The holiday season is in full effect and with that comes frantic shopping. Budgets, sizing, colours and trends are some additional factors to consider while deciding who will receive a present under the tree. As a self-proclaimed mall rat with years of retail and shopping experience, I have compiled a list of my top favourite things that will make amazing stocking stuffers while not breaking the bank. Did I mention each item costs under $25? Without further adieu, I present to you my 2019 Holiday Gift Guide:
Anthropologie’s Monogram Mugs
3 words: Spill. The. Tea. Keep warm this winter by sipping hot tea from an even hotter mug. These monogram mugs have become an Anthropologie staple. This instagrammable piece ranges from $10 to $14 and comes embellished with various designs and fonts. A monogram is one of the best ways to personalize a gift, making it more special for the receiver. Drop by your nearest boutique to have your mug wrapped in branded packaging and to prevent any delivery damages. This gift is a classic and will definitely come in handy.
Coach’s Phone Pocket Stickers
Saddle & Denim with Custom Monogram
Camel
Forgetting your wallet at home will be a problem of the past with Coach’s phone pocket stickers. Made from the finest leather, these stickers carry up to 2 cards and can easily stick on the back of any phone. Because I already have my debit and credit card linked on Apple Pay, the pocket is perfect for gym and/or public transit passes. These stickers are a timeless, practical option for the individual on-the-go. Pro-tip: visit the Coach Outlets to cop this piece for $10. Then, you can elevate the piece by heading to a Coach Retailer to add special customizations and monograms for free.
Urban Outfitters’ Disposable Camera
The latest trend on Instagram is shooting raw film. There is nothing better than viewing a candid, intimate moment on physical film. UO’s take on the classic camera is the perfect gift for the trendsetter or photographer on your list. Loaded with all the qualities required to capture photography with a vintage feel, this present will develop memories that last a lifetime. Don’t worry, 17 exposures of analog film are already included in the camera. Sold at Urban Outfitters for $18, you can choose from a variety of designs suitable for the special someone on your list.
First Aid Beauty’s Hydration Stars
Limited Edition Holiday Packaging
Ultra Repair Lip Therapy and Hydration Cream
With colder weather comes dry skin. For only $16, this limited edition gift set is a Sephora exclusive that comes with their Ultra Repair Lip Therapy and Ultra Repair Cream. Both products work by providing nourishing and lasting hydration for the skin and lips, making them ideal for the cold month ahead. The lip balm and moisturizer are two of Sephora’s most popular products garnering a cult following and stellar reviews. At a such an affordable price, the Hydration Stars gift set is an absolute no-brainer for a deserving individual on your list.
Tech Candy’s Dry Spell Water Defender iPhone Bag
Do not underestimate the power of this gift. I purchased one of these phone bags for my recent trip to Cancun and it instantly became one of my travel essentials. Perfect for the traveller on your list, these bags air lock any phone (marketed for the iPhone, but realistically fits any touch screen phone) into place and come with a long strap to be worn for extra security. Now, they can lounge by the pool and capture underwater photos without fearing water damage. Available at Nordstrom for $25, these bags make the perfect stocking stuffer.
American Eagle’s AEO Sling Bag
Whatever you want to call it: the fanny pack, bum bag, or sling bag, this piece has become one of the trendiest, yet practical accessories. American Eagle’s take on the vintage classic yields a utilitarian aesthetic that is modernized by durable nylon and vibrant colours. With 3 compartments and an adjustable shoulder strap, the sling can be worn a variety of ways while securing your belongings. Either worn worn crossbody, under the shoulder or around the waist, the sling bag only elevates any outfit and frees up an extra hand for running around the city. Ranging from $13 to $25, these bags an affordable staple in anyone’s wardrobe.
White Barn’s Single Wick Candle
Candles are ideal for that person you happened to select for Secret Santa. You know the person, but you don’t know them too well to purchase them something nice. Enter White Barn’s (Bath & Body Works) assortment of classic single wick candles. For only $15, you can gift a scent that happens to be identical to more popular smells. For instance, Mahogany Teakwood is identical to Abercrombie & Fitch’s Fierce, while Rose Water & Ivy is identical to Stella McCartney’s Stella. Cuffing season is highly intensified during the holidays. Help a friend out with some candles to set the mood.
Lacoste’s Supima Cotton Towels
Riviera
Classic White
Cliff
Beach Glass
What does a major Parisian brand have in common with home decor? Affordability. After living alone during university, I realized a fresh, crisp towels made the perfect accessory in my bathroom. Available at Hudson’s Bay from $9 to $20, Lacoste towels are the epitome of luxury on a budget. Made from the finest cotton, this home essential boasts the iconic crocodile logo adding an extra bad and boujee touch. The towel looks extra fine in cliff, riviera and classic white. Be prepared for people to think you broke the bank with this gift.
TTC’s Retro Scarf
The latest institution that has ventured into selling merchandise is Toronto’s own TTC. Ironically, long wait times in the freezing cold are now made better with your own TTC scarf. Exclusively sold on the company’s online boutique, the retro scarf comes in the iconic burgundy hue of old buses and features the vintage rendition of the TTC’s logo. The scar’s preppy, athletic design makes the perfect statement piece for dark, muted winter fashions. For $15, the daily commuter on your list will own and style a quirky piece of Toronto’s heritage.
Weldon Owen’s College Cook Book
As a recent university graduate, I wish this book was in existence while I was in undergrad. Often, I resulted eating ramen noodles simply because did not know how to properly throw down in the kitchen. Owen breaks down 100 delicious, budget-friendly meals targeted to the current and former student. With over 120 pages, Owen suggests his meals will help satisfy your hunger, impress your friends and break the internet. Available at Urban Outfitters for only $20, this epic compilation is perfect for the student heading back to campus in January.
There you have it. 10 of my favourite pieces all under $25 that will make perfect stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. Merry Christmas and happy shopping!
Candidly,
Jonah
