12 great gift ideas for the modern design lover on your list

‘Tis the season! As the festivities unfold, waste no time wondering what the design lover in your life has on their wish list. Our 2023 Gift Guide is here to make your holiday shopping a breeze. From modern essentials to new tech tools, we’ve got you covered.

For the classic modernist

Since Massimo Vignelli designed the Stendig calendar in 1966, it remains one of the most beloved examples of 1960s modernist design, featuring one of the movement’s iconic creations – the Swiss typeface Helvetica. With the new year just around the corner, this gift promises a useful function and an unmissable sense of style. $95, at 313 Design Market.

For the fashion-focused

Reminiscent of a trending accessory by a certain Swedish fashion house, the Matisse scarf by Ezcaray promises a fashion-forward holiday gift this year at an accessible price point. Made of 50% Mohair, 48% wool, and 2% polyamide, this accessory is beyond cozy and guaranteed to keep your fashionable friend warm all winter long. $139, at GOODEE.

For the busy bee

This is the part of our 2023 Gift Guide where you’ll begin to wonder if you ought to “pick up one for yourself.” The Green Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer by Steamery is the type of present anyone would love. But for those on your shopping list with a habit of keeping a packed schedule, the tool’s two-in-one steamer and iron functionality will keep their outfit presentation truly seamless. $225, at SSENSE.

For the globetrotter

As great as a “free with purchase” makeup bag can be, our travel accessories deserve better. For the globetrotter in your inner circle, gift this chic vanity pouch courtesy of Monocle and Finnish designer Johanna Gullichsen. Approx. $112, at The Monocle Shop.

For the one who has everything

Aesop releases curated holiday gift kits every year. This year, we’ve been granted five to choose from. For the person in your life with fantastic taste who is impossible to shop for, consider the brand’s Fabulous Forms kit – equipped with three daily essentials: hand balm, invigorating body cleanser and nourishing lip salve all for under one hundred bucks. $83, at Aesop.

For the stylish host

If you’ve stumbled into Fable’s Queen West outpost, you’re likely aware of how dream-worthy the brand’s home goods collections are – minimalist, high-quality and sustainably made. Fable’s stainless-steel set makes the perfect holiday gift. It elegantly serves four and will stay rust- and stain-free for years of meals to come. $329, at Fable.

For the culture critic

Impress this holiday season with a bottle of small-batch, natural wine – even die-hard wine lovers might not have discovered its slightly effervescent nature. The diverse varieties cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Modern and artsy labels make for a unique hostess gift. From $40, at The Daughter.

For the one who loves Christmas

Commemorate the tradition of gift giving with a present your loved one can enjoy year after year. Meticulously handcrafted by Jess Wheeler in North Wales, the Holly Brass Ornament is made using hand-cut shapes from recycled sheet brass for a truly gorgeous shine. $45, at Mjölk.

For the trendsetter

Elevate their note-taking experience with the Kotn Notebook — a thoughtful and sustainable holiday gift. Crafted from premium materials, this stylish accessory features 100% organic cotton covers and responsibly sourced paper. Ideal for capturing ideas, sketches, or holiday memories, it’s a perfect blend of functionality and ethical design. $40, at Kotn.

For the minimalist

Add a touch of modern elegance to holiday gatherings with the U-Fruit Bowl from Cyrc. This sleek and versatile 3D-printed bowl is not just a functional centrepiece but also a statement piece for any table. In chic black, it’s a top choice for minimalist-design lovers. $115, at Simons.

For the postmodernist

We couldn’t complete our 2023 Gift Guide without at least one candle. In its bright blue pigment, the Shaped Pillar Candle resembles a Doric column, pulls from today’s maximalist design trends and nods to classic postmodernist style with a playful ribbed exterior. From $19, at H&M Home.

For the daydreamer

They’ll have a blast diving into the chic and inspiring destinations of Assouline’s Travel Series books through rich text and photography that capture the style and essence of each locale. From Ibiza to the Moon, this expansive collection features a destination for everyone, making holiday shopping a breeze without sacrificing a personalized touch. From $140, at John Paul & Co.

An Added Bonus!

For those extra-special people on your holiday shopping list, consider a 1 Year Print Subscription Bundle to both AZURE and Designlines. Give the gift of endless design inspiration with this special offer for $39.95.

Likewise, we’re offering a special Designlines x DesignTO Membership Bundle priced at $29! Being a DesignTO Member deepens your experience as part of Toronto’s design community, and supports its accessible public programming. DesignTO Membership features unique opportunities to experience Canadian and international design through the annual 10-day Festival, Members-only events, and Members-only Digital Library.
Do you have a design lover on your list? Shop our bundles here!