It's no secret that 2023 has been the year of aesthetics. From gorpcore to coquette chic, consider this Holiday Gift Guide your cheat code for navigating and embracing new trends. In simple terms, the word “aesthetics” is commonly used to capture the essence, feel, or visual appeal of personal taste. We've spent all year fine-tuning our visual self-expression, and for the grand finale, check out our handpicked goodies that scream, "Express yourself, but make it fabulous!"
Do you have a fashionista friend who loves to hike? Or is the ultimate girly-girl? Are you searching for the ideal $20 balletcore accessories or fully committed to mastering the quiet luxury aesthetic? Whether it's moodboard-worthy accessories, tried-and-true makeup essentials, or those ever-so-necessary splurges, lucky you've stumbled upon a holiday gift guide carefully curated by our trusted fashion editors.
As we prepare to usher in 2024, our journey through aesthetics doesn't end; it's an ongoing exploration of identity, art, and fashion. Here's to the joy of giving, investment pieces that will travel season to season, and the endless avenues of style waiting to be explored. Cheers!
★ QUIET LUXURY ★
This is for your friend who is somehow always in style no matter what's trending, the one who embraces a minimalist approach to fashion. Now is the perfect opportunity to enhance their uniform with something timeless. For instance, a well-crafted trench coat is a sophisticated, solid foundation for any uniform — and worth every penny. Investment pieces are the key to nailing the quiet luxury lifestyle. This season, give the gift of the subtle flex.
★ DARK ACADEMIA ★
Do you know someone who has a rather enigmatic air, whose style has a sort of mysterious charm? When you think of classic literature, romance, and a deep appreciation for the fine arts, who comes to mind? Dark Academia is the obvious choice for the friend who recognizes that knowledge is power. She adds a rebellious edge to the preppy look. It's all about good vintage finds, mix-and-matching plaids, replacing denim with trousers, and adopting a moody, neutral color palette. Might we suggest elevating her style with a Vivienne Westwood tie and some Burberry plaid?
★ COQUETTE ★
Lace, silk, and chiffon — absolutely enchanting! If you're shopping for the girliest girl you know, the coquette aesthetic will complement her beautifully. By definition, coquette means flirtatious woman, and embraces soft elements such as the color pink, sweet little ribbon accents, and pearls galore. You can't go wrong with a floral fragrance and an off-the-shoulder corset, all perfect presents for a real-life doll!
★ MOCHA GIRL ★
The mocha beauty trend (slightly different than the latte trend) has taken TikTok by storm, ringing in an era of stunning monochromatic makeup looks. Believe it or not, cosmetics in just about every shade of brown are flying off the shelves at your local retailers. If you're not well-versed in the world of makeup but are searching for the perfect gift for a beauty enthusiast, fear not, for we've got you covered.
★ GORPCORE ★
If camping, bird-watching, biking, giant water canteens, and granola bars were a person, this would be the ultimate destination for their gift. Gorpcore has seamlessly transformed from a niche market into an everyday streetwear aesthetic. What was once exclusively for outdoor adventures has now become a fashion statement. And the best part of it all? Whether it's the ever popular Salomon sneaker or body-sculpting yoga sets, these gifts will never go out of style.
★ BALLETCORE ★
There's a point in almost every girl's life when we idolize ballerinas. Whether it's the art of storytelling or the allure of tutus, the nuances of ballet have made a lasting mark on the world of fashion. Designers are crafting heels inspired by pointe shoes, stylists casually incorporate leg warmers and leotards into their client's everyday looks, and fashionistas worldwide are wearing tutus as everyday skirts. So, whether you're gifting a professional or aspiring ballerina in your life, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Credits
Art direction: Emily Zirimis (@emilyzirimis)
Design: Liz Coulbourn (@lizcoulbourn) / Bea Oyster (@snapsbybea)
Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor: Karissa Mitchell (@alistkariss)
Senior Fashion Editor: Tchesmeni Leonard (@tchesmeni)
Associate Editor: Aiyana Ishmael (@aiyanaish)
Fashion & Beauty Associate Editor: Donya Momenian (@dony_moi). Contributing Editor: Sara Delgado (@sara_delg)
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