As Jim and Della from O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi would probably tell you, Christmas gift shopping can be a fraught process. From agonising over the right gift to devoting countless hours scouring stores and battling hordes of late-season bargain hunters, the experience can leave one feeling anything but full of love and good cheer.
Savvy time-starved shoppers know, however, that Marks & Spencer is their one-stop answer to all their present-buying woes. For generations, clever Brits have flocked to the retailer not just for edible treats, but for understated and well-made pieces that will truly stand the test of time. Whether it’s a pretty cocktail dress or a crisp white men’s shirt, why not get your loved ones the best of British this holiday season? Scroll through our gallery for some of our favourite items from M&S’ festive offerings, and see below for our editors’ styling tips and tricks.
FOR HER: VAMPISH IN VELVET
It takes a self-possessed woman to work a pantsuit for evening: Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn titillated all of old Hollywood in theirs, while society goddess Nan Kempner was famously denied entry at New York’s Le Côte Basque in the sixties in hers. In contrasting shades (black and dusty rose, perhaps?), a velvet ensemble will look the height of sophisticated chic, complemented with small doses of sparkle.
FOR HIM: MAN ABOUT TOWN
When it comes to men’s wardrobes, the right piece can go a long way towards pulling an outfit together. For proof of this, look no further than fashion icon Cary Grant, whose look was always precisely considered to the last detail, whether he was wearing a tux or a fisherman’s sweater and chinos. Simple shapes in muted colours, with small unexpected elements like a shawl collar or animal motifs, will help your man take his style from banal to extraordinary.
For all these amazing gifts and more, visit your nearest Marks & Spencer. In the meantime, catch Mrs Claus, as she makes a very special delivery, in M&S’ heartwarming holiday video:
This was created by Harper’s BAZAAR Singapore for Marks & Spencer.