What InStyle Editors Are Actually Gifting (or Hoping to Get!) This Season
The holiday season is well under way, but oops — part of you totally forgot that presents were, you know, a thing. Now, you're scrambling to find items that, ideally, check every single box: fun, fashionable, meaningful, useful, and quick. Emphasis on quick — there's really no time to waste brainstorming here.
With that panicked feeling of procrastination creeping up on us, we put out a call to InStyle editors for their best gift ideas — and whoa, did they come up with some seriously great ones. The combination of professional opinion, personal taste, and an eye for what's cool helped us form a full list of picks that are perfect for anyone you have to buy for, from the difficult-to-please to the always-ahead-of-the-game.
RELATED: 10 Conscious Gift Ideas for the Fashion Lover in Your Life
Shop InStyle editors' best gift ideas for 2021, ahead.
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Studebaker Classic Hoops
"I'm currently at ten holes in my ears and counting, and I prize that perfect everyday hoop that never needs changing. I've worn and loved this Pittsburgh jewelry brand for years. They hand-forge every piece using traditional metalsmithing tools, so the pieces are indestructible. I'm excited to gift these dainty hoops to all my hole-y friends this year." — Danielle Fox, Senior Social Media Editor
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Pärdē Beauty
"This holiday season, I am making a conscious effort to shop small and focus on independently owned businesses. In comes Pärdē Beauty! Pronounced 'Party,' this queer-owned company debuted its first collection of nail polishes just in time for gift giving! Every shade is named after an iconic moment in pop culture history, such as the vibrant red inspired by a 'Totally Important Designer' from Clueless, or a great camo green, 'Army Pants and Flip Flops' that even Cady Heron would wear. I think my favorite is the signature glitter, which will change every thought you ever had about glitter nail polish — it is that good! Best of all, Pärdē carries bundles if you, like me, can't pick just one." — Justine Del Gaudio, Senior Producer
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Sponsored: The Final Touch
With its intoxicating blend of jasmine, tuberose, and tonka bean top notes, Carolina Herrera's Good Girl is the perfect balance of light and dark for sophisticated tastes. It's the ultimate touch to leave a lasting impression.
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The Great + Eddie Bauer The Slipper.
"Everything in this collaboration is the epitome of cozy-cute, from the printed puffer coats to colorblocked, fleece sweaters. However, you can't really go wrong with gifting your mom, sister, or friend these super fluffy slippers, which not only feel like a hug for your feet, but will help keep them from freezing on winter's harshest days." — Samantha Sutton, Senior Fashion Editor
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Emme Essentials Sakura / Cherry Blossom Wood Wick Candle
"A candle doesn't have to be the default present for someone you don't really know. These are from an AAPI company, which is a thoughtful touch, especially now, and it stands out because of its wood wick and chic pink color." — Kim Truong, Senior Associate Editor, News
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Emma Brewin Cloud Bucket Hat
"The muppet hat trend is exploding and celebrities are loving Emma Brewin's colorful, fuzzy selection — which, I can confirm, are just as soft as they look (I sneakily tried one on during a photo shoot I styled a few months ago). It's the perfect pick for the fashion fan in your life. Or me, because I'd very much like one, too." — Samantha Sutton, Senior Fashion Editor
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Reed + Gwen Grounding Dry Body Oil
"This body oil comes from a mattress company (!?), but don't question that because it made me believe in body oils and how they're superior to body lotion." — Christopher Luu, Senior News Editor
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SH-RD Protein Cream Gold Deluxe Edition Leave-in Treatment For Hair
"I'm getting my hair braided soon, which means using a solid product that will not only strengthen hair, but keep it protected during my pre-protective styling blowout is a must. I decided to reach for this protein cream, since I've heard great things about the formula, however, in all honesty, I expected it to leave my hair feeling heavy. But once I was done, I had to eat my words. It was a pleasant surprise to see that my hair was not only left feeling super soft, but it wasn't weighed down at all. Get this for yourself, and anyone else on your list with natural hair — trust me, they'll love it." — Kayla Greaves, Senior Beauty Editor
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Girlfriend Tulipwood 50/50 Classic Sweatshirt
"Ever since the temperatures dropped, I'm constantly reaching for this sweatsuit in my closet. It's comfortable, the colors are classic, and I can wear the pieces (see the matching jogger here) as separates whenever I need! It also makes me feel better to have purchased something made from recycled materials." — Kelly Chiello, Visuals Editor
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dusendusen Set of Neutral Pattern Towels
"As a recovering all-gray-everything home decorator, I've had my eye on a set of DusenDusen towels for nearly a year now. Their ditzy florals, bold stripes, geometric window panes, and psychedelic circles in vibrant colorways coordinate with everything and nothing and will pop wherever they're hung. The brand started in fashion and is inspired by fine art, so it's basically an instant upgrade that'll make your bathroom look interior-designed rather than factory basic. (Or your kitchen — there are dish towels and oven mitts among the line's cheaper giftables.) For holiday '21, subtle periwinkle joins the lineup, which is just as fun as the Gem Stripe set that first caught my attention." — Laura Norkin, Deputy Editor
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Boy Smells Slow Burn
"If you love Kacey Musgraves and you love candles (and who doesn't??), Boy Smells' Slow Burn collaboration is the height of luxury. Honestly, I would buy this for the ombre jar itself, but the candle within is delightful — pepper, raspberry, and a bunch of other rich scents that inexplicably make me feel like sitting on my living room couch is the most opulent activity in the world." — Isabel Jones, Associate News Writer
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Sam Edelman Ethyl Low Top Sneaker
"These fresh kicks from Sam Edelman were one of my best purchases of 2021, and I guarantee your lucky giftee will love them, too, because they're the ideal white sneaker. They boast a 1-inch platform for a bit of height, are super comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and are easy to clean with no more than a damp cloth." — Julia Guerra, Freelance Fashion Writer
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Rowing Blazers Gyles & George Women's "WTFIGO" Sweater
"No one knows me better than my social media algorithm, and each time this graphic knit pops up, I can't help but laugh. It perfectly sums up how I feel on a daily basis, and I bet there's someone on your list who feels the same — meaning they'll probably wear this baby way too often." — Samantha Sutton, Senior Fashion Editor
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Seek & Swoon Portland Throw
"Souvenirs don't have to be tacky or just sit on a shelf — this company makes blankets inspired by different cities. It's a way to remind friends and family of a special trip or moment." — Kim Truong, Senior Associate Editor, News
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Tatcha Limited Edition Kissu Lip Mask
"Every winter routine needs a sold lip balm. (If you don't get chapped lips please tell me your secrets.) This limited-edition version of Tatcha's moisture-sealing lip mask has a universal red tint that looks amazing on everyone, while the red camellia flower-inspired jar is a special touch. While it's called a mask, the formula is lightweight and non-sticky, so it's great for daytime wear. And hey, if it's good enough for Meghan Markle and Jennifer Aniston, it's good enough for anyone on your shopping list." — Erin Lukas, Beauty Editor
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Walker Noble Designed Welly Water Bottle
"If you and your work wife are about to return to the office, give her the gift of not having to return to the moldy water bottle that's been on her desk for 20 months. This Welly one will remind her of being at home with her art and succulents, thanks to a Walker Noble limited edition design (that's a Black-owned design collective, FYI), plus it's triple-walled and comes with an infuser for tea." — Laura Norkin, Deputy Editor
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Fernweh Editions Frosted Spruce Candle: Alaskan Forest Edition
"Nothing against over-the-top, super-festive mall candles, but these candles look sophisticated and are inspired by real places, so you can give them to anyone who feels homesick." — Christopher Luu, Senior News Editor
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Victoria's Secret 4-Piece Silk Gift Set
"If there's anything more luxurious than a silky pair of pajamas, it's a silk lingerie set complete with a matching robe. This four-piece gift from Victoria's Secret is the ultimate package. Not only does it consist of a wireless unlined plunge bralette, cheeky panty, and robe, but it also includes a matching eye mask with lace trim. Now that's how you bring glamour to bed." — Julia Guerra, Freelance Fashion Writer
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Uncommon James The Poppy Necklace
"If she gravitates towards dainty jewelry, add this minimalist necklace from Uncommon James to her collection. The Poppy Necklace comes in gold or silver and adds a subtle, statement-making shine to any outfit." — Julia Guerra, Freelance Fashion Writer
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Min & Mon Anastasio Crossbody Handbag
"This NYC-based, Colombian-born fashion brand makes a ton of fun purses, but the All Over Eyes collection is my personal favorite. I own this particular design in pink, and each time I wear it, the compliments roll on in. It's far from your generic brown leather bag; it's whimsical, unique, and perfect for someone who enjoys making a statement." — Samantha Sutton, Senior Fashion Editor
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Lovely Littles Kids' Knits
"I gifted both my 6-year-old and 17-month-old a sweater from this line for Hanukkah already and can attest they're cute, cozy, and an outfit-maker. The color range covers all bases for the cool kid or baby in your life, and the size range means you can grab chunky sweaters and hats for everyone from 3 months up to age 8 — I only wish the size range included adults." — Laura Norkin, Deputy Editor
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True Botanicals Pure Radiance Body Butter
"This is my favorite addition to my winter skin routine. The body butter is thick and creamy and leaves my skin softer than ever. Putting this on after a long day feels like a relaxing treat, plus it smells divine." — Kelly Chiello, Visuals Editor
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Mala the Brand Rosebud Cream + Rose + Cedarwood
"As the weather turns colder and temperatures drop, all I want to do is snuggle up under a blanket with a warm cup of coffee in hand, and light a delectably fragrant candle to keep my apartment feeling warm and cozy. If you're looking for an eco-friendly, hand-poured option with a rich scent, you should add the Mala Rosebud to your cart. The creamy rose and cedarwood-scented soy candle, poured in Vancouver, emits an enveloping, aromatic fragrance that is both romantic and sophisticated, making it the perfect candle for bath time for one or an intimate night cap following a date. The candles are all formulated with natural wax, lead-free cotton wicks, and phthalate-free fragrance and essential oils. Plus, the company will plant a tree for each candle purchased." — Tessa Petak, News Writer
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Spanx The Perfect Pant, Jogger
"Spanx just dropped its Perfect Pant in jogger form and I've never added a pair of bottoms to my wish list faster than I did this one. With comfy bottoms still taking precedence over stiff denim in my closet, this smoothing pull-on pair is the perfect alternative to 'real' pants because, while it can be dressed up or down, its comfort factor will always stay the same." — Julia Guerra, Freelance Fashion Writer
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Vera Wang Party Prosecco
"This is the ultimate host or hostess gift. Not only is the bottle beautiful and sleek, the bubbly inside is pretty perfect — leave it to Vera Wang to make something super elegant and ready to party all at once." — Christopher Luu, Senior News Editor