- BY ISSIMO
- November 17, 2023

Holiday gifts can be difficult to get – be it because you’re overwhelmed by the choice, lacking inspiration, or simply don’t have the time to go shopping.
But fret not. To take the guessing (and hard) work out of the festivities, we’ve asked our favourite tastemaker to share her own holiday edit – and personal preferences when it comes to celebrating – with curated picks for everyone on your list. Best of it all, you don’t even have to leave your couch to get them – they’re all on ISSIMO, ready to be delivered straight to your door!
What do you like the most about the holiday season?
ML: Spending time with my son.
Are there traditions/ habits you can't live without when it comes to celebrating?
ML: Christmas eve’s dinner. La vigilia has always been extra special in my family.
Angiolini Cioccolato
Il Pellicano Chocolate Blend
The holidays call for something sweet. For me, there’s no better way to indulge than delicious, hand-crafted chocolate – even better if it’s by one of my favourite chocolate makers, Angiolini Cioccolato. This moreish bar was created especially for Hotel Il Pellicano together with our Chef Michelino Gioia, so it’s extra special. Worth all the calories!
Favourite holiday food?
ML: Tortellini in brodo – rigorously homemade, of course!
Is there an outfit you wear over and over again for the holidays?
ML: Not really! I like to change it up depending on the days. As long as it brings me joy!
And drink?
ML: Good wine.
Favourite place to go celebrate?
ML: Home, surrounded by those I love.
Christmas tree, nativity scene or mistletoe?
ML: Christmas tree.

ISSIMO x L.G.R
Gae Sunglasses
Sunnies aren’t just for summer: They’re great accessories to don all-year round. For something with a little character, I’m gifting these ISSIMO x L.G.R ones to the style-savvy people in my life. Inspired by iconic designer Gae Aulenti, they’re sassy, elegant, and great at protecting your eyes from the sun. A pretty perfect present, right?
ISSIMO x Byredo
“L’Orto Italiano Candle”
For the Italophiles in your crew, look no further than our ISSIMO x Byredo Candle. It smells like Italy – tomatoes, basil, hints of pepper – looks molto sleek, and feels incredibly lush. What else do you need?
ISSIMO
Apulian Deep Plate Set of Six
We recently added these to our homeware selection, and I already know everyone I know is going to love them. Bold, fun and hand-made, they blend craftsmanship with panache. I’m giving a few sets to a few of my design-obsessed friends.
The ultimate gift set to give ahead of the holidays, our ISSIMO Decoration Box features all the trimmings needed to make an ItalianISSIMO Christmas tree: Seven decorative glass baubles featuring the Colosseum, panettone, mandarin, moka pot, a vespa, a Fiat 500 and the fiery peperoncino to ward off misfortune. Every piece is custom-designed and handblown, not to mention a homage to our beautiful country. I adore them!
Got a friend or relative who loves to cook? Then the ISSIMO Apron is just the thing. Inspired by the iconic white-and-yellow stripes of Il Pellicano, it’ll turn them into excellent Italian cooks!
ISSIMO x Byredo
“L’Orto Italiano Candle”
For the Italophiles in your crew, look no further than our ISSIMO x Byredo Candle. It smells like Italy – tomatoes, basil, hints of pepper – looks molto sleek, and feels incredibly lush. What else do you need?
ISSIMO
Apulian Deep Plate Set of Six
We recently added these to our homeware selection, and I already know everyone I know is going to love them. Bold, fun and hand-made, they blend craftsmanship with panache. I’m giving a few sets to a few of my design-obsessed friends.
The ultimate gift set to give ahead of the holidays, our ISSIMO Decoration Box features all the trimmings needed to make an ItalianISSIMO Christmas tree: Seven decorative glass baubles featuring the Colosseum, panettone, mandarin, moka pot, a vespa, a Fiat 500 and the fiery peperoncino to ward off misfortune. Every piece is custom-designed and handblown, not to mention a homage to our beautiful country. I adore them!
ISSIMO
Pure Cashmere Beanie Hat
You can never go wrong with a beanie as a present. It’s sweet, practical, and super cosy – especially if you choose something as snug as our ISSIMO Beanie Hat. Ideal to brace even the coldest winter days, it’ll keep your loved ones toasty and cool-looking. Win win!
Favourite Christmas decoration?
ML: Mistletoe!
Favourite soundtrack or artist to play during the holidays?
ML: Anything by the classic crooners: Sinatra, Dean Martin.
ISSIMO x Schostal
Unisex Night Shirt
Who doesn’t love pyjamas for the holidays? Plush, ChicISSIMO and timeless, this ISSIMO x Schostal nightshirt is set to be a real pleaser under the Christmas tree. I am gifting it, but I am also getting a new one for myself.
How will you spend Christmas Day?
ML: With my son, my father and my partner.
Pandoro or panettone?
ML: I am on team Pandoro.