Valentine's Day Gifts: U.K.'s New Love Affair
Remember the Hermes red crocodile Birkinwith white gold and diamonds that went up for auction in December? Now that would be a perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
You can stop sweating gentleman. Unfortunately, the bag has been spoken for at a mere $203,000, a world record price for a purse sold at auction.
While most of us are not in the market for a bag that could double as a down payment on a home, Valentine’s Day is big business. According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine's Dayis estimated to contribute $17.6 billion to the economy, an 8.6 percent increase over last year. On average, U.S. consumers surveyed reported they would spend $126.03 in 2012 versus $116.21 last year, according to the NRF.
While Valentine's Day in the U.K. may not be as “in your face” as it is in the U.S., the British are catching on quickly to the American love affair with the commercialized holiday.
And why not?
After all the oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt, according to history.com.
Surprisingly, data suggests the Brits are as generous, if not more so, than their American counterparts (men spend on average £118 or $185, according to a survey by Boticca).
Time to lift your hurdle ladies!
After scouring London’s retail landscape, I have put together “The Hint List.” Maybe you are giving your significant other a gift from London as a hint you are looking to attend the Olympics this summer? From the aspirational to the accessible, and even something for the blokes.
1. For the traveling Valentine (yes, hint trip to Olympics), this suitcase by Lulu Guinness will ensure you never lose your case, £295 for large. Burlington Arcade, London.
2. Feeling inspired by the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee? It’s good to be British this year. Lulu Guinness Clutch at Selfridges, £475.
Bling for the Blokes?
3. Don’t worry gentlemen you are included in “The Hint List.” Visit the only Jimmy Choo Men’s Boutique in Europe and pick up these red loafers for £425.
