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Sponsor Story
This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Stories. The editorial staff of thecut.com did not play a role in its creation.
Sponsored By Bloomingdales Sponsored By Bloomingdales
Nov. 30, 2018

18 Retro Gifts That Beat the ‘Latest’ Anything

By Katie O'Donnell
Photo: Courtesy of Bloomingdale’s

One of the best things about the holidays is how they’re steeped in nostalgia. From Aunt Nancy’s scandalous stories of her hippie youth, to sweet stories of family traditions past, there’s something reassuring about looking back in time together (even the embarrassing moments your mom just has to bring up). For the same reason, vintage-inspired items make for great gifts. And this season, Bloomingdale’s in-store pop-up shop, The Carousel, is dedicated to old things made new. Clare Vivier curated this second installment of the rotating pop-up according to the theme of “Past Made Present,” with apparel, accessories, home goods, and tech for men, women, and kids. Below, check out our favorites from the collection, which is available until January 7 online, as well as at Bloomingdale’s 59th Street and Soho in New York, and at the Century City and San Francisco stores in California.

Paired with a blonde bob and some kohl eyeliner, this coat would fit perfectly into the ’70s-tinged aesthetic of a cult filmmaker. But the use of faux fur keeps its timeless style fully up-to-date.

Unreal Fur Earth Star Faux Fur Jacket
$359 at bloomingdale's

Music nerds, New York history buffs, and pop culture obsessives will all appreciate this autobiographical deep-dive into one of hip hop’s most influential bands, complete with untold stories and celebrity contributions.

Rizzoli Beastie Boys Book
$50 at bloomingdale's

The old-fashioned tin makes these fancy chocolates feel extra special.

Louis Sherry 12 Piece Chocolate Harrison Howard Collection
$40 at bloomingdale's

A handwritten note is an even classier move now that it’s rarer — help make someone you like look good with this stylish card set.

L'Objet Lito Eye Stationery Set
$95 at bloomingdale's

They may be glued to their phone, but thanks to the old-school French lettering on this case, they’ll at least look sophisticated while scrolling. (If they have a newer model, try this one.)

Clare V. x Casetify Oui Leather iPhone 6/7/8 Case
$65 at bloomingdale's

In 50 years, a classic Rolex will still be relevant. A pre-owned one is slightly more accessible, but will be just as prized by whomever receives it.

Pre-Owned Rolex Two Tone Datejust Watch, 36mm
$8,150 at bloomingdale's

This puzzle derivative of Josef Alber’s Homage to the Square series is a playful gift for a friend who’s gung ho on midcentury style.

Chronicle Books Wooden Josef Albers Puzzle Set
$24.99 at bloomingdale's

Is there anything more indicative of Old Hollywood glamour than beautiful leather luggage?

Globe-Trotter 18" Trolley Case
$1,485 at bloomingdale's

Depending on his age, he’ll either be bemused that he used to wear the same ones playing basketball in high school — or he’ll just be into their retro vibe.

The Men's Store at Bloomingdale's Striped Tube Socks
$12 at Bloomingdale's

This necklace looks exactly like something a beloved grandmother would pass down. Slip a tiny picture or note inside, and they’ll cherish it in the same way.

Sasha Samuel Anouk 14K Yellow Gold Locket Necklace
$270 at bloomingdale's

Make a memorable impression on your hostess by bringing her these hand-embroidered cocktail napkins, which she can put to use during the party.

Henry Handwork Martini Cocktail Napkins, Set of 4
$40 at bloomingdale's

The ’80s are having a big moment right now, and just the right amount of the decade’s flamboyant spirit makes this sweater fun but still modern.

Rose Carmine Shimmer-Trim Ombré Sweater
$555 at bloomingdale's

If they’re obsessed with apps that make their pics look dated, they’ll like how this compact point-and-shoot feels like a throwback to the heyday of instant film — but with much higher resolution.

Kodak PRINTOMATIC Instant Print Camera
$69.99 at bloomingdale's

This cookbook and guide to decreasing personal food waste is curated by the James Beard Foundation, and looks like something your parents got soon after getting married.

Rizzoli Waste Not: How To Get The Most From Your Food
$45 at bloomingdale's

Encourage your niece who’s super into skating (and flex that you know what’s up) with a board that nods to the history of the culture.

Girlskate Beastie Boys Sure Shot Skateboard Deck
$60 at bloomingdale's

Hourglasses have had spurts of popularity since ancient times, so they make for a soothing, era-agnostic touch to any space — and are nicer to watch than a smartphone timer.

Kikkerland Magnetic Hourglass
$22.50 at bloomingdale's

This ’70s-esque speaker is both attractive and deceptively tech-advanced, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and advanced acoustics.

Native Union PR/01 x La Boite Concept Speaker
$799 at bloomingdale's

An art-y deck of cards is a useful “little something” for someone who just moved into a new place or has you over a lot. Pair it with tickets to go see the artist’s retrospective, which are selling fast.

Chronicle Books Andy Warhol 54 Playing Cards
$14.99 at bloomingdale's

All images courtesy of Bloomingdale’s.

This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Stories. The editorial staff of The Cut did not play a role in its creation.

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  • the carousel past made present
  • holiday gift guide
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+Comments Leave a Comment
18 Retro Gifts That Beat the ‘Latest’ Anything

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