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Shopping for a fashionphile is a Herculean task, and nobody knows that better than the Vogue staff. When it comes to gifts, we’re pretty tough customers, so we’d like to lend a hand to anyone out there dealing with a fellow discerning giftee. We polled our staff on their favorite IYKYK (“if you know you know,” for those who don’t know) items that will surely earn a nod of approval from other fashion fans—even if it’s all Greek to you.
Whether you’re looking to buy your chic loved one a new signature scent, a pair of statement shoes, or über-cool jewelry, our list of in-the-know items will leave them grinning from ear to ear.
Bottega Veneta Drop Earrings
This season’s most viral earrings have been duped a million times over, but the drop earrings are popular for a reason. Get your loved one the extra large pair for a statement or a smaller size for everyday wear. Just be sure you know if they wear silver or gold.
Adidas x Wales Bonner Sambas
This year, we couldn’t walk down the street without seeing a pair of these ultra-hyped Adidas shoes. But the solution to the Sambas fatigue came from Grace Wales Bonner, who, as part of her ongoing collaboration with the sportswear brand, created a metallic silver sneaker with endearing white stitching. Even the most ardent heels wearer will love these kicks, which can be dressed up for just about any occasion.
McQueen: Backstage — The Early Shows by Gary Wallace
Pretty much every fashion acolyte worships at the altar of Alexander McQueen. They’ll undoubtedly love this intimate book of photos from the late designer’s early career.
Loewe Large Tomato Leaves candle
Don t be put off by the idea of a tomato candle. Loewe’s earthy candle series (which also includes marijuana and beetroot scents) has earned rave reviews. The tomato scent—which is made with real tomato leaves and stems—has gone particularly viral, with buyers insisting that it smells fresh and lively, just like the real thing. The pot alone makes a gorgeous addition to any mantle or coffee table.
The Row Margaux Bag
One Vogue writer recently declared the Margaux bag an heirloom in the making, and we’re inclined to agree. Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen routinely deliver sleek, sophisticated, and most importantly, well-crafted products. The Margaux like many “stealth wealth” items, isn’t ostentatious, but is still recognizable by its silhouette. IYKYK, indeed.
Phoebe Philo Soft Square-Toe Ankle Boot
Phoebe Philo’s return to fashion inspired a digital bloodbath, with many pieces from the first drop selling out in minutes. These divine square-toe ankle boots are thankfully still in stock, and would make for a welcome pop of color for any fashion fan. A purchase from Philo’s namesake brand also comes with major bragging rights.
Maison Margiela Tabi split-toe leather flats
This was the year of the Margiela Tabi, as underlined by one young woman taking to TikTok to recount an unfortunate date that ended in Tabi theft. Thankfully her story had a happy ending, as did Maison Margiela, who saw a massive boom in sales of their controversial split-toe shoes. While Tabis may be new to the masses, fashion lovers have been wearing these babies for decades.
Toteme Signature Stripe Wool-Cotton Turtleneck Sweater
Everyone loves this sweater, and for good reason! A turtleneck with a side-split hem and a wide sleeve, this silhouette is distinct from the thousands of other striped sweaters on the market, while remaining a classic wardrobe addition. Plus, while luxury sweaters usually require a lot of fuss, this one is machine washable and is made solely of wool and organic cotton.
Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady Perfume
If you want to gift your loved one a fragrance a little more under-the-radar than Santal 33 or Baccarat Rouge, Portrait of a Lady is an excellent choice. Floral with a kick, this sophisticated scent features notes of rose, blackcurrant, raspberry, patchouli, frankincense, and sandalwood, with each 100ml bottle boasting 400 Turkish roses.
Chopova Lowena Fugen Carabiner Spliced Plaid-Print Belted Mini Skirt
Fashion insiders have been on the Chopova train for years, but now is a great time to invest in one of the British brand’s trademark carabiner skirts. The designer duo of Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena just picked up the New Establishment Womenswear prize at the British Fashion Awards, and their brand is getting buzzier every day.
