I like to think I know my friends and family members really well. After all, I talk with many of them weekly even when we’re not together. Yet somehow, year after year, I find myself second guessing the perfect holiday gift to buy each of them. My brother and dad are easy (new sneakers and anything wine-related, respectively), but the women are a bit trickier.
To get out of my gifting rut, I asked a few stylish people for their best picks. One such person, whose advice I found the most helpful, was West Coast–based Christine Le. As soon as she shared the three types of products she swears by gifting this year, I knew she was right. Keep scrolling to see what they are and my budget-friendly picks for each category. You won’t find anything over $50 here—you’re welcome.
Everyone is wearing loungewear more than usual right now, whether they’d admit it or not, so a new stylish sweatshirt or matching set is a genius gift idea. I personally put on my sweats as soon as my video meetings are over for the day and not a minute later, so I can vouch for how excited I’d be to receive a new comfy piece. “I love a cute matching set and tie-dye is so on-trend right now,” Le says of this Scoop outfit she’s been living in.
My favorite part of Le’s tie-dye sweatshirt is the adjustable drawstring.
Don’t forget about the matching pants.
This tank is ultra soft.
The matching sweater joggers don’t disappoint either.
This is technically pajamas, but I’d argue that it’s too cute to only wear to sleep.
It’s a hoodie! It’s a dress! It’s both!
One word: cozy.
This is probably the cutest jumpsuit I’ve ever laid eyes on.
And here it is in black.
Next up, Le suggests gifting a cozy knit, like an oversize cardigan or fitted turtleneck sweater, that can be styled with anything from denim to leggings. Her favorite pick right now is this ultra-cozy cardi, which she calls “a perfect layering piece that makes it very versatile.”
Le convinced me that everyone I know needs this $18 cardigan. I love the navy color.
I recommend scooping up this $13 basic in every color while you can.
This leopard sweater looks so much more expensive than it is.
This icy mint shade is perfect for to wear now and in spring.
The softest gift your friends will ever receive.
Anything plaid is always at the top of my winter wish list.
If you don’t want to gift clothing, then you really can’t go wrong with accessories like a scarf, slippers, or in Le’s case some simple gold jewelry. “I love the look of gold jewelry and these are great pieces that won’t break the bank”, she say.
Did someone say stocking stuffer?
Believe me: The layered necklace trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. This set makes it easy.
These boots combine two of my favorite footwear trends: lug soles and shearling.
The trend even made its way onto handbags. This one is so chic.
Who wouldn’t want these fuzzy slippers?
These shoes will instantly spark joy on a snow day.
