16 Affordable & Crowd-Pleasing Gift Ideas For Everyone

Looking to stick to a budget this holiday season without compromising on style or quality? You might be doubtful, but don’t worry: There are tons of flawless, cheap gift ideas right under your nose. One strategy: Go for useful, smaller-ticket items like stocking stuffers from your favorite brands instead of generic seasonal trinkets that will likely collect dust (or, worse yet, be regifted). Free People’s gift shop has a collection of home decor items like candles and unique games as well as everyday staples like socks for under $50. Lululemon and Everlane have affordable options, too. All you need to do is shop with the recipients’ hobbies and preferences in mind, include a thoughtful note, and take the time to wrap each item beautifully.

To get you started, we’ve curated a long list of buzzy and affordable gifts for every recipient on your list — and nothing is over $50. These well-designed presents are sure to not only spark joy but also be used. The challenge might be not to order everything for yourself, too.

Ahead, browse our 16 best cheap gifts, starting from just $8. (Yes, $8.)

Gifts Under $10

The best presents at this price point tend to be practical — lotions, hair clips, food gifts, and small decor items — but also creatively packaged and made. You can gift each item individually, or, if your budget allows, put together small themed sets to suit the recipient.

The plant parents in your life can always use a stylish planter, and beauty-lovers will adore this Burt’s Bees moisturizing essentials set and these crease-free hair clips for when they’re getting ready. For your cousins who are always up for a good time and in the mood to celebrate, there’s a quirky cocktail kit with everything they’ll need.

Gifts Under $20

On a $20 budget, you can definitely begin to peruse the clothing sections, like for a pair of retro socks, a chic hat, or a fashionable workout tank.

Abercrombie & Fitch and Free People have all the affordable accessories to spruce a casual look into a fabulous one. Looking for a hat for your upcoming tropical vacay? A&F has got you covered. Searching for a pair of socks to pull over your joggers for that vintage aesthetic? Head straight to Free People.

Gifts Under $30

Most of our under-$30 picks are gender-neutral, revolve around home decor, and are great for a broad range of ages. Whether you’re looking for a new makeup pouch, revamping your parent’s bedroom with a set of ultra-soft bedsheets and a lamp, or gifting your grandma a new monogram coffee mug, you’ll find it here.

Gifts Under $50

These under-$50 gift ideas are luxe yet affordable. We’re talking about a miniature version of Diptyque’s legendary Baies candles, a snuggly faux-fur throw, and a comfy robe to lounge about in. You might even want to order multiples for the favorite people on your list because these are top-quality crowd-pleasing gifts. Plus, these items work together for a stylish, cozy day in — if you want to treat yourself to some much-needed R&R.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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27 Gifts For The Woman Who Wants Nothing This Holiday Season

We all have those people in our lives — ones who say they don't want anything for the holidays. But, come gift-giving season and they're handing you a meticulously wrapped, thoughtful present, and you can't really be empty-handed. What then makes a good gift for the hard-to-please person?

If they have their go-to wardrobe essentials or favorites, look to upgraded versions of those. Like a loungewear gift that includes some cashmere slippers or fluffy socks that don't come in a pack of five. Did they turn into a homebody over the course of the pandemic? Gift them everything they need for a luxe night in or to throw a dinner party.

Ahead, 27 foolproof gifts to thrill the fashion-loving person in your life who claims to want nothing this year.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Brother Vellies Something Special

For anyone who loves all things small-batch, artisan, and sustainable, Brother Vellies' Something Special subscription guarantees, as the name suggests, something special every month. Past deliveries include Oaxaca clay mugs, Ethiopian coffee, and wooden combs from Kenya.

Alternatively, you can buy these cloud-like socks that were part of the Something Special drop early on. Proceeds from the Lavender pair fund Brother Vellies' mask-making and food-distribution initiative in Kenya.

Brother Vellies Cloud Sock, $, available at Brother Vellies

Longchamp Knit Mini Bag

Not only will this designer shopping bag — in a festive black-and-gold lurex thread — replace your recipient's errand-day tote for good, but it's also incredibly versatile. Place a printed scarf or a piece of fabric on the inside, and you can go from a farmer's market run (as seen in Emily in Paris) to a dinner date.

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Crossbody Bag, $, available at Longchamp

AYR Button-Down

A quality button-down for the person who has committed to a capsule wardrobe life. The "Aperitif" colorway will also be a hit with the Coastal Grandma aesthetic fans.

AYR The Deep End Shirt, $, available at AYR

By Far Refillable Fragrance Charm

The newest category launch from By Far, this fully customizable kit includes one of seven perfumes from the It accessories brand, as well as a refillable fragrance charm with a strap that can be attached to a handbag (my pick: Dulce Long shoulder bag). Consider it a stylish accessory for your favorite accessory.

By Far Refillable Fragrance Charm, $, available at By Far

Harper Wilde Sleep Shirt

Upgrade the giftee who still sleeps in their ripped college tee to this uber-comfortable sleep shirt from intimates brand Harper Wilde's first-ever sleepwear line.

Harper Wilde Cozy Pima Sleep Shirt, $, available at Harper Wilde

The Clear Cut Bandit

Your newly engaged friend (it's the season!) doesn't know yet that she needs this wrist band, with a zipper pocket, to keep her ring safe when on-the-go or working out. After she starts using Clear Cut's Bandit though, she won't leave the house without it.

The Clear Cut "Something Blue" Bandit, $, available at The Clear Cut

Marimekko x Mansur Gavriel Bag

While, according to Lyst's Year in Fashion report, Jacquemus x Nike was the collaboration of the year, we are still not over the partnership between handbag favorite Mansur Gavriel and Finnish design house Marimekko, which resulted in this strawberry print bucket bag that we wouldn't mind seeing under the tree come Christmas morning.

Marimekko x Mansur Gavriel Mini Bucket Bag, $, available at Mansur Gavriel

Stone And Strand Earring

Made for minimalist jewelry lovers, this adjustable threader earring can be worn in a variety of ways, making for a versatile addition to any earlobe.

Stone and Strand Extra Long Gold Threader Earring, $, available at Stone and Strand

8 Oak Lane Wine Clutch

For your fellow oenophile with a penchant for sparkly accessories and a good sense of humor. This one would also make a fun white elephant gift.

8 Oak Lane Large Gold Champagne Clutch, $, available at Neiman Marcus

Dusen Dusen x Yes Way Rosé

So your "wine clutch" doesn't come empty. This rosé was created by wine label Yes Way Rosé in collaboration with print-forward home goods and textile brand Dusen Dusen.

Dusen Dusen x Yes Way Rosé Rosé, $, available at Yes Way Rosé

ByChari Intial Ornament

A great gift for newly-engaged or -wed couples, these initial ornaments come from ByChari, a jewelry brand who counts former First Lady Michelle Obama among its fans.

Bychari Initial Ornament, $, available at Bychari

Abacaxi x SVNR Hand-Dyed Scarf

Created from a partnership between abacaxi, a brand that has risen in popularity for its tie-dye designs, and SVNR, a label known for its silk dresses, these hand-dyed scarves are not only stunning but also one-of-a-kind.

Abacaxi x SVNR Hand-dyed scarf, $, available at SVNR

COS Cashmere Slipper

After another year of working from home, the comfort enthusiast in your life will appreciate this slipper upgrade.

COS Ribbed Cashmere Slippers, $, available at COS

Prada iPhone Case

If Prada's crystal-encrusted Prada Re-Edition 2000 mini purse, helmed by Lyst as the bag of the year, is outside of your budget, gift this sparkly iPhone case from the luxury label which the recipient will actually want to keep their phone in.

Prada Crystal Triangle Logo iPhone 12 Pro Case, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman

P.E. Nation x ASICS Collection

Fitness Fiends will love this drop between ASICS, the sportswear brand known for its "dad sneakers" and buzzy active-streetwear label P.E. Nation, which includes both apparel and shoes.

P.E Nation x Asics Persistance Sports Bra, $, available at P.E Nation

Estelle Colored Glasses

These colored glasses have been on my personal wishlist for the last two years (hint, hint), and would make a perfect gift for the person who always volunteers to host.

Estelle Colored Glass Set of 2 Stem Coupes, $, available at Nordstrom

Susan Alexandra x East Fork Charm Set

In the recent years, designer Susan Alexandra — who rose in popularity thanks to the brand's beaded bags — has expanded its offerings to include home goods. We love these breakfast-inspired mug charms (that can also go around the aforementioned glasses) created in collaboration with pottery brand East Fork.

Susan Alexandra x East Fork Mug Charm Set, $, available at Susan Alexandra

Mountain & Moon Necklace

Even if your giftee isn't into astrology, they will love Australian jewelry brand Mountain & Moon's zodiac pieces that look like vintage treasures. Alternatively opt for a pair of heart-shaped hoops, most recently worn by Dua Lipa.

Mountain & Moon Pisces Necklace, $, available at Mountain & Moon

Maison Kitsune x Olympia Le Tan Scarf

The designer behind red carpet's favorite book-inspired clutches, Olympia Le Tan, has lent her whimsical hand to Maison Kitsuné. The result is a collection full of pastel-hued apparel and accessories featuring the French-Japanese lifestyle brand's signature fox mascot.

Maison Kitsuné x Olympia Le-Tan Oly Flower Fox Patch Scarf, $, available at Maison Kitsune

APL Sneakers

Mark the end of a Very Peri year with APL's most advanced running shoe — featuring a cushioned midsole designed for ultimate comfort and performance — in this vibrant Bellflower colorway.

APL TechLoom Zipline Running Shoe, $, available at Nordstrom

Agua Magica Mezcal 3-Pack

For those who prefer mezcal to wine, this mini bottle would make a great stocking stuffer. Tip: Pair it with one of the pieces from Agua Magica's collaboration with unbashedly fun apparel brand Tombolo which includes a matching shorts set and a bucket hat.

Agua Magica Agüita 3-Pack, $, available at Agua Magica

Mara Hoffman x Baggu Tote

Surprise the eco-conscious shopper with this reusable tote from sustainability fashion leader Mara Hoffman — who just launched a Fair Trade Certified program with the release of its Sela pajama set — and bag brand Baggu.


Baggu x Mara Hoffman Tote Bag, $, available at Mara Hoffman

Aerie Leggings

Impress the hard-to-please Gen Zer on your list with these Aerie Crossover leggings that went viral on TikTok.

OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me Waffle High Waisted Crossover Legging, $, available at American Eagle

Sarah Flint Scarf

Don't overlook shoe brand Sarah Flint's other accessories which include luxuriously hand-painted silk scarves. This one is inspired by the ornate ceiling of the Vienna State Opera.

Sarah Flint Viennese Opera Scarf 45, $, available at Sarah Flint

Victoria's Secret Catsuit

Catsuits were already trending in fashion but leave it to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star Lupita Nyong'o to push one on my holiday wishlist after wearing this exact style underneath a blazer vest for her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Victoria's Secret Sheer Lace Catsuit, $, available at Victoria's Secret

Krewe Sunglasses

Featuring one of the biggest fashion trends of NYFW Spring 2023 runways, polka dots, this pair of sunglasses is for the style-forward.


Krewe St. Louis Sunglasses, $, available at Krewe

Maje Airpod Bag

In addition to serving as an AirPod case cover, this piece from the popular French label can double as a trendy mini bag for any NYE soiree. Added bonus: metallic accessories are in right now.

Maje Mini M Bag for Airpods, $, available at Maje

Dollchunk Heart Ring

Child-like rings are trending on TikTok. Impress the hard-to-please Gen Zer on your list with this whimsical design from fashion writer and Refinery29 contributor Kristen Bateman who is also known for her can't-miss personal style.

Dollchunk Bubble Gum Heart Puff Ring, $, available at Dollchunk

Longchamp Knit Shoulder Bag

Not only will this designer shopping bag replace your recipient's errand-day tote for good, but it's also incredibly versatile. Place a scarf or a piece of fabric on the inside, and the shopper will go from farmer's market to Sunday brunch.

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Knit Shoulder Bag, $, available at Nordstrom

Warby Parker Sunglasses

Created in collaboration with Studio 189's Rosario Dawson, this oversized style (which also comes in a forest green) is made for your BFF who always loses their sunnies.

Warby Parker Mojave Mauve Sunglasses, $, available at Warby Parker

Parade Underwear Pack

If underwear is the only thing on your giftee's wishlist, make it this pack from Parade, a brand whose inclusive approach to intimates has resulted in 500,000 pairs sold in its first year alone. 

Parade Jewel Tones Pack, $, available at Parade

Pleasing Nail Polish

Even if they are not a Harry Styles stan, they will appreciate the look of this nail polish, from "Watermelon Sugar" singer's new beauty line. While the product is currently sold-out, you can sign up to receive early access to the restock on November 29.

Pleasing Perfect Pearl Polish, $, available at Pleasing

Ganni Coffee Table Book

For all the #GanniGirls.

Ganni 'Ganni: Gimme More' book, $, available at Ganni

Good American Sweatpants

After another year of working from home, the astrology enthusiast in your life will appreciate this sweatpant upgrade.

Good American Zodiac Boyfriend Sweatpant, $, available at Good American

Staud x New Balance Sneakers

For the New Balance fans whose sneakers are falling apart. This pair comes courtesy of another collaboration drop between the sportswear brand for its "dad sneakers" and the buzzy label Staud.

New Balance x Staud 574 sneaker in Raincloud, $, available at Staud

Yes Way Rosé Single-Serve Sparkling Wine

A single-serve bottle of bubbles fit for a lockdown queen who isn't ready to give up her homebody ways. This one also makes for a great stocking stuffer.

Yes Way Rosé Mini Bubbles, $, available at Yes Way Rosé

Pangaia Cashmere Balaclava

Forget hats and gloves this season! Instead, opt for a balaclava, winter's hottest accessory. Our pick is this recycled cashmere number.

Pangaia Recycled Cashmere Balaclava, $, available at Pangaia

Tombolo Set

This casual-chic après ski-inspired set is topping my holiday wishlist.

Tombolo "Après Ski" Cabana Jacket, $, available at Tombolo

Tombolo "Après Ski" Cabana Pants, $, available at Tombolo

Byredo Sanitizer

Add this luxe "rinse-free hand wash" to every stocking you're stuffing this year.

Byredo Rose Rinse-Free Hand Wash, $, available at Bloomingdale's

East Olivia Dried Flower Bouquet

A dried bouquet that will delight the host long after all the dinner guests have left.

East Olivia The Olivia Holiday Medium Bouquet, $, available at East Olivia

Maison Kitsuné T-Shirt

A quality white tee for the person who has committed to a capsule wardrobe in 2022.

Maison Kitsune Fox motif T-shirt, $, available at Farfetch

Shhhowercap Shower Cap

One of my favorite gifts to give (and receive!), this high-end shower cap has been my beauty must-have for the past five years.

Shhhowercap The Melrose Shower Cap, $, available at Violet Gray

Astrid & Miyu Huggies

For the person who you always get piercings with.


Astrid & Miyu Mystic Simple Huggies in Rose Gold, $, available at Astrid & Miyu

Adidas x Wales Bonner Hat

Fans of Wales Bonner's designs will love the British designer's collaboration with sports giant Adidas featuring covetable apparel and accessories.

Adidas x Wales Bonner Reversible logo-embroidered cotton bucket hat, $, available at MatchesFashion

La DoubleJ Apron

A perfect gift for the fashion-loving cook from print-forward brand La DoubleJ.

LaDoubleJ Wildbird-print cotton-canvas apron, $, available at MatchesFashion

Gucci The Hacker Project Card Case

Earlier in the year, Gucci made headlines for "hacking" Balenciaga as part of its Aria runway show. Now the collection is available for all your luxury gifting needs. This one is for the nicest people on your list.

Gucci The Hacker Project Flora card case, $, available at Gucci

Sincerely Jules for Bandier Sweatshirt Dress

This one is made for the person who plans on going from the dinner table to the couch for the duration of the holidays.

Sincerely Jules for Bandier The Dahlia Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at Bandier

Roxanne Assouline Customizable Bracelet

Who can resist a customizable jewelry piece? Go for one from this Instagram-beloved brand known for its candy-colored bracelets.

Roxanne Assoulin Build-your-own bracelet, $, available at Roxanne Assoulin

Prada Water Bottle

The most opulent water bottle you can gift this season.

Prada Stainless steel water bottle, 500 ml, $, available at Prada

Pisani Et Al. Candle

Even the person who wants nothing will appreciate a good candle. With a hand-cut glass container, this one will double as decor, not to mention fill the room with aromas of sandalwood, amber, and incense.

Pisani Et Al. De Aetna Candela, $, available at Pisani Et Al.

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Eddie Bauer Oversized Down Throw

Give your friend a hug in the form of an ultra-warm, down-filled blanket from Eddie Bauer that features the softest fleece on one side and a comforting plaid print on the other.

Eddie Bauer Oversized Down Throw, $, available at Eddie Bauer

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