This holiday season, we’ve found the gifts that feel great to get and even better to give. Shop our collection of editor-approved holiday gift guides here.
As a Gen Z editor, I've heard that us 13-to-27-year-olds are intimidating and hard to shop for. Well, fear not: I’ve curated holiday gift ideas that your coolest, youngest giftee will not only not hate, but actually really like.
There are a few things to remember when you’re shopping for Gen Z, which I’ve channeled into this gift guide. We’re tech-savvy, self-deprecating, confident, and passionately outspoken. We care about wellness and sustainability (because we were born into a dying planet), we live on TikTok (no explanation needed), and we definitely love to feel appreciated via a good present (just like everyone else).
Flip through the following slides for a lesson in what’s at the very top of my generation’s wish list this holiday season — there's everything music-themed gifts, cutesy tech, trending handbags, viral beauty collabs, and even BookTok suggestions. And lucky you, most of them come in under $50!
So, I present to you the best gifts for Gen Z that won’t gain an eye roll, and will grant you best gift-giver status.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Bubble Dazzling Days SetBubble is an inherently Gen Z-coded brand thanks to its playful packaging and budget-friendly pricing. I use several of its skincare products because they’re soothing on my sensitive skin — and will be asking for a refresh of this three-step routine, which includes a limited-edition sparkling moisturizer bottle and festive candy cane lip balm. Shop Bubble Bubble Dazzling Days 3-Step Refresh Routine, $, available at BubbleCamkory Digital Point and Shoot Compact CameraFeel like you just jumped backwards 20 years? Gen Z is obsessed with the digital cameras of yesteryear. This nostalgic present promises to get you on the nice list, and to capture their most important moments. Shop Amazon Camkory Small Digital 44MP Point and Shoot Compact Camera, $, available at AmazonFree People Suki Sparkle BonnetKnit hoods and balacavas are the ultimate cool-girl winter accessory, and this sparkling under-$100 style from Free People is at the top of my list. Shop Free People Free People Suki Sparkle Bonnet, $, available at Free PeoplePrep & Savour 7-Piece Japanese Matcha Tea SetThis set is a thoughtful present for all matcha lovers, whether they’re Gen Z or older. Pair it with powder from your giftee’s favorite matcha brand and you’re set to earn best gift-giver status. Shop Wayfair Prep & Savour 7-Piece Japanese Matcha Tea Set, $, available at Wayfair8 Impressions Do You Want a House Tour Graphic TeeLast year, our addition of a Chappel Roan graphic tee was the most scooped up gift. And this year, we’re leaning into the Sabrina Carpenter It-girl mania. This tee, which conceptualizes the singer’s song “House Tour” and her concert tour stage is bound to be a favorite among your Gen Z friends and family. Shop Etsy 8 Impressions Do You Want a House Tour? Graphic Tee, $, available at EtsyLululemon Double RollerWhether they’re a Pilates princess or a gym rat, this stylish set of foam rollers is a thoughtful and practical gift that’ll help release tension and improve post-workout recovery. Shop Lululemon Lululemon Double Roller, $, available at LululemonSunday & Clay DIY Air Dry Clay Pottery KitWhether pottery is already their favorite hobby, or you’re looking to invigorate this hands-on passion, an air dry clay kit is a generous gift. Because while not everyone will be able to afford or have time for pottery classes, they can easily create bowls or figurines in the comfort of their own home. Shop Etsy Sunday & Clay Mini DIY Air Dry Clay Pottery Kit, $, available at EtsyPop Mart Crybaby Sad Club Series Plushie Earbud CaseFor those still all in on the Labubu craze, I recommend checking out Pop Mart’s other popular series like Crybaby and Skullpanda to grow your Gen Z giftee’s collection. This Crybaby plushie doubles as a keychain or bag charm and earbud case, making the adorable accessory actually functional. Shop Urban Outfitters Pop Mart Crybaby Sad Club Series Plushie Earbud Case, $, available at Urban OutfittersIntelligent Change The Five Minute JournalWith the importance of wellness top of mind for most of Gen Z, a journal makes for a thoughtful gift. This five-minute journal is intended for the busiest giftee, and includes short prompts to help practice gratitude and improve well-being. It’ll become their new routine and bedside table staple. Shop Intelligent Change Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal, $, available at Intelligent ChangeTouchland Whipped Bliss Discovery Duo SetListen, Gen Z loves their hand sanitizer. And they especially love Touchland, which almost serves as a status symbol now. This hand sanitizer and body mist duo is a personal favorite, and always comes with me no matter how many times I change out my bags. Shop Touchland Touchland Whipped Bliss Discovery Duo Set, $, available at touchlandDamson Madder Reversible Jerry Crop Trench CoatIf you’re looking to impress your hard-to-shop-for Gen Z giftee, any style from viral British brand Damson Madder will get you cool-friend status. Right now, I’m really into this reversible coat with a detachable triangle scarf for maximum versatility. Shop Damson Madder Damson Madder Reversible Jerry Crop Trench Coat, $, available at Damson MadderA Court of Thorns and Roses Paperback Box SetOne of the most popular book series on the market (with a resurgence from BookTok) is A Court of Thorns and Roses. The fantasy romance series is a no-brainer for the reader in your life, who will appreciate this generous box set. Shop Barnes & Noble Sarah J. Maas "A Court of Thorns and Roses" Paperback Box Set, $, available at Barnes & NobleOlivia Dean The Art Of Loving VinylThe people’s princess Olivia Dean is a fan-favorite artist among Gen Z listeners, who’s only getting more and more popular by the day. So we promise that a record of the singer’s latest album The Art Of Loving will be a welcomed addition to their vinyl rack. Shop Urban Outfitters Olivia Dean "The Art Of Loving" LP, $, available at Urban OutfittersWoobles Pearls of Woobledom BundleFor knitters and crocheters, help spark joy in their lives with an adorable mini crocheted character that they can feel pride in putting together. This specific design is also perfect for plant parents. It even comes with a tiny hanger to proudly display it like an actual string-of-pearls plant. Shop Woobles Woobles Pearls of Woobledom Bundle, $, available at WooblesBaggu Medium Nylon Crescent BagCool-kid brand Baggu is beloved for its joyful designs, from reusable shopping totes to nylon crescent bags. You can’t go wrong with any of the brand’s styles, but we’re eyeing this festive style for the holiday season. Shop Urban Outfitters Baggu Small Nylon Crescent Bag, $, available at Urban OutfittersWe’re Not Really Strangers Core Game + Honest Dating EditionThis card game is great for bringing couples, families, and friends together beyond a superficial level. These core cards and extra dating cards are especially suited for Gen Z, who want to get below any superficial levels and have vulnerable conversations. Shop Amazon We're Not Really Strangers Core Game + Honest Dating Edition, $, available at AmazonChillhouse Minimalist Bundle Chill TipsElevate your gift recipient's manicure game with these chic subtle nail designs. Chillhouse’s press-on nails are bestsellers, and these minimalist designs are sure to complement anyone’s style or vibe. Shop Chillhouse Chillhouse Minimalist Bundle Chill Tips, $, available at ChillhouseHello Joy Lab The Life of a Showcat Coffee MugThis one’s for the Swifties (and cat owners). This Life of a Showgirl-inspired mug reimagines Taylor Swift as a funny feline, and it’s sure to make your giftee’s coffee drinking experience a bit more cheerful. Shop Etsy Hello Joy Lab The Life of a Showcat Coffee Mug,, $, available at EtsyStuds Bow Starter SetI love Studs for its gold hoops, dainty studs, and comfortable flat backs, which don’t poke me while I sleep. I recommend gifting an earring bundle to get the most bang for your buck. This adorable bow set is sure to bring a smile to your giftee’s face and extra sparkle to their earscape. Shop Studs Studs Bow Starter Set, $, available at StudsPuma Speedcat Ballet SneakersOne of the hottest sneakers on the market is the Puma Speedcat; more specifically the ballet sneaker adaptation. Choose between several funky colors, like metallic silver, and even prints, like leopard print for a funky and unexpected addition to your giftee’s shoe collection. Shop Puma PUMA Speedcat Ballet Sneakers, $, available at PUMAr.e.m. beauty x Wicked Glinda Makeup SetIf your giftee hasn’t already carted up limited-edition sets from r.e.m beauty’s Wicked collaboration, this is your chance to make their day. Ariana Grande's makeup brand is already popular among young people, but this tie to her Wicked character, Galinda, is even more sought-after and gift-worthy. Shop Ulta r.e.m. beauty x Wicked Glinda Makeup Set, $, available at UltaBose SoundLink Flex Portable SpeakerDust-, rust-, and water-proof, this portable speaker has a 12-hour battery, which means it’s built for all-day play from the city to the sea. That’s a whole lot of Spotify “daylists” to help soundtrack your giftee’s everyday adventures. Shop Bose Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker, $, available at BoseCoachtopia Shoulder Bag In Upcrafted Haircalf With Cow PrintCoach’s sub-brand, Coachtopia, is like its younger, cooler sister, so if you have a young, cool giftee you’re shopping for, scope out its Y2K-inspired shoulder bags. Shop Coach Coachtopia Shoulder Bag In Upcrafted Haircalf With Cow Print, $, available at CoachDedCool x Calpak Boarding BundleWhen your favorite fragrance brand and travel brand merge (like for the sold-out Béis x Rare Beauty collab), it’s a no brainer to cart up. This DedCool and Calpak bundle is travel-ready, including the bestselling clear cosmetic case along with mini-sized spray, body wash, lotion, and even air fresheners for the road trip lovers. Shop Calpak DedCool x Calpak Boarding Bundle, $, available at Calpak— PAID — Vice & Virtue Go All In Bundle Give them an entire skin care routine that takes clean beauty to a whole new level. Vice & Virtue™️ products are formulated for all ages and include hormone-friendly ingredients housed in FYP-worthy, non-toxic packaging. What that means: The brand steers clear of 100-plus chemicals that could potentially harm the skin or disrupt our hormone balance (other brands typically avoid 50 to 60 chemicals), so there’s no unnecessary exposure to harmful substances. It’s skin care that actually *cares* — and perhaps that’s the greatest gift of all. Shop Vice & Virtue Vice & Virtue Go All In Bundle, $, available at Vice & VirtueLululemon Fleece Everywhere Belt Bag 1LLululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag has become one of the brand’s hero products, which means the athleisurewear-obsessed may already own the brand’s original nylon version. I recommend adding to their collection with a more festive (constantly sold-out) fleece style, with new pink and green options available. Shop Lululemon Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Fleece, $, available at LululemonFlaire & Co. Dainty Zodiac Gold NecklaceWhether your giftee is into astrology (or just really into themselves and their own sign), an elevated zodiac pendant will certainly delight them. These dainty ones are available on three chain lengths for some customization. Shop Flaire & Co. Flaire & Co. Dainty Zodiac Gold Necklace, $, available at Flaire & Co.KirkGiftsStore Midwest Princess Graphic T-ShirtAt this point, I'm sure you’ve heard of Chappell Roan, no matter your age or music preference — and I assure you that your giftee is likely a fan. Cart up a not-so-kitschy graphic T-shirt inspired by Roan’s The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess album. Shop Etsy KirkGiftsStore Midwest Princess Graphic T-Shirt, $, available at EtsyUgg Classic Chillapeak BootsUgg boots have been a tried-and-true holiday present for a while, and Gen Z have certainly latched onto them. Since puffer boots and furry boots are trending, consider this new plush platform pair. Shop Ugg Ugg Women's Classic Chillapeak, $, available at UggVelvet Caviar Dolce Vita Glitter AirPod CaseKeep your giftee’s tech as stylish as they are. Velvet Caviar’s phone, earphone, and laptop cases come in a range of cheerful designs, like this whimsical print and heart-shaped carabiner. Shop Velvet Caviar Velvet Caviar Dolce Vita Glitter AirPod Case, $, available at Velvet CaviarE.l.f. Glow for the Holiday KitLooking for an under-$50 gift for the skincare- and makeup-obsessed on your list? Check out E.l.f.’s affordable holiday kit. The combination of these best-selling products — including this editor’s favorite lip oil and face cream — will help make your giftee’s face glimmer and glow throughout the holiday season and beyond. Shop E.l.f. ELF Cosmetics Glow for the Holiday Kit, $, available at ELF CosmeticsBaggu Crescent Bag CharmBag charms are trending among Gen Z… so why not get a literal bag charm? This keychain in the shape of a Baggu is the perfect sidekick for your giftee’s oversized totes, shoulder bags, and crossbodies to hold keys, gum, and chapstick. Shop Baggu Baggu Crescent Bag Charm, $, available at BagguIntelligent Change The Five Minute JournalWith the importance of wellness top of mind for most Gen Z, a journal makes for a thoughtful gift. This five-minute journal is intended for the busiest giftee, and includes short prompts to help practice gratitude and improve well-being. It’ll become their favorite thing on their bedside table. Shop Intelligent Change Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal, $, available at Intelligent ChangeWicked x Shark Limited-Edition FlexStyle The Wicked movie has brought a new generation of fans to the original Broadway show, especially with all the collaborations coming out to celebrate its arrival in theaters. Get the giftee who always has great hair a green-and-pink ombre FlexStyle tool that’ll grant them curls as voluminous as Glinda’s. Shop Shark Shark WICKED x Shark FlexStyle® Limited-Edition, $, available at SharkString Ting Steel My Heart Midnight Wristlet Phone StrapGive the gift of arm candy this season with a TikTok-approved wristlet strap. Your giftee can hook it onto their phone case or digital camera, serving as a stylish and functional tech accessory to match their personal style. (Charli XCX even has this exact style on her phone, as seen in a recent Dazed interview — very brat!). Shop String Ting String Ting Steel My Heart Midnight Wristlet Phone Strap, $, available at String TingSabrina Carpenter Cherry Baby Eau De ParfumThe “Espresso” singer recently released the third iteration of her Sweet Tooth fragrance, Cherry Baby. It can be a bit difficult to track down the popular scent, but we found it just in time for the holidays. Shop Amazon Sabrina Carpenter Cherry Baby Eau De Parfum, $, available at AmazonLisa Says Gah Archie Throw BlanketAnything from this Gen Z-approved brand is a big “yes” from me, but this throw blanket that comes in a range of trending bow and cow prints is a quirky yet mature gift idea to elevate their space. Shop Lisa Says Gah Lisa Says Gah Archie Throw Blanket, $, available at Lisa Says GahWe’re Not Really Strangers Friendship Edition Card GameThis card game is great for bringing couples, families, and friends together beyond a superficial level. This friendship edition is especially suited for Gen Z, who know the importance of genuine friends and vulnerable (and fun) conversations. Shop Amazon We're Not Really Strangers Friendship Edition Card Game, $, available at AmazonCoachtopia Checkerboard Leather Small Wavy Shoulder BagCoach’s new sub-brand, Coachtopia, is like its younger, cooler sister, so if you have a young, cool giftee you’re shopping for, scope out its Y2K-inspired shoulder bags. Shop Coach Coachtopia Alter/Ego Small Wavy Shoulder Bag In Checkerboard Upcra, $, available at CoachBose SoundLink Flex Portable SpeakerDust-, rust-, and water-proof, this portable speaker has a 12-hour battery, which means it’s built for all-day play from the city to the sea. That’s a whole lot of Spotify “daylists” to help soundtrack your giftee’s everyday adventures. Shop Bose Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker (2nd Gen), $, available at BoseChamberlain Coffee Matcha & Mason Jar BundleAs one of the faces of Gen Z, Emma Chamberlain is always at the top of her game, from her vulnerable vlogs and quirky red-carpet interviews to her cutesy namesake coffee brand. Chamberlain Coffee has a host of flavored coffee beans, canned cold brews, and drink accessories. If you’re looking to stay with the times, gift a matcha bundle that’ll make everyone else green with envy. Shop Amazon Chamberlain Coffee Matcha & Mason Jar Bundle, $, available at AmazonCamkory Point and Shoot Digital CameraFeel like you just jumped backwards 20 years? Well, you haven’t — but Gen Z is obsessed with the digital cameras of yesteryear. This nostalgic present promises to get you on the nice list, and to capture their most important moments. Shop Amazon Camkory Point and Shoot Digital Cameras with 32GB SD Card, $, available at AmazonAriana Grande LOVENOTES Pink Woods Eau de ParfumRound out their Ariana Grande perfume collection with the triple threat’s newest fragrance. The warm, woodsy, and citrusy scent is a bit more grown-up than her previous releases, maturing through the years — just like your giftee. Shop Ulta Ariana Grande LOVENOTES Pink Woods Eau de Parfum, $, available at UltaCerezaStudios X Pearl Movie Franchise Pin SetI promise you that most of Gen Z are obsessed with A24 movies. The X horror trilogy (which includes Pearl and MaXXXine) brought us frights and viral “I’m a star” memes. And since personalization is in, gift this three-pin pack to upgrade their jackets and totes. Shop Etsy CerezaStudios X Pearl Series Horror Movie Pin Set, $, available at EtsyLaneige Candy Cane Divine Lip DuoLaneige’s celebrity-, editor-, and Gen Z-approved lip masks are sure to put a smile on your giftee’s face. This sweet beauty bundle includes the brand’s popular Lip Glowy Balm in candy cane, to ensure lips stay soft and sweet all day and night. Shop Laneige Laneige Divine Lip Duo, $, available at LaneigeAdidas x Wales Bonner Samba Desert White SneakersSambas were certainly one of the sneakers of 2024, and there’s no sign of them going out of style in the new year. While you can opt for a classic pair, your giftee will truly stand out from the crowd if you surprise them with a pair from Adidas’ nearly-sold-out Wales Bonner collaboration. Shop Farfetch Adidas x Wales Bonner Samba Desert White Sneakers, $, available at FarfetchThreePotatoFourCo Oat Milk Money Squeeze Coin PouchIf you’re looking for an inexpensive stocking stuffer, this quirky coin pouch keychain is great for vegan milk drinkers. You can even stuff it with some cash, or pair it with an e-gift card to their go-to coffee spot so they can get their oat milk fix. Shop Etsy ThreePotatoFourCo Oat Milk Money Rubber Squeeze Coin Pouch, $, available at EtsyOwala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water BottleChances are, if you’ve glanced around a busy gym or school campus, you’ve seen numerous colorful Owala bottles all around. The brand and its bestselling FreeSip bottle that’s constantly released in new color combinations are Gen Z-approved. Shop Amazon Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Str, $, available at AmazonGlossier Birthday Cake CandleOne of Glossier’s most popular scents is Birthday Cake, and, although I'm pretty confident that you’re browsing for holiday gifts rather than birthday presents, your giftee will love having their space smell like funfetti all year long with this 10-year anniversary candle. Shop Glossier Glossier Birthday Cake Candle, $, available at GlossierKaja Jelly Charm Glazed Lip Stain & BlushI personally love a multi-purpose gift, so this lip and cheek stain is a no-brainer for fellow beauty lovers. The K-Beauty product offers a jelly glazed finish, and the packaging’s keychain with charms is as adorable as it is functional. Shop Sephora Kaja Jelly Charm Glazed Lip Stain & Blush With Keychain, $, available at SephoraUncommon Goods Bubble Tea KitSave your giftee a few dollars from their constant runs to the bubble tea shop with an at-home kit. This reader-favorite set comes with two loose leaf teas, tapioca pearls, and two reusable stainless steel straws. Shop Uncommon Goods Uncommon Goods Bubble Tea Kit, $, available at Uncommon GoodsLittle Words Project x Wicked “Popular” Bead BraceletWith friendship bracelets becoming a fashion and concert must-have — and a whole new generation discovering and embracing Wicked for the first time — this design will make you the most “popular” gift-giver. Shop Little Words Project Little Words Project x Wicked Popular Bead Bracelet, $, available at Little Words ProjectTicketmaster E-Gift CardThis editor spends most of her money on concerts, like most Gen Z who prefer splurging on experiences rather than products. And with live events costing a pretty penny these days, a Ticketmaster gift card at any dollar amount will help secure tickets to the best concerts, sports games, comedy shows, and more. Shop Ticketmaster ticketmaster E-Gift Card, $, available at Ticketmaster
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