Oprah and Gayle, Cristina and Meredith, Tom and Greg. Name a more iconic duo than two best friends…we’ll wait. But searching for the perfect gifts for friends can be tough. If you’ve known the person in question for years, there’s a good chance you’ve run out of thoughtful things to get them — and maybe you want to gift them more than just another bottle of wine. So whether you’re celebrating their new job, their birthday, or just how much you appreciate their friendship, we’ve got you covered with foolproof (and affordable) ideas your pals will absolutely adore. Go best friend, go, go best friend, go.
Hoops to level up their earring game…
*Snooki voice* (ear) party’s here. These classically designed minimalist hoop earrings from Mejuri are ultra-light so they won’t weigh down your friend’s ears. Whether you choose gold vermeil or sterling silver, the fit and style on these are pretty timeless — just like your friendship. Aw. ($78, Mejuri)
A classic, unisex tote they’ll have forever…
Because an L.L.Bean canvas tote bag never goes out of style. It’s super durable thanks to double-stitched seams, a reinforced bottom, and handles that can hold up to 500 pounds. Available in a variety of size and color options, the bag can also be monogrammed for an extra-special touch. They’ll tote-ally love this gift, promise. ($39.95+, L.L.Bean)
Merlot-infused coffee that makes the perfect post-dinner brew…
We’re not saying coffee and wine get your friend through the day. But if the shoe fits… These 100% Arabica beans are infused with Merlot and aged in oak wine barrels that provide red berry flavors and hints of currants and blackberries. Cheers. ($22, Uncommon Goods)
A mini fire pit they can use inside or out…
Because (platonic) sparks fly when you hang out, give them the gift of some portable flames. This mini tabletop fire pit is powered by smokeless, odorless rubbing alcohol. It can be easily transported around their house to set a mood, add some warmth, or (of course) make s’mores. It’ll last for 40 to 50 mins and is pretty mess-free. Win. ($39.96+, Amazon)
A hand-stamped coordinate necklace for long-distance friends…
Far apart, but close by heart, thanks to this. This dainty necklace is perfect for friends who live in different cities. You can customize the front and back of the bar to add your coordinates and/or a short message. And then choose from a gold-, silver-, or rose-gold plated metal. Xoxo. ($24.50, Amazon)
A new timeless cookbook to add to their collection…
Cookbooks are like shoes: You can never have too many of them. This one is written by Amanda Hesser, a former New York Times food editor, and the co-founder and CEO of Food52. The recipes are super precise and easy to follow, so even if your friend is a beginner-level home chef, they won’t be overwhelmed. Psst: Need more cookbook recs? We also love this classic by Julia Child and this modern classic by Samin Nosrat. ($26.12+, Amazon)
A monogrammable keychain so they’ll never have to lose their precious cargo again…
This budget-friendly, vintage-inspired keychain is made with full-grain leather that feels as nice as it looks. It has a metal clip attached, too, so they can easily secure it onto another bigger keychain or their bag. Plus, the brighter colors will be easy to spot if your friend is prone to losing track of things. ($10+, Leatherology)
The cutest dumpling light…
Fact: You can never have a bad day if dumplings are involved. So why not give your pal this absolutely adorable dumpling light that’s petite enough to fit in the palm of their hand? Aside from being cute, it’s also easy to clean and battery-operated — so they won’t have to worry about rearranging their entire outlet situation to use it. Triple win. ($22, Smoko)
The ultimate Beatles shirt for the ultimate Beatles fan…
If they made you watch all eight hours of “The Beatles: Get Back,” then it’s settled…you have to gift them this. This unisex tee is made from super-soft cotton and runs true to size. OOTD pics are on the way. ($26, GritsnGravyDesigns via Etsy)
Truff hot sauce that’ll take their at-home cooking to the next level…
This variety pack is one of our go-to gifts for a reason. Truff packs restaurant-quality ingredients into insanely delicious, vegan sauces. With this kit they’ll get the brand’s famous original chili blend, a white truffle hot sauce with a rich umami flavor, and a super-hot jalapeño mix for the true spice lovers out there. Flavors = enhanced. ($57.79+, Truff)
Best friend mugs, because they’re the Oprah to your Gayle…
Or vice versa. These dishwasher-safe ceramic mugs have a glossy finish and a vivid print that shouldn't chip or fade with use. Just like your friendship, they’re strong and can withstand anything that comes their way. You can choose between two sizes — and even grab a set of two if you want to match. ($24+, Enframe via Etsy)
A memoir by the founder of Nike…
If your best friend loves to talk to you about entrepreneurship and the business world, then you have to add “Shoe Dog” to their collection. In it, Phil Knight offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he built the swoosh from the ground up. Your pal will get a firsthand glimpse at the early days of the company (when failure was very much on the table) and see how Knight turned his shoe company into a billion-dollar brand. Just do it. ($14.99+, Amazon)
A grounding lavender kit that’ll help them unwind…
If your friend just went through a hard time and you want to send something relaxing, look no further. This soothing aromatherapy set will help them channel their most peaceful self. Each bundle comes with pillow spray, an 100% cotton sleep mask, an orange blossom-scented soy candle, a bamboo pot, non-GMO lavender seeds, and plant food to help your lavender bloom. Deep breath in, deep breath out… ($58, Uncommon Goods)
A chic set of vinegars to cook with…
Yes, it’s always nice to give your pal the thing they’ve been coveting, but it’s also nice to purchase something they wouldn’t think to treat themselves to…like this gorgeous set of cooking vinegars. The flavors range from fresh and fruity to spicy and sour and are great for bringing anyone out of a cooking rut. Plus, the bottles are pretty enough that they’ll want to leave them out on the counter for all to see. ($48, Acid League)
The ultimate Lego set for the Marvel lover in your life…
If they still talk about “Avengers: Endgame” on a regular basis, then they probably need this. This replica of Thanos’ right hand has 590 pieces and comes with a sturdy stand so they can prop it up. After they’re done building, it’ll be over 12.5 inches high. Whoa. Here’s hoping you get invited over to participate. ($63.99, Target)
An ‘amazing human’ award…
At the end of the day, it’s really just the thought that counts. This luxe satin ribbon with a metallic cord and gold-foil design doubles as a card. Just fill out the back and add a little note to make your friend feel extra special. Aw. ($5.75, Yellow Owl Workshop)
A personal pizza maker so they can have their fave meal at a moment’s notice…
If your friendship is based on eating too much pizza together, you need to buy this mini cast-iron gadget. It whips up brick oven-style pizza on the grill in less than 10 minutes. A pillowy pie with a crispy crust anywhere, any time? That’s amore. ($40, Uncommon Goods)
A DIY pottery kit…
We’ve all got that one friend who just loves a good art project. This at-home kit comes with instructions, inspo, and all the tools and clay they’ll need to create four pieces, from planters to trinket dishes. Plus, they’ll get paint and paintbrushes, so they can coat their masterpiece once it’s done. ($65, Free People)
A ‘dog dad’ hat so your pal can show off his love for his fur baby…
Sports logos = out. Showing how much he adores his pup = in. This hat’s pre-washed, 100% cotton, and has an adjustable strap in the back. All he needs now is a stroll through the neighborhood with you and the pup so he can rock his new accessory. ($14.99+, HatphileMade on Etsy)
Custom face socks if you want to make them laugh…
Sometimes the best gifts are the ones you don’t take too seriously. For these, just pick your ideal photo and color (they’ve even got an ombré situation), and presto — the perfect present is born. Whether you use a funny pic you took of them when they had one too many drinks or a pic of the pet they’re obsessed with, this gift will score a 10/10. ($8.99+, BrdPersonalizedGifts via Etsy)
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