If there is one gift I would love to receive, it would be anything from Diptyque.
The Diptyque story began in Paris, at 34 Boulevard Saint-Germain, involving three creative friends. Christiane Gautrot was an interior designer, Desmond Knox-Leet a painter, and Yves Coueslant a theater director and set designer.
The first two collaborated in designing fabrics and wallpaper for Liberty and Sanderson.
Stylish bazaar
In 1961, they opened shop and were joined by Yves, who took on administrator and consultant duties, while Desmond and Christiane provided the artistic soul.
Bit by bit, with finely honed taste, they transformed the space into a one-of-a-kind setting, a stylish bazaar where one found surprising articles which they purchased in the course of their travels.
Scented candles
In 1963, they introduced a line of scented candles which eventually became the main focus of their business, and which is my personal favorite.
I also love the perfumes. In fact, I am obsessed with Eau De Lierre and Eau Duelle, to name two of their scents.
I believe that Diptyque is one of the few “you-can’t-go-wrong” stores if you’re looking for presents.
Diptyque has been available at Rustan’s Makati for several years but it recently opened its first boutique in the Philippines at Bonifacio High Street Central Square in Taguig City.
I suggest you try their candles and spray on some of their scents. There is bound to be something there for you and your home.
Holiday wish list
I’ve asked a couple of friends what they would love to receive this Christmas and here are their answers:
“I wouldn’t mind having Clinique’s Stay Matte Hydrator and Celeteque facial wash since those are my staples. The Body Shop Sensualite Tropicale massaging oil is good for relaxing.”—Migs Rosales
“I would love to receive the complete Clarins skincare line for men!”
—Roy Macam
“I spend a lot of time traveling and in hot kitchens, so I prefer lightweight foundation for my very sensitive skin. Giorgio Armani Maestro foundation in 5.5 is always a delight to receive.”
—Rebecca Disini
“This Christmas, I would love to receive La Mer moisturizing cream. It’s a beauty product I’ve been obsessed with for the last 15 years.”—Marivic Tambunting
“Since I am such a beauty junkie, I would like a year’s supply of Dermal Collagen mask sold at Beauty Bar to complement my skincare regimen. It is my secret to healthy, glowing skin.”—Barbi Friebel
“A really good moisturizer (Essentials by Aivee) and sunblock, too!”—Digzy Umali
“I’m all about antiaging products these days. I want to achieve radiant looking skin. If Santa were reading this, all I want for Christmas is the No Foundation Foundation Serum and Acyl-Glutathione Deep Crease Serum from Dr. Perricone.”—Jenni Epperson
“I can’t live without eyeliner, so a year’s supply of K-Palette would be great! That and MAC Studio Fix powder because my oily face needs it.”—Donna Pita
“A product that makes eyelashes longer and thicker; so Latisse would be a great gift to receive!”—Sari Yap
“I love Amphora Clear Aloe Vera Gel from Amphora Aromatics, Bristol. Last year I gave them as presents to my family and friends. Really nice stuff.”—Lesley Mobo
