By Isabella Biedenharn
Holiday shopping season is here, and if you’re like us, your list of friends and family can sometimes feel bigger than your budget. To help out, we’ve enlisted our Gifting Squad — four style experts who have curated a selection of on-trend gifts for everyone on your list. You’ll hear from The Zoe Report’s Contributing Style Director Nicky Deam, Fashion and Beauty Tastemaker Farah Pink, Home and Lifestyle Expert Erik Conover, and Bustle’s Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor Sarah Tan. Best of all, each handpicked gift checks out at under $100, and you can find all of them at Macy’s.
Whether you’re shopping for someone who treats every sidewalk like their personal runway, or someone who prefers to snuggle up in their apartment with the latest home spa must-haves, you’ll find a gift that’s perfect for everyone on your list.
For The Zoe Report’s Contributing Style Director Nicky Deam, the best way to gift on a budget is to go bold. “Go for bigger statement finds that feel substantial without costing an arm and a leg,” she advises. In addition to their more significant feel, Deam says, standout items like these are just plain fun.
“People typically buy themselves sensible pieces,” she explains, “so it’s fun to give them something with a bit of novelty value. I’m loving colorful finds, like this bold red Nike sweatsuit set.” Another tip: Test whether or not the item you’re considering fits with your giftee’s overall style. “Try to envision the person wearing the gift with something they already own.”
Fashion and beauty tastemaker Farah Pink ensures the gifts her friends and family unwrap always feel unique to them. “I make style focused gifts feel personal by keeping the recipient’s personality and lifestyle in mind while shopping,” she says. Could your work wife use some serious me-time? Consider an Indecor Spa Bath Gift Set, complete with a bath fizz, scented candle, and more.
“I love giving gifts that are practical and will be put to use,” she says. To get the most bang for your buck, Pink advises starting early: “Make a list, keep an eye on sales, and remember it’s the thought that counts.”
Buying gifts to fit someone’s decor style can be just as tricky as trying to match their wardrobe. “When I’m buying someone a gift for the home, it’s important to think about their interests and decor,” says home and lifestyle expert Erik Conover. He suggests imagining that you’re sitting on their couch in their living room to see whether what you’re considering aligns with their vibe.
Another clever way to gift? Consider items that make any place feel like home. “I like to shop for gifts that can be used in the home or on the road,” Conover says.”I have a lot of friends who travel [frequently], so whether they’re flying across the world next week or just want a good night’s sleep at home, I’m going to send them the Silken Slumber Black Silk Eye Mask.”
If you’re shopping for a beauty guru (or are one yourself), Bustle Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor Sara Tan says the key is to make sure it’s something the person will actually use. “I wouldn’t want to give a bright red lipstick to a friend who I know only wears nude glosses,” she explains. “At the same time, there are lots of great beauty gifts that are universally loved — everyone needs a good skincare set or hair dryer.”
And if you really want to stretch your dollars, Tan says, “Consider buying a gift set and then divvying up the products for individual gifts.” Presents for your whole team without breaking the bank? Sounds like a holiday miracle.
