editor’s picks

For the quintessential Tibi girl, shopping is more of an art form than a chore, which is why we tapped the brand’s founding designer, Amy Smilovic, to offer some insight on her best buys for the holidays.

“I love giving gifts that combine the recipient’s personality with mine. Each year I buy a stack of blank cards and sketch the people I’m gifting, with a holiday spin,” says Amy, who launched Tibi in 1997. “My mom has a collection from over the years; they’re great keepsakes.” ‘Tis the season for a DYI approach to gifting. Personal touches, like designing your own wrapping paper or creating a card, add an intimate feel to the goodies you present to your loved ones.

Be sure to look the part at all your gift-giving occasions by wearing relaxed fabrics that reveal a feminine cut—hallmarks of Amy’s evolving design aesthetic. “The Tibi girl is dressing up for holiday dinner parties, whether it be with friends, co-workers or family. The trick is staying statement chic without overdoing it,” adds Amy, whose fans include Blake Lively, Olivia Palermo and Hanneli Mustaparta. When it comes to looking festive, Amy advises to “Go for updated classics with a twist. Swap out your LBD for a look that incorporates luxe textures and fabrics—anything with brocade or beading. Avoid looking garish when wearing rich materials by choosing pieces in modern hues of dark navy and burgundy.”

L to R: Tibi Silk Shift Dress, a vivid hue will energize your festive outlook on life;  Tibi Intarsia Knit Sweater Dress, blocks of color and a geometric motif are sure to get you noticed; Tibi Coral Print Silk Dress, a pop of blue coral is fresh and fun

Holiday Shopping with Tibi’s Amy Smilovic

Be inspired to celebrate the cherished ones in your life. Here, Amy shares what’s on her holiday shopping list. Take note and be sure to check your own list twice so you find the perfect present this season.

Cute & Cozy: Little Me ‘Reindeer Print’ Footie (Infant)
Amy’s Holiday Hit List  – “For a friend with a newborn, this is perfect for a baby’s first Christmas.”

Stocking Stuffer: PowerBeats by Dr. Dre ‘Sports’ ControlTalk® Headphones
Amy’s Holiday Hit List  – “My kids introduced me to PowerBeats by Dr. Dre—the quality of sound is amazing, and the ear clip-on is great for working out. They’re a great gift for anyone in the family.”

Made for a Man: Ted Baker London ‘Pig Character’ Socks (Online Exclusive)
Amy’s Holiday Hit List  – “My husband has an obsession with printed socks. It’s a gift I give him every year—I absolutely love these pigs, stags and ducks.”

Festively Fab: Reed Krakoff Wool & Cashmere Coat (pictured center)
Amy’s Holiday Hit List - “Every girl loves a little cashmere. Reed Krakoff happens to be a favorite of mine, and burgundy is the go-to color of the season. I love the easy silhouette and color blocking.”

Home Away from Home: Jonathan Adler ‘Jet Set’ Porcelain Coasters & Cocktail Napkins
Amy’s Holiday Hit List  – “As a houseguest, I always bring my host a little gift. I love these Jonathan Adler cocktail napkins and coasters: good paired together, and something everyone can use.”

Makeup to Be Merry About: Bobbi Brown ‘Extreme Party’ Eye Palette (Nordstrom Exclusive)
Amy’s Holiday Hit List – “Bobbi Brown masters our runway makeup every season—I’m a big fan of her products. This ‘Extreme Party’ palette is great for a shimmered and smoky holiday eye.”

Once you’ve picked out all your presents, turn on the holiday music and get wrapping. Some of Amy’s favorite joyful jams include “It’s Christmas Time” by Yo La Tengo and “White Christmas” by The Smiths.

Find something special for everyone on your list and check out our Holiday Gift Guide.

Interview by Qianna Smith | Photo credit: Courtesy of Tibi