Buying clothing for someone else is tough. Our bodies are all unique (yay!) and we all like our clothes to fit differently. That’s why when shopping for a fashion-related gift, I suggest sticking to the “extras” like accessories or add-on pieces as opposed to closet staples. No one wants to guess the wrong size and just because one brand is perfect for you doesn’t mean it will work for everyone on your list.

The three buys in this year’s MIDDI fashion gift guide are all outfit finishers suited for casual, smart or formal occasions. Each one adds visual interest to their ensemble and shows more consideration of their personal style.

Go for the cherry on top.

1. Astley Clarke Large Malachite Floris Ring (on sale for £100)

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If you know someone who believes less is more when it comes to accessorizing, a cocktail ring is an excellent gift option (just make sure you know their ring size). Lately, I’ve been obsessed with malachite—a stripy, silky, emerald-hued gemstone that looks regal but still modern. This demi-fine ring by Astley Clarke, the British jewelry brand founded in 2006 by Bec Astley Clarke MBE, features a hand-cut malachite oval set in 18-carat yellow gold-plated sterling silver. It makes a bold statement on its own but looks equally beautiful paired with additional bands.

2. Decadent Nicky Crossbody Bag (on sale for €367,50)

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Shopping for a bag to give as a gift can get out of hand (and expensive) quickly. When in doubt, a crossbody style hits all the right marks. This leather bag from Copenhagen-based brand Decadent is large enough to hold all of their essentials and includes a back pocket for quick access to their phone. Smaller bags are also a great way to experiment with color, like this vibrant blue shade. Decadent was founded by Karina Mundt Holst in 2005 and all of their bags are produced in Turkey at a small, family-run operation.

3. Varley Marney Jacket (£158)

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If I’m going to gift an item of clothing, I tend to go the cozy route. I like to give something that will make the recipient feel pampered, warm and comfortable. I’m not usually a fan of fleece zip-ups or hoodies because they look too bulky, but this jacket from active and loungewear brand Varley (launched in 2015 by Lara and Ben Mead) has a more streamlined cut and a longer back hem for a flattering fit and additional coverage. Whether they’re hiking or settling in for a long flight, this soft, neutral jacket fits the bill.

Want more gift ideas? Check out my 2021 beauty, fashion and home picks.

Last week on MIDDI …

MIDDI

2022 Beauty Gift Guide

I can hardly believe it’s already the holiday season. Maybe it’s the lack of snowflakes or the fact we eat roast dinners all year round in the UK, but if there weren’t twinkle lights hanging outside, I wouldn’t have guessed it was nearly December. Alas, we find ourselves at the start of the annual shopping marathon to find som…

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7 days ago · Petra Canan Trudell

MIDDI is a weekly roundup of mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys released every Monday. Have a product you’re searching for? Leave your suggestions in the comments.