May 3, 2024

The 62 Best Gifts to Surprise Your Girlfriend This Holiday Season

image

In case your girlfriend hasn’t dropped any hints about what she wants for the holidays yet, you’ve come to the right place. As someone who’s job involves researching and testing products on a daily basis (and who happens to be a somewhat difficult-to-shop-for girlfriend herself), Men’s Health has kindly let me put together a definitive list of the best girlfriend gift ideas you can’t go wrong with this year., including romantic, thoughtful, and unique gifts for girlfriends to surprise here this year. And considering the likeliness of these items selling out and inevitable shipping delays come December, you’d be wise to start your shopping… now.

Whether you’ve been dating for a few months or a few years, are shopping on a budget of $30 or have unlimited funds at your disposal (in which case, niiice), or are shopping for a woman who already has everything, fear not. Ahead, you’ll find a mix of cozy gifts, quirky novelties, chic jewelry, and everyday practical items you’ve likely never thought to gift before.

IF PARIS IS HER FAVORITE CITY

Living in Style Paris

If she loves interior design, this coffee table fixture is sure to impress. Written by Paris insider Caroline Sarkozy, the book brings readers into some of the most awe-inspiring apartments in Paris with photography that should come with a drool-warning. 

BEST TECH GIFT FOR HER

Apple AirPods with Charging Case (Wired)

amazon.com

$159.00

$129.00 (19% off)

If she’s never tried the most suave looking wireless headphones of all time, now’s a good time to treat her (and maybe yourself, too) to a pair while they’re on sale for a limited time only. To give you a sense of how beloved their sound quality is, these have 169k ratings and counting on Amazon. 

MOST TIMELY CANDLE

Island Vibes Soy Candle

iobeautymarket.com

$23.00

MOST FUN ADVENT CALENDAR FOR HER

George & Viv 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar

Let’s get one thing straight. She’s beautiful just the way she is and probably doesn’t need half these products. But. There’s no such thing as being too old for an advent calendar and these days, we could all use a happy surprise. Full of 24 mini pieces from best-selling upscale brands, this beauty advent calendar will become the happiest part of her daily routine in December. 

UNDER $30 GIFT IDEA

Lace Satin Sleepwear Set

If, and literally only if, you think she’ll like a short and lacy PJ set, this inexpensive gift idea boasts over 1k ratings on Amazon. I recommend reading the reviews for these (some are less than glowing) to be sure you’re getting her the right size. 

BEST UNDER $50 PERSONALIZED GIFT IDEA

Custom Name Necklace Figaro Chain – Script Name Necklace – Personalized Name Necklace – Layering Necklaces #PN02F105L18

A personalized, unique gift for your girlfriend goes a long way in expressing your love. Here, an affordable personalized necklace from an Etsy seller that has hundreds of thousands of sales. (At the time of publication, I’m talking over 217k.) Rose gold and silver options are also available. 

Gucci Heart Necklace

Heart-shaped jewelry has come a long way since Pam Beasley implied a woman would never want to buy it herself in season 6 of The Office. Here, a silver option that just so happens to be a label nobody’s ever been upset about being gifted.

EDITOR’S FAVORITE

Eberjey Organic Cotton Pajama Set

The expression “soft as butter” gets thrown around way too much, but in the case of female-founded lingerie and loungewear brand Eberjey, it’s completely apt. Because these best-selling PJs are made from top quality organic cotton, she’ll be able to enjoy these for years to come. It’s a thoughtful gift that any girlfriend will appreciate.

BEST UNDER $50 COZY GIFT IDEA

Iris & Lilly Cozy Bathrobe

A bathrobe is a forever practical gift idea. If her wardrobe is currently lacking one (or if she showers enough at your apartment and you don’t have one for her there), this option is beloved by Amazon reviewers for looking way more expensive than its $26 price-tag would suggest. 

IF SHE LOVES A GOOD MOVIE NIGHT

Top Movie Bucket List Scratch Off Poster

If you haven’t had the “what should we watch tonight” struggle with your significant other, are you really a couple?? This poster contains 100 classic movies and will make movie night feel more fun. Plus, doing a bucket list together is inherently sentimental. 

MOST CREATIVE GIFT IDEA

Marvelous Pets Custom Pet iPhone and Samsung Case

If half her camera roll is pictures of her dog (which, fair), surprise her with a new, unique customized phone case featuring the apple of her eye. Cases can be made for pretty much any iPhone or Samsung model, and the turnaround time for this top-rated Etsy seller is about 2 weeks.

MOST ORIGINAL GIFT FOR CHOCOLATE LOVERS

More Joy Assorted Chocolate Gift Box, 16-Piece

This gift set from fancy Whole Foods-carried chocolate brand Chuao is a bang for your buck. The set contains 16 different individually wrapped chocolates with fun milk and dark chocolate varieties. Amazon reviewers are obsessed with this fresh, GMO-free set as well, with it earning an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. 

UNDER $300 TECH GIFT FOR HER

Apple Watch SE (GPS, 40mm)

Surprise her with the Apple Watch she’s long wanted, but has yet to treat herself with. This GPS model boasts over 60k reviews on Amazon and it’s not hard to see why with features that include: Measuring fitness activity for all workouts, taking calls, and answering texts from your wrist and boasting a swim proof design. 

IF SHE HEARTS COOKING

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Heart Cocotte

If she loves to cook, gift your girlfriend the gold standard of cookware in heart-shaped form. This enameled cast iron cocotte can be used on the stove or in the oven for countless dishes and it’s big enough to store enough food for 2. 

UNDER $100 LUXE GIFT IDEA

Soko Mini Mezi Boxed Hoop Earrings

If your loves minimalist jewelry, this boxed adaptation of classic huggie earrings will make for a fun addition to her jewelry collection that doesn’t stray too far outside her comfort zone. Just in case my boyfriend is reading this… look how cute these are!! 

MOST UNIQUE GIFT IDEA FOR HER

Custom Line Art Couple Portrait Drawing

Transform a photo of you two kissing into a minimalist work of art. This Etsy vendor has a two-day turnaround time and will send you your downloadable work of art then. All you have to do is print it and find a nice frame. (If you need a suggestion for the ladder, peep this top-reviewed option on Amazon.) 

BEST SENTIMENTAL JEWELRY GIFT

Aurate New York Gold Connection Bracelet

auratenewyork.com

$300.00

If you’re after a romantic girlfriend gift that isn’t cheesy, meet this dainty 14k gold bracelet from New York-based, women-founded brand Aurate. Called the connection bracelet, there’s something inherently romantic about this everyday, wear-with-anything piece. 

PERSONALIZED GIFT IDEA

Mejuri Personalized Jewelry Box (Travel-Friendly Size)

Ask any jewelry lover (raises hand), organization is a beast of its own. This compact leather option from Mejuri not only makes a great gift because it can be personalized with her initials, but because it’s been thoughtfully arranged to house bracelets, earrings, and rings tangle-free. 

BEST GIFT FOR YOGIS

Lululemon Arise Mat Made with FSC-Certified Rubber

If her yoga mat is looking a bit worse for wear, this vibrant Lululemon option is a splurge you can feel good about. The mat is Forest Stewardship Council-certified, which, per Lululemon, supports the protection of forest ecosystems and the people, plants, and animals that inhabit them. 

IF SHE PREFERS SELTZER OVER WATER

SodaStream Jet Sparkling Water Maker Bundle

Kiss wasteful plastic bottles of seltzer from the grocery store goodbye. Set in a sleek monochromatic design, this SodaStream kit includes everything you need to make seltzer at home, including a carbonator.

MOST UNEXPECTED BUT APPRECIATED GIFT IDEA

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow

If she prefers a firmer pillow, treat her to this Tempur-Pedic creation that, as far as I’m concerned, puts all other pillows to shame. This beauty features layers of TEMPUR-Breeze® Gel on both sides, which helps keep sleepers stay cool at night and enjoy adaptive support. Because it comes wrapped in a removable and washable 100% premium cotton knit cover, she’ll be able to use this for at least the next 7 years. It’s a thoughtful gift your girlfriend will most certainly appreciate.

IF SHE LOVES A FUNNY MUG

Bob Ross Heat Changing Mug

This Bob Ross mug (Amazon’s best-selling Bob Ross mug, incidentally) changes color whenever tea or coffee is poured in. A happy gift that will melt even the grumpiest morning person, in case she sometimes falls into that category.

IF SHE LOVES A SPA DAY

Glossier Mask Duo

If you’re after any kind of spa day gift, Glossier’s mask set is as failsafe as they come. To give you a sense of how beloved these best-sellers are, I recommend a browse through the headlines in the review section. For example, one reads: “Not to be dramatic, but I would die for these masks.”

IF HER FEET ARE ALWAYS FREEZING

EMU Australia Women’s Sheepskin Slippers

There are slippers, and then there are glamorous slippers. These fun plush sheepskin beauties fall into the ladder category. 

EDITOR’S FAVORITE FASHION GIFT IDEA

Elleme Baozi mini tote

If you’re looking for a bag that’s luxe without feeling flashy, Parisian brand Elleme is a mid-range brand that’s becoming more and more popular every time I turn around. Beyoncé and Bella Hadid each have paparazzi photos carrying other styles by the brand as well. I personally love this size for being able to hold a wallet, mini umbrella, and phone.

IF SHE HAS CAVIAR TASTE

Saint Laurent Black & Silver Fragment Card Holder

FWIW: Nobody I’ve ever met would be upset about being gifted something Saint Laurent. Featuring 5 cardholder slots in the back, this timeless leather beauty will store all of her cards, cash and business cards exchanged at networking events when we’re finally in a post-COVID world. 

MOST ORIGINAL UNDER $10 GIFT IDEA

Drinking Animals Coloring Book (Includes Cocktail Recipes)

Each page in this delightful coloring book opens up to a different animal and new cocktail recipe. It’s a unique and fun gift idea for any type of girlfriend.

IF SHE LOVES SEX AND THE CITY RERUNS

Invivo X by Sarah Jessica Parker Wine Tasting Set Duo

If she loves Sex and The City and rosé, then wine not (I’m sorry, I really am) treat her to a tasting duo of Sarah Jessica Parker’s award-winning label? Bonus points if you get chocolate or cheese to pair this with.

IF SHE LIKES LEGGINGS MORE THAN PANTS

Outdoor Voices Flex 7/8 Legging

If she’s been living in leggings these last few months, surprise her with a new pair. This best-selling pair from Outdoor Voices is beloved by reviewers for their comfiness and flexibility. As one reviewer put it: “bIg FaN. They make your butt look phenomenal and they feel great.” 

IF SHE LOVES TRUFFLE

Cassina Rossa Truffle Trio Gift Box

If she’s a truffle lover, this gift trio makes for an unexpected and unique gift. Made in Abruzzo, Italy by small, family-owned Casina Rossa, the set contains three varieties: Truffle Carpaccio, Truffle & Salt, and Truffle Honey. 

BEST COMPACT COFFEE MAKER GIFT

Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

Measuring only 5.5 inches wide, the Vertuo Next is smallest, most versatile Nespresso Vertuo machine ever. If you want to get your girlfriend a coffee-related gift that won’t take up much counter space while delivering a delicious single-serve coffee each time, this is it. 

BEST FOR SWEETENED COFFEE LOVERS

Uncommon Goods Flavored Coffee Duo

If she’s a bitter coffee-hater, this fun gift set featuring flavors such as chocolate blueberry and coconut creme will start her mornings off on a colorful, tasty note.

BEST SURPRISE BEAUTY GIFT

Slip Pure Silk Skinny Hair Ties

Does she wear her hair in a bun often? If so, here’s a thoughtful, surprising gift idea your girlfriend won’t be expecting, but will freak out over all the same. SLIP’s holiday bauble contains 4 pure silk hair scrunchies that are super gentle on hair and suitable for all hair-types.

MOST FAILSAFE BEAUTY SET

Glossier The In the Bag Set

If there’s such thing as a universally failsafe beauty gift, it’s this customizable bundle from Glossier. Aptly named ‘In The Bag,’ the set includes a comfy sweater, a full-sized hand cream and your choice of balm dot com flavor (for the uninitiated, this translates to lip balm and the product has a cult-following). 

IF SHE ALWAYS STEALS YOUR BEANIES

State Cashmere Cable Knit 100% Pure Cashmere Beanie

State Cashmere arguably makes some of the most luxe-feeling, affordable cashmere around. Aside from being fashionable, this hat will keep her ear and head warm now that temps are beginning to skew on the frigid side. 

TIMELESS FASHION STAPLE

Reformation Cashmere Crew

thereformation.com

$148.00

The perfect women’s cashmere sweater doesn’t ex—. Here, a Reformation best-seller that’s flattering, soft and timeless. 

PRACTICAL BUT SWEET GIFT IDEA

Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Sheet Bundle

The gift of being able to step out of the shower and into a soft, plush towel is an extremely underrated one. This plush set includes 2 hand towels, 2 plush bath towels, and a bathmat as well.

FOR THE GIRLFRIEND WHO ALREADY HAS EVERYTHING

4-in-1 Fast Wireless Charger Dock Station (Updated for 2020)

If she already has an iPhone, Apple Watch, Airpods and Apple pencil, this top-rated 4-in-1 docking station (compatible with almost every version of these products) will help declutter her nightstand and make charging a breeze. 

MOST USEFUL TECH GIFT UNDER $200

The Bose SoundLink Revolve Speaker

Considering how everyone has been more keen on upgrading their homes than ever before these last few months, Bose’s SoundLink Revolve speaker is a gift that’s thoughtful and impressive in equal measure. Delivering crisp, clear surround sound with up to 12 hours of play time from a lithium battery, these speakers will enhance the experience of listening to music and podcasts.

FOR THE GIRLFRIEND WHO ALREADY HAS EVERYTHING

Jonathan Adler Bijoux 4-Piece Porcelain Coaster Set

There’s no such thing as too many coasters; however, there is such thing as extremely tacky coasters. (Trust me, I searched far and wide.) Here, a porcelain set so chic she’ll want to leave them on display even when she’s not drinking anything.

EDITOR’S FAVORITE

Malin + Goetz’s Otto Scented Candle

It’s next to impossible to pick a favorite scent from New York-based skincare and fragrance brand Malin + Goetz, but Otto is definitely up there. If you’re after a chic design candle that smells just as good as it looks, this is one of my favorites. The scent is a dreamy mix of grapefruit, cardamom, rose, and geranium.

IF SHE’S AN ASPIRING SINGER/SONGWRITER

Enya Concert Ukulele Nova

Love is gifting someone who’s always wanted ukulele the object of their folk-y desires—even when you live with them. This model is beloved on Amazon (it has a rating of 4.9 stars, which is practically unheard of), and includes online lessons, a case, strap, capo, and strings. If you’re looking for a unique gift idea for your girlfriend, look no further.

MOST USEFUL UNDER $15 GIFT

Carolina Amato Wool Texting Gloves

Spare her the wintery dilemma of choosing between using her phone or being able to feel her thumbs with a pair of wool texting gloves. 

IF SHE’S A YEAR-ROUND RUNNER

The North Face Etip Gloves

Another texting glove option because, realistically, it’s a universally appreciated gift for 2020. Here, The North Face’s top-rated Etip gloves. These are especially well-suited for athletes and runners. 

UNIVERSALLY USEFUL GIFT IDEA

AllSaintsTraveling Rib Scarf

This stylish, non-itchy scarf is an especially thoughtful gift for 2020 as she’ll be able to throw this over pajama tops on Zoom calls. 

IF SHE LOVES THE GREAT OUTDOORS

UGG Waterproof Adirondack Boot III

If you spend a lot of time in nature together, gift her the holy grail of waterproof snow boots: UGG’s Adirondack boot. Not only will these keep her toes from freezing next time you’re out hiking together, these will be easy Instagram bait. (UGGs are having a renaissance moment right now, by the way.) 

BEST UNDER $50 JEWELRY GIFT

Bryan Anthonys Grit Necklace

For the girlfriend who personifies the honorable trait of grit, this dainty pearl necklace will make for a romantic gift idea. 

IF SHE LOVES LUXE FRAGRANCES

Byredo Unnamed Eau de Parfum

This limited-edition release of Byredo’s unnamed perfume comes with three sheets of neon letter stickers for your S.O. to decide on the name. With notes of spicy ginger, icy gin, and pine, her to-be-named perfume sits as a gently woody scent.

IF SHE LOVES FLORAL FRAGRANCES

Chanel N°5 L’eau Eau de Toilette Spray

A modern, fresh rendition of Chanel’s legendary Chanel Nº5 , Nº5 L’Eau is a gift befitting sophisticated types. The scent is lighthearted with crisp top notes of lemon, mandarin, and orange.

GIFT THAT GIVES BACK

Nordstrom Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw

This best-selling plush blanket (1.8k ratings and counting) will make Netflix nights all the more snuggly. Plus, for every purchase this season, Nordstrom is donating a portion of proceeds to Operation Warm, an organization that provides winter coats to children.

IF SHE FANCIES A BOOZY BRUNCH

Uncommon Goods Minute Mimosa Sugar Cube Trio

If her beverage of choice is a mimosa, this cocktail-making set contains sugar cubes that when dropped into bubbly make a tasty mimosa or bellini in just a minute’s time. 

BEST HOLIDAY-THEMED SELF-CARE GIFT

Origins Body Souffle Trio to Smooth, Soften & Hydrate Gift Set

Presented in a nifty limited-edition Nutcracker gift box, this spa set ($51 value) contains a trio of super lush, skin-nourishing body creams. Here, a gift for your girlfriend that’s cheerful and useful for dry skin season.

EDITOR’S FAVORITE SWEATPANTS FOR HER

Alo Yoga Micro Waffle Fireside Sweatpants

If your girlfriend loves athleisure, I can’t recommend these sweats enough. These have a universally flattering fit and also look sleek enough to wear while running errands, too. 

IF SHE’S SWEET BUT NOT SAPPY

Never Fully Dressed Honey Text-Intarsia Knitted Jumper

No such thing as too many good knits. Here, a sleek and slightly oversized option (which is perfect if she’s constantly stealing your sweaters) that reads HONEY. 

MOST USEFUL GIFT IDEA

Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set

Everybody loves new hotel-like sheets and this set happens to be from what’s arguably the most beloved bedding brand on the internet. (This set alone has over 14k ratings.) The 480-count set includes a top sheet, fitted sheet, and 2 pillowcases. 

LUXE GIFT IDEA UNDER $100

Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

This cool to the touch silk pillowcase helps eliminate frizz and reduce crease lines as well. A luxe self-care gift that your girlfriend and quite frankly anyone on your shopping list will enjoy. 

MOST CUSTOMIZABLE GIFT FOR HER

Roam Luggage The Jaunt XL Carry-On Suitcase

If she has an eye for design, surprise her with a gift card to editor-loved luggage brand Roam, where she can completely customize her own carry-on. (To my left, a screenshot of a design I mocked up.) I personally recommend the Jaunt XL Carry-On option as this size is large enough to pack 3-6 days of outfits and is allowed on almost all domestic flights. Even though most of us might not be traveling right now, this will make for a thoughtful gift as it’ll express your excitement for future adventures together.

TIMELESS FASHION GIFT

AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket

AllSaints remains the cat’s meow of leather jackets even after all these years. If you’re after a luxe gift that will be a surprise, this timeless wardrobe staple is it. Editor’s note: I personally own this model and can attest to it working with everything in my closet.

SPA DAY GIFT IDEA

Percy and Reed Eau My Goodness Collection

If one of her favorite things in the world is getting her hair done, this set from London-based (but internationally known) salon Percy & Reed will make for a thoughtful surprise. Containing styling must-haves such as dry shampoo and volumizing hairspray in gorgeous packaging, their products not only work wonders, but smell like an idyllic English countryside retreat as well. 

CHICEST LOUNGEWEAR GIFT

Karen Millen Knit Soft Yarn Hooded Sweater

Editor’s Note: I found this soft-as-butter knit hoodie a few weeks ago after a months long search for a hooded sweater that I could wear with jeans and sweats all the same. (For better or worse, my inspiration an off-duty celebrity look.) I can’t recommend this versatile piece enough if you’re after a cozy loungewear gift. 

BEST GIFT FOR ORGANIZED TYPES

Rifle Paper Co. Strawberry Fields 2021 Planner

Whether she’s the super organized type or not, this planner will be helpful for balancing her many pursuits. 

IF SHE LOVES STATEMENT JEWELRY

Mounser Gold White Cap Earrings

Parisian jewelry brand Mounser’s pieces aren’t the faint of heart. Befitting glamorous types, these drop earrings from their latest collection make for a gift that’s certain to dazzle. 


Commerce Content Manager
Jaimie Potters is the Commerce Content Manager at Hearst Magazines Digital Media, where she covers fashion, beauty, tech and more.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io



This post originally appeared on and written by:
1
Men’s Health

Share
Filed Under: Essentials
Source: