Our annual holiday gift guide is something we work on all year. I have my editor on the lookout, and throughout the year I take note of my clients’ favorite items. Plus, we get so many wonderful (and not-so-wonderful) submissions that we carefully look through and consider. I can’t tell you how much pleasure I take in creating this gift guide. In fact, it can be too much fun and we often have too many items. To avoid overwhelming you with too many gift ideas, the main holiday gift guide — this one — will have all our gift ideas over $50, and the other gift guide will have all our gift ideas under $50 for those shopping on a budget or needing small gifts for stocking stuffers or acquaintances.
This year, I want you to be the person who sits down in November to make a list of everything you want to get for your loved ones (including yourself — you love you too!) and get all your shopping done before December even starts. This will take a lot of the stress out of the festivities and ensure the best prices (hello black Friday and Cyber Monday!) and most unique gifts. Since shopping earlier may have you concerned about the return windows, I’ve indicated each store’s policy below.
On a budget? Check out my article on How To Save Money When Holiday Shopping.
Julie Vos Jewelry
Julie Vos is my go-to for jewelry right now. I adore the high-end look without dropping thousands of dollars. It’s tough to choose, but I’m loving their pearl medium-sized hoops for an everyday look that every chic woman will adore.
Return Policy: Refunds, merchandise credit, or exchanges are available for full-price merchandise up to 14 days after the date of purchase. For items returned up to 30 days after the date of purchase, we offer exchanges or merchandise credit.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging
Beyond Yoga’s fabric is beloved by all and perfect for cooler weather. These leggings are available at Beyond Yoga, Nordstrom, Revolve, and Amazon.
Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase date.
Express Slim Mixed Floral Stretch 1MX Dress Shirt
A statement shirt that will flatter just about any man. Runs true to size.
Return Policy: Returns are accepted within 60 days of purchase with a valid receipt. If you do not have a valid receipt or if we cannot confirm your purchase in our system, you may exchange the item in-store for another item of equal value, but no refund or credit will be issued.
Tkees Lily Liners
Tkees are the most chic and minimalist sandal that comes in basically every color you could possibly imagine. I adore their selection.
Tkees Return Policy: Returns are accepted within 30 days of receiving your order.
Montarbo Peptide Repair Cream
After just one use, my eyelids were refreshed from this peptide repair cream. This is a MUST for every single human and you don’t need to know anything about skincare to start using it. It doesn’t make your skin sensitive to the sun, so you can even gift it to folks who don’t use sunscreen.
Return Policy: Any products unopened or unused can be refunded or exchanged within 30 days of receiving the items. Customers are responsible for the cost of shipping when returning/exchanging items. If for any reason a product does not agree with someone’s skin after the guidance of proper use, Montarbo is able to look into options on a case-by-case basis.
BedHead PJs Let’s Do Brunch Shorty PJ Set
Comfy pajamas are always a great holiday gift idea, and these BedHead pjs are super cute and most importantly, super soft. They also come in several different patterns and have a long pants version as well for those wanting more warmth. They’re available at Shopbop, Zappos, Bloomingdale’s, and Amazon.
Return Policy: Free returns within 15 days of delivery date.
Rothy’s RS02 Sneaker in Courtside White
These are so comfortable, great for a wider set foot and there is a version for men and women.
Sizing: They run large. Order a ½ size down.
Return Policy: All orders placed between October 24 and December 21, including gift purchases, can be returned or exchanged through January 19, 2024.
B-Low The Belt Milla Belt
This is my favorite black belt right now. Another stylish gift idea for your belt-loving friends.
Return Policy: 60-day return policy from when the item is delivered. Mail-in returns are free. Returns after 90 days can be exchanged only.
Mavi Jeans Denim Trucker Jacket
This is my clients’ favorite denim jacket right now. It’s a great color, has a fantastic fit, and the silhouette is awesome for dresses and wider-leg pants. It runs a bit small, so order one size up, so it can be worn with long sleeves.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Nike React Escape Run 2
These Nikes are my favorite running shoes ever made. I own about 5 pairs at this point. Your fellow active friends will love these. They run true to size. They’re available at Nordstrom and Amazon.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
C by Bloomingdale’s Cashmere Wrap Scarf
A cashmere wrap is truly a timeless gift for anyone who lives in a cold city, and Bloomingdale’s creates one of my favorites.
Return Policy: 90 days to return purchase for a refund, as long as the purchase is still in saleable condition.
Miranda Frye Stella Bracelet
This is my favorite gold bracelet right now. I have been wearing it nonstop stacked on top of my Baublebar chain link bracelet featured in my Under $50 Gift Guide.
Return Policy: Returns or exchanges must be made within 30 days after you place your order.
Gift Certificate For a Napa Valley Wine Tour by Gwendolyn
A unique gift idea for your partner, best friend, or group of friends is a private luxury wine tour in Napa Valley and you’re going to want to hire Napa Valley Wine Tours by Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn is my mom! This well-read woman is the one who introduced me to personal style and attention to detail when I was a wee babe. She spent two decades in the Bay Area planning extravagant events before quietly retiring to pursue her passion in her beloved Napa Valley. She takes the greatest pleasure in showing her guests the hidden treasures they would never find on their own, and the famous spots that have earned their reputation. She truly loves what she does.
The tour is a full day and the certificate is for two people being picked up in Napa Valley (more people and SF pickup costs more). To purchase, contact [email protected]. You can’t book it online.
Notes: Independently owned!
Return Policy: No refunds, but the certificate never expires.
Tory Burch Mercer Pebbled Zip Crossbody Bag
This is the most versatile purse color right now. Anyone can use this bag. It’s available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, Zappos, and Tory Burch.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Bits and Pieces The Original Jumbo 1500 pc Wooden Puzzle Plateau
I used to have a big dining room with a huge table that I loved to put a puzzle on. As someone with an insane amount of energy, working on a jigsaw puzzle is how I often destress. Two years ago, I rented out my large condo and started renting a smaller apartment as I wait for the perfect time to purchase an even larger home. I donated and stored lots of things including my giant puzzle-friendly glass dining room table. It wasn’t until I found this amazing puzzle board that I am now able to work on puzzles in my current space on my small coffee table. This board is essential for anyone who wants to easily move their puzzle around the house, or for someone whose home is too small to work on puzzles — like me!
Amazon Return Policy: For the 2023 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023, can be returned until January 31, 2024.
Athleta Crossroads Short
These are my favorite shorts for travel. I have already bought them in two colors, and I’m ready to buy doubles of those so that I never have to wait for a pair to be washed. That is how much I love these shorts.
Return Policy: Returns and exchanges are free when you use a prepaid return shipping label (online purchases only), or when you return in store. You have up to 60 days from ship date to return or exchange items by mail that are purchased at Athleta.
Nacre Baroque Pearl Stud Earrings
I am obsessed with these earrings! This is a pearl stud that I believe any woman could get on board with, but it looks especially good on a dark-haired woman.
Notes: Family owned and operated in Florida!
Return Policy: You may return or exchange an item within 30 days from the date of purchase for a full refund, as long as the item is returned in its original condition. Original shipping costs are non–refundable, and a $10 fee will be applied if you choose to use our domestic return label.
Montarbo Extreme Hydration Repair Mask
Think of the Montarbo Extreme Hydration Repair Mask as a moisturizer and not a mask — do not wash it off! It is hands down amazing even for sensitive, acne-prone skin like mine. I also use it all over my neck and chest, which are looking younger by the day. It glides on gorgeously, leaves minimal residue, smells like nothing, and hydrates like the thickest of creams, yet is freakishly light. And it also bears repeating: it does not break me out. I can’t think of any more eloquent words to describe it, so I will just admit that I am metaphorically dying over this!
Notes: Independently owned — and based in San Diego!
Return Policy: Any products unopened or unused can be refunded or exchanged within 30 days of receiving the items. Customers are responsible for the cost of shipping when returning/exchanging items. If for any reason a product does not agree with someone’s skin after the guidance of proper use, Montarbo is able to look into options on a case-by-case basis.
Girlfriend Collective Tommy Sports Bra
This is my new favorite sports bra. It’s buttery soft and I love that it has all the support of a racerback, but features a beautiful scoop back instead. Any athletic gal on your list will love it.
Notes: Sustainably made! Each bra is made from 10 recycled plastic bottles.
Girlfriend Collective Return Policy: Unworn, unwashed items with the tags still attached can be returned within 30 days of ship date.
NN07 Marco 1400 Slim Fit Chinos
I don’t know a man who doesn’t need a new pair of pants. They don’t usually ask for it, but those fellas need it.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Blenders Eyewear Americano Sunglasses
Blenders Eyewear is a San Diego-based company that makes very stylish polarized shades at decent prices. You may recognize this pair from my post on What Colors Go Well With Tan Pants — they’re my favorite pair right now and I had to include them in my Holiday Gift Guide.
Notes: Independently owned!
Return Policy: Free returns within 45 days.
As long as your giftee has pierced ears, earrings are always a good holiday gift idea. These statement earrings are available at Bloomingdale’s, Shopbop, and Amazon.
Bloomingdale’s Return Policy: Free returns for 90 days after purchase, as long as your purchase is still in saleable condition. Final Offer items must be returned within 30 days of the purchase date.
Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
Technically this is a diaper bag, but it’s the best carry-on “purse” ever! It’s so comfortable and carries everything. This is a great gift idea for any traveler on your list — or for anyone who’s always carrying a lot of things around. It’s available at Dagne Dover and Saks 5th Avenue.
Notes: Female-owned and sustainably designed!
Return Policy: Unused products can be returned within 30 days of shipment. All US returns are subject to a $10 handling fee.
Vuori Performance Jogger
The Vuori Performance Jogger is the most comfortable and flattering jogger ever made. It’s a client favorite, and I am just going to say it to you straight… every woman should own this pant. It is seriously one of the best (and coziest) gifts for women in my holiday gift guide. There’s a regular version (25″ inseam) and a long version (27.5″ inseam).
Notes: Independently owned and founded in San Diego!
Return Policy: Up to 120 days after the purchase date.
Margo Morrison Baroque Pearl Hammered Huggie Earrings
I wish I could yell at people about the Margo Morrison Baroque Earrings. They are so sexy and delicate, yet on-trend. This is one of the best gifts on this year’s holiday gift guide. I’ve been wearing mine in constant rotation.
Return Policy: 30-day return policy from when the item is delivered. Mail-in returns are free except clearance items and items marked “Return Fees Apply” cost $9.95.
Prada Women’s Cat Eye Sunglasses, 56mm
These Prada cat eye sunglasses are the most universally flattering and versatile sunglasses ever made. Seriously, they will look great on whomever you gift them to. For a less exaggerated cat eye, try these. Or check out my blog post on cat-eye sunglasses, featuring all my favorite pairs. These glasses are available at Saks, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, and Sunglass Hut.
Return Policy: You can make a return or gift return by mail or in store for a full refund within 30 days.
Apple AirPods With Charging Case
Can you ever have enough earpods? I can’t. I have 5 and I still want more. The Apple AirPods are sold at Apple, Amazon, and Target.
EMU Australia Shearling Jolie Slippers
I love a good grey slipper and these EMU Australia Shearling Jolie Slippers are delish. They are available at Emu Australia and Amazon.
Emu Return Policy: Free returns for items being exchanged. A $9.95 flat rate is charged for items being returned for a refund, purchased as part of a site-wide sale or using a coupon code, and sale items. Items must be returned within 30 days of purchase.
Holiday Gift Guide Find: Lindsay Albanese Toptote The Hex Leather Hat Holder
This Lindsay Albanese Toptote The Hex Leather Hat Holder is the PERFECT gift for any stylish, hat-wearing gal. Most people don’t know this exists! That makes it one of the best gift ideas. There are other styles available here, but the item pictured is my favorite.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Masterclass Subscription
A Masterclass subscription is an incredible gift. They have classes for everyone, from gardening and fashion to comedy and negotiation. This gift is truly for any adult you know. For a limited time, you can give Masterclass to someone on your list and get your own membership free. It’s a two for one situation.
Ekster Card Sleeve + Tracker
The Ekster card sleeve comes in a gorgeous blush shade and can hold up to nine cards. Gift it with the tracker to the person who is always misplacing their wallet. The tracker syncs up with your phone, and when misplaced you can “call” your card sleeve and it will ring so it’s easy to locate.
Return Policy: Free returns for 45-days after receiving your order.
Mark & Graham The Essential Crossbody
A tan crossbody camera bag is a versatile bag that every woman can use, even if it is just for travel. It pairs amazingly with black and earth tones. Don’t like tan? They also have navy and blush. Plus you can add a monogram for an extra personal touch.
Return Policy: Non-personalized gifts purchased between October 15th 2023 and December 24, 2023 may be returned or exchanged through January 31, 2024 when accompanied by a gift receipt or original receipt.
Rent The Runway Subscription
I have been a Rent The Runway member for 7 years now. As someone who gets photographed often and easily bored with clothing after a few wears, it has been an essential part of my wardrobe. Know anyone like me in your life? A Rent The Runway Unlimited Subscription is a wonderful gift for a woman in your life who is exploring new styles, gained or lost weight, or needs a new wardrobe, but may not be able to afford it right now.
Return Policy: You can return your piece within 14 days or email [email protected] if you’d like to return a gift.
Etsy Leather Fanny Pack
You may recognize this Etsy Leather Fanny Pack from my Fanny Pack Post. I can’t help mentioning it again because it is beautiful and not usually something someone would get for themselves. It’s one of the more stylish gift ideas on this holiday gift guide. Note, Etsy gift ideas can be the riskiest with their unpredictable or non-existent return policies, but they will be most rewarding.
Sizing Tip: The belt on the fanny pack is adjustable from a 27-inch waist to a 47-inch waist.
Return Policy: You have 30 days from item delivery to ship this item back to the seller. Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs.
Rothy’s The Point
I am on a rampage of putting everyone in Rothy’s The Point — or, at least any woman who dresses up and likes to walk. It is the perfect work shoe that can also play. Plus, it’s washable as you may already know. You can read all about it in my Rothy’s Review post, here. If you’ve never bought Rothy’s before, you can get $20 off your first pair by Clicking Here.
Notes: Sustainably made from recycled plastic bottles!
Return Policy: All orders placed between October 24 and December 21, including gift purchases, can be returned or exchanged through January 19, 2024.
Holiday Gift Ideas From Years Past
I update my Holiday Gift Guide every year with fresh gift ideas and items that I’m loving. But I always like to keep a few ideas from past years in here as a bit of a time capsule — and hey, maybe one them will inspire a gift idea for you.
ASOS DESIGN Check Skinny Suit
Do you know a very stylish slim gentleman in need of a fabulous party suit at a decent price? Here you go. The pants are available at Nordstrom and Asos, and the jacket is also available at Nordstrom and Asos.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Left Edit The Vera Dress
This is the slip dress of all slip dresses. Get this dress for any gal you want to impress with your sense of style and knowledge of independent designers.
Notes: Sustainably Made in America! Independently owned!
Return Policy: Returns are accepted within 15 days of receiving your item. Each item must be in new condition, with tags still intact. Sale and Early Access items are only eligible for an exchange. It can be refunded to the original payment method for a flat fee of $8 or returned for store credit with free shipping.
1.State Stretch Crepe One-Button Blazer
Of all the items I have recommended on Instagram this season, this blazer is the number one seller. For anyone 5’4″ and taller, this is a very on-trend and comfortable blazer that you can wear for work and play.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
PAIGE Scout Denim Jacket
This is my favorite casual jacket for men this season. It is so soft, comfortable, and well-cut. And that green color goes with everything. I would never recommend a blue denim jacket for the male masses — it is not versatile enough. But an olive green denim jacket is! This jacket is available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks 5th Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s.
Nordstrom Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
PAIGE Cash Stretch Crewneck T-Shirt
This is one of my favorite t-shirt colors of all time. Any of your fair-skinned men need this brown-colored tee.
Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.
2 Responses
Thank you for always finding the best of the best!
I love the backpack! It comes in three sizes. Do you recommend one size?
Thank YOU Betty for being an avid follower 🙂
I got the largest one for my carryon needs, but I am dragging around my laptop and you are not. You probably only need the medium. xoxo