For most people, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. However what can arguably be the most stressful part of the holiday season is picking out your gifts for others. Whether you need inspiration for what to ask for or what to buy for your loved ones, read on for some great ideas!
Stocking Stuffers
Slip hair ties: These are definitely an investment for hair ties, but they keep your hair healthy by preventing breakage, so they are definitely a fun thing to ask for in your stocking this year!
Lip balms for colder weather: Lip products are incredibly useful gifts to ask for as our bodies dry out in the cold climate. Consider requesting either a nourishing balm or a pretty lip gloss this holiday season!
Candy: Arguably, the most appreciated stocking stuffer is fun treats. It is a gift that any person can enjoy, making it something either for you to be excited about in your own stocking or to give someone else in theirs!
Water bottle: Water bottles are great for long days at school when you need extra hydration. You can request a fun tumbler like a Stanley or Hydrojug, or a more portable one like a Yeti or Owala.
Hair accessories: In addition to Slip hair ties, claw clips, or headbands are great because they can add extra flair to any outfit while also being portable to bring with you while traveling. They are a fun way to spice up our uniforms at school as well! Trusted brands for hair accessories include Amazon, Target, and Emi Jay.
Jewelry: Fun and inexpensive jewelry is an amazing way to express your personal style, making it a very special gift to both give and receive. You could ask for fun earrings or cool bracelets to build a cool stack! Target has amazing earrings for sensitive ears, and Gorjana offers many unique necklace and ring options.
Non-Stocking Stuffers
Slippers: Slippers are a perfect gift, both to ask for and to give, because they are a present that anybody in any phase of life can wear for some extra coziness. They are super comfortable for around the home or running errands, making them also super versatile. Ugg, Apparis, and Old Navy all offer great options!
Jackets: Even though we have mild winters in Southern California, it does start to get colder come January. This makes Christmas a great time to request and give jackets as a present. Puffers are great jackets if you like to be extra cozy because they are typically insulated and weather-resistant. Stylish faux-leather or suede jackets are great because they add edgy flair to simple outfits, making them an easy way to complete a winter ensemble. Some brands to browse from include Aritzia, J. Crew, Abercrombie & Fitch, and second-hand retailers.
Workout clothes/sets: New workout clothes are always useful because they are long-lasting and are typically universally appreciated for their comfort and utility. We use workout sets so much, but rarely buy new ones. This makes them a great gift to give or think about asking for yourself! Some great places to look include Lululemon, Aritzia, Vuori, CRZ Yoga, and Alo.
Candles: We all spend enough time at our desks completing assignments, so asking for a candle could hopefully make evening studying more zen. Candles are also super versatile, as they work in nearly any room of a home and can be used no matter your age. Some good brands to browse from are small businesses on Etsy, Target, Nest, Voluspa, or Dipytique if you want to splurge.
Big Gift Items
Oura ring/any smart ring: Smart rings are super popular, and for good reason. With these rings, you can track your workouts, sleep patterns, and monitor your overall health. All of these features are super useful and make rings a great gift to ask for or give to a health-conscious family member. This being said, they are definitely a pricier item, so the holidays are a great time to ask for one (and hopefully find it on sale!). The most trusted brands right now are Oura and RingConn.
iPad / tablet: iPads are great tools for taking notes and are more easily portable than a computer for travel. Although they are expensive, they are a helpful gift for students who are always on the go because they are more lightweight than a computer, and they have great notetaking capabilities with digital pencils.
Staple jewelry: Asking for nice jewelry is a great idea because it is truly something you can have forever. Investing in jewelry gives you a gift now, but also gives you something beautiful to pass on to loved ones later in life. A great place to get real jewelry for a good price is from your local jeweler!
Hatch Alarm Clock: A good alarm clock is one of the best gifts we can ask for as students because it makes our early mornings a little bit easier with soothing features. The hatch wakes you up with subtle light and peaceful alarm noises, making your morning routine extra luxurious. It is a great gift to ask for, or give to someone who’s usually a little extra grumpy in the mornings.
With all of these great gift ideas, it’s important to remember that the holidays are not ultimately about the gifts you receive. The most important part of the season is spending time with your family and getting closer to your loved ones. While it can be exciting opening up a fun gift, the best memories come from quality time spent with those that matter most to you!