumptuous fabrics that’ll keep your recipient warm in the cold months – plus cushions and throws that are perfect for cosy evenings spent on the sofa. Scroll to see and shop the gifts that team has got their eye on now.
The best high-street gifts, that come Vogue-approved:
The failsafe socks
When in doubt – and strapped for time – Uniqlo’s colourful sock offering makes for the perfect gift option. If you’ve left it last minute, take a trip to one of the brand’s famed sock walls, located in the retailer’s stores, and grab multiple pairs to give to your loved ones.
The PJs
Pure Cotton Striped Christmas Family Pyjamas
You can’t beat a pair of PJs for Christmas. As a child, I would spend all year looking forward to the new M&S set I’d inevitably receive on that special day. This pure cotton, Christmas-coded pair will be sure to make everyone on your list smile.
The cashmere scarf
Cos’s cashmere scarves regularly feature in our Vogue Shopping gift guides. Whether you’re on the lookout for a brother who has everything, a mother-in-law you’re keen to impress, or a best friend that simply deserves something nice, it’s a gift that’ll never disappoint.
The beauty buy
Top gifting tip: keep tabs on their favourite beauty products throughout the year, and when the festive season comes along, buy them a top-up for Christmas. Whether it’s their favourite perfume or Medik8 moisturiser, they’ll no doubt be touched you’ve paid attention.
The hamper
The M&S Collection Hamper
The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Hamper
A festive hamper – preferably, bursting with indulgent Christmas treats – is the ultimate gift. If you’re lucky enough to be hosted by family or friends this year, you’ll be the talk of the town should you turn up with Selfridges’s cheese and wine hamper, complete with multiple cheese options, chutneys and two bottles of wine. For a mixture of sweet and savoury at a slightly lower price point, opt for M&S’s hamper.
Wool-Blend Rib-Knit Slipper Socks with Cashmere
Marc de Champagne Milk Chocolate Truffles
Salt and Stone
Books To Be Read Gift Card
Annie Leibovitz At Work Book
Feu de Bois Scented Candle
