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.
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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