Sweater: J.Crew (wearing size small), Christmas Tree: King of Christmas
YOU GUYS. WOW WOW WOW.
I am so excited about our very first gift guide of the season.
This isn’t JUST a gift guide–this is an Oprah-style “Jess’ Favorite Gifts” guide on TOP of more gift ideas for all the women in your life! Kendall and I have put approximately––this is not an exaggeration––15-20+ hours into making this post as helpful as humanly possible! I hope you love it as much as we do!
New Format:
You’ll notice that we’re using a different gift guide format this year–in lieu of the standard collages (where you have to find the number and then scroll down to find the description) I’m using a design that I hope is a lot easier to read, understand, and much more helpful!
I’d also like to take a second to shout out my friend Katie for her amazing calligraphy skills in creating this year’s gift guide graphics! Aren’t they so cute!? I loved how they turned out! (If you need help with calligraphy for your wedding, or graphic design, she is your girl!!!)
So…without further adieu, let’s jump in!!
Jess' Favorites Under $50
Jess' Favorites Under $50
Wubby Fleece:
Quite possibly my most worn item of the winter (when I’m around the house, at least!) Right now, Wubby fleece is on sale for under $50!! It’s so incredibly soft–it’s seriously the first thing I pull on in the morning and the first thing I put on when I get home. It’s INCREDIBLE! It runs big–I wear XS!
Check out my Wubby Fleece Review for more details!
Laneige Lip Mask:
I held off getting this for SO LONG because it was so overhyped, but I finally caved just for the sake of investigative journalism and let me tell you, it does not disappoint! The best stocking stuffer for anyone this winter!
Tissue Turtlenecks:
Remember when I posted on IG stories and I said, “What’s your favorite item I’ve ever recommended to you?” I can’t even TELL YOU how many people said TISSUE TURTNELECKS!! Really, they’re insanely budget-friendly (especially bc J.Crew is so often on sale!) and they’re the best layering essential. They keep you warm outside as a base layer, and are thin enough to ensure you don’t overheat inside! Order your normal size if you want it tighter, and size up if you want a looser fit.
Ice Roller:
Another popular GG reader buy––the ice roller!! If you’re looking for a super affordable gift for all your girlfriends, look no further! As one reader described it, “it’s the most incredible thing I never knew I needed!” Check out ice roller benefits in my post here!
The best candles
I couldn’t decide which candle to feature here, so I chose both! First, I love Thyme’s Frasier Fir candle–it’s an incredible foresty holiday scent! It’s only $30, you can get it on Amazon and apparently it has an underground cult following. My friend Tine introduced me and was so convinced I’d be obsessed that she Primed one to me the next day. It’s THAT good! Second is Anecdote’s line of candles–they all smell DIVINE–it’s my friend Danielle’s shop, so your purchase helps support a small, women-owned business!
Wool Blend Berets:
It’s no secret that I am a HUGE fan of berets. Not only do they make any outfit look adorable, but they are GREAT at disguising unwashed hair while still looking SUPER chic! I have these Halogen berets in a handful of colors and think they really elevate cold weather looks! The best stocking stuffer for the style lover in your life! Need styling help? Check out 4 Ways to Wear a Beret!
Pearl Headband:
I have fully jumped head first into the statement headband trend, and they have honestly changed my life. (Like berets…I can extend like TWO more days washing my hair wearing one of these beauties!!) They have so many budget-friendly ones on Amazon!
Travel Steamer:
I very much feel the need to put a travel steamer on this list, even though it’s not the sexiest thing you’ve ever purchased. I ALWAYS get asked, “does x item of clothing wrinkle easily?” or “how do you keep your clothes wrinkle free when you travel?”
A TRAVEL STEAMER! I don’t go anywhere without one! Seriously–if you don’t own a steamer I’m honestly unsure of how you’ve lived life up until this point. I like this travel steamer because it’s dual voltage, meaning, you can bring it on international trips with you (when you need a steamer most!)
Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel:
A miracle in a bottle, this was another super popular answer on Instagram stories, and I couldn’t agree more! This is probably my #1 favorite beauty product…ever? If you have issues with dull, flaky, patchy, uneven, dry winter skin, this bottle will take care of that real quick! It also comes as part of a great gift set (linked below in the gifts section!)
Turbie Twist:
I’ve had one of these for YEARS and it makes such a difference in taming frizz, breakage, and getting excess water out of your hair much better than a regular towel. Plus, it nicely gets your hair out of the way while you do your makeup, and before you’re ready to dry your hair!
Equilibria CBD Drops:
You guys know how life changing Equilibria CBD has been for me, and I was soo happy to hear that it has positively affected you guys too! They have several kinds of products, but the daily drops are what I use most often! They are fast-acting (because they absorb into your blood stream). They don’t make you high or feel weird–they just better equip you to deal with stress and make you less anxious overall. They also do wonders in quieting my mind before I go to sleep! I feel so much more confident going into the holidays now that I have their products to help! Use code JESSKEYS for 20% off!
Check out my full Equilibria CBD Review.
Beautycounter Brow Gel:
My favorite brow product of all time! You will be SHOCKED at how good your brows look after using this. It’s super natural looking but also really buildable. I’m obsessed! I haven’t left the house without this product on since I started using it when it first came out last year!
The Best Blue Light Glasses
You guys have been asking for suggestions on cute blue light glasses, so I ordered this gold pair and this tortoise pair on Amazon (they’re $20 each!) and I love both! The brand is called Sojos and they are a women-owned brand!
Herban Essential Wipes:
I LOVE these little essential oil towlettes and I throw them in every bag I own! They are especially amazing for travel–to clean your hands, wipe down seats/tray tables, refresh you on a hot day, etc. All the scents smell so good, too! I love the lemon and eucalyptus the most!
Drinkwel:
Alright, everyone needs a bottle of Drinkwel in time for the holidays. Seriously. It’s a Vitamin with lots of liver support that you take before a night out––it makes you not hungover! MAGIC!! (Also the best gift for the party animal in your life.)
Vital Proteins:
It’s no secret that I love Vital Proteins!! My favorite way to consume the collagen peptides and creamer it is in my coffee–you can buy the little packets on Amazon so you can take them with you when you travel. They make the perfect stocking stuffer, too! Check out my post on everything you need to know about collagen supplements!
The Coziest Slippers:
I just recently picked up these slippers at Nordstrom and they are so comfortable I haven’t really taken them off since. (They’re basically a fluffy, white, cozy match made in heaven for Wubby Fleece. They are super cushiony on the bottom, too!
Breakfast Wine Mug:
HOW AMAZING IS THIS MUG!? What fun-loving person DOESN’T need this? It’s from Alice & Wonder which is one of my favorite boutiques, owned by my friend Ali! So not only is it amazing, but your purchase supports a local women-owned Chicago shop, too! (This mug wrapped in cute cellophane with some of the Vital Proteins packets or some fancy hot cocoa packets would be a really cute gift!)
Small Packages Gift Boxes:
You guys know how much I love Small Packages! I was first introduced to the brand when they were a sponsor of mine last year right when they launched, and I feel in love with the concept so much that the owner, Julie, has become a wonderful friend! Small Packages makes beautifully curated gift boxes for ALL occasions (good and bad ones!) with goodies made by small, women-owned brands, and they start at just $35! They just came out with a Thanksgiving hostess box, and will be releasing a holiday box soon!
SWZL Straw Set:
Eliminating the use of plastic straws is something I’m trying to be better about and these SWZLE straws make it a lot easier! These metal straws come in their own carrying case (so you can always keep it stashed in your bag!) with a cleaning brush, too! And how pretty is this case?! They’re also a local Chicago startup!!
Butter Socks:
The softest, comfiest, coziest socks IN THE WORLD. There is no one who doesn’t need these in their life! The best stocking stuffer ever!
Yeti Rambler Mug:
I love my rambler mug because I can drink coffee in it, and also drink water, cocktails, la croix, whatever out of it–and things stay hot or cold! It’s all you need!
Amazon no slip ankle socks:
Okay I almost DIDN’T include these because I cannot think of anything less exciting, but these are probably one of the items I get asked about the most. ?These Amazon socks are amazing–they’re invisible socks that REALLY do not slip off your feet! I bought like 4 packs so all my socks match and it’s been the best decision ever.
Ollie Hoops
These are my FAVORITE pair of hoops, made by local Chicago brand Vo Jewelry! They’re insanely lightweight (you can’t feel them in) and they make the perfect subtle statement. The best part? They’re only $30!
Jess' Favorites Under $100
Jess' Favorites Under $100
Audiotechnica Record Player
Many of you said this is your favorite gift you’ve ever given OR received from my recco! ? (I’ll be putting this on the guys gift guide too, because it’s amazing for everyone). We have an Audiotechnica and it’s hard to beat for the price. (We had a cute Crosley first but this is much better quality!) I think this would be a great gift for
A.) A parent who has a vinyl collection but got rid of their record player years ago or
B.) A huge music junkie who hasn’t gotten into vinyl yet––giving them this with a few classic albums would be SO COOL.
Tartan Scarf:
THE classic tartan J.Crew scarf that really just signifies the holidays for me! I’ve owned this scarf for several years and it’s always a favorite! It looks so festive and pretty with everything! Makes the best gift too!
Faux Leather Leggings:
You guys know I’m loyal to both the Commando and Spanx Faux Leather Leggings. The Commando version *feels* and *looks* like leather, while the Spanx ones look less like actual leather. I think the Spanx ones are more comfortable because they’re breathable, but the Commando ones are warmer because they block more air. I love them both for different things! Read more about the differences in my post here! Sizing: Spanx run TTS (I wear a size small), and Commando runs VERY small- the smalls were suffocating on me!
Slip silk sleep mask + silk pillow gift set
I have had this set for years and it brings me so much joy going to bed each night. Often times Neal will stay up reading later than I do, so the mask is a game-changer in helping me fall asleep. The pillow just makes going to bed feel like a fancy spa experience–it’s supposedly much better for your skin and hair than regular cotton and helps prevent wrinkles and frizz! I think this would make the nicest gift that most people would never buy for themselves!
Beautycounter Velvet Eyeshadow Palette:
I haven’t used any other eyeshadow since I got this palette last year! I used to be a Charlotte Tilbury shadow lover and this is JUST as good–it’s one of the few palettes where every color is actually wearable every day. I can use this for a light daytime look or a super smokey dramatic look. I even use the Sienna color as a blush! I travel with it everywhere and haven’t had a problem with it shattering either (which was always my biggest pain point with other palettes!)
Lululemon Align Pants:
I received my first pair of align leggings as a gift from my dad probably close to a decade ago. They have held up beautifully–yes, I still wear the same pair. They feel like you’re not wearing pants at all- seriously! I think the Align are best for light impact activity and running errands, etc. Honestly I really only wear them for everyday–like a chicer substitute for sweatpants. They’re also ideal for travel if you want something you can wear on the plane AND to yoga or hiking, etc.! Sizing: They are insanely stretchy, so you don’t have to size up AS much as usual when it comes to Lululemon items. It really just depends on your fit preference!. I’m a size XS or S usually and I pretty much wear a 4 across the board in Lulu pants. See my full review on Zella vs. Lululemon Leggings here!
Everlane Alpaca Sweater:
I cannot get enough of this sweater! It’s just SO. SOFT. And the texture and color make any outfit you pair it with extra special. I love the festive tone of this mustard color, but it also comes in 9 other beautiful colors! I also ordered the Alpaca cardigan and cannot wait to try It!! Sizing: Oversized, runs big, went with XS. See how I styled this in my Fall Capsule Wardrobe! **Everlane will not be running a discounted Black Friday sale, so don’t feel like you need to wait to purchase!**
Everlane Wide Leg Crops:
I love wide leg crops because they are a great alternative to both jeans AND can be dressed up for the office or a swanky event, too! I have these in a handful of colors and love that they are beyond comfortable, super versatile, and extremely flattering! Sizing: TTS! I wear a 0. I styled them several ways in this post and this post
Tretorn Sneakers:
I’ve had these sneakers for a year now, and I’m still so in love. They are so comfortable, require ZERO break-in, and they go with everything. They’re a little preppy, a little retro, and 100% classic. I have styled them countless ways on the blog, so click here for all the posts I feature them in if you need inspo!
Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set:
I love my Cuyana toiletry bags and think they make for the best gifts too! It’s perfect for everyone: friends, moms, mother-in-laws, etc.! And you can monogram it for a special, personalized touch!
Everlane Cheeky Straight jeans
My #1 top-selling jeans for good reason–they are AWESOME. They are so flattering, and I always say this is an amazing pair to go with if you’re trying to break out of the skinny jean rut and feel like a wider cut is too trendy for you. I wear the ankle length and they hit me at the perfect spot. (I’m 5’6 for height reference.) I wear my normal size (25). **Everlane will not be running a discounted Black Friday sale, so don’t feel like you need to wait to purchase!**
Sam Edelman Loraine Leopard Loafers:
I reach these time and time again! They are SO comfy, require no break in, and the leopard print automatically makes every outfit more stylish and interesting! They Run TTS!
Lululemon Breeze By Short Sleeve:
My #1 favorite workout top! While I love tanks, sometimes you just want a little bit more coverage, and this is the perfect top for those days! I love that this is basically nothing–you can pull it on over your sports bra and it is SO breathable. It comes in a bunch of colors as well! Sizing: I ordered a size 6 (my usual size in Lululemon), but I think this top runs a little big for lulu–but I’m glad I got it a little oversized, so I can tie it in a knot–which looks cute while being functional at the same time!
Jess' Favorites Under $200
Jess' Favorites Under $200
Blondo Presto Waterproof Boots:
My #1 most loved reader product!! You’ve all heard me rave about these for years! Yes, they are suede AND waterproof AND salt proof! You don’t need to do anything to do them–you just wear them straight out of the box. You can wear them through the rain and sleet and slush without worry–they have tread AND are are BEAUTIFUL (which I think we can all agree can be a rare combo when it comes to true winter boots!) Sizing: TTS!
Ray-Ban Round & Hexagon Sunnies:
I’m a Ray-Ban loyalist! I love SO many of their sunglasses, but these two pairs are what I gravitate toward most often! I have the 53mm Rounds, and I love how they feel retro and classic at the same time! They go with everything, every time of the year, for every occasion. Note: they come in two sizes–50mm and 53mm! I also love the Hexagon frames! It’s like my favorite classic Aviators and round sunnies had a baby and VOILA, a new shape! I loveee the contrast of the gold frames with the dark lenses! They are the 54mm, which seems to be the right size for my face when it comes to aviators. Check out Neal & Jess’ Ultimate Ray-Ban Guide for more of our favorites!
Dudley Stephens Turtlenecks:
I haven’t stopped talking about Dudley Stephens Fleeces since I got them earlier this season! The Cobble Hill Turtleneck is so soft, so warm, such a flattering tunic cut and it has pockets! I can’t say enough good things! Sizing: go up if in between sizes. I found this ran small in the arms. I also love the Park Slope Turtleneck, which is such a classic style! It has a cute structured collar with the same cozy, low-maintenance fleece in a shorter, tuckable cut! Sizing: TTS, I got the xs. Size up if you want an oversized fit. Check out my full review and style ideas for both turtlenecks here!
Cole Haan Snow Boots:
Okay guys, I JUST got this boots in and they are THE REAL DEAL! They are incredibly warm and **WATERPROOF** I have Sorels for mega snow days but they’re so clunky I wanted something that was super warm, waterproof, but not clunky––these do not disappoint! Come in other colors as well! Run TTS. Snap ’em up quick––some of the other colors have almost sold out already!
Equilibria All Is Calm Holiday Box:
Probably my favorite *out of the box* gift idea–I had to feature this limited edition holiday box from Equilibria! Perfect for yourself or a gift, it features their brand new lavender lemongrass and cardamom rose bath bombs, brand new calming roller (so great for headaches and a quick pick me up!) Daily Softgels, Daily Drops, and Relief Cream. It’s freaking fantastic and I think every woman I know would love one. I’ll be doing a full review on this soon!!
Everlane Cashmere Square Turtleneck:
This one probably tops the list as my favorite Cashmere sweater Everlane has made! I love the flattering fit— it’s boxy, but not TOO boxy. The shape is more modern/stylish, but it’s still classic at the same time! See how I styled this in my Late Fall Capsule Wardrobe Post!
Everlane Day Boot:
You know you’re obsessed with a pair of boots when you have them in three colors! They are truly the most comfortable booties you can find. The leather is so soft and buttery, they require absolutely no break-in! I can walk for miles in them at a time, and they are my go-to for travel–I wore them all over Portugal! See how I styled these in my Late Fall Capsule Wardrobe Post!
Nespresso machine
We have had a Nespresso machine ever since the first year we moved in together and we love it so much. Their smaller machines are really great for smaller countertops, too! We have the “Originaline” espresso machine, but they also make the “Virtuo” line that makes both espresso and other kinds of coffee––their website helps explain the differences! I also love the limited edition pods they come out with all the time!
Cuisinart auto-grind + brew coffee machine
When we’re in the mood for drip coffee instead of espresso, we LOVE our Cuisinart coffee maker that grinds the beans fresh (and measures everything for you so you never have to play that “is the coffee going to be too strong or too watery?” roulette). For those who prefer drip coffee, I can’t recommend this enough.
Madewell Transport Tote:
I’ve had my Transport Tote for 3+ years! I love the look and how much stuff it holds! It’s also really durable- I’ve pretty much beaten it to hell and it’s still going strong. I love the zipper top, which is essential if you’re a heavy traveler or commuter, and the inside pocket zips! See my full review of the Everlane Market Tote vs. the Madewell Transport Tote!
J.Crew Sophie Sweater Blazer:
I’ve been raving about this piece for over a year! Part cardigan, part blazer, it’s an essential wardrobe staple for both work and weekend! Add a layer of sophistication in the office or dress it down for a cozy weekend look — and it comes in six gorgeous colors!
Jess' Splurge Favorites
Jess' Splurge Favorites
T3 Whirl Trio Curling Iron Set:
I’ve had and loved this iron for years! It’s awesome if you like to experiment with different kinds of curls–from loose waves to romantic curls–because the T3 allows you to change out the type of barrel–from a traditional curling iron with a clip, to a wand, and in a variety of different sizes. It also has some great features–it heats up in seconds and also will automatically shut off after 30 minutes so you don’t have to worry about burning your house down. This tends to sell out quickly, but it’s on sale right now at Sephora and Ulta! See my post on How to Curl Hair in Loose Waves!
Delsey Chatalet 21″ Rolling Carry On Bag:
I haven’t gone on a single trip without my little Delsey suitcase in the past two years, and let me tell you–I never thought I could have such love for a suitcase! It’s not just adorable–yes, it sounds cheesy, but it SERIOUSLY brings me joy rolling it through the airport–but it’s crazy functional and holds so much! It holds so much! Traveling light is the #1 tip I can ever give anyone, and I always try to carry on my luggage! See my full review here!
A Down Parka:
I get a LOT of questions on the best warm coats for winter, and I have a few favorites for different scenarios! I go into detail in my post 20+ Must-Have Essentials to Get You Through Winter, but here’s the short version:
LOLË MARYBETH PARKA: Very comparable to Canada Goose on the warmth scale at half the price. Waterproof, windproof, has a removable hood. It comes in 3 colors! It doesn’t have ALL the extra air-tight features of the Canada Goose but it’s also less than half the price.
Note: If you don’t need something QUITE so warm, I highly recommend the LOLË KATIE JACKET–it’s basically equivalent to a North Face Puffer, but less expensive and way cuter!
CANADA GOOSE SHELBURNE PARKA: Definitely the splurgiest option, but has SO many details that make this the warmest, most air-tight coat.
Dyson Cordless Vacuum:
This might not be the most exciting purchase, but it will DRAMATICALLY improve your life. This vacuum is one of my favorite things that we own and has made it so easy to keep our entire (all wood floor) condo dust-free. It’s as light as a Swiffer, and I can quick vacuum our whole place in minutes! It’s worth every bit of the hype.
Dana Rebecca Sylvie Necklace
My best friend Courtney gave me this necklace as a bridesmaid gift (so generous!) and I wear it every day. I don’t think I’ve taken it off in over a year. I always get asked what necklace I’m wearing, so I had to include it here! Dana Rebecca makes the most beautiful dainty jewelry that always makes for a really special gift!
J.Crew Cocoon Coat:
Probably the warmest non-puffer coat money can buy you–not to mention, it’s just an adorable coat! I reach for this all the time and love how classic and elegant it is! Sizing: It does run big- I would suggest sizing down. I’m usually a 0 or 2 in coats and I have the size 0 with room to layer! See my full Cocoon Coat Review!
Stuart Weitzman Lowland OTK Boots:
Neal surprised me with these two Christmases ago and while they are very much a splurge, I couldn’t love them more! They are a true classic that have held up so well, and I know I’ll love for years and years to come. They are the only OTK boot (besides my Blondos) that will stay up and fit my calves well!
More Gift Ideas for Her–Jess' Picks:
More Gift Ideas for Her–Jess' Picks:
Lotto Love “scratch offs” for charity:
If you’re looking for a cute little something to slip in with your holiday cards, or a little something for the person who has everything, I ADORE this company called Lotto Love and everything they are about! The winning prize of each card goes to support one of the company’s four pillars: literacy tools, clean water, nutritious meals and solar energy. Each card has a 100% chance of winning for someone in need!
Cheeky beer glass:
From one of my fave Chicago boutiques, Alice & Wonder made their own holiday line (there are a few things in this guide from there) and this glass made me LOL. If you come from a family that loves the movie Christmas Vacation, I can think of no better gift. (But they also have some Home Alone references too!)
Winestyr Gift box or subscription:
I LOVE Winestyr! They’re a small wine subscription company that is headquartered here in Chicago! They focus only on small-batch wines from producers that you wouldn’t be able to find in a liquor store. You can choose one box per quarter, monthly, whatever–they’re really flexible! If you are a member and live in Chicago, they also have a gorgeous showroom space (we did our last reader event there!) where you can visit and enjoy a free tasting whenever you like! They have lot’s of great gift options–from gifting a membership, a one-off bottle of wine, or a gift card! (A great gift for the picky person who has everything!)
Sezane Jewelry Pouch
This little travel jewelry pouch is amazing for a few reasons: First, it’s so hard to keep your jewelry organized whenever you travel, and this compact little case ensures that no necklaces get tangled, or earring backs get lost! Second, you can get it FREE right now with any Sezane bag or shoe purchase. Third, you can buy it for only $35. Fourth, and best of all–100% of all proceeds from this pouch are donated to La Maison des Femmes, The Women’s House, a French charity which supports women who are vulnerable to or victims of violence.
Shower fizzies
I think often times the best gifts aren’t expensive, but little things that people wouldn’t think to buy for themsleves. This “shower fizzies” bar is one of those–you break off a piece, throw it down in the shower, and it turns your shower into an aromatherapy experience! WHAT could be lovelier!?
Leopard Travel Gift Set
At just $29, this little set is the perfect gift for any girl who loves to travel! From your little sister who is studying abroad next semester, or your coworker who is always plotting her next international trip–it comes with a luggage tag, passport case, and all-purpose catch-all pouch. (I love having a pouch like this in my carry-on bag to hold all my loose ends!)
Chic gardening set
HOW perfect is this for your mom/MIL/aunt who loves to garden? It’s a cute pair of gardening gloves with a little cushion for her knees. What could bring more joy?
Corgi heatable buddy
Need a cheeky White Elephant gift all your girlfriends will fight over? HELLO heatable Corgi!!! It’s basically a little heating pad–it comes with a pouch you pop in the microwave for a few seconds. Perfect for cramps, aches, pains, or just to heat you up when you’re chilly!
Cashmere-Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves:
These are such a great gift idea! And they’re on sale right now! You guys said a pair of warm, tech-friendly gloves is a non-negotiable winter staple so you don’t have to pull off your gloves every time you use your phone. These come in black, too!
Pretty vintage-inspired frames
If you’re looking for a special gift on a shoestring budget, a special photo in one of these beautiful vintage-inspired frames would be a slam dunk. Sort through old family photos at your parents house and pull some favorites––or frame a wedding photo to give to newlyweds! I don’t know who wouldn’t be touched opening that!
USB phone charger keychain
For the gal who is always asking to borrow your charger, or always seems to be running out of juice––voila––the perfect gift! Practical, and adorable––it’s monogrammed, so it makes it extra fun!
Casper Glow Light
OK this is SO RANDOM, I know. But I LOVE this thing. I recently impulse purchased one the first night I used it Neal said, “Hey! Why didn’t you get one for my side of the bed?!” These little lights are SO NIFTY! You can use it as an alarm clock, so the soft light gradually gets brighter to wake you up gently, so you don’t feel so out of it when you wake up! Additionally, I use it as a reading light before bed, and if you need it in the middle of the night (to get a drink of water, or if you’re a new parent and you want to change your baby’s diaper in the middle of the night without waking them up) you just wiggle it and carry it with you and it produces the softest “nightlight” type light. It’s really soothing and the light feels more similar to that of a candle than a lamp!
Mark & Graham Tech Envelope
I may have selfishly put this on here solely because I REALLY WANT THIS FOR CHRISTMAS. It’s an all-in-one beautiful leather envelope that holds ALL your stuff in one place. Kindle, iPad, phone, earbuds, credit cards, USB cord––I need this organizational beauty in my life!
Anthropologie beauty advent calendar
I think this is maybeee one of the cutest gift ideas for the beauty lover I’ve ever seen!? Behind each door (12 Days of Christmas style) hides a little beauty treasure–like a lip mask, toner spray, purse-sized nail file, and more!
Lunya Sleep Mask:
I LOVE my Slip sleep mask but I have been really wanted to test out Luna’s sleep mask as well! It’s wider, so it supposedly stays more secure and even helps block out noise! If you’ve been wanting to give a luxurious-feeling gift, this might be the perfect thing!
Five Minute Journal
I cannot recommend this little journal enough! It provides a structured format to boost your happiness in 5 minutes a day including: gratitude, prioritizing your day, 3 amazing things, inspiring quotes, daily affirmation, and end of day reflection.
Beautycounter Skincare Heros Set
This little set has some of my absolute favorite Beautycounter products and would make an amazing gift for any woman in your life (or, of course, yourself–if you’ve been wanting to sample all of these and want to take advantage of the crazy discount!) It contains their Overnight Resurfacing Peel, Charcoal Mask, Vitamin C Brightening Oil, and their brand new Lotus Cleansing Balm STICK! (It sounds so cool! The perfect on-the-go product!) For reviews of all my favorite Beautycounter products, see this post!
Kopari bestsellers gift set
I never shut up about my favorite Kopari natural deodorant, but I also LOVE their glossy lip balm–it’s so hydrating! The set also comes with their Coconut melt, which is a great natural (and cheap–it lasts FOREVER) way to remove makeup, moisturize your body post-shower, slather on cuticles and elbows––it has endless uses!
Hydro Flask Water Bottle
I LOVE my Hydro Flask water bottle — it keeps water so cold, and it’s pretty to look at! I use this EVERY day because it’s big–it holds 34 ounces! When you follow the rule of needing to consume at LEAST half your body weight in ounces of water per day––this makes it really easy! (I hit that after one refill using this!) I drink so much more water when I use this guy! It makes an awesome (super practical) gift!
Slip silk hair scrunchie set
Another beauty lover gift–slip silk scrunchies! These are a dream for making your hair stretch longer in between washes–you can wear it up at night without risking breakage or bad kinks in your hair! (I like to put dry shampoo on my roots at night and then put it up in one of these to sleep in!) It’s also a gift that feels really fancy, even though it’s only $39!
B.P. Scarf + Beanie set
If you’ve been looking for a great cozy gift, I LOVE this B.P. gift set! It’s $39 and SO cute! The blanket scarf is super soft and I love the color of the beanie and the little poof on top!
Weiner dog + Frenchie watercolor mug
I mean…you know I had to buy this. The cutest mug for any dog lover––your bestie, your coworker, whoever. (Do I need to get this for Kelly!?)
Mark + Graham clear catch-all pouch
I love a good clear pouch–these are amazing to throw into any bag, whether it’s your day to day work tote or during travel––they’re a catch-all for all your little essentials and instead of wasting time digging through trying to find what you’re looking for, you can see what you need and grab it super easily! I love that the ones from Mark & Graham can be monogrammed so they feel really sophisticated!
Cheeky holiday tea towels
These little tea towels are TOO GOOD. How cute would they be as a gift along with a great bottle of wine? Or with a Carry On Cocktail Kit (below!)? These are also from Alice & Wonder, so your purchase helps a small, women-owned business, too!
Carry On Cocktail Kit
I feel like I can’t not include these in my gift guides every year. Neal and I LOVE these cute little cocktail kits–they’re the best thing to take on the plane to kick off a fun vacation! They have a bunch of different kids–Margarita, Moscow Mule, and their newest addition––A SPRITZ!!
Beautycounter Mini Facial Oil Set
I lovvvee these little mini facial oils! They’re the best way to sample all three of Beautycounter’s bestselling facial oils, and they’re also amazing for travel!
Minted Custom Recipe or Drawing print
Minted is SUCH a great resource for really meaningful gifts–from photo books, to framed photos, artwork, and more–but this one really stood out to me. Recipes are so special and they are passed down from generation to generation––do you get emotional looking at your Grandmother’s handwritten recipes too?? (I do!) I think this is a really unique gift idea that you can make for your whole family–you can customize the frame too to suit everyone’s individual style!
Whew! You made it to the bottom!
Whew! You made it to the bottom!
I hope you LOVED this guide and that it’s the most helpful guide around for your holiday shopping! Looking for experience gifts? Neals picks and gifts for him? Beauty gifts? Affordable stocking stuffers for hostess gifts, coworkers, gift exchanges and more? We’re workin’ on ALL of those behind the scenes–so stay tuned! ?
I absolutely love the idea of the scratch offs for charity! Several people in my family have everything they could want but so appreciate charitable gifts. This is such a fun way to surprise them with a meaningful gift for Christmas! I just ordered 4 of them!! Thank you!!
Love all the ideas ! Thank you!
Suggestion : Canada Goose is so popular, but there are so many more options that are vegan and are cruelty free. Breaks my heart knowing what CG does for the fur.
Check out Noize for winter parkas. Seriously such nice quality , cute and warm !!!
This is phenomenal! Thank you so much for the time and effort to curate meaningful and fun gift ideas!
LOVE!! Thank you so much! Can’t wait for the rest to come!
Thanks for your great recommendations! Earlier this year I bought the travel steamer, no-slip socks, and Sophie blazer per your recommendations, and I used all of them every week during my summer internship. The travel steamer in particular was a life saver for reviving my work clothes on business trips.