10th Dec 2023
As the festive season draws near, there's no better time to dive into the art of styling and thoughtful gift-giving - and no better place to do it than at Mulberry.
Dominique McMullan, IMAGE Media’s Editorial Director and Sinead Keenan, IMAGE Media Contributing Fashion Editor pick their favourite pieces for festive styling and thoughtful gifting from Mulberry this year.
Dominique: “It’s Mulberry so my first pick has to be a bag! The stunning Lana and a Pimlico bags were launched in October and November this year, and represent two entirely new bag families for Mulberry. The Lana is an elegant evening bag, and has to be my favourite. The metallic silver would go with everything (metallics are not just for Christmas!). The lock is Surrealism-inspired, and the Top Handle bag also comes with a crossbody strap – so you can wear it handsfree which helps when you have two young kids!”
Sinead: “I love the Pimlico. Mulberry are of course known for their iconic bags such as the Alexa and the Bayswater – and the Pimlico and the Lana are icons in the making too. The sculpted silhouette of the Pimlico takes inspiration from the quintessential British satchel and it’s the perfect size for day-to-night. The super lux calf leather is just divine. It comes in Bright Oak, Black Cherry and Black but it’s the Bright Oak has my heart. I’m definitely a tan girl when it comes to handbags. I can imagine this paired with a beautiful pair of sandals in the summer, as much as a gorgeous pairs of boots in the winter.”
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Dominique: “And both are crafted from carbon-neutral leather, and sourced from environmentally-accredited tanneries?”
Sinead: “Yes! And over 50% of their leather goods are still made in their Somerset factories where Mulberry, and Mulberry craftspeople, remain at the heart of the local community. And they repair and restore over 10,000 bags a year, which just blows me away.”
Dominique: “Another bag that’s top of my wish list is the Lily sequins bag in black, especially for Christmas – but does Christmas always have to mean sequins?”
Sinead: “That’s the beauty of sequins, they are not just for Christmas! I wear them all year round. Imagine the Lily paired with a cashmere jumper and runners, it would elevate any outfit!”
Dominique: “And there are so many gifting options outside of bags. I’m thinking about purchasing the Merino Lambswool Rosewater Scarf for my mum, the colour is so perfect for her, and the Ecru Sheep Skin & Calf Leather slippers for my sister. She lives in Boston, where it is so cold, and these would keep her feet toasty. It’s so hard to find great slippers!”
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Sinead: “And the jewellery! I love the Amberley Baroque Resin Earrings, they would make a really special present for someone. They combine traditional jewellery shapes with the silhouette of the iconic Mulberry Rider’s Lock. I also have my eye on the Beaded Phone Wristlet. It’s such a fun and original, like a piece of jewellery that is also functional.”
Dominique: “And what about the men in our lives? What would you pick up this evening for your partner or father?”
Sinead: “My all time favourite is the classic Antony messenger bag, it’s a true Mulberry icon. It features an adjustable leather strap which allows the bag to be worn across the body or over the shoulder. You can’t go wrong with it. I also love the Heritage Nylon Wash Case. It’s practical and will work hard for you.
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Dominique: “Homewares and ceramics are completely new and unique product categories to Mulberry. The dinner plate set, and the leather tray are just stunning. Might they work for a bit of self gifting?!”
Sinead: “100%! And the backgammon set, which would make a gorgeous interiors piece, as well as a the game itself.”
Dominique: “You have spoken before about heirloom purchases Sinead, and actually one of my most prized possessions is a Mulberry Bayswater Bag that my mum passed down to me. Why are these investment pieces so meaningful?”
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Sinead: “‘Made to Last’ is a philosophy that goes to the very heart of Mulberry’s business, and you can see that in the fact that their gorgeous bags are passed down through generations. There is nothing more special than a quality item with a story. It’s so special.”
Dominique: “So by purchasing something beautiful for yourself, you are really purchasing it for your kids and grandkids. How gorgeous is that?
Visit Mulberry.ie for all your thoughtful gifts this Christmas.