From fashion to fragrance: Christmas gifts for style lovers

SHORT STORY | Yawn. He doesn’t need another pair of navy swimming trunks, trust us. Break him out of that basic-blue rut with this yellow palm-print, stripey-bordered option. We love them for their flattering mid-leg length and tailored touches including adjustable side fasteners. Even better, they’re neither slimline nor slouchy but cut just right. Toucan Palm Repeat Bulldog swim shorts, $495, orlebarbrown.com/au

FRINGE BENEFITS | This red-and-white ‘intrecciato’ woven Sardine bag, with its leather fringing meant to resemble a fiery mane, fittingly gives off winged mythical-creature vibes just in time for the 2024 Chinese Year of the Dragon. The dragon is associated in Chinese mythology with success, abundance and strength. With this gold-handled bag from Bottega Veneta on her arm, she can add ‘style’ to that list. $11,630, bottegaveneta.com/au

PERFORMANCE PAMPERING | Know someone who wants to get serious about their skin? We’d normally rate beauty-service vouchers as the most unimaginative gift ever, but we’ll make an exception in the case of Sydney’s Skin Clinic Blyss. Sure, they can administer a fluffy facial, but the team’s talents lie in the fact they’re lovers of technology, whether administering injectables, deploying devices to tighten and brighten or simply blasting pigmentation from the faces of the half of Bondi who flock here. (02) 9664 8011

CHECK MATE | He says he doesn’t want anything for Christmas, so play to his practical character with this classic bifold wallet. Burberry’s screen-printed heritage check design has been updated with this ‘happy’ lemon hue. With eight card slots, a note compartment with divider, and two slip pockets, it will appeal to the pragmatic personality. Monogramming up to three initials is also on offer. Bifold wallet in Hunter, $660, au.burberry.com

JUST THE TONIC | British perfumer Penhaligon’s, known for its royal warrants and whimsical English charm, is opening its first store in Australia this week, in Sydney’s QVB. On offer is a personalised engraving service and exclusive releases, among them the quirky new Potions & Remedies collection. Our pick of these is Vra Vra Vroom – an addictive floral, citrus and leather number equal to a spoonful of vigour, says the brand. $395, (02) 9182 2852