Are you still looking for the perfect gift? We've hand picked industry professionals Ava Chandler-Matthews and Emma Read to share their insight on the art of gift giving, and to select their favourite Parlour X pieces to gift.
Ava Chandler-Matthews - Co-founder Ultra Violette
What does the festive/holiday season mean to you?
Family, friends, Sydney and champagne – oh, and ham! Can’t forget the ham.
How do you plan to celebrate the holidays this year?
My husband and I will be travelling up to Sydney (with our puppy) from Melbourne this year to see all our family and friends. It’s been a hard couple of years with minimal time spent with our families so we are so excited to catch up with everyone although it will mean we’re out most days and most nights!
Is there an art to gift-giving? What makes a gift stand out?
There definitely is. Have I mastered it yet? I’m not sure. I tend to leave things to the last minute and then freak out and then throw a lot of money at it in order to give something I’d personally like
What is one of the best gifts you’ve ever received?
A beautiful venetian mirror from my mother. She is a great gift giver. Or diamonds from my husband always go down a treat.
From Parlour X… what would you give as a gift to:
Your mother / mother-in-law / mother figure: A Saint Laurent Tote Bag for mum to just throw in the back of the car – she travels with a lot so needs something sizeable.
Your best friend: A Bottega Veneta Bag she’s been wanting.
An employer or professional colleague: A Sener Besim Alphabet Charm – you don’t have to know the person too well to assume they’d like that.
The friend who has everything: Saint Laurent Lou Lou Heart Sunglasses. I think these aren’t something you’d buy for yourself but are so cute!
How about for yourself? Is there something (or perhaps even a few something’s) from Parlour X on your wish list?
I love a comfy flat – and enjoy wearing colour. The Valentino Garavani Rockstud PVC Sandal ticks both boxes!
Emma Read - Editor at Large, Stylist & Creative Consultant
What does the festive/holiday season mean to you?
What first springs to mind is Australian summer (fingers crossed La Niña doesn’t foil my beachside plans!) and time with family. It’s a moment to really wind-down and spend quality time with those I love.
How do you plan to celebrate the holidays this year?
In a very laidback fashion I hope! My family are based in the Southern Highlands so splitting my time between the country and city.
Is there an art to gift-giving? What makes a gift stand out?
I think anything with a personal, thoughtful touch is always well-received – something that indicates you know the receiver inside out and their unique tastes.
What is one of the best gifts you’ve ever received?
A beautiful signet ring from my partner Ana.
From Parlour X… what would you give as a gift to:
Your mother / mother-in-law / mother figure: A classic handbag in a neutral tone – something timeless that she can revisit season after season. I have my eye on the Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Bag.
Your best friend: A vibrant heel for our long lunches, and nothing screams vibrant like the blue Bottega Veneta Stretch Carpet Sandals!
An employer or professional colleague: A pair of Sener Besim Gold Huggie Hoops - a universal favourite.
The friend who has everything: A pair of cat-eye sunglasses from Celine I can hopefully borrow!
How about for yourself? Is there something (or perhaps even a few something’s) from Parlour X on your wish list?
I’m obsessed with all things Paco Rabanne at the minute – I’ve got my eye on the Chain Link Earrings as a ‘Merry Christmas to me’ treat.
How would you describe the mood of the holiday season in three words?
Leisurely, cheerful and frivolous.
Are you still looking for the perfect gift? We are here to help. Organise Boutique Collection or Same Day Sydney Delivery to receive your order ASAP. Shop the Gifting Edit here.
Keep up with Ava on Instagram @avamatthews and fall in love with her brand ULTRA VIOLETTE
Stay up to date with Emma and her work on Instagram @emmaread and her website emmaread.com.au
