Bed beauties
Silk-filled cotton-covered duvets are not only stylish, they’re a natural alternative to hypo­allergenic comforters. That the natural fibre ensures you’ll be warm in the winter and cool in the summer is like sprinkles on your ice cream. Silk duvets are said to resist dust mites and wick away perspiration to help the body breathe. Lighter than their down-filled counterparts, they’ll have you cocooning like a caterpillar. Whispering Silk Duvets are available in infant through king size ($99 to $499, www.whisperingsilkduvets.com/).

Well-stuffed
It may be a bit much to offer your gal pal a room make-over for Christmas, but you could meet her partway and find her some new accents to rejuvenate her favourite room. The silk damask Oleana pillows ($175) at Urbanity (207 Abbott Street, 604-801-6262) come in vibrant jewel tones that are perfect for the holidays, but will segue easily into spring. For added fun, think of the oversize, albeit light, box with a giant bow you can wrap them in.

Making good scents
They may seem a feeble substitute for a full-flame, wood-burning fire, but don’t underestimate the ambiance that a few candles can create. Eveline Charles (1495 West 11th Avenue, 604-678-5666) offers a soy-candle trio ($45) with plenty of holiday zip: Cran-Mary, Snow, and Garland. The soy means a nice slow burn and immediate scent release. Or opt for a year-round scent with Sake by Fresh ($62 at BeautyMark, 103–1120 Hamilton Street, 604-642-2294). Sake blends peach, the crisp fragrance of osmanthus flower, and sheer floral undertones. And you won’t have to haul any wood.