Whether you want to be someone who can rock Y2K fashion or be timelessly cool, here’s a gift guide to the trending buys of 2021 that live up to their hype.
Related: MEGA Gift Guide 2021: Creative Ideas For People Who Are Hard To Shop For
WAY BACK INTO BLACK
Mika Reyes, Beauty & Features Writer
I had a very experimental year. I dyed my hair into impossible colors and took a deep dive into Y2K fashion. It was fun and insightful, but it wasn’t exactly me. That’s why I’ve decided to take a little break and go back to basics. Besides, black never equated to boring. It’s chic and glamorous, yet effortless and timeless. Take it from Yves Saint Laurent who said, “I love black because it affirms, designs and styles. A woman in a black dress is a pencil stroke.”
1. H&M’s Innovation Circular Design Story
Sustainability and fashion? It’s a yes for me. H&M’s Innovation Circular Design Story collection features a lovely array of holiday looks. There are just too many outfits you can choose from. Maybe it’s time to buy one for each of your holiday parties?
2. XIAOMI 11 Lite 5G NE in Black
Monochromatic looks are in and will always be in! It’s the best way to look put together without putting much thought into it. You can achieve that sleek finish by pairing a stylish Xiaomi phone to your outfit.
3. C&M JEWELRY Bear Hugs Small (M or D Initial)
I’m a huge fan of personalized items. I have my own initial necklace and I wear it almost everyday. A new take on the initial necklace is C&M’s Bear Hugs Collection. I would opt for the small size to keep things dainty and sweet.
4. GENTLE MONSTER Jennie 1996 01 Sunglasses
One thing’s for sure, the future is K-Pop. Being a huge fan of K-Pop means wanting all of their clothes as well. Jennie Kim has been Gentle Monster for as long as I can remember. That’s why their Jennie 1996 pair is definitely on our wish list.
5. OVERLAY DESIGNS Rafael Bag
Local brands have been stepping up in their bag game. If you’re looking for a versatile bag in an affordable price, then look no further. This one is stylist approved. We’ve spotted this on Lyn Alumno and Jana Silao.
ACADEMY OF LIGHT
Brie Ventura, Multimedia Artist
TikTok, Gen Z’s turf, has given birth to a lot of fashion aesthetics over the past 2 years that have dominated the style scene. There’s the grunge e-girl, the dreamy cottegcore—and now comes the light and dark academia. This trend was inspired by that boarding school look—bookish, preppy and intellectual. Think Chanel tweeds and coordinates, Ralph Lauren, tartans, and to an extent, Louis Vuitton’s classic neutral brown hues.
1. LOUIS VUITTON Raw Monogram Coat
When it comes to acing the light and dark academia aesthetic, the tops you wear play a major role. One can never go wrong with a Louis Vuitton Monogram.
2. PRADA Saffiano Leather Bolo Tie
We’ve all dreamed of having a certain leather piece from Prada, why not start with something you can wear anytime and anywhere?
3. KIM SOO HYUN’s “I Decided To Live As Me” Book
At a time when uncertainty was widespread, books are our best companion. This book is for anyone wanting to start anew and develop a better understanding of themselves—perfect for the start of a new year. Take it from BTS’ Jungkook who is proudly living by the phrases of the book.
4. XIAOMI 11 Lite 5G NE in Bubblegum Blue
The perfect instagrammable post includes a good color palette. Take ‘I Decided To Live As Me’ book, pair it off with Xiaomi’s 11 Lite 5G NE in bubblegum blue, then strike that “brb, reading in a cafe” pose.
5. C&M JEWELRY Bear Hugs Collection 18k Gold Necklace
Who else is gushing whenever they receive personalized gifts? Definitely me! It’s well thought of—something close to heart. What better way to take things much more valuable than C&M’s Jewelry Bear Hugs collection 18k gold initials necklace.
6. LOUIS VUITTON Since 1854 A-Line Mini Skirt
The academia fashion culture allows gender-neutral dressing. Strike an even balanced look with a monochromatic mini skirt.
7. GUCCI Crystal-embellished Chunky Loafers
Soles for the kindred souls. Chunky soles have been coming back to an even stronger trend. Achieve that chic and classy finish with Gucci loafers.
