Gift-giving season is upon us, and sometimes we have trouble making smart gift choices. Yes, it can be hard to find something special for your sister, mother, husband, or Tante that will give them enjoyment for years to come.

It is always smart to ask yourself a few questions while shopping for gifts.  Most importantly, is the item in question of good quality?  Will it be relevant in 2, 5, or even 10 years (i.e. is it too trendy, or will it last)?  Does the item in some way express the spirit of gifting?

Look for items that are unique and well made. Buying from local, up-and-coming, and high end designers is a good way to ensure an item is both distinctive and boasts excellent craftsmanship. Buying resale vintage and designer items is a wonderful way to stay eco-friendly and also give a gift that is truly one-of-a-kind!  The good thing is, choosing something your Tante might choose- whether it be a beautifully made pair of 50s leather gloves or a designer wool shift dress- is eco-friendly in and of itself because these items will last you much longer than a fast fashion counterpart. It’s a win-win situation- you are giving an eco-friendly gift, and the recipient receives a long-lasting item that can, over the years, become a hallmark of their personal style.

When at a loss for what to choose as a gift, sometimes it is best left up to the experts. Take, for example, Chic By Design Collections. Chic By Design specializes in ‘Smart Gifting,’ consulting each customer in choosing tasteful, meaningful, luxurious gifts perfect for everyone on their list. They carry a full line of lifestyle gifts on their website, but you can also enlist their bespoke gifting services if you wish to purchase something not listed on the site. It’s basically personal shopping for gifts.  How awesome is that?!

What are your ‘smart gifting’ tips and tricks? Tante would love to know!