Gifts for the Elusive (International) Hot Girl

The collab with our dearest Elusive International Hot Girl, Tariro Makoni.

Elusive International Hot Girl is a term coined by our dear friend Tariro, who perfectly captures this persona/archetype in her essay. Tariro is not only the embodiment of this concept—Zimbabwe x London x NYC—but she also has a deep understanding of it. A keen observer of how people move—and groove—through the world, she constantly analyzes what drives people to connect with a mood, aesthetic, or even a piece of clothing. A true EIHG!

Hanna and I were appointed EIHGs by Tariro, which is a bit self-indulgent but, honestly, the highest compliment someone could give us. Growing up, we were always aware that our tastes didn’t fit into any pre-existing category. We were shaped by the melting pot of experiences and cultures we didn’t just belong to, but witnessed from a young age. Our family is Brazilian, but our roots are Moroccan, so you’ll always find us gravitating toward a babouche (especially Hanna) or a kaftan (especially Rachel). Being different in our household was something to celebrate, even when others assumed it wasn’t. Our conversations about fashion, taste, lifestyle, and art were inspired not by celebrities, but by our mother, grandmothers, and eccentric aunts—women who decided their closets would be their greatest legacy, rather than…children.

As Tariro put it brilliantly—better than I ever could—the EIHGs and EHGs understand the value of simplicity: a good cashmere sweater, a high-quality beanie, a great pair of jeans, a crisp white t-shirt. This persona doesn’t view these items as basic, but rather as foolproof concepts of style. The hot girls of the world—regardless of age—appreciate the value of a signature scent, while also allowing themselves to explore the world of niche fragrances. Our stylistic inspirations and recommendations are old-school, mostly passed along by word of mouth. We don’t see items as prized possessions; instead, we believe that every good thing—whether material or not—is always worth sharing with others. After all, what’s the beauty of life if you can’t enjoy a creamy, rich whole-milk cappuccino surrounded by those who love you, and who understand the similarities within the differences?

We’ve carefully curated this wonderful selection of items that feel very EHG/EIHG-adjacent. Because honestly, there’s nothing better than having three fabulous EIHGs tell you that these are the items that will earn you compliments and crown you as the perfect gift-giver.

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1. Suzie Kondi - Lumi Ribbed Beanie in Cashmere: Suzie Kondi makes perfect cashmere. I have spoken about this on every platform and I will continue to…forever??? This hat in the sage green feels very Yasmin Kara Hanani (soon to be Mrs. Muck, and the patron EIHG on tv). A fabulous gift that will be worn and cherished forever, promise - Picked by TM.

2. Auteur - Definitive Lip Renewal Treatment: Tariro introduced us to this enchanting lip serum that has truly transformed our beauty routines. It's the perfect blend of practicality and elegance - an ideal gift that feels luxurious without being too obvious. Not only does it nourish and enhance your lips, but it also serves as a chic fashion accessory. Imagine effortlessly pulling it out of your bag during dinner? This serum is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their lip treatment game - Picked by Rachel.

3. Alaïa - Calf Hair Ballet Flats: I love the idea of mixing textures in an outfit (these would go insane with the Lisa Yang pants!) it's sooooooo chic and sooooo EIHG to GO THERE and EXECUTE!! These flats are the perfect gift because they transcend season, and are perhaps timeless? Will age well in a “my mom's vintage Alaïa flats” way that I'm sorry, those mesh ones will not (although love mine forever). They're more fun than the grommets, and just have this effortless “I get it” energy that cannot be taught. It's the elusive hot girl swan song - Picked by TM.

4. Mirra Coffee - Colombia Norbau Quimbayo: EHGs and EIHGs have an undeniable love for that first cup of coffee each morning - it's just part of our identity! Recently, we were thrilled to receive Mirra coffee as a gift, and let me tell you, these beans are nothing short of exceptional. They create the perfect, rich, and robust cup that coffee lovers desire. What sets Mirra's coffee beans apart is their origin; they are sourced from renowned coffee-producing countries like Colombia and Tanzania, celebrated for their exceptional flavors. Hanna and I decided to share this joy by gifting this Colombian blend to a dear friend as a thoughtful holiday surprise. However, between us, we secretly wish we kept it for ourselves… - Picked by Hanna.

5. Sauer - Yvonne 18k Gold Necklace: Jewelry is a passion we all share, whether it's fine or fashion pieces. The secret lies in finding that perfect accessory that elevates any outfit. We are particularly enamored with Sauer’s impeccable craftsmanship, rich heritage, and innovative designs.

   We believe jewelry should be stunning enough to stand on its own, yet also embody a sense of fun - because fine jewelry doesn’t always have to be serious! One piece that captures this spirit beautifully is the Yvonne necklace. A favorite among stylish women around the globe, it's especially adored by chic moms, aunts, and, of course, their fashionable daughters. Just ask Martha Stewart! - Picked by Hanna.

6. Biologique Recherche - L’Eauxygenant Face Mist: This is an item we classify as ‘small yet mighty luxuries’. Each EIHG, regardless of age, carries one of these exquisite items in their bag, making it a truly thoughtful and fool-proof gift choice - Picked by TM.

7. Costa Brazil - Sun & Moon Body Oil : Anything Costa Brazil is peak EIHG. This oil duo is not different, in fact, it's the perfect way to elevate your body care routine. Using this duo feels like giving your skin a mini vacation to Anguilla. Each application feels like you have either left the beach or a luxurious and relaxing spa day. Costa Brazil oils are incredibly smooth, velvety, and slide on the skin with incredible ease. The glow afterwards? Radiant, flawless, fabulous…Rachel has gifted these items many times and all she heard was praise! - Picked by Rachel.

8. The Row - Belted Park Tote: I have spoken endlessly about how much I love this The Row tote. Almost every EIHG in my life has one, yet I will never feel like it's oversaturated??? I think it's perfect for EIHG who has a big girl job, and doesn't really care if you think it's from Madewell. Great gift, I stan the one with the adjustable strap - Picked by TM.

9. Gohar World - Dessert Stem: Nothing better than gifting Gohar World for the ultimate hostess. These dessert stems are simple enough not to clash with any other decor elements in the house, but special enough to crown you as the coolest and most thoughtful gift giver (Rachel wants this so badly!) - Picked by Rachel and Hanna.

10. Fara Homidi - Pochette: Listen…we know this is supposed to be a makeup bag, but we can't let a chic item be used for ‘just’ the purpose of transporting makeup around! Any hot girl will be using this as a proper pochette; to go out at night, paired with an elegant long coat, hair tucked into their clothing. Imagine this: A hot girl simply arriving at dinner and saying ‘oh this?’ when their friend compliments their bag. She proceeds in saying, so casually, ‘it's actually a makeup bag!’. Ugh, the perfect gift in our humble opinion! - Picked by Rachel.

11. Astier de Villatte - Aoyama Candle: This candle means a lot to me. It's meant to evoke the damp wood from a small wooden cottage in Aoyama, Japan….which is already insane to say aloud when you hand it over to your friend…but it also smells divine. I feel like you get what's going on here or you don't? And those who do will be entirely grateful that you went the distance to gift them something cool, chic, and interesting (also reasonably priced at around $100!) - Picked by TM.

12. Leset - Margo Tee: Leset has made the perfect t-shirt and I fear it makes for the perfect gift. I think the fit on this is universally flattering, and there is nothing more EIHG/EHG than having the perfect white tee on hand at all times. Fabulous with a jean, fabulous to throw on after a workout, or as the base layer for a long-haul travel…and even better with the following item! - Picked by TM.

13. Lisa Yang - Ellery Knit Trousers: If you're a TM reader then you know how I feel about Lisa Yang. But most importantly, every EIHG in my life feels the same…Her brushed cashmere was kissed by angels and anointed by Mother Earth. This blues clues blue is so chic and fun (and would go so well with the Alaïa flats mentioned way above!) - Picked by TM.

14. Orto Parisi - Seminalis: The key of being a hot girl is to avoid Baccarat Rouge at all costs (lol) and explore new, niche, and unique fragrances whilst still loving your signature one. Being open-minded and willing to explore is key EHG/EIHG energy! We love Orto Parisi (and its sister brand Nasomatto); the fragrances are not only phenomenal and long-lasting, but they grant you incessant compliments wherever you go. Rachel has been using this fragrance for over a year and everyone still stops her on the street because of it…- Picked by Rachel.

Happy holidays everyone !