I always go into a state of mild shock when December arrives for the year.

Although I always have a general vague sense of time passing throughout the year, it isn’t until the final month arrives that I start to panic about clocking up another year, not doing most of the things I resolved to do last year, generally wasting time, etc etc.

But of course, the end of the year isn’t all bad. There’s also the bonuses of having a break from work, spending time with your family and, of course, an excuse for presents.

I personally don’t expect gifts from other people at Christmas, and I definitely don’t ask people to get me certain things (my father, bless him, famously gave me a $20 Caltex voucher one Christmas, and I definitely didn’t ask for that, though naturally it came in handy). I think gift giving should be entirely voluntary, otherwise what’s the point? But I usually do treat myself to one gift at the end of each year. This year I’m tossing up between:

* These Marc Jacobs pumps. I love the fact that they are sexy and feminine enough to wear out at night, but are also practical and demure enough for work. Marc Jacobs shoes are sold at Myer locally. I’d recommend trying shoes on instore rather than buying them online, unless you have bought shoes from that particular designers before. Sizes do vary greatly between designers. They can even vary within a designer’s range.

* This five-piece champagne set from Target. I think it’s a bargain at $49.99. At the start of summer I always have visions of hosting a fantastic cocktail party on a balcony somewhere wearing an equally fantastic cocktail dress, however this never actually happens. In any case, the champagne set would still come in handy.

* A Leona Edmiston dress. I have been absolutely in love with her dresses for years, but have never actually owned one. They are so flattering and feminine. I could seriously see myself buying any of the dresses in her current collection, however I’m particularly enamoured of the Emerald Style.

* A PlayStation 3 games console. My last games console purchase was the original Xbox several years ago and I think it’s time for an upgrade. And seeing as I have an high-definition ready flatscreen at home, I want to play HD movies as well! Thankfully, the PS3 is an all-in-one device and allows you to do that.

* Anything from the Cartier Panther collection. Okay, this one is in no way realistic given that Cartier jewellery tends to be without a price tag, well within the “if you have to ask, you can’t afford it” category. However I can always dream, right? A similarly animal-inspired (and more affordable) option is the Karen Walker Owl Ring. Still not cheap, but it’s an absolutely gorgeous piece of jewellery.

Lastly, I was excited to hear that Evelyn Miles is having a BIG sale for three days only (until Sunday). With up to 40% off new season stock and up to 60% off the already reduced sale stock, my credit card is already groaning in protest…

By Caroline Warnes