West 4th Holiday Gift Guide

Strolling—coffee in hand—along West 4th is a good way to find something for everyone this season

During the holiday season, support local with a visit to one of Vancouver’s popular shopping strips, like West 4th Avenue. Save time on your search—and get in the holiday spirit—with one of these perfect gift ideas for each of the names on your list.

1. For the hipster

Can you even call yourself a self-respecting hipster if you don’t have a beanie or a toque? Definitely not. This stylish one from Skull Cashmere has just the right bit of sparkle. They also have similar skull motif fingerless gloves for the die-hard texter on your list.
Coco’s Closet Co., 2190 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $150

2. For the couch potato

This time of year, there is nothing better than curling up on the couch for an unhealthy dose of Netflix. To keep your couch potato extra cozy, give them a blanket from Avoca, a 300-year-old company out of Ireland. Their throws are made from either a heavy wool herringbone, mohair, lambswool or a cashmere-blend, and they come in various sizes. They also add a nice splash of colour to the home.
Oh My Gift, 2039 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $225

3. For the lounger

While pajamas may be a tried-and-true holiday gift, they don’t have to be a yawner. Many of today’s sleepwear brands showcase goods that are more stylish and luxurious than ever before, perfect for lounging about at home, day or night. One of my favourites is the Cat’s Pajamas, which are… well… the cat’s pajamas. I like the pretty, colourful patterns and the soft pima cotton. The best part is they come in a number of different styles and lengths, including full length, capris, (yay!) and shorts.
Hills Dry Goods, 2081 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver, $160 to 175
 

4. For the reader

Are you tired of reading your mom’s, dad’s, sister’s, brother’s, partner’s or grandma’s menu at the restaurant? When it’s time to turn to readers, they don’t come any classier than those made by Izipizi. Their glasses are unisex, available in a number of diopters, and come in so many great colours and styles, you won’t be able to stop at just one. When you’re shopping for someone else, I mean.
The Latest Scoop. 2242 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $59.95

5. For the budding florist

One of the best gifts you can give are gifts of experience. And who doesn’t love getting flowers? That’s why Stems Designer’s Bunch at Celsia Florist is such a fun concept. Each week, the designers at Celsia create an arrangement and showcase it on Instagram. Celsia delivers similar stems to you so that you can do your own arranging. Using a variety of seasonal, local and imported blooms, deliveries can be arranged every week, every two weeks or every four. The gift that keeps on giving!
Celsia Florist, 1930 Arbutus Street, Vancouver; $75 per week

6. For the cook

White dishes are timeless, but there’s something about brightly coloured pieces that can make sitting down to a meal uplifting. And, let’s face it, when days here get overly grey, we could all use a little bit more colour in our lives. I’m eyeing the pretty bowls, sushi plates, and soy dishes in the Bia line by Danesco.
Ming Wo, 2170 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; From $5.50

7. For the man of style

Some men don’t like wearing heavy sweaters. They just get too hot. That’s why this cashmere crew sweaters from Kit and Ace are so perfect: it’s light-weight while also luxurious and classic. Made from four-way stretch cashmere, it comes in three colours: grey, black and dark olive green.
Kit and Ace, 2235 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $198

8. For the tot

The hooded animal towel is one of my go-to gifts for kids. Maybe because I think they’re so adorable and I wish they came in adult sizes! The adorable 3 Sprouts bath towels include the chicken, the elephant, the tiger and the walrus. But, clearly, it’s the racoon who steals the show.
Hip Baby, 2110 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $28

9. For the fashionista

“Gift shopping is so fun when money isn’t an object,” said few of us ever. If I did have a big budget and a fancy style-hound on my list, I’d get myself (err…. her. I mean her!) this gorgeous camel coloured Croatia coat from Judith and Charles. It’s made of the most buttery soft leather, and it’s beautifully tailored. A true forever piece.
Judith and Charles, 2207 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $1395

10. For the wellness buff

Want to get more out of your eight glasses a day? Soji crystal water bottles contain a large natural crystal in each one. The company says that when combined with water, the mixture produces an elixir that encourages rejuvenation and helps clarify the mind and body. They have a number of crystal options, each one with different healing properties. For example, rose quartz is known for having the properties of love and tranquility. I’ll have a glass of that!
Semperviva, 2201 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver; $85