A Holiday Gift Guide For Chic Cinephiles: Part I — Gifts Inspired by Fiona Goode of “American Horror Story: Coven”

Every holiday season, we strive to present gift options in a way that’s playful and original which is why, this year, we’re paying homage to some of the most stylish and iconic female characters in TV and film. Every few days, they’ll be a new gift guide installment inspired by a unique leading lady. Part One, then, revolves around the most fabulous witch in TV history: American Horror Story: Coven‘s Fiona Goode, played impeccably by Jessica Lange. Sure, Fiona was far from a role model — what with those murderous incidents, her need to dominate and manipulate everyone around her, that axe killer beau, her crippling vanity, and her utter disdain for her own daughter — but, all her evil antics aside, that witch could dress! As she said, “I’ve lived a disreputable life, but I’ve done it in style.” Below, we’ve amassed some Fiona-inspired holiday gift options that are as chic as the Supreme herself.

Michelle Mason Lace Detail Dress, $540. Available at IntermixOnline.com

In the very first episode of American Horror Story: Coven, Fiona tells the students enlisted in Miss Robichaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies that she will be adopting a more hands-on approach to their tutelage, starting by taking them out on an educational tour of New Orleans. Ordering them to change, she says, “Wear something…black.” And, off they go, all clad in black, led by the always elegant Fiona. While most women search endlessly for the perfect LBD, Fiona’s closet is bursting with structured black dresses: some featuring V-shaped necklines, some long-sleeved with sheer lace detailing, some short-sleeved with peplum accents, and so forth. This ravishing dress perfectly captures Fiona’s aesthetic thanks to its body conscious stretch jersey knit fabric, its sweetheart-shaped neckline, and the sheer lace fabric along the décolletage and the slim-fitting long sleeves.

Murad Celebrate Smooth Skin Holiday Kit, $98.77. Available at FeelUnique.com

From the very first episode of American Horror Story: Coven,  viewers are familiar with Fiona Goode’s anxiety over what she conceives as her fading looks, a side effect of aging she wishes she could obliterate with her otherwise boundless powers. Upon visiting a doctor researching the latest in cutting-edge anti-aging technology, she insists on testing a new experimental drug — event though she’s warned that the medication is still undergoing testing phase. After days of swallowing pills in hopes of tapping into a pharmaceutical Fountain of Youth, Fiona loses all patience and rationality, summoning the doctor to her hotel room and using her powers to zap his life source and essentially absorb his youthful vitality. Poor Fiona! All she had to do was turn to Murad! The Celebrate Smooth Skin kit features four powerful anti-aging products, all packaged in a purple pouch — the color of royalty, which is fitting for the Supreme. The kit includes: a 30ml tube of the Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, which gently sloughs off dead skin cells and reveals a more even and radiant skin tone; a 50ml jar of the Murad Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture, which contains sunflower seed oil, olive oil, avocado oil, soybean oil, shea butter, yeast amino acids, oat extract, and sodium hyaluronate to hydrate skin cells, lock in moisture, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and make the skin appear plumper and smoother; a 3.5ml jar of the Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture for Eyes cream, developed to tighten the skin around the eyes and maintain optimal moisture levels so that wrinkles and lines appear filled in; and a 30ml bottle of the life-changing Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion, which, like the Magic Eraser tool on Photoshop, works to temporarily zap away fine lines and wrinkles within 2 hours of application thanks to a formula containing everything from collagen and yeast amino acids to olive oil, watermelon extract, apple extract, and lentil extract. This kit addresses both short-term needs (basically concealing any existing wrinkles) and works to rejuvenate skin in the long run, so it’s perfect for all women concerned with aging signs — regardless of whether they want instant gratification or performance over the long haul.

Reed and Barton Crystal Giftware Hamilton Decanter, $99.98. Available at Wayfair.com

Seeing as she hails from New Orleans, it’s only fitting that Fiona should love bourbon. But then, she also enjoys vodka, rum, and pretty much anything that can give her a buzz. When at home, she routinely reaches for a decanter and pours herself a drink. Those who love Fiona’s penchant for  posh glassware, then, will appreciate this classic decanter, which features diamond and wedge cuts and which measures 10.5″ in height, 4″ in width, and 4″ in depth.

Dolce & Gabbana Embellished Cotton-Blend Lace Cape, $4895. Available at Net-a-Porter.com

Perhaps we should credit Fiona Goode for igniting the flame that led to designers’ burning love affair with cape coats this winter season. After all, one of the show’s most memorable ensembles involves Fiona in a stunning black cape, fedora, oversize sunglasses, and lace-adorned gloves en route to Myrtle Snow’s burning at the stake. Then again, we wouldn’t need any show moments or trend forecasts to spark our admiration for this Dolce & Gabbana black lace cape, which is embellished with champagne crystals and faux pearls lined up in a perfect row and resembling tiny flowers.

Pretty Polly Pretty Delightful Tights, $28. Available at PrettyPollyUSA.com

There’s something so seductive about a woman delicately pulling her stockings on — or, for that matter, rolling them down to her ankles before removing them completely and revealing her bare stems. These sheer black stockings add a sophisticated touch to any ensemble, while the black seam running down the back of each leg adds a sensual allure.

Warehouse High Neck Lace Prom Dress, $94.50. Available at Warehouse.co.uk 

Remember the lace-top dress Fiona wore when she declared, “Who’s the baddest witch in town?” Well, this Warehouse dress features a similar vibe — and will have you bursting with just as much confidence. Its sweetheart neckline, short sleeves, nipped waist, high neck, and pleat detailing, meanwhile, give it a softer and daintier aura.

Revitalash Deluxe Lash Gift Collection, $150. Available at Revitalash.com

Sure, today’s mascara formulas promise to deliver lashes that are 32 times as plump and long as one’s natural hairs but how often have you personally witnessed such astounding results? And when have your lashes been as voluminous, defined, curled, and dense as you desired while still looking natural? Well, scientists have been hard at work perfecting a formula that will stimulate hair growth along the lash line — welcome news for both Betty Boop wannabes  and for everyday women who have seen their lash lines become increasingly barren with age. This luxurious set, packaged in a quilted red pouch, incorporates a smaller travel pouch and a 3.5ml tube of the RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner, a clear serum formulated with the brand’s signature BioPeptin Complex, which itself contains biotin, glycerin, calendula extract, and camellia oil to stimulate hair growth, moisturize hair strands, and protect them against breakage. Within months, you should see fuller, more dramatic lashes that you can bat coquettishly to charm anyone— no telepathic maneuvers necessary!

Eugenia Kim Emmanuelle Fedora, $415. Available at EugeniaKim.com

No witch-flavored ensemble would be complete without a statement-making hat. This black velour fedora captures Fiona’s air of elegance, while the patent leather bow and silver hardware make it feel modern and edgy.

River Island V Neck 3/4 Sleeve Peplum Pencil Dress, $65. Available at US.RiverIsland.com

In the season premiere, the episode aptly titled “Bitchcraft,” Fiona saunters down the streets of New Orleans wearing a short-sleeved peplum dress much like this LBD from River Island, which features 3/4-length sleeves and a V-cut neckline.

Tiffany & Co. Cat Eye Sunglasses, $290. Available at SunglassHut.com

By now, we all know UV rays account for quite a bit of skin damage, accelerating the appearance of pesky lines and wrinkles. Anyone who, like Fiona, is waging a never-ending war against aging signs (and aren’t we all?) should protect the delicate skin around her eyes with a dashing pair of shades. These Tiffany & Co. sunglasses marry the glamour of classic Jackie O. shades with the cheeky retro quality of cat-eye frames.

Currey and Company Paramour Chandelier, $630. Available at TheBellaCottage.com

Chandeliers are practically a necessity when furnishing classic colonial homes and, clearly, Fiona got the memo since these sparkling lamps illuminate nearly every room in the place — from the dining room to the living room and the entryway with its two curved staircases. To mimic the look, try this antique gold-toned chandelier, which features 5 candelabra lights, each poised atop a swirling arm. Multiple strands of  round and teardrop shaped crystals create an opulent effect, making the chandelier look like it’s dripping in gems.

Ted Baker London Elenna Embellished Midi Dress, $325. Available at TedBaker.com

If Fiona were to attend an extra special event, this dress would probably be at the top of her list. The silhouette is timeless and classic — a mid-length hemline and cap sleeves — but the crystal embellishments along the neckline add an extra scoop of glamour to an already sleek piece.

Meteo by Yves Salomon Rabbit Fur Coat, $1126. Available at MyTheresa.com

When Fiona suspected she wouldn’t win her battle against cancer, she attempted to take her own life by swallowing a bottle full of pills. Even in her despondent, suicidal state, Fiona maintained focus on one thing: fashion. She practically posed herself on the bed, wearing a headscarf as a turban and draping herself in her most extravagant fur coat. It’s a morbid moment (like so many on the show), but it’s still incomprehensibly glamorous.  If you were obsessed with Fiona’s shaggy black coat in the scene, try this 100% rabbit fur  piece, which features snap fastenings along the front and side slit pockets.

Ballard Designs Oval Louis Armchair with Aged Brass Nailheads, $604. Available at BallardDesigns.com

Perhaps the most stunning room in Miss Robichaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies is the living room — in part thanks to the Louis XVI style of the crisp white sofa and chairs. What does this furniture style entail? Well, for one, the chairs created during this era featured oval-shaped backs and straight legs reminiscent of Roman columns. Handcrafted in Italy, this stunning piece perfectly captures the aesthetic via its tapered fluted legs, topped with carved florettes, and off-white twill upholstery.

Nina Ricci Leather and Lace Gloves, $465. Available at Net-a-Porter.com

No matter how hot it might be in New Orleans, Fiona Goode seems to never leave the mansion without a dashing pair of black leather gloves — preferably short ones that reach right up to the wrist and which feature romantic elements like lace-themed cut-outs or sheer inserts. These Nina Ricci gloves, made of soft leather and featuring sheer lace inserts at the front, would rank among Fiona’s go-to accessories thanks to their poised and ladylike flair.

Nanette Lepore Captivating Fur Hem Cape, $548. Available at NeimanMarcus.com

A fur shawl and cape hybrid, this Nanette Lepore topper is fashioned out of a ribbed knit with dyed Mongolian fur along the hemline. The fur-trimmed cape sits on the shoulders and features a half zipper with leather trim for a modern, downtown chic touch to an otherwise uptown design.

Livingston Candelabra, $179.95. Available at ZGallerie.com

Considering several witches within the academy had the power to set fires telepathically, it never made much sense for there to be so many candlesticks and elaborate candelabras in that expansive mansion, but they certainly added a nostalgic and gothic feel to the classic French furniture. If you appreciate the slightly sinister vibe of an elaborate candelabra, consider this gold-toned number, which features five sculptural arms to hold taper candles.  Hand crafted out of shiny aluminum, the candelabra measures 23″ in width and 39.5″ in height, making it a perfect accent for fireplace mantels and stylish side tables.

Louise Et Cie Lurisia Boot, $294.95. Available at Nordstrom.com

In Episode 3, Fiona gave Delphine LaLaurie a crash course on modern-day race relations, confirming that the citizens of the United States had, in fact, elected a black president and proudly proclaiming that she herself voted for Obama twice. In the scene, she wears a 3/4-length sleeve dress and a stunning pair of knee-high boots that remind me of these Louise Et Cie beauties. These glossy leather boots feature 17″-tall shafts, square 3 1/2″-tall heels, and black straps with gold-toned buckles along the ankle and the collar.

BCBGMAXAZRIA Frances Tuxedo Cape, $298. Available at BCBG.com

This cape is an excellent alternative to a tuxedo jacket or tailored black blazer. Featuring a V-neckline, shoulder pads that add drama and definition, arm slits along the front, and contrast knit panels that serve to accentuate the shiny tuxedo trim along the front flaps, this tuxedo cape fuses together masculine and feminine elements with graceful aplomb.

Badgley Mischka Collection Long-Sleeve Cocktail Dress with Ruched Shoulder, $395. Available at NeimanMarcus.com

Since Fiona almost exclusively wears black, when she dons a garment in another color — particularly one as bold as red — everyone takes notice.  And usually for good reason: the first time she wore a red dress in the series, she wound up murdering Madison, fearing the latter was gunning for her role as the Supreme of the coven. Like the fitted, knee-length dress Lange donned for the episode, this one features long sleeves and an asymmetric neckline with ruching accents. It’s an updated version of the dress Fiona wore when she uttered one of the most memorable lines of the season, “This coven doesn’t need a new Supreme — it needs a new rug.”