As a kid, Christmas was the most amazing time of year. The magic of Santa and his reindeer shimmying down the chimney to deliver us exactly what we’d asked for, even though we’d definitely tested our parents to make it on the nice list.

I remember one year waking up to Santa sacks bursting at the seams with boogie boards, goggles, towels and bathers in preparation for our family holiday to the surf coast of Victoria. It was one of my favourite Christmases. 

But as we age, and we become the ones purchasing the gifts for others, it can be stressful, and that magic can dim. After a rough few years following COVID lockdowns, and the current cost of living crisis, I think it’s a fantastic time to support Australian businesses wherever possible.

Below are my top 10 gifts that support Australian brands to buy this Christmas:

For the spiritual friend or colleague

I came across ZenLightened thanks to a dear friend of mine and will never look back. This amazing little biz creates incredible scented candles that incorporate the healing power of crystals. If you know someone who loves the spiritual side of life and a beautifully scented living room, it’s hard to go past their candles. The Strawberry and Champagne scent with rose quartz would be my recommendation. But you can create your own signature candle for that special someone too. An ELC Chakra Bracelet is also a great option.

For the beauty queen

Aussie owned cosmetics brand Iridis Cosmetics is my go-to for everything makeup and glamour. All their products are cruelty free, and with CEO, Founder and principal makeup artist Peta Gai McGlaughlin at the helm, the quality of the products is far superior to what you’d grab at Priceline, for a very reasonable price. My recommendation would be to go for one of their amazing lipsticks, which come in so many glorious shades, and if you’re not sure which one will suit the person you’re buying for, have a quick chat with the Iridis team and they’ll be able to recommend the best shade. Or better yet, buy your recipient a seat at one of the brand’s Glamtorials, where your loved one can have their very own makeup tutorial using the incredible products. Iridis are my makeup of choice and since using them, I’ve received so many compliments. I never endorse a cosmetic product I’ve never tried or don’t love. And I really believe that Iridis is quality makeup made simple!

For the interior decorator

Who doesn’t like fresh sheets to climb into at the end of the day? Local Melbourne brand Sheet Society allows you to mix and match your bedding in a range of on trend colours to refresh and revamp your bedroom. With a key focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly packaging, give someone the perfect set of sheets to create their own sleep haven that could rival what we see on The Block is a no brainer.

For the fashion and environment conscious

Sans Beast has the most amazing vegan leather handbags. For the sustainably conscious who loves some arm candy, may I recommend this amazing Aussie owned brand. I have the Noir Rocco Ready Satchel that retails for $199 and it’s not only fabulous but functional. With a range of different styles available and different straps you can select to change up the look, there’s no doubt that these bags rival the big luxury brands in terms of design.

A good old-fashioned book

Support your local bookstore this Christmas rather than Amazon or the big chain stores. My top picks: 

For the 20 something: The Space Between by Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald is a great option. These young media and journalist moguls have basically written a handbook for life in your 20’s.

For your bestie who loves a book at the beach: Ghosts by Dolly Alderton. An incredible read that touches on love, friendship, family and the awkwardness that is being human.

For Dad

If your dad is anything like mine, he needs a bit of help in the wardrobe department. Quality is something that’s really important to him, as well as his clothes needing to be from Australian brands. For me, I can’t go past a Gazman polo. With so many colours, all 100% cotton and very affordable, you can’t go wrong. Plus, this then means he won’t wear something totally embarrassing to Christmas lunch.

For Mum

Whenever I ask my mum what she wants for a birthday, Mother’s Day or Christmas she always says ‘nothing’. Which makes trying to choose a gift for her near impossible. This year, we went for a flight ticket voucher. Why? Because after the year we’ve had, we all deserve a little getaway. Not to mention supporting our Aussie tourism industry. If there’s a few of you in the family, why not all chip in and maximise the value and the places she could go. Who knows, she might have enough to take you with her.

For you

In my opinion, the best gift you can give to yourself is the present that comes with unexpected benefits. If you’re ready to make your best year yet, why not treat yourself to a wardrobe that reflects that. Book a styling session with me and I can not only help to curate your dream wardrobe and identify your personal style, but I promise you will leave you with more confidence.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but also to be stylish. 

I wish you a very merry and safe holiday season. 

Your in style,

Claire