Jewelry is always appreciated, of course. And obviously one can never have too much cashmere. But come the gift giving season, it's visions of pumps and platforms that dance in the heads of New York's most stylish, namely those dreamed up by Fashion Director turned Founder Marina Larroudé.
Always one to step out on the scene, Marina's quick-to-grow shoe brand Larroudé has become a footwear phenomenon. Wardrobe classics that pack a real sartorial punch.
Curious what's on this fashion favorite's wish list this season?
How do you celebrate the holidays?
I adore the holidays and love New York City during the holidays, so I do as much as I can. This year, I took my kid to see 'The Nutcracker.' I'll be going with Ricardo to Andrea Bocelli's holiday show, and then Madonna's concert! I decorate the entire house, and I always host a dinner party for my team and another for my friends, or my kid's friends and their parents. When December 24th arrives, that's when we, as a family, celebrate. I like to have a very intimate and loving time with my family. We have our own tradition now. We cook a very special dinner at home, open presents one at a time, and spend lots of quality time together. I spend the month looking for the most unique gifts for the kids, from an eraser in the shape of an ear to the special yo-yo that George wants. I thrive on that! Then, on December 25th, we travel, usually to somewhere warm.
Where will you be this season?
Usually, I'm in New York through December 24th, but this year, we're going to the Dominican Republic with my childhood friends and their kids. We're going to have a blast, and the kids will too!
Are you a last-minute or way-in-advance shopper?
I tend to shop the entire month, usually for small but always thoughtful gifts. I purchase gifts and hide them from my kids the minute the boxes arrive. For Christmas, I wrap each lip gloss individually so they feel that abundance feeling.
What's the best gift you've ever received?
Ricardo always gives me the best holiday gifts; each year is special! He custom-made a rainbow pendant with Brent Neale once, and it was incredible! George always buys me PJs at TJMaxx close to home because he knows I love new PJs, and Gloria gives me nail polish that she knows I like for coloring my nails!
Who's the toughest to shop for on your list?
Ricardo, always and forever! It gives me such a headache every time. The man is not a shopper and is not into 'things,' so it's hard!
What's your go-to hostess gift?
Lately a pair of Larroudé shoes or Dear Annabelle Stationery. It really depends how well I know the hostess.
Favorite spots around town to pick up something in person?
I go to Soho with Gloria every year on a Christmas shopping spree. Uniqlo and Supreme are always my go-tos. A teenager will adore a Supreme tee, and for everyone else, I get something simple and chic at Uniqlo.
Any particularly festive plans or traditions you're most looking forward to this year?
I love my holiday menu: artichoke lasagna from Acquolina to go, cooked ham, farofa (a Brazilian dish), Sant Ambroeus panettone, and lots of bubbles.
What's on your list to get?
Any Petite Plume PJs, Lingua Franca sweater, Literie candles, and I saw this champagne apron the other day that I shared the link with both Ricardo and Gloria, hoping for them to give it to me. I would also love something sparkly from Retrouvai.
What's on your list to give?
Makeup for Gloria, a yo-yo and Petite Plume PJs for George, and for Ricardo, I'm still looking. I might get a custom LF sweater for him again, as he loved the one I got him last year!
[Photos courtesy Marina Larroudé]