Designers Share What’s on Their Christmas Wish Lists

Fair-trade textiles, the perfect gift wrap and more designers’ picks.

Giddy-Up

Chloé Mini Marcie leather cross-body bag ($1,133). nordstrom.ca

“We don’t typically exchange gifts but rather focus on the gift of time, which is generally a vacation or adventure somewhere in another country. That’s all I could really as for…besides that Chloé saddlebag I have my eye on.”—Amanda Hamilton, Amanda Hamilton Design, Calgary 

Write Idea

Refillable leather journal ($25), Portland Leather Goods. etsy.ca

“I think journals are a great gift. They can be used both at work or for personal use. One of my favourites is getting custom reusable leather cases that are engraved.”—Aly Velji, Alykhan Velji Designs, Calgary

All Wrapped Up

Holiday gift wrap ($11), Rifle Paper Co. riflepapergo.com

“A good gift should not try too hard. Simplicity is best. The tastes of the giver should not be imposed on the receiver. Best advice: give ’em what they want! And maybe more important: take time to wrap it and present it well.”—Bruce Wilkin, Bruce Wilkin Inc., Victoria

Treat Yourself

 Pitcher ($40) and glasses ($17.40). blackroosterdecor.com

“Our family usually just does donations in each other’s name for the holidays. But I think this pitcher and matching glasses from Black Rooster Decor are pretty sweet and would be happily received.”—Nam Dang-Mitchell,  Nam Dang-Mitchell Design, Calgary

The Perfect Cuppa

Mud Australia porcelain mug ($52). providehome.com

“I would love to receive some coffee mugs from Mud Australia. They make the most beautiful porcelain dishes in gorgeous colours.”—Sophie Burke, Sophie Burke Design, Vancouver

Bold and Beautiful

Jonathan Adler Bow Tie vase ($645). kitinteriorobjects.com

“I am quite smitten by the latest Palm Springs collection of pottery by Jonathan Adler. While one would be a lovely gift, they look so much better in multiples! And so starts another collection…”—Nyla Free, Nyla Free Designs, Calgary

Fair Trade Gifts

Playa handwoven palm bag ($39). hecho-shop.com

“This year I would like to give friends and family gifts that have a positive impact on the people who made them. I’ve recently started purchasing fair-trade textiles from Mexico through Hecho Shop—I love their hand towels and woven bags.”—Kelly Deck, Kelly Deck Design, Vancouver

2017 Holiday Gift Guide ▸▸▸