The founder of Dusen Dusen clues us in on everything that’s caught her eye this holiday season.
The founder of Dusen Dusen clues us in on everything that’s caught her eye this holiday season.">Originally from Washington, D.C., and now based in Brooklyn, designer Ellen Van Dusen is the mind behind Dusen Dusen, a brand known for playing with bold, original prints and contrasting colors. Dusen Dusen started out as a womenswear line before leaping into home decor a few years back—and stuck the landing quite beautifully.
Whether it be eye-catching duvet covers, kooky oven mitts, or a fun kitchen timer, Van Dusen’s work experiments with the brain’s reaction to color, movement, and contrast to enjoyable effect. This year, we got a sneak peek at what the folks on her nice list might be in for.
Ellen Van Dusen, founder of Dusen Dusen, and her dog, Snips.
Photo: Kelly Marshall
"There’s nothing more luxurious than spending the day in a bathrobe—and what better than to give the gift of luxury. My personal favorite is the new Dusen Dusen Spiral patterns, but for a more classic look our Stripe bathrobes are fun too."
Dusen Dusen Bathrobe - Atom
Cotton terry bathrobe with shawl collar, patch pockets, and tie in Atom pattern. 100% cotton terry, 450 gsm, contrasting cornflower and marigold colors. Made in Turkey. Gentle machine wash cold, tumble dry low.
"I received this Merdolino toilet brush by Alessi as a housewarming gift, and I think it’s so funny and cute."
Alessi Merdolino Toilet Brush
The Alessi Merdolino Toilet Brush was designed in 1993 by Stefano Giovannoni to turn the typically off-limits toilet brush into a fun and strangely inviting potted plant. The long stem of the shrub makes for a convenient handle, with a round lid just above the brush to keep it hidden when it's back in the pot/holder.
"I designed this timer because I was so sick of using my phone while I cook. Seeing all those notifications pop up every time I checked the clock was making me insane. So! For the person that needs some time away from the phone, this is a great gift."
Areaware Everybody Timer
Everybody gets distracted. Everybody burns a bake. Everybody wants a perfectly boiled egg. Everybody takes a break. Everybody needs a reminder sometimes. The Everybody Kitchen Timer will let you know when time is up. Designed by Dusen Dusen for Areaware.
"Another anti-phone analog device: the Hemisphere clock designed by Henry Julier for Design Within Reach. The color combos are really good, and it has a nice weight and unexpected depth. I have one at my studio and love it."
Design Within Reach Hemisphere Wall Clock
The Hemisphere Clock (2021) began with an investigation of wall clocks on the market, revealing a homogeneity of designs—mostly flat discs of about the same size. With Hemisphere, designer Henry Julier offers a counterpoint: The clock floats off the wall, a sculptural form that is as dynamic as it is functional. Runs on one AA battery (not included). Made in Taiwan.
"I’m obsessed with this sponge holder that turns your sponge into a bed."
Ototo Design Clean Dreams Kitchen Sponge Holder
Once the dishes are clean and bright, lay your sponge in its bed and let it sleep tight.
"I’m going through a dot phase right now, and I find this scarf to be irresistible."
Jo Gordon Small Spot Scarf
From our range of smaller jacquard knits. The softest, smoothest jacquard knitted lambswool. Spots on the facing side and muted on the back for a styling option. Great for every season, tucked into a jacket for some colour and warmth.
Looking for something else? Check out the rest of our holiday gift guides here.
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