Buying for the 'Hard to Buy For'

A good start to finding the right gift is to match personality and style with needs and wants. Buy quality, original designs that are locally produced or eco friendly. These elements are always appreciated.

Purchase something that they may not purchase for themselves or something that they having been hinting towards such as, "My bag is too heavy, I really need something that is not going hurt my shoulders," or
"I love this dress but have nothing to wear with it."

Buy with their personality in mind not yours. Adding a personal touch is a great thing and can be done by adding information about the product or designer.

For the person who has everything, look for the ultra interesting but also useful gift. Look at replacing something they always use with something that is more updated in style or simply something you think they will be able to use not just admire.

Deep aubergine leather bag by MorrisB ($440); Shabby Chic distressed grey leather bag by Rimanchik ($270); Deep brown clutch by Imperfect Indulgence ($245); Watercolour sweater by Little Black Dress ($98).

The 1, 2, 3's of Buying Gifts of Jewellery

1) Buy Quality. Buy Unique. Buy Local. When choosing jewellery as a gift, always look for quality gems and metals that are classics with simplistic elements of design that can be worn for years to come. Choose either sterling silver from Europe or North America as these do not have lead or other metals that can often cause irritation. 14K gold fill is today's choice for reasonably priced gold that will not tarnish like gold plate.

2) Stick to the middle ground. Don't buy 'super-small or oversized' designs unless you know specifically that they will love it. If you're not sure whether they prefer gold or silver, we suggest the combination of both. By combing both gold and silver the recipient can pair pieces with other favourites. Both Coral Moon Designs, Naomi Evans and Yutal Fusion work with oxidized silver which gives the silver a blackened look. This is also very popular and a great alternative to super shiny jewellery.

3) Earrings are always a 'best bet" but if you don't know if they have pierced ears, go for a ring. Rings are the sign of love and eternity. Purchase rings that can be grouped. Stackable rings are very popular as as are oversized cocktail rings because they can be worn on any finger making sizing a breeze. If you're not sure of the size, choose a ring that works for any finger or do a little snooping and borrow a ring for a few hours, most stores have a ring sizer, we do.

Catherine Sutherland bronze 'nature' inspired, bark motif rings ($80-$90); Coral Moon Tri Collection combines Sterling Silver, Patina Sterling and 14K gold fill ($68-$189)

Guys, do you want to impress?

Buy Luxury. Buy Local. Buy with her personality
in mind.

Finding a unique gift that shows you have been paying attention only requires a few simple things.

Take note, what she likes in terms of colour and design. If possible go through her closet. Look at styles and sizes (remember women are often not the same size on the top as the bottom). Borrow a ring or necklace for the day or a piece of clothing to select complimentary accessories. Clothing items are often difficult to select with success but quality accessories are not.

Take a little risk, but back it up with the why. Even if you haven't selected that perfect little something you have shown her that you have been paying attention. For example, if you know that she loves to wear black, don't go out and purchase a red dress for something diffferent, but do get the red bag. Tell her that you thought it would compliment her black wardrobe; or buy a stunning multi textured little black dress that she can wear on any occasion.

Take action, don't leave things to the very last moment as it can take a few days to bring something in from a designer even if it's local. You'll know when you see it, 'seize' the moment and buy it, as the real goodies don't last long.

Hand painted velvet scarf by 'Saniya Khan' ($250); Felted change purse with washable lining by 'Shibang' ($25); Leather cosmetic bags by 'Patina' ($44); Grey leather clutch by Imprefect Indulgence ($245); Crakle quartz and pearl necklace by 'Coral Moon' ($240); Silk Chiffon scarf by 'To Desire' ($145)