Back in 2019, around this time of the year, we asked 130 people whom we thought had exacting, interesting taste to reveal the gifts they were most excited to give with a max budget of $100. Ever since, the resulting list has stood as a document that we as editors and writers return to for inspiration year after year — even as lots of things have sold out or been discontinued. So this year we decided to do the exercise all over again but with an even lower price limit of just $50. The 49 gifts below, from Beverly Nguyen’s Italian toothbrush and Jonny Ribeiro’s trays for eating in bed to Jen Brill’s book of Takashi Homma photography and Zoe Latta’s nature-filled paperweights, should should go a long way toward checking off any still-unchecked people on your list. (And if for whatever reason they do not, we have hundreds more gift ideas right here.)
Yolanda Edwards
Writer and founder of Yolo Journal
“As we all can use a little help slowing down/being in the moment/observing more, I’m a fan of these Japanese watercolor brush pens, which have been handmade by the same company for over 300 years.”
“I got a headache at my friend’s house the other day, and she whipped out this gel cap, chilled from the freezer. I slipped it over my forehead, and my pain was soothed almost immediately. How amazing is that? I’d love to give one to my sister, best friend, mom, brother, dad — basically everyone on my list.”
Beverly Nguyen
Fashion stylist and founder of Beverly’s
“My favorite kind of gift to give is for anyone at any age: a simple yet playful-looking toothbrush from Italy. It’s great to pack for travel, for a guest bathroom, or sometimes even to scrub a stain or a pair of shoes. However it’s destined to serve you, this one from Officine Universelle Buly is a delightful surprise to unwrap. Made in Italy and falls just under $15 — grab a few!”
Editor’s note: Officine Universelle Buly lists its prices in euros, so the cost is an approximation of U.S. dollars.
Giada De Laurentiis
Chef, cookbook author, and founder of Giadzy
“I’m a big proponent of massage and I love foam rollers as a way to help improve alignment and flexibility. This one is super-chic and simple — the perfect gift!”
Janicza Bravo
Director, producer, and screenwriter
“I’ve been following Middle East Archive on Instagram for a couple years now. They’ve self-published a book called An Archive of Love; in their words, the book ‘is a sincere visual exploration and celebration of love in the Middle East and North Africa.’ What spoke to me about the collection was its very simple mission: Imbue love into a region of the world often robbed of its humanity.”
Editor’s note: Middle East Archive lists its prices in euros, so while the €49 cost technically is in budget, the current USD exchange rate bumps it up to approximately $51 (which we’re calling close enough).
Zoe Latta
Fashion designer and co-founder of Eckhaus Latta
“I think paperweights are back the way watches are. Each one has a different meaning so you can cater it to your recipient.”
Linda Meyers
Designer and co-founder of Wary Meyers
“This ticks all the boxes of a great gift: cool packaging, great design, a Milton Glaser-adjacent pedigree from the Poster House, and fun. Even if the giftee uses them only for a grocery list in pink, or the crossword in a stripes, you’re adding a little creativity into the world.”
Plum Sykes
Fashion journalist and author of Wives Like Us
“The legendary interior designer and aesthete Nicky Haslam’s sixth Christmas tea towel, printed with his photograph and a list of ‘The Latest Things Nicky Haslam Finds Common’, is that rarest of things, a chic and satirical gift that defines the Zeitgeist. (To be clear, Nicky says he describes ‘common’ not as ‘non-U’ — see Nancy Mitford’s famous essay — but as ‘annoying.’) My personal favorites on Nicky’s list: ‘Books on decoration,’ ‘Leather jackets on children,’ ‘Attention to detail,’ and, crime of all crimes, ‘Insisting on discounts.’”
Editor’s note: While the towel is listed at $56 at Selfridge’s, it is listed at £50 at Nicky Haslam’s website, so we’ll allow it.
Neada Deters
Founder of Lesse
“I prefer functional gifts that don’t just add to the clutter. Both timeless and design-forward, these trays are likely to be well used — hopefully to serve up generous portions of spaghetti or risotto.”
Micaela Erlanger
Celebrity fashion stylist
“I’m obsessed with Tatcha’s lip products — this serum gives you a perfect pout for kissing under the mistletoe.”
Jess Hannah Révész
Designer and founder of J.Hannah
“In the spirit of touching grass, I’ve become smitten with snail mail — and as a true freak for signets, stationery, and all things personalized, a custom wax seal fits right in as a gift I’d give and would love to receive.”
Victoria James
Sommelier and beverage director at COTE
“Two of my favorite wine importers — Kermit Lynch and Rosenthal — also offer incredible food provisions from their winemakers. This provides a true terroir-level of geeky gifting that is very Sommelier Approved. A favorite is the earthy olive oil from the iconic Umbrian winery, Paola Bea, hailing from groves found alongside their vineyards. This gift along with, perhaps, a bottle of their killer Sagrantino wine and spaghetti would impress even the most curmudgeonly of oenophiles.”
Remi Wolf
Singer and songwriter
“Girlhead hats are fun and unique and an amazing accessory to make any fit more vibey!”
Brendon Babenzien
J.Crew men’s creative director and co-founder of Noah
“This is more likely than not the absolute final Cure album. The first single had proved to be a classic track reminiscent of Disintegration. The Cure set the standard for alternative music, and their music has without a doubt inspired generations of musicians that followed. This album could get overlooked by non die-hard fans. If you gift it, you’re doing someone a favor they didn’t know they needed.”
Olympia Gayot
J.Crew women’s creative director
“Blenko Glass Co. makes the most beautiful and colorful hand-blown glassware. They’re based in West Virginia and have been family owned and operated since 1893. I love to collect and give their vintage vases, pitchers, and ashtrays to use as jewelry holders. Blenko has been collaborating with guest designers and artists for many years, so along with their own collections, you can find some super-interesting pieces from different design eras. The idea of giving unique, inspiring vintage pieces to those that I love is really special to me.”
Athena Calderone
Interior designer, author, and founder of EyeSwoon
“When I really want to say ‘I love you,’ I send pasta from my dear friend and chef, Missy Robbins — specifically the Mafaldini from Lilia. It comes with a pound of freshly made Mafaldini pasta, parmigiano reggiano, Italian butter, and pink peppercorns. It’s love at first bite.”
Chris Mottalini
“I absolutely love gifting these rad little mini-skateboard-rock creations (known simply as ‘minis’), the brainchildren of Hudson Valley artist Arno Cornillon. They’re just super-fun and totally unique little gifts.”
[Editor’s note: The ‘minis’ are now sold out, but you can contact [email protected] to inquire about restocks.]
Eree Kim
Fashion designer and founder of Hopp Studios
“I actually just came across and love this Workshop Kit from this small Japanese leather goods brand, Lille og Stor, which I recently bought a wallet from. Its designs are simple but smart and both visually interesting and meant for long-lasting use. (This kit makes a fabric-lined basket.) I think a DIY kit always makes for a more compelling gift to receive — you get an object as well as an activity to do!”
Jen Brill
Creative director of HommeGirls
“Right now my favorite gift to give is 17, a beautiful book of photographs by legendary photographer Takashi Homma of artist Raiki Yamamoto. Takashi and Raiki just had a book signing at Dashwood, and I left with a stack of books signed to all the people I knew I would see over the next month or so.”
Emily Weinstein
Editor in chief of New York Times “Cooking”
“I love the brilliantly weird and cheerful puzzles from Le Puzz. There are a bunch of different designs to choose from (I especially like “The Diner”), and they’re also pleasingly sturdy and well-made — it just feels good to snap the pieces into place.”
Ethan Gaskill
Content creator and founder of Elsewhere Fragrances
“I’m not sure if a signature body wash is a thing, but if it is, this one from Nécessaire in Olibanum easily takes the spot. It’s become my favorite step in my self-care ritual with its captivating and warm aroma, while also doing everything a body wash should to nourish your skin.”
Jeanette Reza
Designer and founder of JIU JIE
“There’s something truly magical about a ‘disposable’ film camera — the fun of capturing spontaneous moments and the excitement of waiting for them to be developed. With this camera, once you’re done, you can send it back using the included pre-paid shipping label and they can also take care of the developing. The recycled camera is then refurbished and reused, making it an easy and sustainable gift.”
Madeline Bailis
“Useful enough for a farmers’-market haul, chic enough to mistake for The Row.”
Camilla Engstrom
“A Thousand Feasts, by Nigel Slater, is a book filled with small moments of joy. Perfect for the holidays as it’s such a cozy read.”
Sapir Bachar
Jewelry designer and founder of Sapir Bachar
“The first thing that comes to mind is Chanel lip balm, which I love — I keep it in my bag at all times. It’s simple, beautiful, and luxurious.”
Virginia Sin
Ceramicist and founder of SIN
“My favorite trigger for ASMR sounds, because I’m a creative person who also enjoys crunching budgets on spreadsheets.”
Brad Cook
Music producer and consultant
“This is the ONLY electronic device in our bedroom. No LEDs, proper low-end presence. I own several and never leave home without one.”
Melanie Masarin
Founder of Ghia
“I’ve been running on caffeine for far too long, and switching to an afternoon matcha has made a world of a difference. I love this one from Rocky’s Matcha; the quality is incomparable and tastes smooth enough that I don’t need to add milk/mylk!”
Gia Kuan
Publicist and creative consultant
“For the friend that is matcha obsessed but also fashion-minded, Rocky’s Matcha does great ceremonial blends and now has a organic single cultivar mix that comes in a sleek white tin.”
April Gargiulo
Founder of Vintner’s Daughter
“For the art lovers in your life, this book chronicles Linda Goode Bryant’s groundbreaking gallery, Just Above Midtown. Only open from 1974 to 1986, it was a space for contemporary art specifically from African American artists. The ideas cultivated in the gallery are still relevant today. It’s an inspiring and fascinating read.”
Fran Miller
Founder of F.Miller
“A classic, weighty gel pen with black ink that comes in a wide range of colors (I’m partial to the light gray). Engrave-able for that extra-special personal touch.”
Maggie Frerejean-Taittinger
Co-founder of French Bloom
“Good luck gifting this mini baking dish from Le Creuset and not getting a big grin in return. I’m counting on this little gem again for the special people in my life!”
Constance Jablonski
Model and co-founder of French Bloom
“This set is perfect to host friends over at your house, and I love how they are mismatched.”
Carla Rockmore
Fashion stylist, designer, and content creator
“My philosophy is anchored in a little French gem, ‘Elle est très bien dans sa peau’ — ‘She sits well in her skin.’ It’s all about owning who you are, embracing your gifts, and letting them shine. Each of us comes into this world with a spark, a unique talent. If we nurture these gifts and cultivate the joy, we radiate happiness outward.
There’s a dash of fun in Colorstrology: What You Birthday Color Says About You, by Michele Bernhardt, and a sprinkle of insight into the essence of happiness in What’s Your Shine?: A Method for Discovering Who You Are and Why It Matters, by Claudia Beeny. Together, these two books make an excellent gift for a friend, especially paired with a pop of color — a bangle or that perfect lipstick to capture their spirit. It’s about lifting yourself up through your gifts and, in doing so, lifting others along with you.”
Jeremiah Brent
“A simple yet chic set that can be used in myriad ways in the kitchen. Wine, water, decanting ingredients … whomever you gift it to can always build on their collection and purchase the tall version as well!”
Nate Berkus
“In our family, I’m not the cook — what you can count on me for is to set the table and to bring the wine. I’ll grab a bottle of Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon and a bottle of Chardonnay so there’s a red and white option. They’re versatile and food-friendly wines, so they’re easy to pair with any dish, at any celebration.”
Elizabeth Roberts
Architect and author of Elizabeth Roberts Architects: Collected Stories
“I love these Italian staplers — when I first opened my architecture studio, I bought one of these in every color for each desk in my office … the only caveat is that you have to commit to the cute little Italian staples, too.”
Brooke Callahan
Fashion designer and founder of Brooke Callahan
“I buy Morey Limoncello shots whenever I see them for party gifts, but also think they are the best stocking stuffers. The bottle is so pretty — a perfect little bud vase after its contents are downed.”
Na Chainkua Reindorf
“A wonderful coffee-table addition for those interested in learning about the histories and origins of ethically sourced African wares from the artisans themselves.”
Eliana Gil Rodriguez
Fashion designer and founder of Gil Rodriguez
“Something sensible they’ll still be grateful for come January.”
Lauren Sherman
Fashion journalist at Puck
“An, um, elegant stainless-steel beer koozie, engineered by a Japanese camping brand, that keeps drinks shockingly cold. It both surprises and delights, as a gift should do.”
Dianna Cohen
Founder of Crown Affair
“I find that the best gifts are often the ones you wouldn’t think to buy for yourself — and a luxurious pair of socks is exactly that. Slipping these on feels like a small indulgence. From the Egyptian cotton to the perfect ankle height and the charming tag at the back, every detail is thoughtfully considered. Pick the color that speaks to you, but I’m calling this Dr. Seuss–inspired hue the color of the season — I’m seeing it all over, from The Row to Toteme’s recent collections, too.”
Nick Poe
Artist, designer, and founder of design firm 31ARCH
“The shape of these cups is quite satisfying. They are little readymade sculptures, especially the type with saucers. They are charming empty, or with eggs, of course, but I use them daily as salt dishes. Makes for a unique, eco, and elevated gift that is timeless and functional.”
Marina Larroudé
Former Barneys fashion director and founder of Larroudé
“My personality is over the top, and during the holidays, I lean into it shamelessly! Who wouldn’t adore a handmade cotton and lace apron crafted just for their Champagne? It’s the ultimate luxe, memorable gift that any host would delight in using immediately. Embrace the festive extra-ness of the season!”
Alia Raza
Perfumer and founder of Regime des Fleurs
“At a farmers’ market on Oahu, I found this delicious and very fragrant Hawaiian vanilla-bean extract. I like to add a few drops to my favorite dessert: unsweetened coconut yogurt with raspberries and black sesame seeds. And I love giving a fragrant gift.”
Alice Gao
“Perfumer H incense is simply the best — the scents are incredible, complex, and evoke luxury. Burning them is a wonderful grounding ritual. (Bonus: Any collaboration with cook and food writer Nigel Slater is an immediate win in my book!)”
Jonny Ribeiro
Director of interiors, Ace Hotel
“I found these trays on my trip to Japan in September. I love eating in bed while watching old episodes of The X-Files, and this tray really elevates the experience. They come in different colors and sizes. Treat yourself.”
Editor’s note: Lost Found Store lists its prices in yen, so the cost shown here is an approximation of U.S. dollars.
Katie Merchant
Creative director and stylist
“Bienaimé’s beauty cream comes in a sleek red-and-pink aluminum tube and smells like powdery lipstick, according to the brand, and I agree. It protects your hands in all seasons ‘like a velvet glove.’”
Editor’s note: Bienaimé lists its prices in euros, so the cost shown here is an approximation of U.S. dollars.
Deborah Needleman
Editor and writer
“Presley Oldham’s jewelry — every piece of which he handcrafts in his Hudson studio — has transformed how I think about pearls. In their natural organic shapes and colors, they are luminescent and sexy. I love to support small, craft-based businesses, so everyone on my list will get one of his keychains (either round or carabiner), each of which features a Japanese pearl and a cast of one of his molars!”
The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
