So, you’ve been stressing over what to get for everyone else, this festive season. But what about ourselves? These are the pieces you should get as Christmas presents to… You!

by Rohaizatul Azhar

Every year, right about this time, we stress ourselves over getting the perfect gifts for our loved ones. Will he or she like the purchase? Do they need this? What kind of wrapping shall do this time around?

Stop. Here’s the thing: As much as they deserve the gifts and thoughtful gestures, we need them too! After all, we;ve been good all year round, too.

And, honestly, who else would know ourselves better than.. erm, ourselves? I don’t know about you, but there were many moments when I’ve received gifts I don’t quite need, or want. But, you know, we paint the smiles on our faces and thank them for the wonderful presents.

For me, my brain immediately starts to think of who will benefit from the re-gifting’ exercise I’ll be doing next year. Heh.

(I’m kidding. Maybe not. But please don’t stop giving me presents!)

So, here are some choice options you can splurge on yourself on. Because, if not now, then when?

P.S. You can click on the images to shop the pieces!

1. Jewellery

Yes, women are not waiting for a man to buy them jewellery. They are buying what they like, when they want. And according to a Forbes.com study, women now control $20 trillion in annual consumer spending globally. They are, basically, transforming the marketplace, and that includes jewellery as well.

At THE FIFTH COLLECTION, we’ve received some of the best pieces on consignment. And many of them are in “Pristine” condition - even those categorised as “Good” are worth the purchase. We love the Tiffany & Co selection we have on the site. They’ range from statement-making earrings, to classic necklaces that the brand is known for. My personal favourites are the Pearl mesh drop earrings and the Woven bead chain tassel earrings. These 18k gold pieces are the perfect accessories to complete your look - festive season or not.

I love it when women mix and match the pieces they have in their wardrobe. So, when drop earrings, such as these, are paired with dressed-down casual looks, your chic factor is elevated. Alternatively, I’m also loving the vintage BVLGARI earrings. These are classic pieces that also go with everything in your wardrobe.

If you’re looking for a good deal, how about checking out the Panthère De Cartier ring by Cartier? No longer in production (can we say *rare*), this ring is crafted in 18 karat white gold and set with pear-shaped emerald panther eyes (approximately 0.10 carat), onyx nose and the signature chevron pattern all-around.

But if none of these catch your fancy, then click the button below to see other jewellery pieces yoiu can buy for yourself. And, don’t worry, we have options for all of you - no matter the budget.

2. Christian Dior Ultra Black Dio(R)evolution flap bag

I love a multi-use bag as much as any shopaholics out there. My thought process is this: The more ways I can carry this bag, the lesser the amount I’ve paid, which makes it more “worth” the money spent. Now, just like our Bagaholicboy always say on his IG stories, there is no such thing as “worth it” when it comes to.. well anything. You like it, you’ve saved up for it, you buy it. fin.

Now, while I agree on this… Sometimes, I still need a little bit of convincing. And that’s when I do a little bit of fashion mathematics. Take this gorgeous Dio(R)evolution flap bag, for instance. I like the fact that it can be carried as a crossbody, a shoulder bag, and a clutch. Plus, the interior is roomy enough to fit ALOT of things.

I’ve been eyeing this for a while now, and at SGD4,000, It is a good purchase for myself this Christmas. Basically, I’m only paying about SGD1,300 per bag. Now, divide that by the number of times I’ll carry this in a year (MANY, many times), that essentially brings down the total spent again!

But, okay, if you’re looking for a more classic silhouette; one that is instantly recognisable, how about the Lady Dior handbag. Launched officially in 1995, it has earned its place as the most iconic Dior bag to date. Touted as Princess Diana's favourite bag, this elegant piece became a best seller due to its discreet and classic style.

And if you’re looking for something more trendy, check out the super popular Fall/Winter 2019 Flag Book Tote Bag. This Rare Dior Book Tote Bag (yes, the same as the one you see everywhere on Instagram) is a runway piece from the Fall 2019 Ready-To-Wear Collection. I love that it is made from canvas embroidered with a multicolour French flag motif, Union Jack and Stars and Stripes at sides.

3. Chanel Boy Bags

Ah, the Boy bag. Still an It bag after all these years. First introduced in Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2011 collection, the Chanel Boy bag is the less feminine alternative to the classic flap bag, and pays homage to the love of Gabrielle Chanel’s life - Boy Capel. I really love this bag. It still features Chanel's signature elements, such as the chainlink strap, the interlocking double C logo, and for some the quilted leather pattern, but the whole look is altogether edgier.

My take, if you’re buying this bag for yourself - Go for the exotic skin ones. Why? Because they’re less common than the others. Plus, the ones we have on the site are perfect options for evenings - not too large to spoil your look, and not too small that you can’t put anything much in them.

But, in general, because we have almost every size possible on the site (and in varying colours), why don’t you click through below to explore these arm candies?

4. Hermès bags

Oh how much do I love thee, Hermès. Let me count the ways.

Each year, I keep hoping that someone will get me an Hermès bag, and each year I quietly laugh at myself for thinking that. I mean, really. Why I think someone (a random stranger) will get me an Hermès bag, I don’t know. I’d have more luck getting a random present placed in the Hermès paperbag. Heh.

Which was why, I bought myself one last Christmas. It’s more like a pat in the bag for everything I’ve achieved in the year. So, a little present for myself, and from myself, is more than expected.

If you’re looking for that one pièce de résistance to rule all bags, you need to check out the Kelly Picnic 35 bag that we have on the site.

This extremely rare and limited bag from 2012, is crafted in Fauve Barenia and Osier (Wicker) and designed with palladium hardware, contrast stitching, and unique interwoven detail. Trust us, it is almost impossible to get your hands on one (especially in this leather).

Speaking of rare find at Hermès that’s available on THE FIFTH COLLECTION. Check out this Cactus Alligator Constance 24 bag.

Basically, all the hype usually surrounds the iconic Birkin and Kelly bags, but this little sister is such a rare bag to find, so the moment it is available, it is snapped up right away. Plus, I’m in love with the shade of green. It is also brand new, with the full kit. So #CollectorWorthyAlert!

But of course, if you’re looking for the classic pieces from Hermès, then the array of Birkin we have available on the site may just be for you.