Holiday Gift Guide: Awesome Holiday Gift Ideas by Category

In this post: Looking for Christmas gift ideas for someone special? This Holiday Gift Guide offers awesome holiday gift ideas for everyone on you list.⇒

Holiday Gift Ideas

Is it just me or do the seasons seem more enhanced this year?

More vibrant. More colorful. More festive.

It’s like having cataract surgery and seeing everything in vivid color all of a sudden. (Well ok, I’ve never had cataract surgery, but I hear that’s what it’s like.) It feels like holiday is more holiday-like, and I felt the same way about fall. It feels ‘extra’.

Yet, with all this extra celebrating, we also want to keep our budgets in line. What is a gift buyer to do?

For me it’s all about balance. We all have those on our list that are going to get the ‘big gifts’, but others whom we’d like to please with something modest but lovely. But where do we find those special gifts in a sea of holiday offerings, all competing for our attention?

I like to start early when the shops are still easy to navigate and well-stocked. I also do extensive research online so I can see ALL that’s available to find a few unique things that are both useful and appealing. And of course comparison shopping is an invaluable skill if you have the time.

Today I’ve compiled the first of two Holiday Gift Guide posts to help you in your search. In this first post, divided by category, I’ve curated 6 different gift categories for everyone on your list, with a mix of well-priced items and plenty that are a bit more special. Read on for my money-saving tips, then keep scrolling for the best holiday gifts! (Then come back next week when I’ll be doing 6 more categories, divided by interest.)

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For Her

If you’re anything like me, pretty much everything can qualify as a ‘gift for her’, from books and music to decor and assorted trinkets. But since I’m doing various categories, I pulled out all the special interests for a separate list and left fashion and accessories for the ‘Gifts for Her’ list. I tend to favor simple items when selecting clothing for gifts, both because it’s my personal preference and also they’re less likely to miss the mark. I focus more on great shapes and quality fabrics, and select accessories when looking to make a whimsical statement. A chocolate slouch bag, animal print beanie, textured gloves and dangling earrings all work best for people you know will appreciate them. And when in doubt, let color do the heavy lifting. This year it’s all about brown and burgundy, so classic pieces in those colors will make you look like a gift-giving star!

For Him

When it comes to guys, I favor classic style, with a gentle nod to what’s fashionable and a healthy dose of simplicity. In our house, ‘gifts for him’ revolve around things he doesn’t even know he needs (like anything without holes!) and yet reflect his relaxed lifestyle and sensible preferences. Casual wear is at the top of that list, but also a weekend bag, comfy slippers, a soft-as-butter scarf and a chic belt. I also love to throw in a few items that address his particular interests, like a leather bound book of Past and Present Ballparks, an elegant decanter for his favorite bourbon, a very cool retro Bluetooth radio and cozy rolled stadium blanket.

For the Home

This is another category that can be almost limitless for me, but when purchasing a gift I typically go fairly neutral and try to strike a delicate balance between items that are widely liked, yet also a bit special. A bit of copper or gold can make the most ordinary items exceptional (I LOVE the pepper mills!), but also burled wood boxes, crystal tableware, bone picture frames, and a stone catchall. Vases, bowls, and trays are other great items, as are candles and home fragrance. Textured pillows and throws round out the offering, and unless you know the person well, this is an area I’d stay strictly neutral.

For the Littles

The next category on today’s list includes adorable items for baby (and toddlers). There are playthings, as well as room decor, along with a few items to accessorize the little one. You’ll find special options for a stand alone gift, or coordinated smaller pieces that can be combined together. I just love the look of soft naturals and nearly neutrals with gentle motifs in tasteful patterns. I had the best time picking out these items and I don’t even have grandchildren yet! But lucky you, if you do!

Self-Care and Beauty

Some people love to go out and spend a night on the town and others enjoy a cozy evening at home. Sometimes those are even two sides to the same person. But either way, this category works for both. If they enjoy a soak in the tub and a bit of self-pampering, bath salts and body scrubs will do the trick. Yet for the extroverts in your life you might try the nail lacquers, the cologne set or the eye shadow palette. Put together a gift basket of some of the smaller items, then throw in a scented candle as the icing on the cake.

Stocking Stuffers

The last category in today’s gift guide is for stocking stuffers, small pleasures that add a bit extra. To qualify for this category I looked for items that are both small and not over-the-top expensive, little luxuries that make a beautiful time of year even one note better. I love when the stocking stuffer works with the main gift, so if you presented someone with a piece of jewelry, consider a small jewelry dish for the stocking stuffer. Soaps, hair accessories, and tiny picture frames go great here, as well.

I hope you found some things that you like. Be sure to stop back next week when I’ll be sharing 6 more categories by interest this time. You’ll find gifts for the traveler, the spa lover, the cook, and more!