This fashion blogger and ultra-chic YouTuber chooses eclectic, one-of-a-kind finds for style-conscious folks who aren’t afraid to stand out.
In The Etsy Edit Gift Guides, we’ve tapped some of our favorite tastemakers to share their top present picks for a magical holiday season.
When it comes to styling the ultimate #OOTD, for maximalist fashion blogger Karen Blanchard, more is always more. Born and raised in London and based in NYC, the ultra-chic YouTube star expertly combines colors, patterns, textures, and prints in every inspiring look she posts on @karenbritchick, her cheeky and charming Insta feed. Luckily for her loved ones, the same is true when gift-giving season rolls around and Karen takes inspiration from a place she knows well: her own colorful closet.
Karen’s tried-and-true rule of thumb? Make a list of the dreamiest, most one-of-a-kind presents that she would want to receive—then buy them for the people she cares about most. “My family and friends tend to like what I like, so this tactic always works,” explains Karen. “My favorite kind of gift to give is something that makes the receiver feel special.” From oversized initial necklaces to on-trend tie-dye loungewear, read on to explore Karen’s go-to present ideas for fellow fearless fashionistas.
A personalized gold necklace
“Initial necklaces are personal, timeless, and go with anything and everything,” says Karen of this gift-worthy gold-filled pendant, which adds a sizable dose of seasonal sparkle to any outfit thanks to its eye-catching extra-large lettering.
Cozy tie-dye loungewear
Help your favorite homebody snuggle up in style with a hand-dyed tie-dye sweatsuit in vibrant shades of turquoise and indigo. “This is the perfect comfy two-piece that still feels pretty,” Karen says of the mood-boosting matching set. “It’s versatile enough for someone to wear while working from home, or even out to run errands.”
A pair of face-framing earrings
Surprise the accessories lover in your life with a lightweight pair of statement earrings crafted from a gorgeous blend of textured brass and abstract patchwork embroidery. “Outside of lipstick, earrings are the easiest way to dress up any look in a flash,” Karen says.
A sophisticated silk scarf
For a versatile addition to any avid accessorizer's closet, look no further than this cheerful silk scarf, painted by hand in a playful pomegranate print. “I chose this because it would work as a neck or head scarf, or tied onto someone’s bag for a pop of color,” Karen says of the multi-functional masterpiece.
A luxe velvet purse
“Jewel-tone bags are the quickest way to turn a daytime look into something more glam,” Karen says—and this blueberry-hued velvet crossbody will surely become a fast favorite in the evening handbag rotation of your most fashionable friend.
A classic cold-weather accessory
Hand-knit from super-soft alpaca wool in a chunky fisherman’s rib pattern, this cozy beanie is certain to keep outdoorsy pals nice and toasty—and still turning heads—when the temperature drops. “It’s super practical, and the warm brown is a fun, fresh take on a neutral,” Karen says.
Describe your personal style in five words or less.
Tomboy, vintage, and eclectic.
What rules, if any, do you follow when it comes to fashion?
None! That, in and of itself, is a rule.
What’s your favorite part of getting dressed in the morning?
Putting on chunky boots.
Naughty list or nice list?
Naughty—I over-indulge with shopping all throughout the year!
Photographs courtesy of @karenbritchick.
