Holiday Gift Guide: 2021

A holiday gift guide from the point of view of a woman in her mid-twenties.

The holidays are here and the stress is on. Finding gifts that exemplify the love you have for those around you is a tough task. Especially when some people are just hard to gift. You have the friend who critiques everything, the mom who says she doesn't need anything this year, or the girlfriend that wants you to surprise her, but you have no clue what she would want and you better get it right or you'll never hear the end of it. Ugh.... Well, I put together a gift guide. Essentially this guide is what I would want, but hey who says others don't have the same taste.

Free People Pajama Party Set in Gold

Dillards $88

This sleek pajama set is both fun and cute. Can you imagine showing up to your friend's slumber party in this PJ ensemble? You would be the most stylin' guest. It, also, gives me major American Girl Doll matching pajamas to your doll vibe and my inner child is here for it.

Crystal Bar Soaps Bath Salts

Crystal Bar Soap $22

Let's support some small businesses, ya'll! I'm obsessed with Crystal Bar Soaps bath salts, potions, bath bombs, honestly anything they make. Who doesn't like a bath that feels almost ritualistic and nourishing? Each bag of bath salts is made with essential oils and is charged by a crystal in the bag. Take it from me, these are decent sized crystals that you find in each bag. It's like a bath and a souvenir.

Evil Queen Candles

Evil Queen $22

Okay, I know what you are thinking... "A candle? that's so generic." First of all, you can't have too many candles, it's just a fact of life. Second, these are no ordinary candles, these are Evil Queen candles! They are far from generic from their witty names to exquisite combination of scents and 100% soy wax base. You will have no trouble finding a candle that really resonates with your giftee. Bonus, you will be supporting a small business, too.

Dainty Necklaces from Pura Vida

Pura Vida Tarot Card Pendant Necklace $20

If you haven't heard of or shopped at Pura Vida, then you are missing out. They have so many chic jewelry pieces. They not only sell adorable accessories, but have an inspiring origin story. They continue to promote and follow sustainable practices and have many charitable efforts. I'm currently obsessed with their Tarot Card Pendant.

Felted Merino Half Zip Sweater

Everlane $145

If you are looking to spend a little more, I've been drooling over this cozy, half zip sweater from Everlane and think it would make the perfect gift for a friend that has that minimalist, French-girl style going on. Like this with a pair of Levi's and a French tuck (thank you Queer Eye for making that a thing!)? I'm falling head over heals just thinking about it.

Fragrance from Wool & Indigo

Wool & Indigo $58

New scent? Who dis? I personally LOVE giving fragrance as a gift. To me, finding a fragrance that resonates with someone or that they just enjoy is an instant dose of serotonin for me. Is that weird? I feel like it is. Anyway, no matter what you are looking for, Wool & Indigo have an amazing array of scents that are classy and timeless. Not to mention that all their ingredients are vegan and natural, and they strive to make sustainability a norm.

Linen Sheets

Magic Linen $232

Linen sheets are where it is at! I bought a set of linen sheets from Magic Linen during the summer and I am in pure bliss. I don't splurge on myself like this often, but, boy, was this something that I am happy that I spent $$ on. Now, if you are a teacher like me, you must really love this person to spend this much, but I added it to the list because I constantly brag about my linen sheets and they were one of the best adult decisions I've ever made.

Records

Taylor Swift RED (Taylor's Version) $49.99

I feel like records are still very in. I'm only 25, but I feel ancient the way younger people talk, so maybe I'm working and this is not cool anymore. If records are still in they are a very versatile gift. You like music? Here's a record. You like all things vintage? Here's a record. Is your decor old-school? Here's a record. Some great options are ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, and Taylor Swift. BUT if you are doing Taylor, for goodness sake, make sure it is owned by Taylor herself, not the sharks of the music industry. We want to be queens supporting queens, kay? Also, try buying from your local record store. We stan small businesses here and you can make it an experience perusing through the stacks to find a gem.

Gold Hoop Earrings

Madewell $20

Timeless. Classic. Very much in style. Earrings are such a good gift because you can spend as much or as little as you want. You can get really nice, real gold earrings or save a little and get this pair from Madewell. Maybe I'm too classless, but I can't tell the difference. A gold hoop is a gold hoop to me. They look good either way.

DIY It! Experience It!

My favorite gifts have been homemade ones. A planter a friend hand painted, cookies baked with love, a scarf that grandma tirelessly knit, intricate jewelry created with the patience of a mom. Those are the most meaningful and important gifts you can give. Even just taking someone out and treating them for dinner, cooking a meal for them, or going on a trip together can be the best gifts. Time and love is all you need.

I hope you enjoyed this little gift guide and it helps you maneuver through the millions of decisions to make during the holiday season. Don't forget to support small when you can, strive for sustainable, and put love into whatever you are gifting. If you do it with love and mindfulness they will love it!