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by Alexandra Mansilla

Sale Hunters: Little Things To Buy For Any Occasion

11 Feb 2025

Photo: Sara Canonici

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Have you ever been invited to a birthday party, housewarming, or some random get-together where you barely knew the host and had zero clue what to bring as a gift? Been there. That is exactly why I put together this list of thoughtful, stylish, and foolproof gifts that will make anyone happy. By the way, some of them are on sale right now — so if I were you, I would hurry.

Glasses

I can’t even count how many times I have been invited to someone's place — especially a housewarming — and immediately thought, "Glasses! That’s a safe bet." And guess what? It always is. Because no one ever says, “I have too many beautiful glasses.” Maison Balzac’s Pomponette glasses with tiny bubbles are a fun and colourful option (on sale now — 30% off!). Looking for something more calm but still special? In that case, you might like LSA International’s Bubble Rocking Tumblers. And if you want to go all out, Versace’s Medusa Lumiere glasses bring full-on luxury and drama — because drinking from a Versace glass just hits differently.

Vases

A vase is one of those gifts that people rarely buy for themselves, but when they receive one, they suddenly realise how much they need it. The Louise Roe Balloon Ceramic Vase is simple yet sculptural, perfect for those who appreciate modern, artsy decor. For something a little more conceptual, the Completedworks "Banned Book No. 2" Vase (on sale now — 60% off) is inspired by literature, making it a great pick for book lovers and deep thinkers. And if you are going for a sleek, statement piece, the Rosenthal Fast Weiss Porcelain Vase looks like it has been frozen in motion, adding a unique and minimalistic touch to any space.

Sketchbooks

Everyone has a sketchbook — even if they don’t draw. People use them for notes, doodles, grocery lists, or just to feel artsy at a coffee shop. But no one ever goes out specifically to buy a sketchbook (except for artists) — which is why it makes such a great gift. The Smythson Dogs Soho Notebook is a perfect mix of classic and cute, with a high-quality cover and adorable dog illustrations. If you are shopping for someone who dreams of Mediterranean summers, the Dolce & Gabbana Mediterranean Print Notebook will transport them straight to the Italian coast with its vibrant design. And for those who love a bit of charm, the Smythson Chelsea Charm Heart Notebook is stylish and sentimental, making it a great keepsake.

Candles

Candles have made a major comeback. Some people hoard them, while others love them but never actually buy one for themselves — which is where you come in. Overose’s Anthurium Scented Candle smells like it belongs in a chic Parisian apartment and will instantly make any space feel luxurious. The 19-69 Villa Nellcote Candle is inspired by the rock 'n' roll history of the French Riviera, so it is basically a vacation in candle form. And if you are shopping for a book lover, the Paul Smith Storyteller Candle is a cozy, sophisticated scent that feels like curling up with a good novel. Check them out — they are on sale for up to 35% off.

Nice plates

Plates are like glasses but underrated. Everyone uses them, but no one thinks about how cool they could be. The Alessi x Naoto Fukasawa Itsumo Side Plates are simple, timeless, and go with everything — perfect for minimalists. If you want something with an artsy twist, the Ligne Blanche Nude Wesselmann Large Plate (this one is on sale with a huge 45% discount) is a statement piece that feels like it belongs in a modern gallery. And if you are looking for something with a bit of Italian charm, the Bitossi Home Incanto Deep Plate brings an elegant yet playful touch to any table — because who says dinnerware can’t be a conversation starter? A great plate can turn even the most basic meal into an aesthetic experience — and who doesn’t want that?

Funny wooden trays

Trays are weirdly useful — for serving drinks, holding keys, or just sitting on a coffee table looking cool. And these? A little weird, a lot of fun. The Seletti Milky Boots Wood Tray is exactly what it sounds like — a tray with boots on it, perfect for someone with a playful sense of humour. The Seletti Monsters Ezio Rectangle Tray adds an artsy, quirky touch to any space, while the Seletti Monsters Baby Gregorio Tray is for those who love the weird, cute, and conversation-starting decor.

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