Haley Lyndes's Holiday Gift Ideas
As a Shopping Writer, I Can Guarantee These Cozy Wardrobe Gifts Are Worth It
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I'll admit it: I actually hate gifting. But wait, Haley, isn't this a holiday gift guide? Yes, but hear me out. Gifting always feels like a lot of pressure. Trying to find something thoughtful, practical, and cute enough to make someone cry (in a good way) usually happens on a whim — like when you're shopping one day and poof, the perfect gift for your dad just appears out of nowhere. I don't like giving presents just for the sake of giving them; I want to give things I know are good — which, if I'm being honest, can feel more like a full-time job than a natural talent.
As a shopping editor with over five years of experience scrolling, testing, and occasionally justifying "research purchases," I've pretty much tried it all. My niche is the home space, but anything that feels warm, cozy, and aesthetically pleasing tends to catch my eye. And when it comes to gifts — whether they're for myself (because, duh) or for someone I love — these are the ones that just make sense: the products that last, look good, and actually get used. Even on a tight deadline that requires less thought and more action, these are the go-to items I approve of giving.
From luxe candles that make a room feel instantly snug, to the softest cashmere sweaters you'll want to live in all winter, to hotel-quality sheets that turn every night into a cozy escape, these are the items I've tested, use daily, and wholeheartedly stand by.
"Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water" ($35)
If I had known this was on Amazon when I first spotted it at a cozy little beach store in Del Mar, California, I probably would've saved myself some serious cash. Still, I'm so glad I bought it, because I love how it looks next to my bed and I get so many compliments on it. If you know someone who's into interior decor, it's worth noting that this book is incredibly popular (you'll find it in a lot of designers' homes). Plus, you can always say you picked it up at a gift shop in Del Mar. Wink.
Cyklar Vitamin C Body Oil ($38)
Call me basic, but I am that girl when it comes to Hailey Bieber. I really respect her — her style, her skin-care brand Rhode, and everything she does. So when I spotted this Cyklar body oil in her Instagram Story, I knew I had to try it. To my surprise, it hasn't just made my skin glow; it gives me this incredible scent that earns compliment after compliment. I have numerous body oils, but this is the one I reach for. And if you have a Bieber fan in your life, it's not a bad gift idea (especially with a little pocket blush to match). Read our review of the Cyklar body oil here.
Huega House Athletic Association Hat ($39)
I wear this hat so much that, at this point, I need a new one. Not only do I wear it all the time — flights, shopping, you name it — but it also doubles as decor in my bedroom, giving it that effortless, thrown-together beachy vibe (even though, admittedly, I put a lot of effort into making it look effortless). I love the colors, and if the person in your life also loves a good trucker hat, this is definitely worth putting on their radar.
Le Labo Santal 26 ($90)
Yes, I'm a Le Labo lover, and yes, I understand that comes with a hefty price tag. But when something is truly high quality, it's worth repurchasing. My parents literally get me the same Le Labo Santal 33 perfume every Christmas because they know how much I love it, and my Le Labo candle has lasted me almost six months. Granted, I burn it sparingly, but the scent is so strong that even unlit, it fills my apartment with whiffs of smoky, leathery warmth. That's exactly why I love it — I don't even need to burn it for my home to smell like a dream.
Set Active Midweight Crewneck ($98) and Set Active Midweight Sweats ($90)
I'm wearing this sweatsuit as I sit here curating this gift guide, and I just love it. I was actually super bummed that I didn't bring it on a recent trip to California; it's usually my travel go-to. Nevertheless, it's perfectly oversize, comes in a handful of colors, and is one of those matching sets that sparks a lot of questions about where I got it. Generally speaking, I love Set Active, and this sweatsuit only further solidifies my admiration for the brand's quality and style. I think it would make a perfect gift, whether you give just the top, bottom, or both pieces.
Rothy's The Casual Clog in Dove ($159)
This is one of those items I still need to purchase — and no, I'm not blindly recommending it. I've actually worn my friend's pair out recently, and I was totally obsessed with them. They're elevated, timeless, and the tortoise-shell bottoms are a chef's-kiss detail that doesn't get nearly enough attention. These effortless clogs are perfect for fall, winter, and even summer. I won't lie, Rothy's usually has a great Black Friday deal, and the current one definitely stacks up.
New Balance 9060 ($160)
One of the perks of being an editor is that New Balance actually gifted these to me. But ever since I saw one of my favorite content creators wearing them (Tezza Barton, I'm talking to you), I've been obsessed. They're the perfect "dad shoe," if you will. I like wearing mine at the airport, while running errands, or basically on any casual walk — as long as Boston's weather isn't completely disgusting (I prefer to keep them looking like new). I'm obsessed, and apparently everyone else is, too, based on all the compliments I receive.
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System ($350)
I've owned the Shark FlexStyle for a few years now, and it has yet to let me down. I always get my hair chopped into a '90s-style lob (shout-out to Rachel Green from "Friends" for the inspo), and this tool blows out my hair as professionally as a Drybar would. While the main tool I use is the large barrel, I occasionally use the curlers too, and I like them a lot. Regardless, it's way cheaper than the other similar options on the market and gets the job done. I especially love how the blow dryer rotates like a traditional one — it makes blow-drying so much easier.
Madewell The Lexington Oversized Tote ($228)
Madewell is that girl. It just gets it, and I fully appreciate it. All of its releases this year have been top-notch (I love the brand's jeans), and this tote bag is no exception. While I don't personally own it, I've visited it in-store regularly, and I know it's on my list of purchases soon. I like to look chic while going to a coffee shop to get some work done, and this bag definitely helps me do that. It would fit my laptop, phone, keys, wallet, and headphones — all while looking top-notch. Tote bags are always a good gift (psst, mom and dad) — especially when they're as stylish as this one.
Bose Soundlink Plus Bluetooth Speaker ($159)
I'm someone who really values sound quality. If you catch me in my apartment, I'm constantly playing music, and while I'm no Swiftie (sorry, not sorry), I do love blasting some new Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter, or quite a few niche indie bands you probably don't know (but definitely should). Basically, it's my background noise for everything — cleaning, cooking, or spending any amount of time at the beach — which is why I nearly had a conniption when my 10-year-old Bose Bluetooth speaker went bad. Luckily, this new one sounds even better, and I'd recommend it to anyone who values music as much as I do.
Polo Ralph Lauren Cable Wool-Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater ($228)
As someone who absolutely loves the sweater over the shoulder aesthetic, this Polo Ralph Lauren sweater is the exact item I go for. I can drape it over my shoulders for an extra level of style or I can throw it on with a silk skirt for an elevated holiday look - it's the perfect mix of both. Not to mention, Ralph Lauren is having a major moment right now (hello, Taylor Swift).
Columbia Amaze Puff Mid Hooded Jacket ($260)
Yes, because if we're talking winter style, we might as well discuss winter jackets as a whole. This one from Columbia is one of my favorites. The length is perfect — not too long or too short — and its puffer style is so warm, I barely need another layer underneath. It combats windy days, subzero temperatures, and winter storms with ease. I'm a big fan, and if someone in your life needs a new weatherproof coat, this one's a great option.
PVCS Classy Maxi Coat ($295)
What I love about this maxi coat is that you don't have to overthink it: it comes in one size that fits many, is high-quality, and matches nearly everything. I don't know anyone in my life who wouldn't wear it — even if it's just to a wedding or holiday party. I personally wear mine all the time; it's that perfect mix of style and timelessness, with oversize shoulders and a double-breasted front. If someone is in need of a quality coat, this one (made of polyester and rayon) is it.
Tecovas The Annie in Scarlet Cowhide ($345)
Another fashionable item that doubles as decor in my bedroom: my Tecovas. I've worn them everywhere — most recently on a trip to Nashville — but I actually picked them up in Austin, TX. I love them for all they're worth: comfortable, stylish, and highly durable. They're basically everything you want in a cowboy boot. Of course, I don't need that level of durability for my everyday wear; I typically pair mine with frilly dresses or jeans for style. If the person you're buying for has requested cowboy boots, these are a worthy investment.
Marie Oliver Coco Jacket ($385)
I struggle with going-out tops, especially in the winter. While I'm not one to hit the club, I am one to go to back-to-back dinners with my friends, and this Marie Oliver Coco Jacket has gotten me so many compliments on recent outings. In fact, I just wore it as my top — I never even unzipped it. All this is to say, I think I'll get a lot of use out of it. And while it's expensive, the quality is exceptional. Plus, for being white, the bonus is that its vegan leather lets anything you spill simply wipe right off. It's genius.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine in Almond Nougat ($500)
If you're looking for a splurge-worthy gift for the coffee lover in your family, consider this espresso machine. I've owned mine for over a year now and am absolutely obsessed with it. Not only does it look great in my kitchen, but it also makes the most ethereal espresso I've ever had from a home coffee maker. It brews in seconds and is so easy to use. My go-to latte? Three shots of espresso with vanilla oat milk and cinnamon. But you do you.
Four Seasons Luxury Hotel Sheet Set, Queen ($520)
Sleeping well is the key to life, and while I know $500 is a hefty price for a sheet set, this one is well worth it. Made from 100 percent long-staple Supima cotton with a sateen finish, it actually gives you the luxurious feel of the Four Seasons — except in your own home, every night. The set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases, and comes in sizes from twin through California king, with 10 colors to choose from. If you know someone who's always complaining about their sleep, I bet they'll sleep a little better with this set on their bed.
Haley Lyndes is a shopping writer and editor with more than seven years of experience in the publishing space. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers everything from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. Her writing has appeared in BuzzFeed, Travel + Leisure, and Real Simple.
