It?s Christmas Eve, just a few hours before the shops close, and you still have no presents. Sound familiar? Read on for expert advice
When it comes to dishing out advice for gift ideas, the experts are unanimous in their recommendations. Head for the accessories and cosmetics aisles and you should find all the stocking fillers and gifts that will save face on the 25th.
Lane Crawford merchandise manager (home fashion) Julie Stern says stress-free shopping can be achieved by arming yourself with a written list of people and ideas and heading to a store with plenty of inspiring choices.
The first stop should be the cosmetics counter, says Seibu buyer Daniel Ng. Here you will find fragrances, makeup and skincare products for men and women of all ages and tastes. ?You will easily find beautiful deluxe sets or Christmas packages within your budget.?
Limited edition sets have an edge over regular goods, and this is the time of year they hit the shelves. At Lane Crawford, Sisley Eau du Soir Eau de Parfum ($1,300), and The Makeup Room (a box set of 12 essential products and tools, $545) from Smashbox are just a couple, and both exclusive to the store.
Alternatively, Yves Saint Laurent?s Celebration Palette, a gold compact of 16 glossy lip colours ($310), or the stores own brand red leather cosmetic pouch ($200) make elegant gifts that will not break the bank.
Designer goods need not cost a flight to Lapland if you are armed with the right information. Winter warming accessories such as scarves, hats or gloves go for as little as $395 (Sonia Rykiel and Grevi, available at Swank women?s boutique) and, says Swank women?s buyer Rita Chau, they are the easiest gifts to buy.