36 Gifts That Will Impress Your Hard-To-Shop-For Person

For the most part, we actually enjoy buying gifts. As professional shoppers, we delight in finding that one trinket that’s going to surprise our loved ones, but there are always outliers in this shopping scenario — the people that leave us hemming, hawing, and endlessly scrolling to find the just-right thing that will satisfy their highly exacting tastes. The kind-of-difficult ones.

You know the type: If you’re going to get this person a sweater, you can’t get them just any sweater; it has to be ethically sourced, top-of-the-line cashmere. A simple glassware set just won’t do, either; it has to be design snob-approved. Well, look no further, harried shopper. Because when it comes to those hard-to-please folks, we’ve got you (and them) covered. Ahead, find 36 gifts for difficult people that will actually pass muster with your pickiest pals.

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.

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

Bombas Cable Knit Gripper Slipper

Who doesn't love receiving a pair of cozy socks — or better yet: sock slippers? These Bombas Gripper Slippers are the epitome of cozy, and are sure to put a smile on even the most Scrooge-like recipient.

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Bombas Cable Knit Gripper Slipper, $, available at Bombas

Béis Carry-On Roller

This carry-on from Shay Mitchell's travel brand Béis allows you to move easily without your luggage weighing you down.

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Béis The Carry-On Roller, $, available at Béis

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Loungewear

We’re pretty evangelical about Quince’s highly competitive prices and top-notch quality — and its cashmere separates are vetted reader faves. If you know someone who deserves a treat this holiday, they’ll love a pair of luxurious joggers or a super-soft sweater.

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Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crew, $, available at Quince

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Sweatpants, $, available at Quince

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Manscaped's The Lawn Mower 4.0

The perfect gift is something that someone would never think to buy for themselves, but would most definitely use all the time. Enter perfect gift: this fourth-generation groin/body trimmer that will take his grooming to the next level. 

Manscaped The Lawn Mower 4.0, $, available at Manscaped

Starface Big Lil Gift Set

Gifting someone a skin-care product could be taken with offense, but not so with these cutie pimple patches! After all, who wouldn't want a smattering of gold stars on their cheeks?

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Starface Big Lil Gift Set, $, available at Starface

Sephora Fall Perfume Sampler Set

Gifting fragrance is always a bit of a gamble since scent preference is quite personal. This mini sampler kit allows your giftee to try five popular perfumes and get a free full-size bottle of your favorite from the bunch.

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Sephora Favorites Fall Perfume Sampler Set, $, available at Sephora

SublimeWare Universal Travel Adapter

International travel is back, so gift your globe-trotting person this nifty adapter for their imminent far-flung journey.

Shop SublimeWare on Amazon

SublimeWare Universal Travel Adapter International All in One Plug, $, available at Amazon

Glob Primary Morph Ripstop Bag

Speaking of schlepping — maybe your day-tripping giftee needs a roomy, useful tote made from recycled bottles (with the superhuman ability to pack itself into a pocket-size pouch when not in use). It’s even got six bottle-size exterior pockets for whatever the day trip throws at you.

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Glob Primary Morph Ripstop, $, available at Glob

Caraway Minis Duo

These non-toxic, beautifully crafted pans are guaranteed to pass the vibe check of any difficult-to-please giftee.

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Caraway Minis Duo, $, available at Caraway

Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight

We would be willing to bet good money that no one has ever turned down a pair of gifted Lululemon leggings. Ever. (Plus, treat yourself to a pair while they're still on sale.)

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Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight 25", $, available at Lululemon

Skims Cozy Knit Unisex Onesie

Achieve peak cozy with this deliciously soft jumpsuit cut from bouclé fabric. (Be warned: Once your lucky recipient slips it on, they won't want to wear anything else.)

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Skims Cozy Knit Unisex Onesie, $, available at Skims

Levys Friends Wine Cat Poster

Ideal for both the cat and wine person in your life.

Shop Levy'sFriends on Etsy

LevysFriends Wine Cat Poster, $, available at Etsy

Omsom The Try 'Em All Set

Even difficult people have to eat. So, gift them the sampler pack of Asian sauces that'll take their rice or noodle bowl to the absolute next level.

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Omsom The Try 'Em All Set, $, available at Omsom

OFFHOURS x West Elm Homecoat

It's a robe-meets-blanket situation with this supremely luxurious contraption called the Homecoat.

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OFFHOURS x West Elm Homecoat, $, available at West Elm

Airbnb Gift Card

Take care of your picky person's lodging plans for whenever they plan their next getaway.

Airbnb Customizable Gift Card, $, available at Airbnb

Animalist Customized Poster Art For Your Pet

Even the most "difficult" people are obsessed with their pets. So, why not get them a customized poster that honors their favorite furry animal?

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Animalist Custom Pet Scandinavian Art Print, $, available at Animalist

Warby Parker Gift Card

Up the sophistication factor and let your giftee pick out a cool pair of specs to update their lewk. A Warby Parker e-gift card or IRL gift card, complete with a festive box that doubles as storage for eyeglasses, makes a fool-proof gift.

Warby Parker Gift Card, $, available at Warby Parker

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

An obvious but highly functional accessory: a mug-size warmer to keep that brew pipin’ hot all day long. (Because you know they’ll nurse cup after cup for hours.)

Shop Mr. Coffee on Amazon

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer, $, available at Amazon

Baggu Set of 3 Wine Bags

Gift a pack of these cleverly designed reusable wine bags just in time for the winter BYOB dinner parties.

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Baggu Wine Bags (Set of 3), $, available at West Elm

Bearaby Tree Napper

For the person who needs to stay calm (and carry on): a beautifully woven weighted blanket in a soothing shade of turmeric.

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Bearaby Tree Napper, $, available at Bearaby

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

Not only is sleeping on a silk pillowcase very luxe, but benefits abound! It protects the hair from wear and tear, and it's naturally cooling in the summertime and insulating in the wintertime.

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Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $, available at Brooklinen

The Sill Digital Gift Card

It's true what The Sill says: Plants make people happy. But, because you can never be sure of how attentive someone is going to be, send a card so your giftee can personally pick the green friend that suits their lifestyle.

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The Sill Digital Gift Card, $, available at The Sill

Ganni Structured Rib Wrist Warmers

Because even difficult people need something to keep cozy.

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Ganni Structured Rib Wrist Warmers, $, available at Revolve

Chillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Manicure Kit

A perfect stocking stuffer for the person who loves getting their nails done in a pinch.

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Chillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Manicure Kit, $, available at Free People

Fredericks and Mae Playing Cards

A deck of cards is an essential home item no one ever thinks to buy — until the urge to play cards hits. Plus, look at how beautiful this stack is!

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Fredericks and Mae Playing Cards, $, available at Coming Soon

ILIKEPAR Cereal Bowl Scented Candle

Yes, this is an actual candle that legitimately smells like cereal! And, when you're done burning it, you can even wipe the bowl and spoon clean and use them to eat...actual cereal.

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ILIKEPAR Cereal Bowl with Metal Spoon Scented Candle, $, available at Amazon

Areaware Profile Wall Mirror

Gifting mirrors is fun because it's usually unexpected but always practical —  but no ordinary mirror will do for your picky giftee. We like this optical illusion-themed one that inspires a literal moment of self-reflection.

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Areaware Profile Wall Mirror, $, available at Areaware

One Stripe Chai At Home Blends Collection

Coffee-lovers are easy to shop for — it's the tea drinkers that really stump us. And, this at-home DIY set is for chai babes.

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One Stripe Chai At Home Blends Collection - Chai + Turmeric, $, available at One Stripe Chai

Minka Textured Pot

These earthy planters come in a variety of sizes and prices, from “stocking stuffer” ($24) to “VIP giftee” ($98).

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Anthropologie Minka Textured Pot, $, available at Anthropologie

Hasegawa Lucano Stepstool

I don't know about you, but I live for a chic step ladder. Trust me — if you gift this, it will get used all the time.

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Hasegawa Lucano Stepstool 1 Step, $, available at Pattern

Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute

Ask anyone who has a Dyson if it's the best thing on earth, and the answer is probably a resounding yes. This (on-sale!) V12 is super-sleek yet powerful enough to absorb every tiny morsel of dust, thanks to a high-tech laser illumination feature.

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Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute (Gold), $, available at Dyson

Meer Portable Mini Projector

This portable gizmo makes it easy for any movie-lover to bring the joy of cinema with them wherever they go.

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Meer Portable Mini Projector, $, available at Amazon

NEWGEM Japanese Linen Cross Back Apron

Quite possibly the chicest kitchen (or garden) apron on the market — and it's less than $20!

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NEWGEM Japanese Linen Cross Back Apron, $, available at Amazon

GrandinRoad Soft Kilim Storage Basket

This boho-chic storage basket is equipped to hold anything your giftee can throw in it — toys, linens, and magazines are all waiting to be stylishly corralled.

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Grandin Road Soft Kilim Storage Basket, $, available at Grandin Road

Stojo 20-Ounce Reusable Water Bottle

Even the most difficult person will need to stay hydrated. This super-light, super-squishy water bottle is especially handy for travel.

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Stojo 20-Ounce Reusable Water Bottle, $, available at Madewell

Nutribullet Magic Bullet Blender

This compact single-serving smoothie/dip/baby puree maker will make food prep a breeze.

Shop Nutribullet

Nutribullet magic bullet® Blender, $, available at NutriBullet

Bormioli Rocco Stackable Wine Glasses

Help them imbibe in style (at home) with the gift of chic and easily stored wine glasses.

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Bormioli Rocco Stackable Wine Glasses, $, available at Food52

Chatbooks Custom Canvas Wall Tiles

A gift that always hits the nail is a framed photo of a very special moment. My tip: Find your gift recipient's best Instagram photo (no matter how off the cuff or casual it may be), upload it to the Chatbooks app, and have it turned into a piece of tangible art.

Shop Chatbooks

Chatbooks Custom Canvas Wall Tiles, $, available at Chatbooks

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This Is The Easiest Way To Organize Your Online Shopping List —& Take Control Of Your Tab Chaos

Do you keep tabs open for everything you’re thinking about buying, or save screenshots of products on your phone during a major sale or other busy shopping time? We’re in the same boat and wholeheartedly understand that organizing your countless lists and links can get messy. After one screenshot, the rest can disappear into a photo abyss. Even worse, your computer suddenly decides it’s the perfect time to upgrade its operating system, and all those tabs disappear. Well, say goodbye to all that unnecessary stress and mess. Now all your wishlists and shopping links can be on one nifty page with Locker, an online shopping extension compatible with Google Chrome. No tabs, no screenshots, and no spreadsheets involved — just all of your favorites in one place.

How Locker Works

So how does it work? All you have to do is download and add it to your Google Chrome with one easy click. Once you start saving items, they’re all stored in one spot. You can set the categories as you add and organize products in your locker. The categories are up to you: You can start broad, or you can also get more specific and use it to comparison shop before a big purchase. Dreaming of the perfect chunky loafers or cashmere sweater? Save options that catch your eye, and make a fully informed decision that’ll help you avoid purchase FOMO. You can also organize and curate items for a home closet refresh, upcoming trip, or other big shopping haul. Finally, the Locker platform allows you to follow curators, save products to your customizable collections, and even use it as a brand discovery tool.

Think of it like a shoppable Pinterest or everyday wedding registry. You can also share collections with friends, and use it as a virtual wish list for other people to shop from. We especially love it for the busy holiday gifting season. You can quickly save ideas for everyone on your list and share and recommend your must-have items to others. It can also help you plan ahead if you spy the perfect gift for your mom or bestie at the wrong time of year. Online shopping finally made easy — and you finally freed of all your browser tabs and screenshots? We’d call that a win-win.

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. The 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.

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22 Gifts Your Fashion-Loving Friend Will Adore

As a person who is genuinely obsessed with wearing clothes, jewelry, and accessories to express myself, I will admit I'm a hard person to shop for when it comes to fashion gifts. I know I'm not alone in this — ask any passionate person about whatever hobby or interest they have. They'll likely say that they're similarly extra picky about the theme-related gifts they receive.

That said, I am also very aware that Refinery29 is a website dedicated to helping readers navigate life in a more informed — and stylish! — way. So here, I present a holiday gift guide that serves a dual purpose. Folks will be able to generate thoughtful gift ideas for their stylish friends and get fellow fashion-lovers thinking about the items that are still missing from their closets. For instance, a famous Phlur perfume that broke the internet, buzzy handbags, and cashmere staples are a few items they should put at the top of their list for this holiday season. And I already know that this fashion-lover's gift guide cannot satisfy everyone's aesthetics or tastes. Hopefully, it'll get you, dear reader, inspired enough to gift (or receive) a few sartorial gems you haven't considered yet.


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.

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 Contemporary Pearl Necklace

When you think of pearls, maybe you're reminded of your grandma or Hillary Clinton — or maybe Harry Styles or Pete Davidson. What I'm getting at is: Get yourself a pearl necklace, but make it one that is strung for these times.

Martha Calvo Gold-Plated Pearl Necklace, $, available at Net-A-Porter

The Comfy Travel/Lounge Pant

The Monos Kyoto Pants are effortless breathable travel pants but with an airport chic flair. If you want a coordinated set, pair the bottom with the matching Kyoto Long Sleeve.

Monos Kyoto Pants, $, available at Monos

The Shimmering Coffee Table Book

Explore the in-depth story of the legendary fashion house of Gucci with this hardcover. The shimmering gold exterior is also a festive coffee table to gift for the holidays.

Graphic Image Little Book of Gucci, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

The Luxurious Silk Sleep Set

Because fashion shouldn't be restricted to waking hours, your giftee will adore an elevated lounge set in festive green colors to wear around the holidays. 

Lunya Washable Silk High Rise Pant Set, $, available at Lunya

The Viral Belt Bag

The Lululemon Belt Bag broke the internet for its sleek appearance and roominess. Now, the new edition is making a statement with its textured fleece for a cozy aesthetic.

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

The Ultimate Holiday Dress

We all need a bit of dazzle and sparkle in our lives. This season add a bit of shimmer to your holiday dresses with a sequined mesh wrap style. The V-neck adds a glamorous flair.

H&M Sequined Wrap Dress, $, available at H&M

The Must-Have Silk Skirt

Quince is known for its collection of glossy washable silk attire. Gift a loved one a modern midi mulberry skirt that's as stylish as it is comfortable.

Quince Washable Silk Skirt, $, available at Quince

The 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 letter charm strung on. These adorable textured letters in 14k solid gold and diamonds are great for wearing solo or mixing and matching.

BaubleBar Solid Gold & Diamond Initial Necklace: Script Font, $, available at BaubleBar

The Cozy Cashmere Beanie

Keep your head cozy in a colorful striped cashmere beanie. Opt for a full set with mittens and a scarf.


Everlane The Cashmere Beanie, $, available at Everlane

The Breakfast At Tiffany's Print

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


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

The Shamelessly Trendy Handbag

The fact that this handbag is shaped like a cute dumpling and it's from Mansur Gavriel? It's an expensive bag, but whatever. It's the holidays. Ask for what you want.

Mansur Gavriel Twist Mini Cloud Clutch, $, available at Mansur Gavriel

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

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 Festive Lounge Dress

Just in time for the holidays, Skims announced its viral Soft Lounge dress is back. Even better, the drapey dress received a holiday makeover and now has a subtle shimmer for your glamorous holiday soirées.

Skims Soft Lounge Shimmer Long Sleeve Dress, $, available at Skims

The Starter Statement Ring

When it comes to ring folks, there are two main types: people who go big and chunky and the ones who do delicate and dainty. A fab in-between ring, however, might actually be able to please both camps. And, this one from Casablanc is an all-around classic.

Casablanca Gold Pearl Signet Ring, $, available at SSENSE

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.

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

The Elevated Mini Dress

Step up your LBD game with a chic double-breasted blazer dress that you can fashionably tie with a waist belt.

REMI x REVOLVE Meghan Blazer Dress, $, available at Revolve

The Fashion Person's Travel Essential

If you're a fashion person (or know one) who feels naked without their jewelry, you already know that keeping your collection tangle-free while traveling is its own unique stressor. Luckily, Mejuri's jewelry case keeps everything organized and easy to find.

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 Chicer, Sleeker Outdoor Boot

We know that Chelsea boots are nothing new — but, somehow, this pair from Steve Madden manages to look more refined with its sock-like inset than your run-of-the-mill winter lug sole.

Steve Madden Hayle Platform Chelsea Boot, $, available at Nordstrom

The Extra Large Alpaca Scarf

Oversize items exude that cuddly and cozy vibe we love to be encased in. That includes this super-long knit alpaca and wool-blend scarf, which comes in a splendor of pastel hues.

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

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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