Each holiday season I ask myself what gifts could possibly appease my design-loving friends, and each holiday season I find myself missing the mark. I’m confident that I’ve finally found a solution in Gramercy Typewriter Co. The unassuming shop in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood has been repairing and selling typewriters for more than 90 years. Abraham Schweitzer started the business, and his son Paul, who joined it in 1959, still runs the show today. You’re in expert hands and, thus, won’t walk away with a battered, hardly operational IBM Selectric as you might elsewhere. Instead, pick up an Olivetti Lettera 32, Olympia SM3, or Olivetti Valentine. The store accepts appointments and will be open through December 23—if you’re in need of something last-minute, a beautiful (and operational) typewriter might well save your Christmas. (from $400, gramercytypewriter.com) —Jack Sullivan

Traveling in smart style is nothing short of an art form—and one that Métier’s Melissa Morris has perfected with her collection of heirloom-worthy leather goods, each of which has been meticulously conceived to go the distance. Now frequent fliers can rest easy knowing there’s a solution for their jewelry too, thanks to a covetable case created in collaboration with jewelry designer Fernando Jorge. Handcrafted in Italy from butter-soft suede—whose rich caramel color takes its inspiration from Jorge’s Brazilian heritage—the accordion-style envelope houses three pockets fitted with tabs, hooks, and zippers to keep even the most precious of rings, earrings, and necklaces secure. What’s more? Should you choose to wear all of your gioielleria at once upon touchdown, the timeless accessory can double as an elegant clutch to accompany you wherever you may roam. ($950, metier.com) —Zoe Ruffner

London has many things, but few of its rooms have views. (Min Jiang, the Chinese restaurant overlooking Kensington Gardens, and the London Eye are two notable exceptions.) Now there’s a swell cocktail lounge where the panoramas are even better than the excellent martinis. The aviation-themed Brooklands Bar, at the sparkling new Peninsula London, is located on the eighth floor, and from any of its cozy perches, imbibers are invited to take in Hyde Park, Westminster, and even, mysteriously, the dark gardens of Buckingham Palace. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of shopping in Mayfair, and for night owls, it’s open until two A.M. from Thursday to Sunday. (peninsula.com) —Ashley Baker

I’m typically averse to giving beauty and grooming products as gifts. Too often I worry, however preposterously, that the recipient will assume I’m delivering not just a fancy tube of lipstick but also a judgment on her current appearance. (F.Y.I., I would never.) But the Towel, by the clean hair-care brand Crown Affair, is one of the rare items where I make the exception. It’s marvelous, and not just because its absorbent, waffle-knit microfiber fabric significantly cuts down drying time. It also features a clever pentagonal shape that wraps around the head neatly and stylishly with an elastic strap to hold down the tail of excess fabric and keep everything secure. You could literally dance the fandango and this thing would not fly off. ($45, crownaffair.com) —Laura Neilson

The men in our lives are always the hardest to shop for. I’ve found that a foolproof recipe is replacing an item that they likely already have with a higher-quality, monogrammed update. My new go-to has become T. Anthony’s Classic Shave Kit. It’s timeless, good-looking, and practical. You can also use this as an opportunity to start building your dad or husband a new travel set—add the matching luggage or garment carriers next year. The best part is that T. Anthony offers same-day monogramming in its gorgeous shop, at 57th and Park. It may take an extra day or two the week of Christmas, but it’s certainly the fastest luxury brand in town for the perfect customizable gifts. ($225, tanthony.com) —Lucy Horowitz

It’s been scientifically proven that snow-plowing down the bunny slope doesn’t have to be embarrassing. All it requires is a wardrobe from Loro Piana. The Italian style emporium has recently introduced its 27-piece ski collection, and with five shell jackets to choose from, mostly in neutral shades with strategic pops of green and red, surely one will suit. The matching pants are required, along with some masterfully minimal gloves and goggles. The wooden skis and poles are highly recommended. Loro Piana’s innovative textiles will repel any moisture while retaining warmth, so even if you’re sweating that black diamond, no one will notice anything except your outfit. (from $450, exclusively at mrporter.com) —Ashley Baker