The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old question: what to gift your loved ones?
Whether you’re shopping for the style icon, film buff, art enthusiast, or the sustainable baddie in your life, we’ve curated a list of thoughtful, unique, and stylish gifts guaranteed to make your loved ones smile.
From affordable finds to luxury treats, these handpicked ideas mean that even your last minute buys match the individuality of the people you love - and the seasons spirit of giving.
For the fashion lover
Lara Parry: Baggu Crescent Bag, £52 via Plastic Freedom
Functional yet fun, This highly coveted bag comes in a variety of colours and designs. It’s a must-have for any fashion girlie. Coupled with an adjustable strap, two interior pockets and enough room to fit even an iPad!
Chelsea Pujols: Tide Pen, Pack of 5 $13.79 USD / Pack of 3 £9.97 via Amazon
The intersection of fashion and foodie girlies is bigger than you think. Trust me. For the person who already has everything in their closet, think of what they’re missing in their purse–this Tide pen will keep their looks looking clean for when cafe or restaurant outfit pics get out of hand.
Mia Mandala: ‘Fashion: The Definitive HIstory of Costume and Style’ Book, £26.51 / $38 USD via Amazon
The book is perfect for anyone interested in fashion through the ages. It is filled with photos and text, showing you all the ways clothing has evolved throughout different eras. It is fascinating for anyone who loves fashion, and the historical side of it!
Emily Duff: Lauren Perrin Gloves, £45
Nothing says chic like a good pair of gloves. With so many different options available from short to midi to long lengths, tartan to damier to patchwork to retro 70s floral patterns, there’s definitely a style there that’s perfect for your loved ones. Lauren Perrin is a an independent, sustainable, UK based brand - so you’re supporting an amazing small business, too!
Lara Parry: Orris Croissant Hair Claw, £19
This super cute croissant hair claw is ideal for any pastry-loving girlie. Très jolie!
Oana-Maria Moldovan: Osei-Duro Artisanal Clothing, from £79 https://oseiduro.com/
Hand-dyed clothes and jewerlly made in Ghana that support fair wages and empower women all over West Africa. Everyone buys clothes during the holiday season, so why not at least do it ethically and support less-heard voices in the process?
For the movie buff
Mia Mandala: Sofia Coppola Archive, $65 USD / £55 via Mack Books
Sofia Coppola has been an incredibly influential filmmaker for years, and it is no wonder she is loved by many. This archival coffee table book is filled with never before seen photographs that offer an exclusive look into all of her greatest movies. This makes it a perfect gift for anyone who loves Coppola’s filmography, Kirsten Dunst, and cinematography.
Emily Duff: Criterion Closet DVD, £23-37 / $
Prove just how well you know them by nabbing the Criterion Closet edition of their favourite film.
Not only is physical media a great way to watch something without the fear of it leaving streaming platforms, but it also looks great as home decor.
Other than the film itself, these special editions are extremely high quality and often feature extras like interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary.
Criterion work closely with the movie’s crew, especially directors, to ensure that it is presented as they intended.
Chelsea Pujols: Letterboxd Patron Subscription, $50 USD / £42.99
Give the friend that swears they’re a film critic some exclusivity this year. With customizable headers and movie posters, no advertisements and the opportunity to test out beta versions of the app, they will absolutely feel like an insider.
Molly Gymer: Top 100 Movie Scratch-Off Poster, £11.85 / $27.99 USD via Amazon
This scratch off poster is the perfect gift for a movie lover as it combines the joy of cinema and an interactive experience! Each time they watch a movie on the list they can scratch it off to reveal the poster or artwork underneath. This is a fun way to track movie watching; whether they’re a casual viewer or a seasoned cinephile, this gift encourages them to experience more of the cinema world!
Emily Duff: Hot Wax Tyneside Cinema Popcorn Scented Candle, £14
Bring the smell of the cinema home with this delicious candle. A Newcastle based small business, Hot Wax is also carbon neutral, eco-friendly using soy wax and recyclable packaging, and female owned. The perfect pick for a movie buff, it not only smells and looks amazing to help make a movie night cozy but supports two independent North East businesses.
Oana-Maria Moldovan: Horror Movie Buff Gift Set, £52.70 via Uncommon Goods
A thrilling collection features everything a fan of chills and thrills could ask for, from a spooky bingo game that turns iconic horror movie tropes into a fun competition to scratch-off charts showcasing must-watch classics of the genre. Perfect for any movie buff with a fler for the horror.
For the culture vulture
Emily Duff: National Art Pass, £35 via Art Fund
From free entry to hundreds of galleries, museums, and exhibitions to discounts on major cultural events, it’s the ultimate gift for those who live for inspiring experiences. Perfect for a friend who’s always scouting out the next must-see installation.
Oana-Maria Moldovan: ‘Women in Revolt! Underground Rebellion in British Music 1977–1985’ Vinyl Record, £20 via Discogs
A vinyl album that explores the underground music scene of late-70s and early-80s Britain. It's a nod to feminist movements and the punk era, ideal for those interested in music history and gender activism.
Emily Duff: Vida Vida Travel Gift Set, £38
Those in your life with the travel bug will love that stylish passport cover and matching luggage tag duo.
Available in a range of chic colors like tan, navy blue, metallic pink, and classic black, it's built to withstand the rigors of jet-setting while looking effortlessly sophisticated.
You can also personalise it with initials, a name, or a special message for an extra thoughtful touch!
Chelsea Pujols: ‘Barbie: The World Tour’ Book, $31.35 USD / £30.69 via Amazon
Also known as the Bible for Barbie lovers, this book is the perfect gift for the loved one that loves pink a little too much.
It features Margot Robbie’s famous red carpet recreations of the beloved doll ahead of Greta Gerwig’s hit movie in 2023. Both an insightful breakdown of the styling, it also serves an instructional manual for the ultimate fashion moment and a fabulous addition to your library or coffee table.
Emily Duff: Penguin Tote Bags, £12.95 via Penguin House
Stylish and functional, these iconic totes are perfect for the book-worm bestie in your life.
Available in a range of classic Penguin cover designs, find their favourite cover (and maybe a physical copy to put inside, while you’re at it) to make it a really personal and thoughtful pick.
They’re great for carrying their latest read, ideal for literary lovers who are always on the go (probably between bookshops).
Emily Duff: ‘The Story of Art Without Men’ by Katy Hessel, £20 / $25 USD via Amazon
This groundbreaking book rewrites art history to spotlight female artists who’ve often been overlooked. Packed with vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, it’s the perfect coffee table book for art enthusiasts and culture lovers seeking fresh perspectives.
For the activist
Oana-Maria Moldovan: Activist Skincare Refillable Trial Kit, £54.23 via Activist Skincare
Includes a cleanser, serum, toner, and oil in refillable packaging. Perfect for a sustainable skincare starter set or for the travel lover in your life.
Emily Duff: Bee Revival Kit, £10.99 via WWF
For the friend who’s passionate about saving the planet, this handy keychain-sized kit is designed to revive tired or struggling bees with a quick sugar solution. It’s a small but thoughtful gift that supports biodiversity and makes a big impact.
Emily Duff: Who Gives a Crap Subscription, from £23
If your loved one is eco conscious, practical, and has a sense of humour, this is for them.
This subscription comes in different forms including toilet and kitchen roll, and has different amounts available so you can pick what’s best for you and them. Made from 100% recycled or bamboo materials, whatever you opt for is both useful and purpose-driven.
Plus, 50% of profits go toward building toilets and improving sanitation worldwide. It’s a quirky but impactful gift.
Mia Mandala: Set of 4 Green Row Recycled Glass Drinking Glasses, $35-$39 USD
These glasses make a great addition to any eco friendly household, and are made from recycled materials. A perfect gift for the sustainability loving friend, or anyone looking to up their kitchen decor!
Emily Duff: The Second Sex by Simone De Beauvoir, $10.69 USD / £15.99 via World of Books
An essential read for anyone passionate about gender equality, The Second Sex is a thought-provoking masterpiece that continues to inspire generations.
Whether for a feminist or a philosophy enthusiast, this classic text is a gift that empowers and challenges, sparking important conversations long after the holidays are over.
Emily Duff: Tony's Chocolonely Xmas in Da Mix Pack, £25 via John Lewis
Sweeten their holidays with a bundle of ethically sourced, fair-trade chocolate.
Nothing says holiday season like sugary treats and brands like Tony’s Chocolonely not only deliver on delicious flavors but also work toward eradicating child labor and ensuring workers in the cocoa industry are paid fairly - a gift that tastes good and does good.
The holidays are a time for connection, and the perfect present can help express just how much you care.
Have a holly jolly rest of the year and may your holiday season be relaxing (thanks to this handy list) - we know you deserve it.