Store owner and writer Laurel Pantin shared with me her stylish holiday gift selections.

      Who What Wear's new series Chic People Presents seeks to rekindle the personal touch in gifting by enlisting some of fashion and beauty’s most innovative creatives to share their holiday shopping recommendations. Continue reading for present suggestions that resonate if you know, you know (IYKYK), along with gift-giving advice from top industry stylists, designers, and influencers. And just like that, the holiday season has arrived, bringing with it the whirlwind of festive planning. Coordinating everything from menus to outfits, decorations, venues, and, naturally, gifts for loved ones can feel overwhelming. This is precisely when I turn to fashionable figures for inspiration. Enter the ever-chic Laurel Pantin.

      The remarkable Pantin is a former magazine editor (Teen Vogue, Lucky, Glamour, InStyle) and was the fashion director at ByGeorge. Renowned for her talent in crafting stunning outfits that have been captured worldwide, she’s also the witty, relatable writer behind the substack Earl Earl. Now, she has embarked on an exciting venture by opening her own store in Beverly Hills, Earl IRL. It's easy to see why I was eager to gain her insights on holiday gifting ideas and strategies.

      And she certainly delivered. From the playful and unexpected Dress Up Michelangelo’s David magnets to the stylish yet practical L.L.Bean boots, Pantin's gift suggestions radiate joy. She provides meaningful commentary, stemming from her own experiences in curating gift guides, about what makes a true gift. Keep scrolling to enjoy Pantin’s take on the holidays and her specific gifting recommendations.

      1. Gift I’d Never Buy But Would Love to Have: Gaetano Pesce Medusa Vessel: "I've always admired these Gaetano Pesce vases, but I wouldn’t buy one for myself. They're so gooey and colorful; I adore them. However, it feels like something that should be gifted."

      2. Gift That Sparks Joy: L.L.Bean Wicked Good Slippers: "My mother-in-law gifted me these a few years back, and they are by far the best present I’ve received. I wear them daily, and they bring me such happiness!"

      3. Future Heirloom Gift: Sherman Field Pearl Pendants: "I adore anything from Sherman Field. Their lockets are stunning heirlooms, and I love gifting their pearl charms—it’s a true expression of love for someone special."

      4. Gift They Won’t Return: French Vintage Tea Towel: "To ensure it doesn't get returned, opt for something neutral and practical. I love receiving beautiful tea towels. They’re universally useful and don’t require concern over matching."

      5. Gift for Any Age: Lakeshore Super-Fun Marble Run: "This might not be suitable for very young children due to choking hazards, but I absolutely love marble runs. They’re great for post-dinner activities or adult hangouts, while also being fun for kids. They’re creative, exciting, and relatively mess-free."

      6. Worth-It Luxury Gift: Métier Small Incognito Bag: "This Métier bag is a splurge, but it’s beautiful and functional, with secret compartments. It’s an exceptionally tasteful gift."

      CDG Wallet: "I also appreciate Comme des Garçons zipper pouches; they’re vibrant and practical, perfect for travel or as a small day clutch."

      7. Gift of a Great Read: The Art of Fielding and The Most Fun We Ever Had: "The Art of Fielding is highly underrated—definitely one of the best books I’ve read. Everyone I’ve recommended it to has loved it. Likewise, The Most Fun We Ever Had is incredible and deeply moving!"

      8. Standout Hostess Gift: Rare Michelangelo David Dress Up Magnets: "As a kid, I found these fridge magnets for 'dressing up David' in all the trendiest homes. They’re now vintage and somewhat rare, and I’d love to gift them to the right hostess."

      9. Snacks and Spirits Gift: AndSons Chocolate Signature Collection: "The chocolates from AndSons in Beverly Hills are phenomenal! My favorite is the Passionfruit flavor."

      1. How do you set a holiday-season mood in your home? "This is our first holiday in our new house, and I'm excited to decorate. When I first saw it, I thought, 'This is a Christmas house.' I plan to go all out with garland on the banister, a large wreath on the front door, plenty of lights outside, and a big Christmas tree in the living room."

      2. Do you have any holiday traditions? "As my kids are still young (5 and 7), we’re creating our own traditions. My 5-year-old loves baking, so we always make cookies together. We also have a close-knit group of friends in L.A. with whom we typically spend Thanksgiving since traveling can be very stressful. I prefer to stay home during that week."

      3. Do you