Monday, December 18, 2023

Get In Loser, We’re Asking Reneé Rapp About The Best Gifts On Her Amazon Wishlist

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. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

A few things about actress and singer Reneé Rapp: She is an icon. She is a legend. And she is the moment (I mean, come on now.) More specifically, the 23-year-old star embodied the famous character Regina George on Broadway and will soon portray her in the highly anticipated 2024 musical movie Mean Girls. She also played Leighton Murray in Mindy Kaling’s hit series The Sex Lives of College Girls. And to top it off, Rapp debuted a brand-new bisexual anthem “Not My Fault” with beloved rapper Megan Thee Stallion just last week. She’s undeniably the talk of Gen Z’s town — therefore, what is a devoted shopping writer to do but ask the one and only Reneé Rapp what she wants for the holidays this year?

“My tip for shopping for the girlies would be picking something that is culturally forward,” Rapp tells Refinery29 via an email interview. According to her, it doesn’t have to boast a hefty price tag or even encapsulate the latest trends. Rather, Gen Z craves “something that is meaningful or interesting.” Lucky for us, we know exactly what she has in mind. Scroll on for 18 gifts — for the holidays and beyond — on Rapp’s 2023 Amazon wishlist. (Plus all the reasons she adores them!)

Fashion Holiday Favorites

Goorin Bros. The Farm Unisex Trucker Hat, $40 $35.16

“I picked out some of my favorite pieces that are both super-versatile and also really comfortable,” Rapp writes. And based on these picks, you can’t go wrong with some simple accessories. She adds, “I can’t go anywhere without a pair of sunglasses, and you often won’t catch me outside work without a hat on.”

Beauty Holiday Favorites

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $24

Rapp loves a regimen and the power of self-care — which makes beauty buys excellent presents. “Routine is super-important to me, especially when I’m traveling nonstop,” she mentions. “On tour, I used the Laneige lip mask and Farmacy moisturizer every night after taking off my show makeup — my skin needed that.”

Home Holiday Favorites

The TAG Store Luxe Martini Glasses (Set Of 4), $44.99

Check out Rapp’s home goods recs for your favorite host. “I just bought my first house a few months ago, and having friends over for dinner is one of my favorite things to do while I’m in L.A.,” Rapp explains. Martinis are a must-have for her at-home hangs. “There will always be a dirty martini present, so I keep a jar of blue cheese-stuffed olives and martini glasses on hand.”

Tech Holiday Favorites

JBL Clip 3 Bluetooth Speaker, $49.95 $39.95

When it comes to tech gifts, Rapp suggests products that help on the go. She writes, “Most of us are literally never home, so I love tech that immerses you in music wherever you are. I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have my AirPod Max Pros with me every time I fly, and I’m definitely bringing a portable speaker whenever I’m on set.”

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I will admit I'm a hard person to shop for. As a person who considers clothes, jewelry, and accessories a means to express myself, I can be very specific. My friends tell me finding gifts for me and other fashion lovers is the hardest. We seem to own every practical piece, have tried all the trends, and are already onto the next. That said, Refinery29 is dedicated to helping readers navigate life in a more informed — and stylish — way. So I present to you fool-proof gifts for fashion lovers.

Here, you'll find silk loungewear, buzzy handbags, and cashmere staples. And while I know this fashion gift guide cannot satisfy everyone's aesthetic, I hope it'll get you, dear reader, inspired enough to give (or receive) a few sartorial gems you haven't considered yet. Ahead, find the 20 best gifts for fashion lovers.

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. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

The New Year New Me Baguette Bag


Enjoy what remains of 2023 with a sequin embellished baguette bag. The glittery Coach purse wants to tag along to all the holiday parties. While we're planning to leave a few things behind, this bag is coming with us into the new year.

Shop Coach

Coach Studio Baguette Bag With Sequins, $, available at Coach

The Peek-A-Boo Layering Top


If your stressed-out friend needs to let loose a little, gift them a flirty sheer embroidered top that they can layer with. The top has a high neckline and thumbhole details and comes in a rainbow of enchanting colors.

Shop Free People

Intimately | Free People Lady Lux Layering Top, $, available at Free People

The Ultimate Holiday Dress


We all need a bit of sparkle in our lives. Add it to your giftee's collection of holiday dresses with Abercrombie & Fitch's sequin V-neck midi dress. The silhouette has long sleeves to stay warm, but a plunging neckline adds some sultriness.

Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

The Finish Line To A Flawless Après Ski Look


Top off your giftee's festive winter looks with oversized faux-fur earmuffs. The luxurious piece features a bedazzling chain of hand-sewn jewels across a black satin headpiece, making it a fashionable statement piece for cold-weather ensembles.

Shop Hill House Home

Hill House Home The Noor Earmuffs, $, available at Hill House Home

The Versatile Cashmere Wrap


Quince is known for its rich collection of affordable cashmere attire. One of the brand's bestselling pieces is this elegant convertible wrap that can double as a scarf. Although it may look thin, Quince has noted that it's three times as warm as wool.

Shop Quince

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Wrap, $, available at Quince

The Contemporary Pearl Necklace


When you think of pearl jewelry, the first person you may think of is your grandma. But this pearl necklace from Kendra Scott is strung for these times that any fashion-lover would swoon over. It merges a trendy gold chain with a string of pearls for a piece that is anything but stuffy.

Shop Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott Ashton Gold Half Chain Necklace In White Pearl, $, available at Kendra Scott

The Luxurious Silk Sleep Set


Because fashion shouldn't be restricted to waking hours, treat your giftee to an elevated pajama set that they'll adore. Eberjey also has released a holiday collection in festive colors and prints.

Shop Eberjey

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Printed Long PJ Set, $, available at Eberjey

The Cozy Luxe Cashmere Beanie


Keep your loved one's head cozy in a soft, lightweight beanie this winter — there are five gorgeous shades to choose from. If you're looking for a full set, Jenni Kayne also has a fashionable scarf to match. 

Shop Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Beanie, $, available at Jenni Kayne

The Comfy & Chic Travel Pant


The Alo High-Waist Pursuit Trousers are effortless and breathable. They are the stretchy travel pants that'll take you from the office to the airport. With a seamlessly flat trouser-inspired front, elastic waistband in the back, and relaxed fit, you'll want to jet-set off to your next vacay. 

Shop Alo

Alo High-Waist Pursuit Trouser, $, available at Alo

The Viral Belt Bag


Everyone knows the Lululemon belt bag for its sleek nylon exterior. Now, the new edition is making a statement with its textured fleece for a cozy aesthetic. The belt bag has joined the trend of fuzzy purses and has returned to break the internet once more for its appearance and roominess.

Shop Lululemon

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Fleece, $, available at Lululemon

The Sultry Sweater Dress


Winter gatherings are here, and Skims has crafted a figure-hugging off-the-shoulder sweater dress that'll sweep every guest off their feet. The sultry one-piece is stretchy and lightweight, so it fits your giftee — or yourself. We're not the gift police.

Shop By Anthropologie at Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Off-The-Shoulder Slim Sweater Midi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

The Edgy, Sleeker City Boot


We know that pointed booties are nothing new. But, somehow, this classic black knee-high pair from Reformation manages to look more refined with its stiletto heel, and the edgy angled collar. The best part is that the shoe is part of Reformation's extensive sale.

Shop Reformation

Reformation Rosemary Knee Boot, $, available at Reformation

The Timeless Personalized Jewelry Necklace


Everyone should have at least one piece of jewelry that has their name on it, whether it's an engraved signet or a simple chain with a monogram charm strung on. Kinn allows you to customize your necklace, from the chain type, length, and number of letters for an heirloom piece you or a loved one will cherish forever.

Shop Kinn

Kinn Dear Kaia II Nameplate Necklace, $, available at Kinn

The Elevated Wedding Guest Dress


It's never too early to start prepping for the following season. Gear up for wedding season in the spring with a ruched one-shoulder Norma Kamali dress in celadon green. You can even take inspo from the model and add a bit of contrast by cinching your waist with a white or black belt. In the meantime, you can style it for luxurious holiday soirées or work events.

Shop Norma Kamali at Revolve

Norma Kamali Diana Gown, $, available at Revolve

The Shamelessly Trendy Handbag


The fact that this handbag is called "Candy," is a banana-yellow hue, and is part of Mansur Gavriel's sale? We must have it. It's an expensive bag, but whatever, it's the holidays and our affiliate writer says it's worth every penny. Ask for what you want.

Shop Mansur Gavriel

Mansur Gavriel Candy Hobo Bag, $, available at Mansur Gavriel

The High Fashion Coffee Table Book


While you pre-order our talented R29 fashion writer's Little Book of Bottega Veneta and wait for its release, explore the in-depth story of the legendary fashion house of Dior. The pretty-in-pink hardcover makes a lovely coffee table to gift to any Dior fan or fashion enthusiast for the holidays. 

Shop at Amazon

The Little Book The Little Book of Dior, $, available at Amazon

The Breakfast At Tiffany's Print


There are a number of legendary moments in Breakfast at Tiffany's. One of them is Audrey Hepburn wearing her Givenchy LBD and pearls while window-shopping with a danish in hand. Any true fan of the movie will recognize the iconic moment and adore this chic print.

Shop East Urban Home at Wayfair

East Urban Home Audrey Hepburn Window Shopping Canvas, $, available at Wayfair

The Starter Statement Ring


When it comes to ring folks, there are two main types: people who go big and chunky and those who do delicate and dainty. A fab in-between ring, however, might actually be able to please both camps. And these colorful ones from Monica Vinader are all-around classics.

Shop Monica Vinader at Nordstrom

Monica Vinader Power Cocktail Ring, $, available at Nordstrom

The Extra Large Alpaca Scarf


Count us in for any oversized items that exude that cuddly, cozy vibe. That includes this super-long alpaca-wool scarf that always tops the chart every winter.

Shop Acne Studios at SSENSE

Acne Studios Beige & Red Alpaca Check Scarf, $, available at SSENSE

The Fashion Person's Travel Essential


Those who feel naked without their jewelry know that keeping their collection tangle-free while traveling is its own unique stressor. Luckily, Mejuri's monogrammable jewelry case keeps everything organized and easy to find.

Shop Mejuri

Mejuri Travel Case, $, available at Mejuri

The Holiday Pajama Boxers


Aerie has unveiled a gift collection of super-soft sleepwear in joyful plaid prints that'll put you in the festive spirit day or night.

Aerie Flannel High Waisted Skater Pajama Boxer, $, available at AE

The Vintage Jacket


The best part about scoring a new piece of clothing that has that worn-in vintage touch? It's a timeless item that you'll consistently find yourself drawn to despite all the new outerwear trends.

Shop

Free People Moxy Trapeze Vegan Jacket, $, available at Free People

The Not Your Dad's Sweater Vest


It's the sweater vest that'll have your dad asking where's his. Luckily, there's a men's version for him too.

Alex Mill Fair Isle Pullover Sweater Vest, $, available at Alex Mill

The Bougie Cashmere Cardigan


We love a cozy cardigan, but imagine a luxe version in lightweight, super-soft knit cashmere. Jenni Kayne offers a slouchy version in 10 additional colors in sizes XXS to 3X.

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan, $, available at Jenni Kayne

2022's Most Popular Perfume


When it comes to doing "its one job," fragrance brand Phlur nails it. The brand's Missing Person fragrance is one of their best-selling items that is worth to invest in.

Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora

The Meaningful Coffee Table Book


Pay homage to the late Virgil Abloh with the first book written about the designer after his passing. It explores his spectacular journey as the men's creative director at Louis Vuitton. Plus, the cover makes it a stylish coffee table book.

Assouline Louis Vuitton: Virgil Abloh, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue


H&M Sequined Skirt, $, available at H&M

The Classic Camel Coat


Never underestimate the style power that a tailored beige wool coat can bring.


Greylin Bryce Brushed Oversized Coat, $, available at Anthropologie

The Exquisite Perfume Sampler




Phlur Discovery Sampler Set, $, available at Sephora

The Everyday Vintage-Inspired Jean


While Madewell offers the next must-have silhouettes the brand is most known for its collection of vintage bottoms. If you have a pair of jeans you've worn for ages replace them with an everyday pair of Madewell's classic bottoms.

Madewell The Perfect Vintage Jean in Ainsworth Wash, $, available at Madewell

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How Taylor Swift Made 2023 The Year Of The Friendship Bracelet

It may have started with a simple line, an invitation, if you will. Make the friendship bracelets, take the moment, and taste it, Taylor Swift implored her fans in her 2022 hit “You’re On Your Own Kid” from her latest album Midnights. In true Swiftie style, the song’s bridge became a worldwide phenomenon as fans embraced it, sang it at the top of their lungs, and took her suggestion to make friendship bracelets quite seriously. When Swift embarked on her Eras Tour in March 2023, suddenly, the accessory, more commonly associated with preadolescent sleepovers than concert fashion, became the year’s fashion currency and a symbol of community. 

“Taylor Swift has led the charge on bringing beaded friendship bracelets, out of their past lives at summer camps, into the forefront of fashion culture this year,” says Emilia de Poret, the fashion director at Klarna which saw an increase of 915% in purchases of friendship bracelet kits this year.

Similarly, on the shopping platform Mercari, searches for terms like “friendship bracelets” and “Taylor Swift friendship bracelets” increased by more than 96% in 2023. Michaels, the crafts chain store, also saw a 40% increase in jewelry-making kits, while stores in cities in which Swift had tour stops received an increase of 300% in sales on beads and jewelry tools. The accessory has reached such popularity that the Pennsylvania hospital where Taylor Swift was born handed friendship bracelets to babies born on December 13, the pop star’s birthday.

@alanajsbarreto Thank you for 1k followers 🤍 Here’s the process of my dream jacket to The Eras Tour✨ #theerastour #taylorswift #friendshipbracelets #tutorial #friendshipbraceletstutorial #handmade #beads #evermore #ivy @Taylor Swift ♬ Long Live (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift

Following the Eras Tour on TikTok — where videos with #friendshipbracelet got 200 million views and #erastourfriendshipbracelet collected over 30 million — it was hard to not feel a sense of FOMO over the craze. Fans shared tutorials on how to make bracelets, while others simply showed off their creations. Even celebrities like Channing Tatum, Sydney Sweeney, Selena Gomez, Jennifer Lawrence, and Gigi Hadid wore and exchanged beaded friendship bracelets with Taylor Swift fans. Later, we all found out that it was an undelivered friendship bracelet that Travis Kelce made for Swift that started the year’s most talked-about romance.

The euphoria trickled down to brands. Accessories designer Roxanne Assoulin, known for her candy-colored enamel bracelets, released customizable friendship bracelets. “To me, friendship bracelets are small tokens of appreciation that represent a bond of friendship, camaraderie, and love,” the designer says. “They can often tell a story, carry sentimental value, and remind us of the times and the love shared between two or more friends.”

For Little Words Project founder Adriana Carrig, it was validation that she had been on the right track for the past 10 years. Throughout 2023, Carrig has seen her bracelet business grow exponentially, not only in numbers but in cultural impact, too. The company was tapped by Disney for a pop-up shop in conjunction with the Eras Tour movie premiere. NSYNC member Lance Bass gave Taylor Swift a stack of friendship bracelets from the brand when he presented her with a trophy at the 2023 VMA Awards. “As a result of that, we were able to see even more organic traction because it really was our brand that she received in this major cultural moment,” Carrig says. “It gave the friendship bracelet back to us in a way.”

The return of concerts, including the Eras Tour which boosted the overall US economy by over $4 billion, and its subsequent cinematic release, provided an antidote to the pandemic-induced isolation. It also allowed girls to be girls, using the friendship bracelet to tap back into their preadolescence. Sharing them with both longtime companions and strangers, friendship bracelets also served as an icebreaker, perhaps turning a random seatmate into a new pal. “It’s so important, in these challenging times, to reach out, to show you remember, to show you care,” says Assoulin. “Friendship bracelets are one way to do that.”

For people like Carrig, who has long been in the business of connecting people through friendship bracelets, the phenomenon was not surprising. “I think the friendship bracelet as a cultural concept has always been about building community,” she says. “But also getting exposed to things that’ll help us practice self-kindness, self-love.” 

Maybe we’re not that much on our own after all, kids. 

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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