Tastes Magazine | Stylish gift ideas » Luxury Gifts

Luxury silver wine accessories from Torrini of Italy

Jackie — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 08:29:05 +0000

For the man or woman who has everything

There’s someone on everyone’s gift list, I think – ‘what on earth can we get for him / her?’ There are quite often people – friends or relatives – who seem to have everything they could ever want. What to get them for a gift? This is particularly true if you’r shopping online – the latest bestselling book just isn’t going to do the trick. I must say, we love finding gifts for these people!

Here is a small selection of wonderful silver items from Torrini of Italy – a company that was first issued with its own trademark in 1369 (yes, you read that right). Our favorite is the one you see below – a silver champagne stirrer. Does champagne need to be stirred? The Italians say yes; stirring the champagne removes some ... Read More »

Ready for a new hobby?

Jackie — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 08:44:10 +0000

Knitting: Your new pastime?

Fifty years ago every woman – and many men too – could knit. And before that, women has spent their spare time during the two World Wars knitting. In those days, being able to knit was just something that almost every female could do.

Then along came mass-produced clothing and knitting became a hobby rather than a necessity. It was no longer necessary to unwind old woolen garments and knit up the wool into something new and fashionable. And yet there has always been a number of crafters who have appreciated the value of hand-knitted garments, plus the therapeutic aspects of the creative act itself.

Today, more and more people are rediscovering this craft, especially because it has such a stylish and fashionable end result. But if you didn’t learn to knit at your mother’s knee, how can you ... Read More »

Ancient Greek sculptures

Jackie — Sat, 31 Jan 2015 08:51:34 +0000

Ancient Greek sculpture replicas from the British Museum

Every room, no matter how it’s furnished and decorated, needs a solid, impressive something. What sort of something? An artifact or artwork that undeniably demonstrates sophistication and style. These sculptures, direct from the British Museum in London, are perfect examples.

They are reminiscent of the classic sculptures that would be seen in the libraries of the finest London homes in the Regency and Victorian eras – along with genuine leather armchairs, polished brass fittings and gently flickering oil lamps with shades casting rosy glow. This is where, after a fine dinner, gentlemen would pass the port, smoke cigars and discuss the matters of the world.

See all ancient Greek replicas here

All products can be shipped worldwide

Audrey Hepburn prints & posters

Jackie — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 08:35:21 +0000

Audrey Hepburn – always a star

If you ask a number of people to name the most enduringly stylish film star many, if not most, would say that they immediately thought of Audrey Hepburn. It’s true that her style remains iconic to this day. That’s why we are so pleased to showcase this collection of prints and other merchandise.

The films she made are now classics and every day, someone else discovers her poise and her delightful fashion style thanks to the movies being shown on television or on DVDs. She starred with some of the most glamorous male stars of the era too, which adds even more style and flair to the performances.

Now a style icon, her characters of Holly Golightly, Sabrina, Eliza Doolittle and more are often seen as artwork in stylish homes and workplaces. These timeless images are available ... Read More »

Gorgeous jewelry from Paula Mendoza

Jackie — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 08:43:05 +0000

Fine jewelry using gold and emeralds from Colombia

Are you looking for a very special gift for a special lady? Then take a look at the exclusive range from Paula Mendoza. Paula’s studios are in Colombia, giving her access to the finest materials. Trained as a sculptor, she now creates wearable art.

Her background in the field of sculpture is evident in her work, as is the Colombian culture and history. And yet this jewelry is completely up to date. Colombia’s gold is extremely rich and its emeralds are particularly lustrous and these materials make a perfect match.

They are perfect to choose as gifts for the truly stylish woman of today.

See the collection

A bracelet made of bubbles

Make sparkling water and energy drinks at home

Jackie — Thu, 25 Dec 2014 08:00:07 +0000

A green and healthy option

I have always loved sparkling water. Somehow that fizz makes it more refreshing, especially when a slice of lemon or lime is added. There is a problem though and I’m sure you know what I’m going to say – I can no longer justify throwing away (or even recycling) glass and plastic bottles or aluminum cans, and I certainly think too about the resources that are wasted in getting carbonated drinks,sodas and energy drinks to our grocery stores and then our homes.

I have the perfect solution. The machines you see above make healthy fizzy drinks using no electricity, no harmful ingredients and the results are good for our bodies and good for the planet. These devices are simplicity itself to use and you are in control of the ingredients you use.

At the online store you can buy ... Read More »

Add style to your home with Marimekko

Jackie — Sun, 21 Dec 2014 08:52:26 +0000

No stylish home is complete without Marimekko

I believe this. This company has long been admired by design aficionados and I always smile when I visit a home and see a Marimekko piece on display. It might be a designer thing, but to me it shows me that the home belongs to someone who hs a definite and distinct sense of style.

The wonderful thing about this range is that, although the company is very true to its long-established design principles, there is something for everyone and to suit any decor. I particularly like their bed linens and the fabulous table ware but there’s so much more to choose from. What’s more. Marimekko products are affordable. I know that the phrase ‘antiques of the future’ is bandied around a great deal in respect to various products but items which have the design ... Read More »

Vintage style weather instruments

Jackie — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 20:46:30 +0000

Lovely accent pieces in vintage style

Whilst I love modern styling, I have to admit that some designs are simply timeless. Timeless items are perfect for gifts because they will match any decor. I’ve always been fascinated by antique instruments – and I know I’m not alone; they are incredibly popular.

It’s easy to see why. They are made from the best materials in designs that have stood the test of time. If you’ve ever wondered where you can buy a ship’s barometer, Victorian style weather vanes, sundials, Galileo thermometers, compasses, time & tide clocks … and lots more,then this site is for you.

These are fabulous items that really lend a touch of flair to any room. Take look at the example below – see that it can be monogrammed too. A lovely gift idea.

See the entire range

Just one of our favorites.

Ornament stands for your treasures

Jackie — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 08:32:29 +0000

Display your ornaments in style

Don’t we all have ornaments that are beautiful and bring back memories? Why should they be lost amongst the other items on the Christmas tree or only be on display during the holidays? We are delighted to have found these stylish frames to allow you to display your ornaments with style.

These beautiful display frames look perfectly stunning in any decor. And they show off your treasures perfectly. Special pieces are no longer just for the holidays but can be shown in your home all year round. Many years ago, I used to buy a special ornament for one of my friends every year – it was a special little treat that I hope was a memorable gift.

These frames weren’t available in those days but had they been, they would have formed wonderful companion pieces for the ... Read More »

Stylish gifts that give back

Jackie — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 15:09:37 +0000

Style and saving

Many years ago, there were very few goods available that were suitable as gifts and at the same time, donated to charity. In those days giving-and-buying was restricted to charity holiday cards. Today, we are all more socially aware – although we still maintain our standards of good quality and great style.

That’s why we love this range of products from Arhaus. Stylish they certainly are but they also give back to worthwhile causes and important charities. I always like to receive this type of gift – to me, it shows that the person who has given it is a thoughtful person. Not only has he or she chosen a lovely item but they have also considered the world we live in.

I like to buy from responsible companies – those who feel that they can make a difference in ... Read More »

Ultimate backgammon boards

Jackie — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 08:55:37 +0000

Backgammon sets that become family heirlooms

For the person who has everything – these exclusive, Egyptian-inspired backgammon sets make the ultimate luxury gift. No expense is spared when these game board are being created and the finest luxury materials are used.

The sets are handmade in England but dispatched from the USA. The sets are regulation size but that’s the only commonplace thing about them. They are gorgeously decorated with an astonishing attention to detail. There are currently only five exclusive designs available

These are the antiques of the future and are bound to be passed down through the generations in years to come. Be amongst the first to experience these delightful objects for yourself.

Visit the website

The feathers design

Personalized flasks – a great gift idea

Jackie — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 09:34:34 +0000

Personalized flasks make a delightful business gift

I write about personalized gifts quite a lot and that’s simply because people love to receive them. The personalization shows that you’ve taken some time and trouble selecting the gift and that’s why they make such good executive or business ‘thank yous’.

Of course, they are popular in other situations too – they are often chosen as a wedding memento for groomsmen, for example. (Although why the guys should get all the fun,I have no idea!) What’s more, they are fantastic value for money. They can be engraved with the recipient’s initials plus the message of your choice – your company name for example.

They are functional but also look great when they are displayed in the home or office too.

See the full range and learn more

A definite favorite

The best leather bags in the world

Jackie — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 08:54:51 +0000

Italian leather bags for travel or business

That’s a rather bold statement, isn’t it? ‘The best in the world’? Well, let’s see, but I have just found these wonderful products and want to share them with you. I always believed, correctly, that Italian leather products are vastly superior to those from other countries. And as you know, experts agree.

But what I didn’t know until today, is that much of the leather used for Italian goods isn’t Italian at all. It is produced in other countries and sent to Italy to be tanned, often using chemical methods. These wonderful bags, on the other hand, use genuine Italian produced leather which is tanned using vegetable methods. This means that the material is much more harder-wearing and actually improved with age, rather than deteriorate.

They are actually guaranteed for life! And they can take a ... Read More »

Unusual clocks for your home or office

Jackie — Sun, 07 Dec 2014 16:00:28 +0000

Today, clocks are wall art

We don’t really need clocks in our homes or offices these days do we? But that doesn’t mean that they are no longer made, no longer popular or in demand. In fact, one of the super hot interior design trends today is what we will call the art clock. Yes, these are functional pieces but more and more people are using them as decorative object.No, more than mere decor – true art.

Today, if I want to know the time, I cast a glance at my iPhone, the iPad, the laptop …. or if I’m in the kitchen, my cooker, microwave and coffee maker all can tell me the time. Even when I’m in the car, I only have to glance at the dashboard.

These days, watches are classed as jewelry and clocks have been elevated to the ... Read More »

Jackie Kennedy jewelry

Jackie — Sun, 16 Nov 2014 07:22:47 +0000

Beautiful jewelry – Kennedy style

There’s no doubt that Jacqueline Kennedy was very much a style icon. And it wasn’t just American women who followed her lead – women all over the world were captivated by her clothes and her accessories. Many of these were truly timeless pieces that have become classics and that can certainly be said for her jewelry. There are some rather frightening statistics about how much her jewelry was worth. But today, we can all enjoy her style.

We were so pleased to find an online retailer that sells gorgeously stunning reproductions of her classic pieces. What’s more, every item comes with it’s own certificate of authenticity proclaiming that the piece – be it brooch, earrings, a pendant or bracelet – that it is a faithful ‘reproduction of jewelry worn by Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, the First Lady of ... Read More »

The ultimate food preparation station.

Jackie — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 18:37:08 +0000

This is a wonderful item that will enhance any kitchen. It’s stylish, eco-friendly and so very practical – all at the same time.

It was designed by an experienced top chef, so you can be assured that this is the best way to prepare food in your kitchen.

Ingeniously, this combines a work surface, chopping board, ingredient storage and waste disposal all in one deliciously compact unit.The main body of this work station is made from sustainable bamboo which has a natural ability to repel bacteria and resist cracks and stains. It’s also covered by a lifetime guarantee.

The food storage sections are plastic, which is vastly superior for food storage, and is BPA-free. Don’t you think this would inspire anyone to create wonderful meals? What a wonderful gift for the gourmet. See more at the link below.

See this food preparation station and ... Read More »