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The HOT Holiday Gift Guide!
Dear Hot Friends,
It’s hard to believe, but we have just 17 shopping days left until Christmas! So here it is—right on time—your HOT Holiday Gift Guide, filled with clever, meaningful, last-minute ideas for the people you love. I know you’ve probably scrolled past countless gift guides already, so this one is short, sweet, and curated with love.
I’ve broken it into three bite-sized sections:
5 things I’m gifting this year, 5 fabulous new arrivals on House of Terrance, and 5 picks from my number-one employee—my husband Robert, Head of Technology (and loyal HOT enthusiast!).
Let’s get to it…
5 Gifts I’m Most Excited to Give This Year
1. Anything From Holly Beinhorn’s Cultus Artem Line
My dear friend Holly is one of the most discerning, imaginative women I’ve ever known. We met in 1990s Singapore when she stopped me on the street and asked me to model in a fashion show for her line of featherweight sportswear. Since then, I’ve watched her evolve into an extraordinary jeweler and perfume maker. Her fine fragrances and skincare essentials make the most luxurious, thoughtful gifts — destined to be adored.
2. A Clever Custom Jigsaw Puzzle
I know quite a few people who consider a challenging puzzle the ultimate winter-night indulgence. Why not make it personal? PuzzleYou lets you create custom puzzles from your own photo — imagine their delight as they assemble their lovely family. Prices start at $29.99, and there’s still time for Christmas delivery if you act soon.
3. Political Merch for Your Left-Leaning Activist
Most people in my life fall into this category, and after the year we’ve had, meaningful merch feels particularly welcome. Two favorites: Social Goods, which supports causes especially relevant to women, and MoveOn, whose messaging I really appreciate. Every dollar goes toward stopping Trump’s agenda and winning back Congress in 2026 — a gift that gives twice.
4. The Most Fun Drinking Glass
I’m smitten with these charming glasses from Coming Soon, a go-to destination for gift shopping. A collaboration between artist Lindsey Degen and glass artist Neal Drobnis, they feature bright, abstract smiling faces. Whatever you pour into them instantly tastes happier.
5. The Best Gift for the Fashion Obsessive
Fashion designer and two-time Coty Award winner Jeffrey Banks is a master storyteller, and his book Storyteller: Tales From a Fashion Insider is overflowing with fabulous tales from his extraordinary life in fashion. I’ve heard some of them firsthand at my friend Teri Agins’ home, and let me tell you… You won’t put this book down. It’s a treasure for any style devotee.
5 Amazing Gift Items You Can Get on HOT
Solar Eclipse Hand-Painted Claw Clips - Perfect for anyone with long, thick hair. Handmade, hand-painted, and wonderfully sturdy — they hold hair with real style.
This charming claw clip by Solar Eclipse is designed in New York City and features a double-sided design for a perfect look from all angles. Handmade with biodegradable acetate made from recycled wood pulp and hand-painted by artists, this accessory effortlessly holds hair for a secure, all-day style. This unique hair clip makes a great gift!
Vintage Prada Fur Collar - Give this to the most fashionable person on your list and secure your title as Best Gifter of Holiday 2025. Truly a showstopper.
The Prada group stopped using fur in their designs in 2020. But this fur collar is from the ‘90s and was purchased at Prada in Rome. It’s a stunning scarf made of died Finn raccoon, it ties at the neck with grosgrain ribbon. In excellent condition.
Red Knit Heart Brooch - A quirky, charming piece for the hopeless romantic. The oversized pin makes it perfect on any coat or jacket.
This sweet red knitted heart is sure to charm! Handmade in Eastern Europe, it comes with an oversized pin so you can attach it to your lapel or wherever you want. Heart comes with its own decorative bag for gifting! Measures 7” x 4” with fringe.
Vintage Hervé Van Der Straeten Circles Earrings - For your vintage-loving fashion girlie. Artisan-made in the 1990s and basically a party in earring form.
Purchased in Paris in the early 1990s, these stunning gold-plated earrings by prolific jewelry designer, Herve Van Der Straeten, are one of his iconic designs and a must-have! Perfect for any party, they’re actually very lightweight and comfortable to wear. 4 1/” long, for pierced ears.
Handmade Custom Notebook Covers by Mark Fina - I’m thrilled to welcome Mark back to HOT. A longtime friend and former advertising colleague, he’s one of the most creative people I know. These handmade leather covers make beautiful, thoughtful gifts for those who love unique, handcrafted pieces.
I’m thrilled to welcome Mark back to HOT. A longtime friend and former advertising colleague, he’s one of the most creative people I know. These handmade leather covers make beautiful, thoughtful gifts for those who love unique, handcrafted pieces. Made of rich leather and stitched with your choice of 4 colors for your initials.
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Please email tgibralter@gmail.com with your INITIALS to be custom-designed on your leather notebook cover.
5 HOT Gifts Chosen by Rocky (my faithful tech guy!)
Rocky selected these items himself — and explains why in his own words:
RESIST T-Shirt - “It’s red, gets noticed, and strengthens resolve. And I love the original art dust bag that comes with it!”
The RESIST T-shirt features the artwork of Patrick-Earl Barnes. Each t-shirt also comes with its own original, hand-painted dust bag by Patrick-Earl.
(See image with size chart)
Connie Bates Tan Leather Belt with Silver Buckle - “The gorgeous, arty design projects sophistication and a desire for harmony.”
This vintage tan leather belt by Connie Bates features a stunning buckle of silver loops and gold mesh accents. Can be worn at the waist or at the hip, it elevates everything from a cool maxi skirt to a pair of jeans! It can fit a wide range of sizes. One of a kind, never worn. 41” A prolific 1980s designer known for her belts as well as her jewelry, Connie Bate’s designs are sculptural and imbued with urban glamour. Inspired by the vibrant energy of New York City, the pieces emphasized individuality and strength, making them wearable statements for powerful self-expression.
Vintage Hammered Goldleaf Lily Pad Earrings - “These earrings are so inviting — like lily pads on a beautiful pond. Handcrafted. Jump for them before they sell like HOT’s other best vintage finds.”
These exquisite face framing earrings are unique and truly beautiful! They’re quite large and clip on but are actually very comfortable to wear. Purchased in Paris in the late 80s, they’re hammered gold and just stunning. 2” across.
Vintage Sterling Silver Bracelet with Pale Jade Green Stones
“This bracelet stands out with its beautiful mix of shapes and colors. Subtle and bold at the same time — noticed by others while giving you a feeling of inner peace.”
This is a very striking bracelet in sterling silver with a combination of large pale jade colored stones, yellow, blue and green watermelon slices and small apple green accent stones. Fits a small to medium wrist. 8” long.
HOT Pink Feather Bag Charm - “Your go-to bag is boring. Show your quirky side by clipping this on and taking off!”
This whimsical bag charm can also be used as a key chain. Hand made in South Africa, its bright pink feathers paired with a black and white woven handle will make you smile! 8” long.
Happy Holiday Shopping!
Terry xoxo