As the weather gets colder, assignments get longer and the football team’s ranking goes up, we all deserve top-notch gifts for the holiday season. But if you’re anything like me — a last-minute, slightly indecisive gift-giver — you need some help narrowing down gifts for your loved ones (or even yourself)! Here is a gift guide with links to make your shopping a little less painful this year.
For a Friend
Zigzag Headband, $5.49 on Amazon
Headbands are a practical way to keep hair pulled back and zig-zag styles add a cute twist. Personally, I love these headbands for their functionality and style. I use these to hold my hair back when I wash my face or do my makeup.
Beanie, starting at $13 from Carhartt Beanie
A beanie makes a cozy, stylish gift for the holiday season and Carhartt’s durable, classic designs are especially popular. Known for their rugged quality, Carhartt beanies add a touch of warmth and style, perfect for anyone who appreciates a practical, outdoorsy look.
Sleek Scoop Neck Cami Top, $22.95 from Garage
Although on the more expensive side (for a tank top), I can attest this is a worthy investment. These tank tops are incredibly comfortable and supportive — a perfect basic to wear alone or under anything. Anyone would get plenty of use out of this tank top.
Vintage Sunglasses, starting at $40 from Le Specs
Sunglasses are a multi-seasonal necessity and Le Specs offers every shape, size and color imaginable. These high-quality sunglasses are sure to last your loved ones for a long time.
Pocket Blush and Peptide Lip Treatment, $42 from Rhode
This lip and cheek combo is on the rise, being seen on every cool influencer on TikTok and is set to be a holiday favorite. The blush is long-lasting and easy to blend, while the lip tint is juicy and smells amazing. I recommend the shades sleepy girl and raspberry jelly but you can’t go wrong!
Slides, $50 from Nike
These Nike slides can be worn around the house, to the gym or to class. A comfy classic that is perfect for lounging around a house or dorm and could even be used as shower shoes.
Flats, $79.95 from Steve Madden
Flats are back in style just in time for the holiday season! They make a wonderful gift and these Steve Madden flats offer lasting quality at a great price. Comfortable and chic, they’ll elevate any winter outfit.
Massage Gun, $149 from Theragun
A Theragun is life-changing for women and men alike. But this Theragun is a perfect gift for the gym rat or stubborn dad who refuses to stretch.
For Family
Car Freshner, $9.71 on Amazon
These car fresheners are unreal — not only do they smell amazing, but they fill every inch of your car with a fresh, long-lasting scent. They make an awesome gift for anyone, especially for that friend who has never cleaned their car in their life.
Leather Belt, starting at $35 from L.L. Bean Belt
A belt may seem like a boring gift for the holidays, but these L.L. Bean belts are a classic.
Custom Phone Case, starting at $36 from Insérif
A new phone case for the new year is always a nice refresh. These cases are unique and classy, with the option to personalize them with your loved one’s initials.
Block Print Travel Pouch, $39 from Mark & Graham
No ordinary cosmetic bag is sufficient for your loved ones. Spice up their collection with this practical, cute and affordable travel bag. The entire Mark & Graham website is also incredible, with a dedicated gift section for even more great finds.
Jewelry, starting at $40 from Ana Luisa Jewelry
Jewelry is a reliable gift, especially when it looks great and lasts. Ana Luisa is somewhat underground but offers affordable, non-tarnishing jewelry. Just make sure you know whether your loved one prefers gold or silver jewelry.
Leather Wallet, starting at $50 from Mark & Graham Leather Wallet
These customizable leather wallets are perfect for anyone. Every man seems to be attached to his wallet — so give him one that will remind him of you.
Beard Grooming Kit, $139.99 from Manscaped Kit
This kit offers a great deal on Manscaped products. The products range from beard oil, shampoo and conditioner, to a high tech razor. This is perfect for the man who has a 3-in-1 shampoo and needs some variety in his products.
Cologne/Perfume Sampler, $40 at Ulta (Cologne/Perfume) or $95 at Sephora (Cologne/Perfume)
Cologne samplers are my favorite go-to gift for the men in my life. With a variety of scents to try, the recipient can find their favorite without the pressure on you to choose the perfect one.
For That Special Someone
We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game, $20
This card game is a fantastic way to connect with your partner on a deeper level, making it perfect for a memorable date night. The questions are meaningful and thought-provoking and could lead to hours of conversation beyond game night.
Vanderbilt merch makes a thoughtful gift for a partner who doesn’t attend Vanderbilt or a future Dore! Consider embroidering a heart or your initials on the sleeve to make this gift even more personal!
Stuffed Animals: Warmies ($15-35); Jellycat ($12-200); Send a Friend ($36)
A stuffed animal is the perfect gift for any loved one and can be customized for a personal touch. Warmies stuffed animals can be microwaved for extra coziness, while a Send a Friend stuffed animal may be perfect for a long-distance partner.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas
In need of other small gifts? These stocking stuffers are the perfect addition to a Christmas morning or gift exchange.
Jean Adjuster, $5.99, from Amazon
Gold Hoops, $13.99 from Amazon
Silk Pillow Cases, $17.99 from Amazon
Pimple Patches, $19.77 from Amazon
Socks, starting at $49.50 at Bombas
