Q I am celebrating my third Valentine’s Day as a single person and I would like to buy a little something special to mark the occasion – from me, to me. I like the way Scandinavians dress. I also like simple, well-made stuff with a side order of quirk. My budget is €70. Can you help?
Sarah, Cork
A Firstly, congratulations. I hope that you and you will be very happy together. I am so glad that you are celebrating your singledom. Not only are you happy, you have eliminated the biggest variable in gift shopping: the other person.
One of the main criteria for Valentine’s Day is to buy something frivolous, so get something you want, not something you need. Cast aside the aprons and functional underpants; it’s time for fripperies and fun.
The most popular gifts given on Valentine’s Day appear to be jewellery, flowers and the simmering resentment that comes about at the meeting point between foolishly high expectations and the crushing disappointment of reality. I do not recommend the last two. The first option, on the other hand, is an entirely different matter.
Show you that you care, and buy a non-engagement ring. This Love Is Enough ring from Tatty Devine is a pocket-friendly collaboration between the brand and the Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller.
Scandinavian style is polished and well-cultivated without being too glamorous. Swedish brand Acne represents the pinnacle of that aesthetic, but is way out of your price range. For goods that follow Acne's spirit, try high-street brands such as Cos, & Other Stories, and Monki. Asos also has a few crisp, cool accessories for those with their head in the Northern Lights.
Email your style woes to wardrobing@irishtimes.com
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