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Get them something they'll love.
By Aly Walansky — Written on Nov 16, 2018
With the holiday season quickly approaching, you may be wondering about gift ideas — specifically, Christmas gift ideas (or holiday gift ideas, in general, for those who don't celebrate.) What do you get for those hard-to-shop for people on your list?
Whether it's your mom, your best friend, or your new boyfriend, some people just seem to have everything already or want nothing. But even for those difficult people on your list, there's some fun items they are sure to not have and will be super excited to receive. At least, we would be if you were to give it to us.
From wellness to gadgets to kitchen tools, there's some awesome, unique gifts to be found.
Beauty/Wellness
1. Āether Beauty Rose Quartz Crystal Gemstone Palette
Perfect gift for the clean beauty or eco-conscious woman on your shopping list. It's a 12 shade palette infused with Rose Quartz Gemstone (which helps with fine lines), completely clean (abiding by EU standards), vegan/cruelty-free, and the packaging is fully sustainable.
(Aether Beauty Co, $58)
2. Sunstopper
This is a dermatologist developed dietary supplement intended to work in combination with topical sunscreen to support your skin from the inside out against the sun. By fusing ingredients polypodium leucotomos and nicotinamide, Sun Stopper promotes your skin’s natural ability to protect itself by enhancing your body’s natural defenses and promoting healthier skin.
(Amazon)
3. Wild Spirit Fragrances Discovery Set
Wild Spirit fragrance collection consists of four scents: “Spring Jasmine”, “Driftwood”, “Chill” and “First Snow,” each embodying distinct personalities designed to fit different moods and seasons. These products are vegan, contain natural essential oils, and are free from parabens, sulphates and dyes.
(Wild Spirit Fragrances, $17.98)
4. Henry Charles Large Deluxe Cosmetics Case
Perfect for makeup lovers and organizers, this case is the only one you will ever need! It's made of high-quality fabric materials, including non-toxic vegan leather, and has a durable patent-pending design that opens to reveal all of your products at a glance. It has multiple compartments and loops for mascara, professional size makeup brushes and deluxe size makeup palettes, and allows bottles to sit upright to prevent spilling.
(Henry Charles, $138)
5. Palladio Beauty Everyday Glam Eyeshadow Collection
Palladio Beauty’s limited edition kits Everyday Glam Eyeshadow Collection offers 35 dazzling shades in mega matte and super shimmer finishes to highlight, blend and define eyes. Go wild with fiery oranges, bright jewel tones, warm browns and smoky blacks or take neutrals to the next level with Rosé Color Eyeshadow Collection.
(Palladio Beauty, $20)
6. Mehron Makeup 3 Shade Echo Pressed Glitter Palette
If there's ever a time to rock glittery eye shadow with reckless abandon, it's the holidays. This pressed palette comes complete with 3 glittery shades to get your glam on this holiday season. Keep your friends sparkling in shades of silver, gold, and shimmery opalescent from Christmas till New Years.
(Amazon)
7. RPZL Professional Detangle Hair Brush
A quality hair brush that will last years is an amazing gift they will appreciate every day, and this is among the best we've ever used. Formulated to be gentle enough to use with extensions but a perfect detangling brush for natural hair as well.
(Amazon)
8. Gabriel Cosmetics Professional Brush Collection
The Gabriel Cosmetics Professional Brush Collection features 9 brushes securely wrapped in a classic brush roll. Each brush head is hand-stacked, never cut, to retain the soft, natural point of each hair. Gabriel sources goat and pony hairs that are gathered each winter as they’re shed from the animal’s tails, so no creature is ever harmed. They’re also made from natural birch wood (handles), Fair Trade and Sustainable.
(Gabriel Cosmetics, $100)
9. Vibrastrait PRO 1" Vibrating Flat Iron
This vibrating flat iron with its 1-inch ceramic tourmaline plates shuffles hair through the plates to distribute heat evenly and create a smoother, easier glide. The result is 30-50 percent decreased styling time, no pulling or tugging, and less damage for stronger, healthier hair and a smooth, frizz-free finish. Variable temperature settings allow added heat control for simple touch ups or complex styles.
(Beautopia Hair, $99.99)
10. Dermelect The Ultimate Smooth Lip Kit
The Kit includes the Smooth Lip Volumizer, which is a non-injectable, on-the-lip treatment that instantly achieves a fuller, smoother, sexier pout utilizing anti-aging volumizing and conditioning technologies, and the Smooth Upper Lip + Perioral Anti-Aging Treatment, which addresses all of the physical factors that represent upper lip aging: vertical lip lines, shadowy under-the-nose pigmentation, and the loss of collagen that leaves lips limp and fine.
(Dermelect, $69)
11. BURST Oral Care Rose Gold Sonic Toothbrush
The sleek, gorgeous Rose Gold Sonic Toothbrush offers a staggering 33,000 sonic vibrations per minute and bristles coated in binchotan charcoal sourced from Wakayama, Japan and a convenient USB charger perfect for a traveler’s busy lifestyle. Plus, a one-hour charge will last up to four weeks.
(Burst Oralcare, $99.99)
12. PerfectSmooth IPL Hair Removal Device
Uses professional intense pulsed light (IPL) to target precisely at melanin in hair follicles to disable hair growth, which results in permanent hair removal. At the same time, it enhances skin smoothness and clears acne. This gift is perfect for the at-home spa fanatic.
(Amazon)
13. LaTweez "Rose Gold Diamond Dust Illuminating Tweezer Set
This travel kit is brand new for the holidays and provides everything you need to travel successfully. Included with the tweezers are beautifully crafted steel nail files, nail clippers, eye-lash curler, angled eyebrow brush and slanted tweezer.
(LaTweez, $90)
14. Tula Complete Body and Beauty Routine
A complete gift-set of skincare and probiotic supplements bundled together as the perfect holiday gift! Complete with a cleanser, gel, day and night cream, and daily probiotic supplement all packed up in a cute Tula tote.
(Tula, $114)
15. Beauty Shroom Plumping Jelly Serum
This must-have miracle product works instantly to smooth, fill, lift, and plump, visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just one use. The hydrating serum gives your skin an instant boost of resilience, radiance, and bounce. Make this ultimate skin pick-me-up the ultimate stocking stuffer this holiday.
(Moonjuice.com, $58)
16. LUNA fofo
Foreo’s LUNA fofo just upped the skincare game with the latest in personalized skincare technology. The app-connected cleanser analyzes and responds to your skin, tracking changes and adjusting with your skin to provide your optimal skincare experience.
(Foreo, $89)
17. Love Oil For Lips Hydrating Lip Oil
Help your resident lip gloss enthusiast relive her circa 2007 CoverGirl Wetslicks obsession with a grown-up gloss. This lightweight lip oil hydrates and tints for smooth, glossy lips that shine with a nourished, natural-looking glow.
(Kiehl's, $19)
18. Kiehl's Collection For A Cause Gift Set
Give the gift of perfect skin while supporting an end to hunger in the US? Not even Santa can do that. Complete with a cleanser, toner, mask, and hydrating facial cream, Kiehl's Calendula Skincare Collection is all dressed up for the holidays in this festive gift set. Best of all? 100% of the proceeds go to Feeding America.
(Kiehl's, $50)
19. Custom Hair Care From Prose Hair
Give the gift of perfect hair with a completely customized hair-care makeover from Prose. Prose figured out something obvious that all other haircare brands have been missing: everyone's hair is completely unique, therefore, everyone's hair needs a completely unique hair-care treatment. Prose's custom hair-care system starts with a consultation to identify your unique hair and scalp needs before developing a customized formula for your personalized line of hair products.
(Prose, $25)
20. Paravel Boxer Cosmetic Case
A "crushproof" case for all your health and beauty needs. Use it to stash and store cosmetics, toiletries, and other odds and ends. Perfectly portable, this durable case is great for traveling. Meanwhile, its chic design makes it perfect for every day use and display on your dresser or makeup counter.
(Tour Paravel, $155)
Books
21. Cinderly’s Easy to Bake Unicorn Cookbook by Luke Stoffel
If while curating the perfect Instagram feed, either sprinkles or the perfect pop of pink pulls at your heartstrings, this cookbook is what you need. This masterpiece will take you on a walk through memory lane, providing simple easy to bake recipes that can be made in as little as 20 minutes.
(Amazon)
22. Honey Salt Food & Drink: A Culinary Scrapbook by Elizabeth Blau and Kim Canteenwalla
With this gorgeous 296-page cookbook featuring some of Elizabeth Blau’s greatest recipes, home cooks can enjoy the tastes of the season and, more importantly, a fun way to bond with family members in the kitchen. From desserts like warm bread pudding, baked apple pie and chocolate chip cookies to savory comfort dishes like classic Bolognese, maple-brine pork chops and everything in between, Honey Salt Food & Drink truly has something for everybody.
(Amazon)
23. Unwifeable: A Memoir by Mandy Stadtmiller
Unwifeable is a funny, provocative, and fearless memoir from author and NYT columnist Mandy Stadtmiller, who dishes on everything from dating to addiction to networking. An addictive must-read for fans of spunky, heartwarming non-fiction and keeping it real.
(Amazon)
24. I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, And Other Stuff by Abbi Jacobson
From the co-creator and co-star of Broad City, this funny, honest, and clever essay collection takes on love, loss, work, comedy, and personal growth with humor and wit.
(Amazon)
Gadgets
25. Skullcandy Crusher 360
The limited edition Crusher 360 delivers a one-of-a-kind, ultra-realistic audio experience with bass you can feel all around you. It features 29 hours of cordless playtime with Bluetooth capabilities and adjustable memory foam ear cups. It's perfect for on-the-go use as they easily fold up for storage with its protective travel case.
(Skull Candy, $299.99)
26. Volvo Rider Concept XC Coupe
The Volvo Rider XC Coupe is sure to give children a taste of the luxurious travel experience Volvo provides. While it carries the same design language as the rest of Volvo’s new fleet, this model has one big difference: it’s mini! Available in either silver or Crash Test orange (with authentic crash test markings), the ridable car has large wheels and steering to make it easy for children to operate, working front and rear lights and a horn.
(Volvo Cars, $210.95)
27. COBY Slim Light-up Bluetooth Speaker
This rechargeable, Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Stereo Speaker, with built-in mic lets you play music from any Bluetooth-enabled device. Make a wireless connection to your desktop or portable computer, iPad, iPhone or other smart phone, from up to 33 feet away. There's even a line-in jack for playing from other audio devices.
(Amazon)
28. Crave Pocket Vibe
A gift that's guaranteed to please, Crave's Pocket Vibe is the perfect classic mini massager updated with a modern, sleek, and elegant look. Crave is all about promoting pleasure without stigma—a holiday message we can all get behind.
(Indigogo.com, $63-$75)
29. LuMee Duo Metallic Marble iPhone XS Max Case
For your friend group's resident Instagram influencer (aspiring or otherwise), get the one gadget they need to take their grid to the next level. Every 'Grammer, from casual selfie enthusiast to bona fide influencer, knows good lighting is key. This influencer-approved phone case provides both front and back facing lights for flawless pics every time, no filter needed.
(LuMee.com, $69.95)
Booze
30. Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon
The wine to gift for the big holiday dinner is an inviting Cab with complexity, structure, and silky tannins. The go-to holiday dinner wine for all your big dinner moments. It’s versatile with foods, yet pairs wonderfully with all the holiday dinner staples.
(Ste-Michelle, $15)
31. Columbia Crest Horse Heaven Hills 2015 Merlot
The perfect gift for anyone on your list, from bosses to boyfriends, this medium-bodied Merlot gives off aromas of spice and blackberry, complimented with a balance of earth, cocoa and ripe cherry notes, and is completed with a smooth and velvety finish. It’s an unbeatable quality for the price.
(Columbia Crest, $15)
32. 14 Hands Columbia Valley Brut Rosé
The best wine for those “in-between” moments (like that big holiday party or to celebrate after your team’s holiday win). This bright sparkling rosé leaves drinks with a refreshing burst of mixed berries, sure to leave everyone clamoring for more.
(14Hands, $15)
33. UP Rosé 2017
UP Rosé by Ultimate Provence is a refreshing, dry rosé that will make a design-forward gift for any wine lover on your shopping list. The light and bright red fruit aromas coupled with the vivacity of Syrah creates a wine that is pleasing to both the eyes and palate.
(Wine.com, $22.99)
34. Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka (Personalized Bottle)
Pittsburgh’s own hand-crafted vodka with personalized labels for your most outstanding employees, clients, friends and family members. Incorporate any name and/or logo for a customized gift that stands out from the rest. This personalized bottle arrives in an elegant black gift box as well.
(Boyd and Blair, $30)
35. The Dalmore Port Wood Reserve
The Dalmore Port Wood Reserve would make the perfect gift for the whisky aficionado in your life. Much like classics such as The Dalmore King Alexander III and 18 Year, Portwood Reserve reinforces the distillery’s reputation for curating only the most exquisite casks. The liquid has been purposefully retained at 46.5 percent ABV to complement the enticing warm flavors of the port including rich plums, sultanas and Sanguinello blood oranges.
(The Dalmore, $99)
Style
36. 2(X)IST Pima Knit Boxer with Monogramming
For a premium-soft feel, this trunk in pure pima cotton is a no-fail choice for the special man in your life. Add his initials for only $5 more and make this gift a little more personal.
(2xist, $28)
37. Hanky Panky 5 Pack Low Rise Thongs
Hanky Panky’s revolutionary and flattering v-front, v-back waistband (their signature design for over 30 years) now comes in a 5 pack perfect for the gift giving season. Available in: Classics (Suntan, Ballet Pink, Dove, Buttercup, Cappuccino) and Coburg (Blossom, Bright Amethyst, Burnt Orange, Ivy, Lemongrass)
(Hanky Panky, $98)
38. Jemma Sands Newport Semiprecious Stone Tear Drop Earrings
Dangling semiprecious stones bring bohemian romance to versatile drops encased in gold-plated metalwork. Available in different gem stone colors, this is a timeless pair of earrings your girlfriend will love to wear over and over again.
(Nordstrom, $115)
39. Evve Milano Vegan Leather Hemingway Shoulder Bag
The perfect gift for the fashion forward (eco-conscious!) woman on your list. This bag compliments any outfit, day or night!
(Evve-Milano, $98)
40. Crane & Lion Wrap Sweater
A long sweater, a wrap sweater, a travel blanket — the versatility of this piece will make it hard to leave home without. Toss it on after class or dress it up for a night out.
(Crane and Lion, $120)
41. Cinzia Rocca Wool & Cashmere Handwarmer
A luxe gift she’d never buy herself but will have forever, this gift is practical but super soft and warm. It's perfect for the girl who always has her phone in her hand.
(Cinzia Rocca, $184)
42. Wren + Glory Handpainted Zipper Pouch
A perfect gift for your whole girl gang, this pouch is great for travel or as a makeup bag and makes a bold statement. It's handpainted in Brooklyn.
(Wren Glory, $50)
43. Evewear 'The Icon' Pajamas
These eco-friendly pajamas are the perfect cozy winter gift for mom, your teen, or sister. There is hidden elastic at the sleeve and hem to keep them from riding up and a center front heart seam for bra-less comfortablity.
(Evewear, $165)
44. Giraffe Socks from Ozone
Fun and funky trouser socks are a low-key way to add a little novelty to your wardrobe, and nothing makes an outfit feel complete quite like knowing you’re rocking some silly stocking feet under your favorite boots. Brighten up your day with this cozy stocking stuffer that brings the zoo to you.
(Ozone Socks, $14)
45. Lame Jane Ice Cream Cone Smiley Tee
Move over, heart eyes emoji! We only have eyes for ice cream now. This smiley face ice cream cone tee has finally captured the real meaning of true love. As just about every romantic comedy ever can tell you, ice cream will be there for you when you no one else is. If Ben & Jerry’s is your first and last soulmate, make it official with this chill, comfy tee.
(Lame Jane, $20)
46. Arno Chiara Boot
We're obsessed with these Italian made, handmade leather boots that are so walkable they'll become a seasonal staple (as well as super bragging rights because, that's an incredible price for something handmade in Tuscany).
(Arno Cooperative, $265)
47. 'Serial' Long Sleeve Dress
Long sleeve dresses are a staple for staying warm while keeping it chic in the winter. With an asymmetrical collar and hem, this short, long-sleeve mini dress is the perfect way to add a little edginess to your winter wardrobe.
(Psylo Fashion, $89)
48. Merry Catmas Crew Sweatshirt
Christmas sweater, cat person edition. Bring some Christmas cheer to your favorite cat lady or gentleman with these cuddly and festive Christmas kitties.
(Wholesome Culture, $45)
49. Bellesa Boutique Bras Suck Bundle
The ultimate gift bundle for the powerful woman in your life. Free the nip and make a statement with the Insta-famous "Bras suck" tee while winding down with the Aurora, Bellesa's best-selling vibe beloved by newbies and battery-powered aficionados alike. And the best part? 10% of sales go to support breast cancer research.
(Bellesa, $115)
Food
50. Golden Door Spicy Serrano Duo
Serrano Salt gives any meal an artisan flair with this Spicy Serrano Salt and Serrano Honey. The spicy honey is full of flavor and will go great with cornbread, salmon, salsas, teas, mango, nuts, dressings, chicken, ham, strawberries and much more. And 100 percent of the proceeds go to children’s charities.
(Golden Door, $20)
51. Ackroyd's Bakery Afternoon Tea Starter Pack
Ackroyd's recently introduced an "Afternoon Tea Starter Pack," which includes a dozen of their fresh-baked scones, choice of a locally-made Ackroyd's Jam, a jar of clotted cream, and choice of one of their premium Ackroyd's loose-leaf teas. Everything needed for a proper Afternoon Tea (just supply your favorite tea cup or mug).
(Ackroyds Bakery, $35)
52. Lucini Italia Italian Collection
An amazing gift for a home cook, this direct-from-Italy award-winning extra virgin olive oil is paired with two prized estate produced vinegars. It's a good set they'll use every day.
(Lucini, $54.99)
53. Olympia Provisions Euro Entertainer Box
The perfect gift for the friend who still hasn't stopped talking about their semester abroad, let them take you on a chic European tasting tour with this Euro Entertainer Box.
(Olympia Provisions, $125)
54. Sprinkle Pop Rainbow Sprinkle Collection
Get fun and festive with this bright collection of Rainbow Birthday Sprinkles from Sprinkle Pop. From confetti to jimmies and everything in between, this Sprinkle Addiction Box boasts a variety of must-have bespoke sprinkle mixes to celebrate in style.
(Sprinkle Pop, $37.50)
Home/Kitchen
55. Giada Dutch Oven
The Lagostina Giada 4Qt Dutch Oven cooks as beautifully as it presents on the table, featuring a premium polished stainless steel vessel and a hammered copper lid. Designed with a thick, tri-ply copper base for superior heat conduction, it allows you to sauté, braise, slow cook, roast and more. The premium stainless steel cooking surface maintains the purity of food's flavor, so you can savor every bite.
(Amazon)
56. Cabeau Evolution S3
The body of the pillow is designed with a high performance quick-dry fabric to keep you cool and dry in almost any climate, so you can rest and relax on your journey. The pillow's high-quality plush memory-foam will make you feel like you are sleeping on a cloud, while the adjustable clasp will ensure the pillow fits your neck size.
(Amazon)
57. Sleepletics Celliant Performance Sheets
These sheets are perfect for everyone on your list because we all want a good night's sleep. Celliant sheets are soft and proven to help restore and revitalize your body while you sleep so you can rest easy and wake up happy.
(Sleepletics, $149.99)
58. Apeloig Collection Modern Mezuzah
Elegant in its simplicity, Apeloig Collection modern mezuzah reminds us that the most beautiful part of the mezuzah is the text within. Created by two sisters with a knack and love of modern design, it's perfect for anyone with a new home, new baby, engagement, or someone who loves good design.
(Apeloig Collection, $85)
59. American Heirloom Cake Stand
Beautiful, functional, and sturdy, these cake stands are made to be the perfect means of proudly displaying your cakes. The cake stand is sourced from an FSC certified hardwood to create the bases, with a durable white top plate and bottom for the base.
(American Heirloom, $70)
60. MINNA Lago Stripe Napkins
The Lago Stripe napkins were inspired by the Guatemalan lake they were woven next to Lake Atitlán. Woven by a man named Manuel in the village of Nahuala, these beautiful striped napkins will make a great accent to any kitchen or dining table.
(Minna Goods, $75 for a set of 4)
61. Barsys Robot Bartender
Barsys is the robot bartender that fits right on your counter top and is basically the coolest gift in the world. It's controlled from a free app that lets people place orders to be made by this amazing robot. The app comes pre-loaded with over 2,000 cocktails, but you can also customize anything you like.
(Barsys, $1,050)
62. Nespresso Lattissima One
The easy to use machine allows you to prepare your favorite espresso and milk recipes at the simple touch of a button. It is equipped with an innovative fresh milk system that delivers the exact quantity of milk you want, eliminating any milk waste, and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
(Nespresso, $379)
63. Wake Me Up Before I Go Go Gift Set
Wake them up with a gift that will have them on the go from the moment they start the day. Espro's Travel French Press does it all. They can brew coffee directly in the container and then take it with them as a travel tumbler.
(Knack Shops, $62)
64. HUROM Citrus Juicer in Pink
With its one-size-fits-all design, this Citrus Juicer is perfect for juicing all of your favorite citrus fruits and yields the maximum amount of juice (leaving the rind completely empty).
(HUROM, $149)
65. T-fal HeatMaster 4 Qt Triangle Pan
T-fal’s new HeatMaster 4 Qt Triangle Pan allows you to “master heat,” combining three new culinary innovations! Its sapphire-infused non-stick is reinforced with sapphire crystals for easy cooking and cleanup, its patented Thermo-Spot technology indicates when the pan is heated perfectly to cook on, and it has even heat distribution with its stainless steel induction base that radiates heat evenly and consistently.
(Walmart, $29.99)
66. Dirt Alley Design's Maze Maps
These are beautiful maze maps that you can hang up as decoration and are an interactive game. Available in many major cities such as San Francisco, Brooklyn, Chicago and Manhattan, this is a unique gift for any family member to celebrate their hometown.
(Dirt Alley Design, $22-$25)
67. Aden + Anais Oversized Muslin Blanket
Formerly known as the daydream blanket, this silky soft, oversized muslin blanket offers the luxurious softness of viscose made from bamboo that little ones love at a size big enough for grown-ups. The four-layer beloved blanket is back in new sophisticated prints, making it perfect for family snuggle time on the couch or a stylish throw for the master bedroom.
(Aden and Anais, $149.95)
68. Warm Amber 'Satori' Incense
Burning Warm Amber “Satori” incense, earthy and mellow, is like curling up with a good book in front of a fire. One-hundred sticks of high-quality, Japanese, bambooless incense has an engraved wood lid with an inset grommet designed to hold an incense stick while burning.
(Skeemshop, $34)
Pets
69. Petsies Stuffed Animals
Petsies are custom stuffed animals that look just like your pet. They are truly the most personal gift for a pet owner and a meaningful gift for someone who has lost their pet. They specialize in all pets big or small; dogs, cats, horses, birds, bunnies, pigs, monkeys and more.
(MyPetsies, $199)
70. The Django Reversible Puffer Coat
The Puffer is a comfy dog coat that offers the warmth of synthetic insulation and comfort of natural lining. Oversized arm holes enable maximum range of motion whether walking down the street or running up a mountain trail. The Puffer delivers two distinct looks in one comfortable, warm jacket. It's also water-resistant and windproof.
(Django Brand, $48)
71. PrettyLitter
PrettyLitter is the only health-monitoring cat litter that changes color when potential illness is detected. PrettyLitter is the purr-fect option when compared to traditional litter as it lasts longer, is odor-free and convenient with its monthly subscription service model. Due to PrettyLitter’s light-weight formula, there’s less waste, so less of a carbon footprint and less scooping.
(Pretty Litter Cats, $22-$68 for a one month supply)
72. Dogipack
The must-have accessory for dog parents everywhere: a hands-free accessory that makes walks easy. No more struggling for poop bags. No more searching for pockets. No more missed puppy-petting opportunities because your hands are full. Put your cellphone on flashlight mode and slip it into the Dogipack for safe evening strolls.
(Amazon)
Aly Walansky is a NY-based lifestyles writer. Her work appears in dozens of digital and print publications regularly. Visit her on Twitter or email her at alywalansky@gmail.com.
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