We can admit that for some loved ones, we don’t want to spend a ton (no matter how much we adore them). So if you’re wondering what to get for your favorite in-law, the mentor you still meet up with for coffee, or a close friend who swears you don’t have to get them anything, check out this list. These gifts are for those who still appreciate the finer things (that won’t make you go broke in return). Scroll on for hand-painted earrings, custom portraiture, chic glassware, and more.
Want more holiday gifting ideas? Check out our full list of gift guides for everyone on your list.
Hand-painted earrings that’ll wow at parties…
Meet the earrings that make a major statement. These pink reef earrings are hand-painted and come in over 15 different color combinations. If you want to get even more personal with it, try finding a pair with their birthstone at the center. They’re big, bold, and pair well with a monochrome outfit, LBD, or chunky sweater. ($78, Anthropologie)
A tennis bracelet that you'd never guess is under $100...
Gold-plated crystals are delicately strung together to make the most classic jewelry piece of all — the tennis bracelet. You can choose from two stone settings, two metal types, and three bracelet sizes. The look is timeless and understated, and can be worn alongside a watch and stack of bracelets, or alone. We love affordable pieces like this because you get the look and feel of a more expensive jewelry piece, but at a reasonable price. And if your recipient should ever lose or damage the bracelet, it'll be simple to replace. ($88, Baublebar)
An elevated studded belt...
Studded belts are everywhere right now, but you don't need to spend upwards of $600 on a designer one (true story) to get them in on the trend. This Free People stud belt comes in seven colors, from classic black to emerald, with either gold or silver hardware. Helpfully, it comes in three sizes, so they won't need to take a trip to the shoemaker to add an extra hole. ($48, Free People)
A travel set of barrier-building skincare...
Whether they have a trip coming up or they're just serious about their skincare, they'll appreciate this set of minis from DEINDE. This includes three of the brand's hero products: a cleanser, a serum, and a moisturizing face stick, all of which are made with clinically-proven ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier — aka, their skin will look and feel great now and in the long run. ($58, DEINDE)
A set of modern wine glasses…
Cheers, clink-clink, and say "salud" with these minimalist goblets. They’re on the shorter side and have a thick silver stem that’s comfortable to hold. You can snag a four-piece set in four different shades or get a variety pack to mix it up. ($48, Anthropologie)
A travel-friendly steamer…
This steamer-iron hybrid has a rotating head for easy handling in any direction. It only takes 15 seconds to heat up, which is great in a pinch. Plus, it’s anti-spill and anti-drip. Combined with that and the stand that comes included, your next ironing session will be a mess-free experience. ($52, Amazon)
Gold earrings under $70…
These ribbed gold hoops catch the light in any direction. They’re the perfect size, and they’re made of an 18-karat gold-plated brass. They come with a two-year quality and plating guarantee, and they have a coating that makes them water-, sweat-, and heat-resistant. Your giftee will enjoy them for years to come. ($65, Abbott Lyon)
A catchall tray for art lovers…
This square porcelain tray will add a splash of color to any table or shelf. It has shiny gold accents that give it a luxe vibe and it’ll hold up after years of use. We love that it comes in a gift-ready box, so you won’t have to worry about wrapping. Prop it up on a stand for an added statement. ($30, Jonathan Adler)
A plush robe to keep them warm all winter long…
This robe from L.L.Bean is a must for chilly days lounging by the fire and moments of rest post-everything shower. It’s made of a brushed polyester super soft and won’t shed or pill. Plus, it comes in eight different colors and prints, as well as regular, petite, and plus sizing. Lounge on. ($99, L.L.Bean)
Their new everyday bra...
Think it's hard to buy bras for other people? Not the case with this one from EBY. This is about as crowd-pleasing as they come, as it offers plenty of support (thanks to a triple-layered design and lifting cups) with none of the discomfort (it has an invisible silicone wire and is ridiculously soft). The future is here, and it comes in the form of this bra. ($75, EBY)
Something for the golfers…
This indoor putting set comes with three practice balls and a long mat with two different holes. Our favorite feature: It has an auto-return feature for quicker practice. It’s the easiest way to get some puts in without leaving home (or paying a green fee). It even comes with a place to store a putter when not in use. ($78, Amazon)
A fondue maker for the social butterfly…
Eight color-coded fondue forks, plus six attached ingredient cups for dippable bites, minus the stress of washing everything by hand, equals one exquisite get-together. This stainless steel fondue maker comes with everything they’ll need and nothing they won’t. Not to mention it’s available in an aqua color that we’ll be adding to our own carts. ($59.77, Amazon)
A custom portrait of their home…
Consider this gift for any new homeowners on your list. This custom portrait can display a family name, address, date, or quote below the remastered image of their home. Customers have also said that they’ve bought this as a way to remember their childhood home or to commemorate their parent’s first home. Either way, it’s sure to be sob central (in the best way) when your giftee unwraps it. ($50+, CasaBellaPortraits via Etsy)
A hand-carved wine rack that will spark conversation…
You’ve seen that wavy mirror all over TikTok, so allow us to introduce you to its more sophisticated cousin, the wavy wine rack. This standalone rack comes in black or brown wood and can hold up to four bottles. The best part: It takes up minimal counter space, so you don’t have to worry about any unnecessary clutter as you meal prep. ($88, Anthropologie)
Engraveable bracelets from a women-led business…
Personalizing your gift is a great way to take it to the next level, especially if it’s at no extra cost to you. This ethically crafted cuff bracelet can hold up to 10 letters in a variety of fonts and styles. (Seriously, peep the assortment, it’s huge.) Choose between gold, silver, and rose gold cuffs. They’re going to love it. ($92, Brook & York)
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