Style

Gifts Under $50: Affordable Stocking Stuffers That Are Actually Super Thoughtful

by Marie Lodi

The holidays are a good time to show the people around us how much we appreciate them, and what better way to do that than with a thoughtful gift? Whether it’s for our friends, family, neighbors, or other loved ones in our community, a unique gift can be the perfect way to show them how much they mean to us. And the best gifts don’t have to break the bank. You can find something at Macy’s for practically anyone on your list, from your makeup-loving bestie to the coworker who considers themselves an amateur mixologist, all without doing serious damage to your wallet.

If you need some guidance in the gift-giving department, we have your back. Because if there’s anyone who knows a thing or two about finding great items at covetable prices, it’s Karen Blanchard. The fashion expert loves sharing her shopping finds on her YouTube channel, and did us a favor by picking out some incredible Macy’s stocking stuffers that are under $50 (including the perfect pandemic-friendly tech gadget and a satin sleep set that looks so relaxing, you might want to snag one for yourself).

Watch the video to see Blanchard’s tips on how to find unique, affordable stocking stuffers for the loved ones in your community, then click through as you view to shop the video in real time. When you're done, read ahead to grab them for your shopping list.

1. For Someone Who’s Starting To Experiment With Makeup

Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette
Urban Decay
If you know someone who’s getting into makeup for the first time, eyeshadow is a fairly non-intimidating place to start. Blanchard likes this Urban Decay palette for its neutral shades that work well for a variety of skin tones.

2. For The Wine Enthusiast In Your Life

Antler Bottle Stopper
Thirstystone
Got a friend who always has time for wine o’clock? Get them a unique accessory. “I bet no one has a fancy bottle stopper, so get this for someone who you know loves a good glass of wine,” says Blanchard.

3. For The Amateur Mixologist Who Makes a Killer Cocktail

Up to Snow Good Flask Set
TMD Holdings
If you've got a friend who's serious about their holiday cocktail recipe, they’ll appreciate this themed flask. “The flask set is brilliant for the colder weather,” says Blanchard. “It’s exactly what I would want when walking around New York on a really cold day.”

4. For The Hard-Working Neighbor Who Loves A Beauty Moment

2-Pc. Heavy Dose All Nighter Setting Spray Gift Set
Urban Decay
Everyone who loves makeup needs a good setting spray on hand, especially if they’re always on the go. “I have this All Night Setting Spray from Urban Outfitters and it does exactly what it says it will,” says Blanchard, adding, “I love that they come in smaller sizes for touch-ups during the day.”

5. For The Jewelry-Loving Teacher

Gold-Tone Initial Disc Pendant Necklace , 17" + 3" extender
Kate Spade New York
If you know a teacher who is rarely seen without jewelry, add a touch of personalization to make their gift extra special. “Initial pendants are the fastest way to give someone a personalized gift,” says Blanchard. “This one is simple enough for anyone’s taste and it’s a perfect laying piece with other necklaces.”

6. For The Friend Who Seriously Loves Sweets

Holiday Hot Cocoa Chocolate Gift Box, 3 Tin Set
Godiva
We all have that person who is difficult to shop for. If you know they have a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with fancy hot chocolate, says Blanchard, who also wouldn’t mind this gift for herself: “I’m always hunting for the perfect hot chocolate and this is the sort of gift I wouldn’t mind for me!”

7. For Your Tech-Loving Family Member

ionUV Phone Sanitizer with aromatherapy
Tzumi
When it comes to pandemic-specific gifts, this is one of them, and it's also a fun choice for gadget-savvy family members. Blanchard points out that this handy gift would get used from day one. “It beats wiping down a phone and the simple case it comes with makes it easy for traveling,” she says.

8. For The Friend Who Wants To Finally Achieve Their Dream Brow

Brow Microfilling Eyebrow Pen
Benefit Cosmetics
“Benefit does such great brow products, and this one looks like an easy way to get the boy brow vibe without having to be perfect with it,” says Blanchard. “With everyone wearing masks more, the eyebrows are even more important to frame our eyes.” Grab this brow pen for a friend and maybe even one for yourself, while you’re at it.

9. For The Coworker Who Always Complains That They’re Cold

Rib Solid Beanie With Lurex
Style & Co
A cozy beanie is another good gift for someone who is a little hard to shop for, especially if they’re sensitive to cold weather. “The person you give this to will probably hit the ground running with it. The temperatures are dropping, so this is a good stocking stuffer,” says Blanchard.

10. For the Mom Who Wants Their Beauty Sleep

Pink Satin Sleep 3pc Gift Set
Kitsch
It’s been a stressful year, and everyone could use a good night’s rest — especially moms. Plus, the satin fabric has extra benefits, as Blanchard points out: “Satin pillowcases are perfect for looking after our skin and hair, too.”