You may have gotten your love of fashion from your mother but your well-dressed father was probably the one who taught you the value of quality and classic style. If your dad has impeccable taste and a penchant for the finer things in life, getting him a gift for Father’s Day can be a daunting task. A good rule to go by will be to hunt for something that is practical, well-made and aesthetically pleasing all at once. We assure you that the items on this gift guide ticked every one of the above boxes – they are perfect for the discerning older gentleman who likes his lifestyle with just a touch of luxury.

Bodum Chambord French Press
For true blue coffee lovers, 3-in-1 instant coffee satchets will never do. At the same time, modern coffee machines with too many buttons can also be off-putting for those who prefer a simple brew. This is where the classic French press coffee pot comes in – and Bodum’s Chambord is a true original that was designed in the 1950s. Still produced with the same flawless craftsmanship, the Chambord is the simplest way of brewing an excellent cup of coffee. The 0.35L makes three cups and is small enough to bring along on a trip.

The Bodum Chambord French Press (SGD58) is available at Jones the Grocer, #04-21/23, Mandarin Gallery

Tumi Vapor International Carry-On
The Tumi Vapor International Carry-On is a good-looking piece of cabin luggage that will make packing less of a chore. In addition to its sleek, ultra-modern design, it offers the protection of a sturdy hardside case that is surprisingly lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. Available in 5 colours, including an eye-catching city print, it is a high performing travel essential that will not cramp your style. Ideal for frequent travellers, the Tumi Vapor collection is a Travel + Leisure 2011 Design Award Winner for Best Luggage.

The Tumi Vapor International Carry-On now retails at SGD600 after a 25% discount at #01-16, Mandarin Gallery

Montblanc Meisterstück Atelier Snakeskin Wallet
While the exotic finish on this Montblanc Meisterstück Atelier wallet may intimidate a lesser man, it will definitely appeal to connoisseurs of luxury who like the occasional indulgence in decadence. Handcrafted by experienced artisans in Florence, the range boasts of impeccable workmanship. The original, beautifully vivid pattern of lustrous python skin makes these true investment classics.

The Meisterstück Atelier collection retails from SGD1080 to SGD1380 at Montblanc, #01-01, Mandarin Gallery

This Chinese New Year, treat your guests to something more special than butter cookies, bak kwa and love letters. Delicious as these traditional goodies may be, going off the beaten track on the food front will certainly delight your friends and relatives (especially after three days of eating the same things). Make extra effort and splurge a little on the delectable gourmet food at Jones the Grocer. Throw the best parties with world renowned chocolates, exotic drinks snacks and organic tea!

Hamstead Organic Tea
An increasing number of people are taking the age-old habit of tea-drinking more seriously. These days, not any old cup of tea will do. With a more refined palette, there is a higher demand for fine, organic tea and this is right where Hamstead Tea comes in. Producing biodynamic, organic and fair trade tea, Hamstead believes in lush, natural tea leaves and fragrant, flavourful brews. Offering a good selection of black, green and herbal teas, this is simply how tea should be.

Pick up your Hamstead Tea for SGD13.50 each

Griottines Cherries
Forget the boring olives – these brandied cherries from French brand Griottines will taste much better with your champagne and cocktails. Loved for their freshness and refined taste, these wild Morello cherries have been pitted and prepared in Kirsch liqueur according to a well-guarded secret recipe. Other than being an excellent drinks addition, they are also great with desserts like cakes and ice-cream.

Griottines Cherries come in a pretty red jar and retail for SGD23.50

Alice Swiss Chocolate
Alice Swiss Chocolate is supposedly the ‘definitive Swiss chocolate experience’. Crafted in an artisanal manner, only the most luxurious cacao is used in its creation. Originating from a glacial valley over looking the Alps, Alice combines the rich local chocolate-making heritage with modern insights into branding and packaging. Housed in a distinctive, attractive sliding case, its name is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s most famous tales.

Alice Swiss Chocolate is available at SGD36 per box

Jones the Grocer is located at #04-21/23, Mandarin Gallery

Every Christmas, one of the trickiest gifts to buy will have to be for the Secret Santa giveaway that you are more or less obliged to participate in. More often than not, you are stuck with the task of buying a little something for an acquaintance that you barely know. Yet, in the jolly spirit of the season, you feel compelled to find a suitably nice and useful present that fits within the relatively low budget. To help you out, here are six nifty little gifts that are both affordable and thoughtful.

For Girls
Badger Cuticle Care Balm (from Bud Cosmetic, SGD11.90)
Spending long hours in an air-conditioned environment can dehydrate nails. Infused with the naturally restorative goodness of shea butter, this moisturising organic balm helps to keep nails and cuticles healthy.

Goon Doodllery Brooch (from Wood Would, SGD29.90)
Doodllery is an extremely whimsical line of jewellery based on the drawings of artist Carrie Lewis. Handcrafted out of acrylic, each character has a fun little story to tell. Pin onto bags or clothes for some added cuteness.

Seda France Travel Tin Candle (from Flaming Queen, SGD22)
Whether at home or abroad, a scented room is always a nice touch. Made for maximum portability, Seda France candle in a tin allows you to bring your favourite fragrances with you wherever you go.

For Boys
Decole Cassette Card Box (from Wood Would, SGD12.90)
Now that even CDs have taken on a nostalgic tint, the cassette is positively quaint. This little cassette box is really handy for storing those stray name cards and perfect for retro music lovers.

Zero Japan Tea/Coffee Cup (from Jones The Grocer, SGD11.95)
Having a cuppa at Jones is made especially fun with their colourful teacups and teapots from Japanese kitchenware brand, Zero Japan. Available in a multitude of chirpy shades, bring a bit of the fun home with the cups marked with either ‘tea’ or ‘coffee’.

Haruka Nakamura Twilight CD + Artbook (from Atomi, SGD35)
Spend the holidays with the soothing, relaxing sounds of Japanese composer Haruka Nakamura. His latest CD also doubles as an artbook filled with wonderful pictures of twilight.

Starting this Friday (16 July 2010), come join us for a Singapore Food Festival promotion that’s not to be missed. Limited to the first 400 redemptions, spend SGD50 at any of our 11 food and beverage outlets within Mandarin Gallery and redeem a box of pralines from Beschle Chocolatier Suisse and a SGD50 dining voucher. Spend a minimum of SGD100 at all other stores within Mandarin Gallery and redeem the same freebies!

The 11 participating food and beverage outlets at Mandarin Gallery include Arteastiq Tea Lounge, Beschle Chocolatier Suisse, DeSté, Ippudo, Jones The Grocer, Lawry’s The Prime Rib, Suju, Thai Thai – Royal Thai Cuisine, The Oaks Cellars, The Society Bistro and Wild Honey.

Starting on 16 July 2010 to 25 July 2010, it is limited to the first 400 redemptions on a first come, first serve basis.