A fashionable and functional suitcase to take on your travels. Photo courtesy of Design Hotels.
We are entering that inevitable season of holiday gifting. Before the deluge, we'd like to share a few special items that caught our eye this month: pocket-size, travel-friendly scents; a rare case of good-looking, wearable-tech; and a stretchy pair of joggers that can go from the airplane to a nice dinner. Family and friends, take note: These are the holiday gifts in our sight lines.
Minor History Metro Card Case
On a recent trip to Tokyo, where I gave out no less than twenty business cards (and bows) at a formal work breakfast, I couldn't help but feel untidy with my bent and worn card case. I've been looking for a replacement ever since and finally found my match at Feliz in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Designed to hold credit cards and business cards, the minimalist leather case is simple and sophisticated — and nice enough to impress a Japanese salaryman. – Berit, editor
We really want to design a Fathom suitcase. I love seeing brands I admire making smart, useful products. Design Hotels has partnered with Horizn Studios to create their ideal piece of luggage — a durable, lightweight, and sophisticated carry-on made with high-quality German polycarbonate and Italian Vacchetta leather detailing. Extras include a GPS tracking system, smart charger, two USB ports, and access to Horizon Studios' new Travel Assistant service. – Berit
For the travel tote, work bag, and bedside table: I'm digging these roll-on aromatherapy oils. Sleep, for the long-haul flights; Focus, for the long day's work; Wake, before the morning's rush; Still, to pause during a quiet moment; and — in this crazy world — Balance, for staying grounded. – Kate, contributing editor
In Chinese culture, money envelopes are not only used during Lunar New Year, but also during wedding season. I've hit the age where every other friend of mine is getting hitched, so I'm stocking up on these chic marble envelopes for gifts. – Becky, assistant editor
The obessesion with Japan has reached an all-time high in our office, so I'm adding these adorable animal bundling cloths to our shared wishlist. I especially love the sloth. – Becky
I stumbled upon these gorgeous felt hats that collapse cleverly for packing and traveling. The fabric and construction quality is high — you can tell they'll age well. The price tag is steep, but I'm saving up for a long winter. – Becky
These slacks from Kit and Ace may be the only pants I wear during an upcoming ten-day trip to the United Kingdom. They're stretchy, stain-resistant, water-wicking, and don't wrinkle. And they're way more stylish than average sweats. – Daniel, editorial assistant
Look Inside: Cutaway Illustrations and Visual Storytelling
This very cool compendium of illustrated infographics cuts up objects, architecture, and the natural world and explains how they function from the inside out. Let the eye wander. – Daniel
I may be new to the wearable tech scene, but I've got my eye on this multipurpose smartwatch in classic analog disguise. Track steps, distance, and calories on long walks through a foreign city, or take it on a swim (it's waterproof to 5 ATM). The battery lasts six months, which means one less charger to remember to pack. – Kim, intern
The Brooklyn perfumers behind the olfactory brand conjure faded memories and little-known histories with their waggish, wearable scents. Their new mini vials of popular scents pack wide-ranging influences into each spritz. — The Pixies, 19th-century violin makers, topless psychic Mme. Revere, even the funeral rituals of centuries-old Mississippian culture. – Jeralyn, editorial director
Once while we were traveling, my best friend’s dad met us in Hawaii. A connoisseur of Old Fashioneds, he arrived toting a few bottles of whisky and a selection of artisanal bitters and whipped up a tasting on the spot. I was so impressed that I’ve been meaning to start my own collection for impromptu cocktail-making ever since. This seasonal bottle of bitters (handmade in Austin) blends East Texas satsuma tangerines, dandelion root, vanilla, and spices. – Kim
I'm picky about wallets (who isn't?) and am delighted by my new discovey from the Japanes company Suikin. A mixture of compact efficiency and beauty, the hand-painting may be Japanese, but it reminds me of the Italian Renaissance. – Pavia, CEO
Since we moved into Primary, the work-meets-wellness co-working space, we've been taking our health more seriously. Which is only one reason why my back is so grateful that I discovered the HyperIce Vyper, the compact fitness roller that has an amazing perk: It vibrates. At three different speeds. Which means that no matter how cramped you were in seat 43K for nine hours, this will work out the kinks. The price tag ends up about the same as two massages, which means it pays for itself in no time. – Pavia
We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.
