Coming off a year spent in lockdown, during which most interactions happened over Zoom or FaceTime, I'm particularly grateful for the friends who've stuck around. It took an extended stay-at-home order to get back in touch regularly, but I appreciate our friendships so much more now. We've figured out the uncertain time together, giving each other new book recommendations or movie recommendations or just making time to listen. This holiday, I'm planning to express my gratitude with meaningful, personalized gifts.
If you're thinking the same, I curated some ideas appropriate for any occasion. If you're trying to save a little money, I rounded up my favorite ideas that cost less than $100. Whether your friend is a decor enthusiast, homebody, fashionista, makeup-lover, or tech-gadget collector, I've got something for them. Stop putting it off, and get to shopping — I made it so much easier on you.
— Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams
Sometimes, we all need a little help finding our joy. Enter You've Got This! ($13), a creativity workbook to help you find what brings you joy and then do more of that.
Upgrade their headphones with these stylish and pretty-in-pink Soundcore by Anker Life Q30 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones ($90). They have 40 hours of playtime in one charge, a comfortable fit, and multiple modes of hearing including active noise canceling and ambient noise.
Gift this Little Words Project Badass Beaded Stretch Bracelet ($20) to the badass in your life. It'll be a constant reminder that they can do anything.
If they're all about that '90s aesthetic, these Dollger Retro Y2K Pink Rectangle Sunglasses ($13) are such a stylish find. Trust us, these will be their new go-to.
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera ($60, originally $70) is such a fun and sentimental way to capture candid moments in real time. The photos are such a thoughtful memento friends and family can keep forever. It's a great find for those who want to explore photography beyond an iPhone.
This Happy Face Throw Pillow Bluetooth Speaker ($38) isn't just cute and cozy, it also plays music. The best part: maybe you can use it, too.
If they're into astrology, they will love Seeing Stars: Harness the Power of the Zodiac by Stella Andromeda ($12). You can get them the book on their sign and maybe another one for a fun collection.
If you're shopping for someone who's basically the sommelier of your group, get them the super-trendy JoyJolt Claire Collection White Wine Glasses Set of 2 ($20, originally $40). They can have a glass of their favorite red, white, or rosé in style.
This UBeesize Portable and Adjustable Phone Tripod ($18) will level up their content creation game. They won't have to lean and balance their phone on random objects around the house. Plus, it's portable, so they can create wherever they want! It comes with a wireless remote for a total hands-free experience.
If they have plants all over their home, they'll appreciate this upgraded Planter Bluetooth Speaker ($20). It's such a cute planter that doubles as a speaker perfect for their desk or their bedside table.
The I Dew Care Let's Get Sheet Faced Face Sheet Mask Pack ($18 for 14) is perfect for those who love to indulge in some self-care with a nourishing face mask. It includes so many masks that they will love to experiment with.
I know so many people who swear by the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. This Laneige Midnight Minis Set ($18) is for that person; it contains five fun flavors of the cult-favorite product.
Help them get a good night's sleep with the Sleep Headphones and Eye Mask ($23). It has padding to cushion their eyes for ultimate comfort.
Whether they drink coffee or tea, keep their drinks toasty for longer with this cute yet useful USB Cup Heater ($13). It also comes in a stunning pink and purple butterfly pattern.
The Therapy Dough ($15) is a great way to let their frustrations out in a physical and tactical way! It is infused with essential oils for a sensorial experience. Choose between lavender, orange, eucalyptus, and north wood pine.
If they have a green thumb, they'll appreciate the Modern Sprout Holiday Tiny Terracotta Grow Kit ($16). It comes with a cute pot, and they can watch their plant grow.
Level up their workouts with these stylish Bala Bangles ($49 for two). These one-pound bangles can be worn on their arms or ankles for a full-body, resistance-based workout. They can even wear them while they run errands or do chores to get an extra workout in!
Pamper them with this stunning and luxurious Amazon Basics Satin Sleep Set ($14). It comes with two pillow cases, an eye mask, and a travel pouch.
The Real Techniques Flawless Finish Makeup Sponge Set ($20) is perfect for the makeup-lover in your life. The set comes with three Miracle Complexion sponges, one Miracle Cleansing sponge, one Miracle Powder sponge, one Travel Sponge case, and one makeup remover cloth. After all, they can never have too many sponges.
Whether it's for snacks or skin care, the Chefman Portable Mirrored Personal Fridge ($40, originally $60) will be put to use. It's perfect for bedrooms, vanities, and even work-from-home desks.
The JBL Clip 4 ($80) is such a great find for a music-lover. It's a portable Bluetooth speaker that goes heavy on the bass. It's waterproof and dust-proof with 10 hours of playtime. Plus, they can clip it onto their bags.
This splurge-worthy Diptyque Baies Candle ($68) will make a chic and compliment-worthy addition to her candle collection. It burns slowly and has a cool, relaxing fragrance with soft notes of berries and flowery rose accents.
If you're shopping for someone who loves a cozy night in, then the Nordstrom Nordstrom Bliss Plush Throw ($40) is a great choice. Plus, it's a popular product that currently has over 2,000 rave reviews.
I'm a firm believer that slippers always make for a great gift, because who doesn't want more? These cute UGG Fluffette Slippers ($90) are comfy and affordable and come in several color choices.
For an everyday shoe that packs warmth, comfort, and style, look no further than this Circus by Sam Edelman Eileen Loafer ($90). The shearling lining makes it cold-weather-friendly, while the construction is practical and versatile enough for year-round wearability.
This Open Edit Polo Sweater ($59) has a classic silhouette that will never go out of style. I like the slouchy shoulders and slightly dramatic sleeves.
This Mango Zip Knit Sweater ($80) is a colorful twist on a typical fall layer, and I love how comfortable it looks. From the stripes to the zip inserts, everything about it feels fresh and modern.
They can watch their favorite movie anywhere with the Packard Bell Home Theater Projector and Screen Set ($98). The compact design makes it easy to move around.
How cool is this HoMedics Total Clean Personal Air Sanitizer ($50)? The best part? There is no filter to clean up or replace. I kind of want it for myself.
With just a swipe of their finger, this smart Monos Kiyo Bottle ($70) has UVC technology, which can purify drinking water. They'll love using it, and it's easy to clean.
If you know someone who loves to host, get them the Bamboo Cheese Board Set ($35). The hand drawers and knives are so cool.
This little Shopbop @Home Pinch Fitness Kit ($24) has everything they need to work up a sweat, like deodorant wipes, hair ties, and headphones. It makes for a great stocking stuffer and is so easy to fit in a gym bag.
Sometimes, nights call for a relaxing bath with these French Girl Rose Sea Soak Calming Bath Salts ($22). Anyone will be so excited to receive these.
This Halfmoon Yoga Foam Roller ($34) is a wellness staple. It might hurt in the moment, but they'll thank you once they're able to stretch their muscles.
These little Halfmoon Yoga Massage Balls ($20) make for great stocking stuffers. They're great for releasing tension, which, let's face it, we all have.