Gift-giving is one love language that has taken on renewed importance in 2020. For those of you who are actively holiday shopping, here are some gift ideas.
♥ Eddie Bauer Oversized Down Throw
This Eddie Bauer oversized down throw is one of my favorite cold-weather comfort objects: it’s the perfect piece to cover myself with before curling up with a book. The lightweight down insulation is encased in a polyester shell that’s quilted on one side and plush on the other. Everyone in my extended family now has one. (I have 3.)
CUYANA Cashmere Tapered Pant
I got these cashmere lounge pants for my mom, and I love how soft and warm the material feels. A budget lounge option that’s just as comfortable (if a little less luxe) is the Uniqlo Pile-Lined Sweatpants.
I did a fair amount of holiday shopping at CUYANA this year; some favorites: Washable Charmeuse Cami Sleep Set, Washable Charmeuse Robe, Messenger Bag, and Wool Cashmere Short Wrap Coat.
Jiggy for Anthropologie Puzzle and Glue Set
I bought several Jiggy puzzles (now 30% off at Anthropologie) in the fall in anticipation of a long winter. These beautiful jigsaw puzzles all feature works by “emerging female artist[s] from around the world.”
♥ Dessert Person: Recipes and Guidance for Baking with Confidence
Claire Saffitz, formerly of Bon Appétit, has written the first cookbook that I actually read cover to cover. Claire lays out in painstaking detail the path to success, but the recipes themselves are not doctrinaire. If you need more convincing, just scroll through r/bon_appetit, which has become an informal gathering place for people who love Dessert Person.
♥ slip Pure Silk Pillowcase
Bedding, like slippers, is a seriously underrated gift, not just for newlyweds. And a good set can improve the quality of life for the gift recipient. I’ve gifted these slip Pure Silk Pillowcases to people who struggle with bedhead and they have become true converts.
♥ Levain Cookie Package (a June favorite)
Reheated Levain cookies are a far cry from the fresh ones that they sell in their bakeries, but they are good enough in a pandemic. Beyond the yummy cookies, the pretty packaging is a delight to open.
♥ GUND Snuffles Laying Down
I broke a self-imposed moratorium on stuffed animals this year and bought the 27-inch GUND Snuffles. It’s extremely huggable and would make an excellent gift for any plush-toy-lover.
Clare V. for Anthropologie Monogram Journal
These beautiful journals featuring Clare V.’s signature two-tone stripes are a great budget gift. I ordered several journals to gift friends in my D&D campaigns, and found both the jacket and paper quality to be excellent.
Honolu Cookie Company
I can sort of bake my own, but sometimes it’s nice to treat myself to some beautifully made macadamia nut shortbread cookies from the Honolulu Cookie Company. Most cookies are packed in beautiful gift tins so would make excellent gifts, holiday or otherwise.
L.L.Bean Wicked Cozy Blanket
The L.L.Bean Wicked Cozy Blanket is the cuddliest blanket that I own. It’s incredibly soft, has a velvety exterior, and feels so warm for the weight. It’s, imo, the perfect gift. (I highly encourage self-gifting to start.)
Dyson Airwrap Styler
My mom (begrudgingly) grew out her pixie cut during the pandemic and, for the first time in years, had real hair-styling needs. As she wouldn’t stop complaining about her hair, I let her borrow my Dyson Airwrap Styler a few months ago; unsurprisingly, she was immediately sold on its ease of use and has claimed it as hers. The barrels work best on fine hair.
Happy holiday shopping, everyone!
