Call me boring, but I think the best gifts are the ones I use every day. It means this person pays attention wants and needs at the moment. Here are some high-quality necessities that would make excellent gifts for your more practical (or any) friend or loved one:
1. Water Bottles and Thermoses
My dance studio gave me a Swell bottle at the end of the year for student teaching and I used it every day. Water bottles are something we have, but it was one of the best gifts I received since I wouldn't spend more than $10 on one.
2. Socks and Slippers
I read a book that said socks are the least romantic gift, but we wear them all the time. Pick a pair of festive socks or just some nice, thick boot socks for the cold seasons. Unicorn slippers from Forever 21 add a whimsical twist.
3. Their Favorite Smells
Another favorite gift was sample gift set of Victoria Secret body sprays. One of them eventually became my signature scents. And if you pay attention to your friends close enough, you can buy them a new body spray if they're running low or buy a scent you're sure they'll like. Bath and Body Works also has their famous, annual holiday collection already in handy gift sets that last for a couple of months. Never run out of vanilla scented body wash until next year.
4. Mugs
A good friend of mine collects mugs, so I found one that fit her minimalistic, vintage style with a cat on it. They make great containers for other small details like candy canes and stationary. They're easily personalized and customizable, so there is a mug for every person out there.
5. Cute Stationary
Since I'm an obsessive notetaker, I always asked my friends for notebooks and pens as gifts. Sometimes, I treat myself to a small journal from Target, but one the most useful and memorable gifts was a crystal pen from my teacher. Another friend got me a Vera Bradley agenda and a matching pen. Even though everything is switching over to digital, college students need some kind of paper and pen.
6. Electronic Accessories
You can never have enough portable chargers, headphones, or cords as spares or keeping them in different places so your phone or other electronics are never dead. They're great for long concerts so you capture every moment or any other long, but exciting event.
7. Scarves and Hats
Whether it's below 0 or a chilly 50 degrees, scarves and hats are useful accessories to keep the cold out. Add some to your collection.
8. Throw Blankets
Find a nice, soft patterned blanket in their favorite color, design, or even brand to add some extra warmth during the holidays. It could also be festive and brought out to add some holiday cheer!
9. Pajamas
Sure, an oversized t-shirt and athletic shorts work okay as pajamas, make sleeping a little more comfortable for the hard worker with some nice pajamas. I highly recommend Aerie for all your sleepwear needs this winter.
10. Lanyards and Keychains
Help your friends find their keys are ever lost with some extra identifiers. On a college campus, most people will buy the same cheap one from the bookstore, but if adding a little extra something can help them describe their keys and serve as a constant reminder of your friendship.
11. Gift Cards or Money
This isn't a cop-out. If you know your friend is saving up for a big investment, help them out with that or give a little something to help them save. It could be a gift card to their favorite clothing store, Starbucks, or a general visa for errands. This is a big picture kind of gift. Be sure to mention it in the well-written, thoughtful card you're going to write.
Whatever you decide to give this holiday season, personalizing these simple gifts are an extra step. It could be their favorite color, brand, pattern, or any association that makes you think of them. Paying attention to those details make any gift more special.
