Christmas is fast approaching and now that we’ve got the GAFF decorated, it’s time to consider the homeware presents that somebody will actually appreciate. The best kind of gift, we think, is something that you might not necessarily rush out to buy yourself (a real treat) but something that you’d be so pleased to open and yes, make use of. That’s the winning combo. Just last week, we paid a visit to Ireland’s own winter wonderland – Kildare Village – and we had the most festive-inspired day, browsing their incredible shops to check out the value to be had on homewares. While much of the draw to Kildare Village is wrapped up in the sartorial side of things, you really should check it out for your next big GAFF haul. Whether you’re looking for something really special for your nearest and dearest or you’re looking for hints to drop for your own wish list, behold our top GAFF picks. #UnwrapHappy
1. Blissful bed sheets and pillows.
Until you sleep in a bed with a high enough thread count to knock you out for the greatest sleep of your life, you will not appreciate the wonder of high-quality bedsheets. And pillows, oh, dear pillows. Invest in a good set of bed sheets and you’ll not only sleep better but they’ll wash incredibly well, never losing their as-good-as-new feeling, and your bedroom Instagram game will instantly go up several notches. At Bedeck in Kildare Village they have up to 50% off some of the best brands in bed linen and the styles available are so on point with the GAFF aesthetic.
Minimalist stripes, the most muted of patterns, or a plain white perfect bed – it’s all there for the taking. And we compel you to squish test the pillows and duvets and resist the urge to buy them, they’re THAT good. Anyone who’s just moved into a new place will appreciate this beyond words. Trust us.
2. Bathroom booty.
These days, there’s not a single corner of your GAFF that needs to be kept away from view. Even in the tiniest of bathroom toilets, for example, you can create a chic atmosphere with apothecary style handwash, luxury soap bars, and gorgeous candles. Leave the supermarket brand dispenser aside and indulge in these treats from L’Occitane, Crabtree & Evelyn and Molton Brown (all offering really decent discounts at Kildare Village). L’Occitane set, €20.25.
3. World class knives.
Got a budding chef in your family? No cook is complete without his or her knife set, and whatever it is you’re preparing, will only be as good as the quality of your blades. For a gift that’s both practical and impressive, check out Zwilling, a brand that’s known as the Rolls Royce of kitchen instruments. This is a present that’s going to last a lifetime.
4. Crazy for Le Creuset.
Speaking of gifts that will last forever, stop what you’re doing and treat someone to a casserole dish from Le Creuset, the creme de la creme of kitchen ceramics. Time was, every household yearned to have a traditional orange and red Le Creuset dish. Our parents got them as wedding presents and now they’re married almost forty years, still using their Le Creuset. Today, though, there’s so much more choice when it comes to colour and products. As we’re majorly into our pastels, we couldn’t get enough of their pale pink and pale blue collections. Yes, Le Creuset will be a financial investment, but again, it’s something that any homeowner will appreciate – just ask them in thirty years when they’re still using it! Le Creuset store.
5. Lazy steamers.
Another unique gift, this time for your fashion addict friend, is the reliable handheld steamer, making your life a hell of a lot easier. Got a dress that’s crumpled and you’re about to dash out the door? Who needs the stress of whipping out the ironing board and the iron when this handheld baby can decrease with ease? It’s such a treat, a total timesaver and yes, it allows us to continue being lazy. €31.25, Home & Cook.
6. So good at Só Collective.
A guaranteed hit and a more affordable stocking filler will always be a trusty candle. At Só Collective – which is a relative newcomer to this shopping haven – you’ll find a whole mix of gorgeous homewares, all of which would look the part in a contemporary living space. We’re particularly obsessed with Irish brand Candella – the copper containers are so simple yet so effective. We also spotted some gorgeous candle holders boasting our favourite mix of brass and marble. If in doubt, this will always be a winner.
A photo posted by Candella (@candellaireland) on
7. Catch us at Cath Kidston.
Homeowners, by and large, go bananas for all things Cath Kidston. For your friend or family member who can’t get enough of the floral patterns, at least save yourself some cash by availing of the whopper discounts at the Kildare Village store. From quirky kitsch tableware to luxury towels, there’s always so much to explore in here. We particularly love this plate, perfect for Insta.
8. Perfection at Le Pain Quotidien.
Who doesn’t love a bespoke food hamper full of festive foodie treats? While food hampers are ten-a-penny, there’s still only one Le Pain Quotidien in Ireland, meaning a hamper from here’s going to be that extra bit special. For gorgeous jam jars, chutneys and artisanal treats, look no further.
A photo posted by Le Pain Quotidien Ireland (@lpqireland) on
A photo posted by Kildare Village (@kildarevillage) on
Kildare Village is open from 9 am to 8pm for all your Christmas shopping needs. Visit. www.kildarevillage.com for more information. The Village is located at exit 13 off the M7 less than an hour’s drive from Dublin Airport and Dublin city centre on the motorway linking Dublin and Limerick.