She’s got style, grace; hey, she’s even got you. But when those ladies who just seem to have it all end up on the holiday gift list, going the old bottle-of-perfume route can seem as predictable as, well, a cashmere cardigan. (Not that there’s anything wrong with a cashmere cardigans, but assume this is a girl whose got an armoire full.)
So we searched Fairfield County for some indulgent presents for fabulous her that were a little out-of-the-sweater-box. Here are a few that may make her feel like the VIP lady she is.
Something Old
Because she’s a timeless beauty, let her gaze upon her reflection with an antique Van Cleef & Arpels compact. Made in 18-karat gold with a distinctive basket weave design; the circa 1970s compact is a rare find; like her. $3500. Available at Simon Teakle Fine Jewelry, 4 Grigg St., Greenwich.
Something New
Inspired by European vintage finds Fairfield resident Connie Cusick uses her discerning eye to infuse her Proof jewelry collection with a modern take on retro glamour. A wrist stacked with these sapphire art deco style gems makes plain old bangles seem kind of ho-ho-hum. $295 for large piece, $195 for small bracelet shown. Find Proof at Lillian August, Millie Rae’s in Westport or direct from ProofJewelery.com
A Bling Bike
With its $10,000 price tag the P5 is Cervelo’s latest upscale creation; a bike that delivers more than some super cool spokes and detailing. Estimated to be as much as eleven watts faster than some other so-called “superbikes” this dazzling, aerodynamically superior two-wheeler is the model favored by 2012 European Ironman Champ Caroline “Xena” Steffan. Anyone in the saddle of the 2013 model will be the envy of the starter’s line. Available at Pacific Swim, Bike and Run in Stamford.
The Wardrobe Concierge
More indulgent than a personal shopper or a closet makeover expert; a wardrobe concierge involves a more exclusive relationship. Lauren Robak of Wilton’s Une Minette boutique is at the ready to take on that role for the fashion conscious woman in your life. Hire her and she gets Robak’s FIT-trained eye at her beck and call. But that’s not all: Her year-long concierge service includes the requisite home closet visit (watch her whip up never-imagined outfits with already-owned pieces). She’ll also shoot every item in her wardrobe and use those photos to create a personalized look book; so outfit ideas are just a page flip away. The lady who receives this package can also tag along on Robak’s New York City market appointments to see what’s new and in-season first. Plus: A year-long VIP store discount, additional, seasonal closet consultations and access to Lauren’s styling advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Price: $7,500. Une Minette, 5 River Rd., Wilton.
Spa Fabulous
The Diamond indulgence package being offered by the Serenity Spa & Salon in Greenwich is really the penthouse suite version of a day (make that days and days) of beauty. It features something many a busy lady craves: VIP bumping rights. That’s right. The woman who is gifted with this package will have first dibs on the spa’s exceptional massage therapists, estheticians and creative hair team. (Yes, that means the salon will even reschedule other clients to fit her in.) Of course, there’s more: The package includes 12 monthly beauty days (think facials, massages, hair services with Creative Artistic Director Roberto Lugo) and goodie bags stuffed with carefully-selected, top-of-the-line beauty and hair care products at each visit. Price: $8,500. Serenity Spa & Salon, 49 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich.
A Fancy Fascinator
Let her know she’s the princess in your world! Give her a fit-for-a-royal fascinator to fasten in her gleaming hair for special occasions or “just because.” Fairfield-based couture milliner Brenda Lynn creates these hand-sewn pieces, along with fanciful hats made of bespoke materials, for well-heeled customers around the globe. Or, finish her fetching look with one of these completely on-trend faux fur toppers. Prices vary. Locals can purchase designer direct from Brenda (visit Brenda Lynn.com) or at Soleil Toile in Westport.