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What Alex Assouline is Gifting this Holiday Season

From sentimental treasures to luxurious essentials, Alex shares his thoughtfully curated holiday gift list, perfect for loved ones with diverse passions and tastes.

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Alex Assouline, COO of Assouline, at his New York home in NoLita. Courtesy of Alex Assouline.

As we all rush to finish our last-minute holiday shopping, who better to advise than Alex Assouline? The Chief of Operations, Brand & Strategy at Assouline is a tastemaker whose approach to gifting reflects the same refined sensibility he brings to the brand’s iconic titles. Whether he’s selecting a chic Smythson notebook for a writer friend or adding a touch of tradition with a bottle of Hibiki whiskey, Alex approaches the holiday season with a perfect blend of sentimentality and style. Here’s what he’s giving his loved ones this year.

For My Father Prosper

Gift: Hibiki Japanese Harmony Whiskey


"My father and I have a tradition: we occasionally share a glass of Hibiki and talk about everything except work. It’s our way of reconnecting, and this bottle is a reminder of those moments.”

For My Friend & Colleague Nicole

Gift: Assouline Master & Dynamic Headphones

“Nicole, our head of product development, cherished her Master & Dynamic headphones until they were misplaced. I’m replacing them so she can enjoy her music and inspiration once again.”

For My Friend Alex

Gift: Soho Notebook in Mara

“My friend Alex is a gifted writer. A beautifully crafted Smythson notebook invites him to capture his ideas, elevating his writing ritual into something truly special.”

For My Brother Sebastien

Gift: Rimowa Cabin

Why: “Sebastien is always on the move, exploring new places. I’m hoping this suitcase reminds him that the door’s always open in New York—and that I’d love to see him more often.”

For My Best Friend Yohann

Gift: Elegance Accent Decanter

“Yohann loves fine wine, and I love finding pieces that enhance his collection. This decanter will add a bit of ceremony to the next bottle we share.”

For My Mother Martine

Gift: Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum


“Martine has long appreciated Dr. Barbara Sturm’s skincare. Introducing her to this new serum feels like a natural way to keep her routine fresh—something I know she’ll enjoy exploring.”

For My Wife Solange

Gift: Smythson 3-Drawer Jewellery Box in Panama

“Solange has a quiet, timeless sense of style. This jewellery box feels like a natural extension of her taste-- discreet, beautiful, and perfectly suited to her cherished pieces."

For Myself

Gift: Le Creuset Heritage Rectangular Casserole

“Cooking helps me unwind, and I’m determined to improve my skills. Good tools make all the difference, and this casserole dish is a step toward making meals worth remembering.”

Alex Assouline's selections lean toward thoughtful restraint—elevating essentials into pieces that carry weight and meaning well beyond the holidays. His approach suggests that, done right, a gift doesn’t just fill a moment; it becomes part of the everyday narrative.

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