Is it just us or does the holiday season feel brighter than ever? Many of us are finally being reunited with loved ones, and shopping for the best gifts (somehow?) feels less stressful—and way more exciting—than expected. (It certainly helps when you have options for days to choose from.) Granted, there may be shipping delays to be mindful of when hitting the checkout button, but that’s nothing a little planning can’t take out of the equation.
However many Christmas gifts you’ve already checked off your shopping list (or their wish list), we’re here to help you find the perfect gift. We’ve spent the last few weeks scanning the web for thoughtful gift ideas for everyone in your life—from your bestie who’s a ceramics enthusiast to your gadget-obsessed dad and then some—and decided to corral them all into one epic gift guide for you to browse and shop at ease.
Looking to surprise Mom with a monthly subscription box? There’s plenty. On the hunt for a unique gift from Etsy? Here you go. Trying to snag a great gift for your husband? We promise the ideas below won’t disappoint.
Fresh blooms, TikTok finds, Advent calendars, under-$25 stocking stuffers, Disney-inspired ideas, last-minute gifts—the selection of holiday gifts we’ve curated for friends and family members is virtually limitless and simultaneously spot-on. Dare we say it low-key rivals Oprah’s Favorite Things? Ahead, all the best gift ideas to shop in 2021.
Best Gifts for Women in 2021
First up, we have gifts for all the leading women in your life, from your grandma to your best friend to your colleague turned work wife. Highlights include cult-favorite skin-care sets from the likes of Glossier and Sunday Riley, cute stationery, luxe wintery candles, and cozy gifts for the ultimate homebody.
Best Last-Minute Gifts in 2021
The clock may be ticking to get your holiday gifts sent out, but luckily there are plenty of reliable online retailers (hi, Nordstrom) that offer fast, affordable shipping options so your packages arrive just in time.
Best Gifts for Mom in 2021
Chances are the thing Mom wants most this year is in-person hugs and kisses, but that doesn’t mean material gifts will be refused. Presents of the self-care variety are always appreciated, like one of Lake’s super-comfy robes to elevate her morning routine or a pretty weighted blanket under which she can snuggle. (Psst: This section also includes top-notch gifts for new and old pet parents.)
Best Gifts for Husbands in 2021
Few guys care about the things we think they do (read “fancy sweaters,” “nubby-knit scarves”) and just want cool gifts they can actually use. Our advice? Skip the expensive stuff that’ll collect dust and go for pieces you know he’ll be excited about. We’re talking hot sauces for the foodie, cozy beanies, and fancy slippers—because guys like feeling themselves while they shuffle around the house too.
Best Nordstrom Gifts in 2021
From luxe beauty to chic home decor, Nordstrom has plenty of great gift ideas if you want to get your holiday shopping done in one fell swoop. Here are some highlights to get you started.
Best Amazon Gifts in 2021
Amazon has a little something for everyone, but you already knew that. Show off your gifting skills with some crowd-pleasing picks below, including buzzy skin-care sets, tech gifts, and the unexpected must-have—a digital Polaroid photo printer. (Humblebrag: For more fun gifts you can shop immediately, we put together our own gift guide on Amazon with Glamour-editor-approved picks.)
Gifts for People Who Have Everything
We all have that hard-to-gift-anything friend. The good news? Stakes are surprisingly low when they have so much, so you can have fun with your present. We’re partial to offbeat gifts they may not have thought of immediately, like an olive oil subscription, actually desirable Advent calendars, embroidered makeup towels, or colorful, customizable travel capsules.
The Best Gift Cards in 2021
Ah, the gift card. It may not take up the most space under the tree—or be as thrilling to unwrap as a pretty makeup set—but it’s clutch if you’re trying to get around pandemic-induced supply-chain woes (or the dreaded last-minute gifting rush).