The holiday season is well underway, and if you’re still looking for ideas on what to get your partner, mother, sister, or friend, I’ve rounded up nine of the best. Everything is tried and tested by me (a late-twenties woman in NYC), so all you have to do is match their personality with the statement that fits best and get a personalized present recommendation.
Happy shopping!
If their plants keep dying…the smart planter
The LeafyPod ($195) may be the most innovative plant pot on the market. Four AI sensors constantly monitor the plant’s health and offer insights on soil, temperature, light, humidity, and more. Never worry about watering schedules again with the self-watering feature—simply fill the reservoir once a month, and the planter will adjust moisture levels by itself.
If they savor their nighttime routine…classic cotton pajamas
Your giftee will settle into comfort immediately with these luxurious pajamas from Elizabeth Cotton. The Liberty of London sets ($298) feature the highest-quality cotton from revered brand Liberty Fabric and are sewn in NYC’s historic garment district. They are incredibly soft and come in a variety of lovely floral prints. My choice is the Evie Stripe Pink, a light pink shade with delicate roses and cream piping.
If they fancy a cuppa…a tea advent calendar
The Adagio Teas Advent Calendar ($34) has 24 different varieties of teas with a little holiday twist. It comes in loose leaf, teabag, and decaf versions, with festive flavors like Caramel Creme Brulee, Rooibos Nutcracker, and Candy Cane. Adagio imports their teas directly from the countries they’re grown in, and they even have a Roots section on their website with details about the farmers they work with.
If they wear their heart on their sleeve…a customized bracelet
Created offers engravings on their cuff bracelets, making the jewelry even more special. Personalize it with their name or initials, or choose a meaningful word or phrase. Unlike one-size-fits-all bangles, each Created cuff is stackable and custom-made to fit your giftee’s wrist size. My personal favorite is the 14k gold-filled Covenant Hammered ($125), which features a unique hand-hammered texture.
If their style is cute and comfy…striped cotton pants
Who says we can’t wear pajamas outside? The Paris1 Pants ($115) from Planet Nusa transition effortlessly from busy days to cozy nights. Made with 100% organic cotton, the striped bottoms are soft, breathable, and stylish. Choose from seven different colors and size up for an even more relaxed fit.
If they’re obsessed with skincare…a red light device
With the Clean Redvolution ($229) device from PMD, they can cleanse and rejuvenate their skin with one product. One side breaks down dirt and oils in the skin with silicone bristles and 7000 vibrations per minute. The other side has 19 medical-grade LED lights to firm and smooth skin. Red light therapy works by stimulating cells to produce cellular energy, thereby increasing collagen production, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing.
If they love sustainable clothing…an ethically-made tee
Friend + Folk is a gender-neutral and size inclusive apparel brand that is committed to ethical production. Their clothes are crafted in Los Angeles by workers who are paid fair wages, and 30% of all proceeds go toward supporting systemically marginalized entrepreneurs. My pick is the Echolls Short Sleeve T-Shirt ($50), which has an oversized, boxy fit that flatters any body type.
If they spend hours doing their hair…personalized haircare
I’ve spent so much money and time trying different hair products, only for them not to work. Prose removes the guessing game entirely with a routine that’s customized to hair type, texture, porosity, lifestyle, and more. Because there’s a detailed questionnaire involved, you can send your giftee a Prose gift card ($75), which is enough to cover the everyday essentials. I can confirm that it’s so cool to step into the shower and see my name on the shampoo and conditioner bottles.
Bonus stocking stuffer: If they have a sweet tooth…peppermint bark chocolate
Growing up in San Francisco, nothing screams Christmastime more than Ghirardelli’s Peppermint Bark ($6.95 for a 4.57oz bag). Each square has a layer of milk chocolate on the bottom with a top coating of white chocolate and crunchy peppermint. It’s the perfect holiday combination that makes an ideal stocking stuffer or present add-on. This flavor has been my favorite since I was a kid and I look forward to them every year.
Need more ideas? Check out our other gift guides:
The Best Gifts Under $200 For Her
8 Gifts She Actually Wants (Under $200)
