Shopping editors tell us the best holiday gifts for her

I try to be a (somewhat) conscious consumer. This meant not buying things I didn’t need, which led to my sudden uptake of online window shopping. Luckily, this has allowed me to hone my already keen gift-giving sense, especially during the height of the holiday season.

I used my sixth sense to come up with 28 unexpected gifts that run the gamut from housewarming gifts to “I love you” to holidays and other celebrations. There are several items on my wish list. I think this is especially helpful because I often hear people say they can’t go shopping. I have no doubt that what I hope will work for other difficult recipients as well.

le creuset enamel cast iron heart

Overall best gift

If you’re really in a rush to shop, open each of these six items in a new tab and shop. All bases are covered. Le Creuset cast iron pots are as cute as they are functional. (I’m not really a cook, but I’m still happy to receive it.) The Baublebar bead set is fun for crafty friends, nieces/nephews, and avid Taylor Swift fans. Dada Daily Candles are perfect for those who have it all. You can’t go wrong with Coach’s classic tote bag.

Cosrx Glass Skin Starter Set

Buying other people’s skin care can be very difficult. Everyone’s skin type and goals are very specific. However, there are few exceptions, and Cosrx’s snail mucin products are one of them. People either use it and love it, or they haven’t tried it and want to use it. No matter which category you’re shopping for, you’ll be happy with this set, which includes two bottles of the iconic Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence and a tube of retinol cream. A few weeks after receiving this, they will come to you with lots of compliments and glass skins.

(Pro tip: Separate the bottles for DIY gift bags or stocking stuffers.)

Merit Beauty 5 minute morning makeup set

Makeup, especially skin tone products, can also be very difficult to buy for others. However, Merit’s customer service is top-notch. Send us a photo of your receiver and we’ll help you choose the right shade of The Minimalist Concealer Foundation Stick.

This 5-minute morning set not only solves that problem, but it’s that girl. Martha Stewart, countless celebrities, and discerning beauty editors have all praised this 7-product kit.

best beauty gifts

A genius gift for the man in your life: Sephora Favorites Cologne Sampler Set (includes voucher), $95. sephora.com Prada Mini 3-Piece Lip Set, $55 (originally $75); nordstrom.com Crowd-pleaser: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask Dreamy Lip Kit, $20. amazon.com Glossier The Lash Kit, $32. Glossier.com On a surprising number of wishlists: Jolie The Filtered Shower Head. $165. nordstrom.com Ready, Set, Glo Hair Kit, $181. vegamour.com Oprah’s Favorite: Poppy & Pout Jumbo Lip Balm Gift Set, $70. amazon.com Designer Buy at Affordable Price: Dior Le Baume Revitalizing Multipurpose Balm, $60. nordstrom.com For luxury lovers: SSense x Simone Rocha Holiday Beauty Bag, $215. ssense.com

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask Dreamy Lip Kit

Like the Cosrx Snail Mucin, Laneige’s lip mask is a beauty gift that’s sure to please anyone. Minis are originally cute, but they also have functionality. No matter who you give it to, you can throw it in your bag or pocket.

I like to get this and give one to each of my four friends at dinner before the holidays. Even in the cold and dry winters their mouths are soft and I manage to give gifts to all without doing a favor.

Sephora Favorite Cologne Sampler Set (includes voucher)

I grew up in a household with my father and two brothers. That’s why I think you don’t have to worry about gifts for men. This Sephora Cologne Sampler is a godsend. You don’t have to make the difficult choice of guessing which scent they like best. They can try 11 varieties and then head to Sephora to pick up their full-size favorites.

What’s more, vouchers are often redeemed months later, making this Sephora set feel like two gifts.

Best gifts approved by editors

Craft season essentials: Paint Everywhere Periwinkle Flowers Paint by Numbers. $50. ban.do On the movie fan’s wishlist: Everything Everywhere All At Once hardcover screenplay book, $60. amazon.com Jenny Bird Chunky Doon Hoop. $138. jenny-bird.com TikTok Viral: Intimissimi Boatneck Modal Cashmere Ultralight Top, $59. intimissimi.com Ana Luisa Temple Green Layered Necklace Set, $115; analuisa.com Fun Holiday Decorations: Peanuts and Snoopy String Lights, $15. Urbanoutfitters.com A record collector’s dream: Audio-Technica Soundburger Portable Turntable, $199. amazon.com Aesthetic yet practical upgrade: Craighill Wilson brass keyring, $18. amazon.com Editor’s Pick: Madewell Slinky Rib Trouser Socks, 3-Pack, $30. madewell.com Calpac Packing Cubes Set of 5, $68. calpaktravel.com Cuyana Mini Heart Case, $98. cuyana.com Highly appreciated by creative types. Brian Eno Oblique Strategies: Over 100 Value Dilemma Card Deck, $100. amazon.com Lego Orchid Set, $50. lego.com

Madewell Slinky Rib Trouser Socks Set of 3

When I was a kid, when I received sweaters, jackets, socks, etc. as gifts, I always wanted to fight someone. But as you mature and grow older, you realize that it is the greatest gift. I always need quality socks, but buying them always seems like a pain. This Madewell trio is a recent favorite. It’s comfortable and cute. It would look great with the loafers in my wardrobe. I have 3 pairs, but I would be happy if I could get more.

Paint anywhere Periwinkle flowers Paint by numbers

I do crafts all year round, but in the winter I really get into DIY bags. It’s homebody season after all. I received these paint-by-numbers sets for adults a few years ago and have been hooked ever since. This is a fun activity that doesn’t require you to learn a new skill like crocheting or knitting.

Since receiving the Paint Anywhere Paint by Numbers set, I have given it away many times. Receive photo updates whenever the recipient is working on the canvas. It makes me smile every time. It’s like a gift to me too.

Craighill Wilson Brass Keyring

The secret to shopping for people who can’t afford to shop is very micro. What small everyday things can be upgraded in their lives? How about a keychain? No one thinks of replacing theirs. It just so happens that Clayhill Wilson makes the best stuff. It is minimalistic, highly designed, and practical. Perfect for white elephant replacements, housewarming gifts, and everything in between at a modest price point.

peanuts snoopy string light

coach willow tote bag 24

Dior Le Baume Revitalizing Multipurpose Balm

Dada Daily “Baby Want You Right My” Leg Candle

Audio Technica Sound Burger Portable Turntable

lego orchid set

Cuyana mini heart case

Everything Everywhere All At Once Hardcover Screenplay Book