The Edit: A Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for the Design Obsessed
Valentine’s Day can be a polarizing holiday. It often leans towards the saccharine side of things—giant teddy bears and drugstore chocolates aren’t typically on an interior designer’s mood board. However, I am a firm believer that any excuse to celebrate love (and curate beautiful things) is a good one.
This year, I’ve pulled together a Valentine’s Day Gift Guide that skips the clichés and focuses on pieces that are timeless, elegant, and just a little bit indulgent. Whether you are shopping for a partner, a best friend, or treating yourself to a little self-love, these are items that look as good on a coffee table as they do in a gift box.
Here is my curated list of 2026 Valentine’s finds that feel classy, not cheesy.
1. Emily Lex Studio Valentine Notecards
I am starting with these because a handwritten note is truly the ultimate luxury in our digital age. These watercolor notecards by Emily Lex are sweet without being over-the-top. The illustrations are delicate and artistic, making them perfect for writing a love letter or just sending a thoughtful note to a friend.
2. Assouline “Paris Chic” Coffee Table Book
Nothing says romance quite like Paris. If you can’t book a flight to France this February, this stunning volume from Assouline is the next best thing. It offers a glimpse into the most sophisticated Parisian homes and is a chic addition to any living room stack.
3. Le Creuset L’Amour Collection Heart Cocotte
Function meets form in the best way possible. Le Creuset’s cast iron heart cocotte (specifically in the Chiffon Pink or the classic Cerise red with the gold knob) is a piece you will actually keep on your stovetop year-round. It’s perfect for making a romantic dinner for two, but honestly, it’s just a beautiful object to own.
4. Cashmere Sweater by Salt + Light Bath Company
Forget the standard “rose” scents this year. I am currently obsessed with the Cashmere Sweater by Salt + Light Bath Company. With notes of vanilla, nutmeg and santal, it’s perfect for a cozy night in.
5. Jonathan Adler Lips Valet Tray
For a touch of surrealist glamour, you can’t go wrong with Jonathan Adler. His porcelain “Lips” tray is iconic. It’s a cheeky, high-design spot to drop jewelry or keys, and it adds that perfect bit of “edge” to a bedside table.
6. Compartés Gourmet Peanut Butter Cups – Dark Chocolate
If you are going to do chocolate, make it “designer” chocolate. Compartés bars are known for their stunning packaging that looks like modern art. Their Valentine’s editions are delicious, beautiful, and make for a very photogenic gift.
I hope this list inspires you to find something special for your loved ones (or yourself) this year. Wishing you a lovely, design-filled Valentine’s Day!
Kindly,
Michelle
