Our annual holiday gift guide is something we work on all year. I have my editor on the lookout, and throughout the year I take note of my clients’ favorite items. Plus, we get so many wonderful (and not-so-wonderful) submissions that we carefully look through and consider. I can’t tell you how much pleasure I take in creating this gift guide. In fact, it can be too much fun and we often have too many items. To avoid overwhelming you with too many gift ideas, I’ve started a new tradition. Instead of launching just one major holiday gift guide each holiday season, we are now launching two! The main holiday gift guide — this one — will have all our gift ideas over $50, and the other gift guide will have all our gift ideas under $50 for those shopping on a budget or needing small gifts for stocking stuffers or acquaintances.
Another new thing you may have noticed, we are launching our holiday gift guide even earlier this year. I’ve planned it earlier so you can avoid any supply shortage issues. Plus, the holiday sales are starting early and you know you love the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. So, let’s get to it! This year, I want you to be the person who sits down in November to make a list of everything you want to get for your loved ones (including yourself — you love you too!) and get all your shopping done before December even starts. This will take a lot of the stress out of the festivities and ensure the best prices and most unique gifts. Since shopping earlier may have you concerned about the return windows, I’ve indicated each store’s policy below.
(You can also check out my article on How To Save Money When Holiday Shopping.)
Nike React Escape Run 2
I designed these Nike sneakers! They are perfect for any earth tone or black based wardrobe. Your comfort seeking loved one or sporty friend will love this gift.
Return Policy: All purchases made on Nike.com, in any of the Nike apps, or at a Nike store have a 60-day return period.
Sunspel Cotton French Terry Cloth Joggers
I know these Sunspel sweatpants look like crap in the picture, but they are truly fabulous! The perfect gift for the stylish fella who loves his comfort.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
C by Bloomingdale’s Cashmere Wrap Scarf
A cashmere wrap is truly a timeless gift for anyone who lives in a cold city, and Bloomingdale’s creates one of my favorites.
Return Policy: 90 days to return purchase for a refund, as long as the purchase is still in saleable condition.
UGG Women’s Classic High-Low Short Boots
These are my favorite Uggs. They’re perfect for the camper, dog owner, or anyone else with cold feet. I’m literally wearing them as I type this because my feet get really cold in my home office and NOTHING warms my feet like an Ugg boot.
Return Policy: 90 days to return purchase for a refund, as long as the purchase is still in saleable condition.
AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal Stripe Crewneck Sweater
This sweater is the perfect weight and is insanely soft. It’s a great gift for anyone who isn’t too busty. It also comes in baby sizes (!), making it the perfect Mommy and Me gift.
Return Policy: 90 days to return purchase for a refund, as long as the purchase is still in saleable condition.
Miranda Frye Stella Bracelet
This is my favorite gold bracelet right now. I have been wearing it nonstop stacked on top of my Baublebar chain link bracelet featured in my Under $50 Gift Guide.
Return Policy: Returns or exchanges must be made within 30 days after you place your order.
Amour Vert Fiona Paris Rib Turtleneck Top
I am 100% obsessed with this soft and stretchy Fiona Paris Rib Turtleneck by Amour Vert. It is practically a basic, yet every time I wear this top I get so many compliments because it’s uniquely simple and sexy. It is the perfect holiday gift for any woman size 12 and under.
Notes: Sustainably Made!
Return Policy: Free returns on all eligible items (excludes items marked final sale) within 30 days of purchase. Unworn items can be returned in-store or by mail.
Gift Certificate For a Napa Valley Wine Tour by Gwendolyn
A unique gift idea for your partner, best friend, or group of friends is a private luxury wine tour in Napa Valley and you’re going to want to hire Napa Valley Wine Tours by Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn is my mom! This well-read woman is the one who introduced me to personal style and attention to detail when I was a wee babe. She spent two decades in the Bay Area planning extravagant events before quietly retiring to pursue her passion in her beloved Napa Valley. She takes the greatest pleasure in showing her guests the hidden treasures they would never find on their own, and the famous spots that have earned their reputation. She truly loves what she does.
The tour is a full day and the certificate is for two people being picked up in Napa Valley (more people and SF pickup costs more). To purchase, contact gwendolynvaliente@gmail.com. You can’t book it online.
Notes: Independently owned!
Return Policy: No refunds, but the certificate never expires.
PAIGE Cash Stretch Crewneck T-Shirt
This is one of my favorite t-shirt colors of all time. Any of your fair-skinned men need this brown-colored tee.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Bits and Pieces The Original Jumbo 1500 pc Wooden Puzzle Plateau
I used to have a big dining room with a huge table that I loved to put a puzzle on. As someone with an insane amount of energy, working on a jigsaw puzzle is how I often destress. Two years ago, I rented out my large condo and started renting a smaller apartment as I wait for the perfect time to purchase an even larger home. I donated and stored lots of things including my giant puzzle-friendly glass dining room table. It wasn’t until I found this amazing puzzle board that I am now able to work on puzzles in my current space on my small coffee table. This board is essential for anyone who wants to easily move their puzzle around the house, or for someone whose home is too small to work on puzzles — like me!
Return Policy: For the 2022 holiday season, returnable items purchased between October 11 and December 25, 2022 can be returned until January 31, 2023.
1.State Stretch Crepe One-Button Blazer
Of all the items I have recommended on Instagram this season, this blazer is the number one seller. For anyone 5’4″ and taller, this is a very on-trend and comfortable blazer that you can wear for work and play.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Prada Women’s Cat Eye Sunglasses, 56mm
These Prada cat eye sunglasses are the most universally flattering and versatile sunglasses ever made. Seriously, they will look great on whomever you gift them to. For a less exaggerated cat eye, try these. Or check out my blog post on cat-eye sunglasses, featuring all my favorite pairs.
Return Policy: Free returns for 90 days after purchase, as long as your purchase is still in saleable condition. Final Offer items must be returned within 30 days of the purchase date.
PAIGE Scout Denim Jacket
This is my favorite casual jacket for men this season. It is so soft, comfortable, and well-cut. And that green color goes with everything. I would never recommend a blue denim jacket for the male masses — it is not versatile enough. But an olive green denim jacket is! This jacket is available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks 5th Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s.
Nordstrom Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Athleta Crossroads Short
These are my favorite shorts of all time. I am wearing them constantly, and I don’t travel to warm-weather locations without them. I have already bought them in two colors, and I’m ready to buy doubles of those so that I never have to wait for a pair to be washed. That is how much I love these shorts.
Return Policy: Returns and exchanges are free when you use a prepaid return shipping label (online purchases only), or when you return in store. You have up to 60 days from ship date to return or exchange items by mail that are purchased at Athleta.
Nacre Baroque Pearl Stud Earrings
I am obsessed with these earrings! This is a pearl stud that I believe any woman could get on board with, but it looks especially good on a dark-haired woman.
Notes: Family owned and operated in Florida!
Return Policy: You may return or exchange an item within 30 days from the date of purchase for a full refund, as long as the item is returned in its original condition. Original shipping costs are non–refundable, and a $10 fee will be applied if you choose to use our domestic return label.
Montarbo Extreme Hydration Repair Mask
Think of the Montarbo Extreme Hydration Repair Mask as a moisturizer and not a mask — do not wash it off! It is hands down amazing even for sensitive, acne-prone skin like mine. I also use it all over my neck and chest, which are looking younger by the day. It glides on gorgeously, leaves minimal residue, smells like nothing, and hydrates like the thickest of creams, yet is freakishly light. And it also bears repeating: it does not break me out. I can’t think of any more eloquent words to describe it, so I will just admit that I am metaphorically dying over this!
Notes: Independently owned — and based in San Diego!
Girlfriend Collective Tommy Sports Bra
This is my new favorite sports bra. It’s buttery soft and I love that it has all the support of a racerback, but features a beautiful scoop back instead. Any athletic gal on your list will love it. It’s available at Nordstrom and the Girlfriend Collective.
Notes: Sustainably made! Each bra is made from 10 recycled plastic bottles.
Nordstrom Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Girlfriend Collective Return Policy: Unworn, unwashed items with the tags still attached can be returned within 30 days of ship date.
NN07 Marco 1400 Slim Fit Chinos
I don’t know a man who doesn’t need a new pair of pants. They don’t usually ask for it, but those fellas need it.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Blenders Eyewear Americano Sunglasses
Blenders Eyewear is a San Diego-based company that makes very stylish polarized shades at decent prices. You may recognize this pair from my post on What Colors Go Well With Tan Pants — they’re my favorite pair right now and I had to include them in my Holiday Gift Guide.
Notes: Independently owned!
Return Policy: Free returns within 45 days.
As long as your giftee has pierced ears, earrings are always a good holiday gift idea. These statement earrings are available at Bloomingdale’s, Shopbop, and Amazon.
Bloomingdale’s Return Policy: Free returns for 90 days after purchase, as long as your purchase is still in saleable condition. Final Offer items must be returned within 30 days of the purchase date.
Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
Technically this is a diaper bag, but it’s the best carry-on “purse” ever! It’s so comfortable and carries everything. This is a great gift idea for any traveler on your list — or for anyone who’s always carrying a lot of things around. It’s available at Dagne Dover and Saks 5th Avenue.
Notes: Female-owned and sustainably designed!
Return Policy: Unused products can be returned within 30 days of shipment. All US returns are subject to a $10 handling fee.
Left Edit The Vera Dress
This is the slip dress of all slip dresses. Get this dress for any gal you want to impress with your sense of style and knowledge of independent designers.
Notes: Sustainably Made in America! Independently owned!
Return Policy: Returns are accepted within 15 days of receiving your item. Each item must be in new condition, with tags still intact. Sale and Early Access items are only eligible for an exchange. It can be refunded to the original payment method for a flat fee of $8 or returned for store credit with free shipping.
Vuori Performance Jogger
The Vuori Performance Jogger is the most comfortable and flattering jogger ever made. It’s a client favorite, and I am just going to say it to you straight… every woman should own this pant. It is seriously one of the best (and coziest) gifts for women in my holiday gift guide. There’s a regular version (25″ inseam) and a long version (27.5″ inseam).
Notes: Independently owned and founded in San Diego!
Return Policy: Up to 120 days after the purchase date.
R. Riveter Hopper Handbag
For your friend who loves a more rugged crossbody bag, this is the perfect black bag for them.
Notes: Independently owned! Made in America by Military Spouses!
Return Policy: Returns must be made within 30 days of receiving your item. There’s a $10 deduction to cover the shipping and handling costs.
ASOS DESIGN Check Skinny Suit
Do you know a very stylish slim gentleman in need of a fabulous party suit at a decent price? Here you go. The pants are available at Nordstrom and Asos, and the jacket is also available at Nordstrom and Asos.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Aurate Organic Pearl Drop Huggie Earrings
I wish I could yell at people about the Aurate Organic Pearl Drop Huggie Earrings. They are so sexy and delicate, yet on-trend. This is one of the best gifts on this year’s holiday gift guide. I’ve been wearing mine in constant rotation.
Notes: Independently owned with a focus on sustainability
Return Policy: 30-day return window starting from the day your item gets delivered.
Montarbo Beauty Elixir 20% Vitamin C Antioxidant
This beauty elixir is one of my favorite items on this holiday gift guide because it has very seriously changed my skin. But here is the thing… it is sticky and it is stinky. I have gifted it to so many people and they haven’t fallen in love like I have because it is in fact sticky, stinky, and can discolor a white pillowcase. Also, it can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure. But it’s amazing! So here is what I need you to do. Get this for yourself, and then gift it to your bedmate as well. The smell is not a big deal because when you are both sticky and stinky. And honestly, you just get used to it. Part 2 of this gift is daily sunscreen. I recommend this one by La Roche-Posay. You and your partner must wear sunscreen after you wash off the beauty elixir in the morning. This is what my partner and I did and we constantly talk about how amazing we look.
Notes: Independently owned!
Apple AirPods With Charging Case
Can you ever have enough earpods? I can’t. I wish I had 6. The Apple AirPods are sold at Apple, Amazon, and Target.
EMU Australia Shearling Jolie Slippers
I love a good grey slipper and these EMU Australia Shearling Jolie Slippers are delish. They are available at Emu Australia, Madewell, and Amazon.
Emu Return Policy: Free returns for items being exchanged. A $9.95 flat rate is charged for items being returned for a refund, purchased as part of a site-wide sale or using a coupon code, and sale items. Items must be returned within 30 days of purchase.
Madewell The Transport Shoulder Crossbody Bag
I adore this Madewell bag for travel, and you can detach whichever strap you don’t like.
Return Policy: Items must be returned within 30 days of the original purchase.
Holiday Gift Guide Find: Lindsay Albanese Toptote The Hex Leather Hat Holder
This Lindsay Albanese Toptote The Hex Leather Hat Holder is the PERFECT gift for any stylish, hat-wearing gal. Most people don’t know this exists! That makes it one of the best gift ideas. There are other styles available here, but the item pictured is my favorite.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Masterclass Subscription
A Masterclass subscription is an incredible gift. They have classes for everyone, from gardening and fashion to comedy and negotiation. This gift is truly for any adult you know. For a limited time, you can give Masterclass to someone on your list and get your own membership free. It’s a two for one situation.
Hoka Bondi 7
The Hoka Bondi 7 are one of the most, if not THE MOST, comfortable all-day walking and running sneakers ever made. I hate most of the colors they offer except for their gorgeous grey shade (aka Harbor Mist/Sharkskin), and their navy (aka Black Iris/Ballad Blue). These shoes are available at Zappos, Nordstrom, and REI.
Zappos Return Policy: If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase from Zappos, you can return your qualifying item(s) for a full refund within 365 days of purchase
Ekster Card Sleeve + Tracker
The Ekster card sleeve comes in a gorgeous blush shade and can hold up to nine cards. Gift it with the tracker to the person who is always misplacing their wallet. The tracker syncs up with your phone, and when misplaced you can “call” your card sleeve and it will ring so it’s easy to locate.
Return Policy: Free returns for 45-days after receiving your order.
Mark & Graham The Essential Crossbody
A tan crossbody camera bag is a versatile bag that every woman can use, even if it is just for travel. It pairs amazingly with black and earth tones. Don’t like tan? They also have navy and blush. Plus you can add a monogram for an extra personal touch.
Return Policy: Gifts purchased between October 15th and December 24th , 2022 may be returned or exchanged through January 31st, 2023 when accompanied by a gift receipt or original receipt.
Rent The Runway Subscription
I have been a Rent The Runway member for 7 years now. As someone who gets photographed often and easily bored with clothing after a few wears, it has been an essential part of my wardrobe. Know anyone like me in your life? A Rent The Runway Unlimited Subscription is a wonderful gift for a woman in your life who is exploring new styles, gained or lost weight, or needs a new wardrobe, but may not be able to afford it right now.
Jennifer Zeuner Sade Star Hoop Earrings
I just adore these Jennifer Zeuner Sade Star Hoop Earrings and it is pretty hard to get stylish silver earrings. Gift these babies to the star in your life. Maybe it’s you. (Insert winky face.)
Return Policy: You can return your piece within 14 days or email hello@jenniferzeuner.com if you’d like to return a gift.
Etsy Leather Fanny Pack
You may recognize this Etsy Leather Fanny Pack from my Fanny Pack Post. I can’t help mentioning it again because it is beautiful and not usually something someone would get for themselves. It’s one of the more stylish gift ideas on this holiday gift guide. Note, Etsy gift ideas can be the riskiest with their unpredictable or non-existent return policies, but they will be most rewarding.
Sizing Tip: The belt on the fanny pack is adjustable from a 27-inch waist to a 47-inch waist.
Return Policy: You have 30 days from item delivery to ship this item back to the seller. Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs.
Rothy’s The Point
I am on a rampage of putting everyone in Rothy’s The Point — or, at least any woman who dresses up and likes to walk. It is the perfect work shoe that can also play. Plus, it’s washable as you may already know. You can read all about it in my Rothy’s Review post, here. If you’ve never bought Rothy’s before, you can get $20 off your first pair by Clicking Here.
Notes: Sustainably made from recycled plastic bottles!
Return Policy: All orders placed between November 1 and December 31 can be returned or exchanged through January 31, 2022.
Holiday Gift Ideas From Previous Years
I update my Holiday Gift Guide every year with fresh gift ideas and items that I’m loving. But I always like to keep a few ideas from past years in here as a bit of a time capsule — and hey, maybe one them will inspire a gift idea for you.
Johnny Was Rayray Cozy Blanket
I am dying over Johnny Was’ cozy blankets and this Rayray Blanket is my favorite print right now. This is the best present for someone who loves a good blanket for the couch, but who never remembers to put it away (me). Don’t you hate an unattractive blanket just sitting out in the living room?
Red Herring Games Murder at Curst Mansion
Ya’ll have to throw murder mystery parties and Red Herring is the brand to use. My friends and I used a different brand recently and it was designed so poorly. I didn’t think murder mystery games could be that varied, but there is a huge difference in quality and even coherency. At the party I threw this summer, everyone loved the Red Herring Games Murder at Curst Mansion. My guests are still talking about it. Gift this to your spouse, partner, best friend, or whomever you think will invite you to the festivities. You can view their whole selection of murder mystery games, here.
1.State Cross Back Bubble Sleeve Sweater
The 1.State Cross Back Bubble Sleeve Sweater is a wonderfully flattering and unique sweater, and the cross design in the back does not show your bra. Plus, everyone wants a white sweater for winter.
Sizing Tip: Runs large, order one size down.
Rodd & Gunn Fife Street Wool Blend Blazer
This Rodd & Gunn Fife Street Wool Blend Blazer is one of the most versatile sport coats right now. The fit is fantastic and it pairs with blue jeans and chinos, a feat for many sport coats.
AQUA Cashmere Wide Leg Pants + Cami
I just put these Aqua pants and matching cami on a client and then myself. The minute I saw it on my client I thought this is what people are looking for when they search holiday gift guide 2021. I call it the sweater suit and in the eternal words of Zoolander, it is “so hot right now.” It can be for just at home, or for running errands.
Sizing Tip: Runs large, order a size or two down.
Bony Levy Ofira 14K Gold Hammered Link Linear Drop Earrings
I absolutely adore the delicate statement these Bony Levy Ofira 14K Gold Hammered Link Linear Drop Earrings make. My clients have been loving these for everyday wear. They make a statement, but are more unique than a standard hoop.
Johnny Was Celestial Hat
You know hats are the rage, but I am getting a teensy bit tired of the same old hats. This Johnny Was Celestial Hat will fix that. The structure is quality and the print is fresh. This hat looks best on redheads and blondes as dark hair will just blend into the hat color.
TravisMathew Potholder V-Neck T-Shirt
This TravisMathew Potholder V-Neck T-Shirt has been one of my favorite men’s t-shirt for many years. It’s soft, beautifully structured, not too thin, and the v-neck is nice and high so there is no threat of any chest hair showing — a fear of many men. I also love their color selection.
Scarflings Abundant Paisley Wool Shawl
I cannot rave enough about Scarflings’ selection of decadent prints. I want 10 of these scarves and I am not joking. They are phenomenal. I am always looking for the perfect shawl since jackets often feel claustrophobic to me, yet I am frequently cold.
My blog posts are my honest and personal opinion. Sometimes my content includes products sent from brands or PR firms. In this case, I was sent a sample from Johnny Was, Madewell, Ekster, and Vuori. If I am sent something that is unimpressive or boring I don’t write about it.
Thank you for always finding the best of the best!
I love the backpack! It comes in three sizes. Do you recommend one size?
Thank YOU Betty for being an avid follower 🙂
I got the largest one for my carryon needs, but I am dragging around my laptop and you are not. You probably only need the medium. xoxo