Valentine's Day is around the corner, and you want to surprise your loved ones with something special. Maybe you want to prove that you're a romantic maestro or maybe you want to surprise them with something spectacular…What better way to show them how much they mean to you than by giving them a unique gift?
Chocolates, flowers and dinner are the classics but they're not exactly original. Even if you throw in jewelry or a fancy bag, such things should be tasteful (especially if they already have their own growing collection). This season, it's time to ease the mental gymnastics in trying to figure out the perfect gift. Without further ado, here are some of our curated items for the special women in your life.
And did we mention that all the products are ethically made by local Southeast Asian brands?
Luxury fit for a queen: Batik Flap Clutch by Pink Jambu
This one-of-a-kind handmade evening clutch from local designer Pink Jambu makes a perfect gift for a loved one. The hand-painted silk satin batik offers a texture that is plush to the touch. You can choose from delicate orange patterns that undulate across a silver base, or striking hues of pink and grey. This is the handiwork of skilled artisans in Malaysia. The clutch itself is handcrafted in Thailand, and the magnetic flap makes it convenient to store your essentials.
For the Goddess in your life: Aphrodite Xs Ear Studs by Argent Studio
Made in the vision of Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of beauty and Love, these elegant earring studs are handcrafted by artisans in Bali by Argent Studio. These studs are part of the Solstice collection, inspired by ancient mythologies and how they intertwine us with the universe. With each round brilliantly cut White Topaz stone on each stud that has been carefully chosen to capture the stunning glow of the jewel, what could be a more fitting accessory for your Goddess?
Give her the crazy rich Asian lifestyle: Siren Minaudiere by Neil Felipp
Who hasn’t seen one of the biggest Asian-led movies from Hollywood? As featured in Crazy Rich Asians, this minaudière has a mermaid clasp and a shell structure, handcrafted by artisans in Cebu, Neil Felipp San Pedro's hometown. The piece is an homage to the island he calls home, where he dreams of the world’s endless possibilities, and is inspired by childhood trips with his mother to the sea. Take a little bit of his heritage with you in this amazing piece.
Make masks great again: Sunglass & Mask Chain by Envet
A mask has become the most common accessory for everyone around the world, but there’s no need to forgo style to stay protected. Each piece was thoughtfully crafted in a living room in Yogkyakarta by a stay-at-home mother. The designer, Anita from Envet, hopes the bright beads will add a hint of a tropical getaway to your look.
“I don’t care if you have to wear a mask...I still want it to be as bright as possible,” Anita says. Whether you use them to carry your face mask or to hook onto a pair of stylish sunglasses, this versatile accessory is perfect for all seasons. You can choose from five different color options to match your taste, style and mood for the day.
Gift a modern twist of a classic: Bamboo Polished Silver Hoop Earrings by Garden of Desire
These are exquisitely hand-shaped from sterling silver to resemble bamboo, the abundant and natural resource that is integral to many communities in Southeast Asia. The brand, Garden of Desire, pays homage to the ever-versatile and resilient bamboo, a common Cambodian village plant and building material. Handcrafted in the country and ethically produced, these earrings are a modern twist on a classic statement piece. They go well with any outfit to add an air of sophistication to your look.
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Celebrate this Valentine’s Day by giving your partner something unique and represents the region, making this truly an unforgettable 2022.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Team Dia is made up of Dia’s three co-founders: Kylie, Alia, & Aisha. They are friends from Malaysia who decided to create Dia in 2020 out of love for their home region. They have lived across the world and have worked in government, big data, journalism, hospitality, and market research. They’d love for you to join the Dia community.
