As the holiday season rolls around again, it’s time to dive into the festive spirit of gift-giving! Last year, I teamed up with the incredible ladies of My Five Favorites—Kris from Driven By Decor, Pam from Simple Details, and Jennifer from Dimples & Tangles—to bring you a treasure trove of ideas for both giving and receiving gifts. It was such a delightful experience that we couldn’t resist doing it again this year.
This time, we’re excited to welcome a special guest host, the ever-stylish Cassie from Hi Sugarplum! If you don’t already know Cassie, you’re in for a treat. She’s witty, relatable, and an expert at curating chic yet accessible looks. Whether you’re unsure how to pull off an all-black outfit, mix stripes with leopard print, or choose the perfect weekend getaway attire, Cassie is your go-to gal. Her posts are filled with not just amazing fashion finds but also practical tips that make styling a breeze.
With that, I’m thrilled to present my Fifteen Favorites Holiday Wish List for 2017—a mix of tried-and-true favorites and dreamy items I wouldn’t mind unwrapping myself. While I always emphasize to my family that quality time together is the best gift, a few thoughtful surprises never hurt, right? Let’s dive in, and don’t forget to explore the fabulous lists from my co-hosts after!
Winter Hats: Keeping Cozy in Style
Winter hats are a must-have, and last year, Love Your Melon beanies were a massive hit among the cousins in our family. This year, it’s the moms’ turn to join the cozy club!
If you’re unfamiliar with Love Your Melon, it’s a brand with a mission to provide a hat to every pediatric cancer patient in the United States. On top of that, 50% of their profits go toward pediatric cancer research and initiatives—a gift that warms both the head and the heart. Their beanies come in a variety of colors and styles, so there’s something for everyone.
Another favorite in our household is the cable-knit beanie with a faux fur pom-pom. Technically, it’s my daughter Hannah’s, but I find myself “borrowing” it more often than not. It’s snug, stylish, and adds a fun flair to any winter outfit.
For those who love wearing their hair up, messy bun beanies—also known as ponytail hats—are a game-changer. One standout option is the beautiful handmade collection from Porter Crochet on Etsy. Their bow-style headband ear warmers are another adorable and practical gift idea for chilly days.
Cozy Slippers: Warmth for Your Tootsies
Living in the Northeast means embracing long, frosty winters, and warm slippers are a non-negotiable essential. The Ugg Ansley slippers, adorned with faux fur bows, are a personal favorite. Not only are they incredibly cute, but they’re also currently on sale—making them a perfect gift option.
While I’ve been an Ugg devotee for years, I recently ventured into the world of wool slippers and was pleasantly surprised. During a weekend trip to Vermont, I discovered Toms slippers. These are as warm and comfy as they come, featuring a durable hard sole that’s perfect for quick trips to the mailbox or car. Plus, they’re available in several colors to suit different tastes.
Another recent find that stole my heart is the Glerups wool slippers. Though they might look simple and come with a higher price tag, they’re worth every penny. A woman in a local shop raved about them, and after trying them on, I understood the hype. These slippers are the epitome of cozy luxury—soft, warm, and unbelievably comfortable. If you’re looking to splurge on a gift that screams relaxation, these are it.
A Night Out Clutch: Stylish Essentials for the Holidays
Every wardrobe needs a chic clutch, especially during the holiday season. From casual gatherings with friends to a fancy date night, a statement clutch can elevate any outfit.
Here are a few favorites:
- A plum satin clutch for a touch of elegance.
- A foldover faux fur clutch for a cozy yet trendy vibe.
- A colorful floral clutch to add a playful pop to your ensemble.
These versatile pieces are small enough to carry the essentials but stylish enough to make a statement.
Fun Jewelry: Sparkle and Shine
Jewelry is always a fun gift to give—and receive! Guess what? These adorable pieces are from Old Navy! Surprising, right? Affordable and stylish, both options are under $25, making them perfect stocking stuffers or small gifts. I may have ordered them as gifts… or perhaps to keep for myself. No judgment!
Here’s what I’m loving:
Who knew fabulous accessories could be so budget-friendly?
Cool Techie Stuff: Gadgets You’ll Love
If you’re shopping for someone tech-savvy—or just someone who loves practical gifts—these tech gadgets are guaranteed hits.
Portable Bluetooth Speaker
We’ve tested several portable speakers over the years, and the JBL Bluetooth wireless speaker stands out for its incredible sound quality. It’s even splashproof, making it perfect for use on the deck, in the bathroom, or at the beach. A great gift for music lovers!
Portable Phone Charger
Let’s just say 2017 was the year of portable phone chargers in our house. With teenagers around, there’s always the “my phone died” excuse when chores need to be done. Enter this sleek, compact charger for just $11.99. It’s perfect for slipping into a bag or backpack and ensures no more excuses!
Battery Pack Phone Case
For those who prefer an all-in-one solution, a slim battery pack phone case is a game-changer. It not only protects your phone but also keeps it charged on the go.
Combat Dry Winter Air: Humidifiers and Diffusers
Did you know the combination of cold temperatures, closed windows, and indoor heat can cause sore throats, dry skin, and stuffy noses? A portable cool mist humidifier and diffuser is the perfect solution. About the size of an iPhone, it’s ideal for your bedside table or for traveling.
I initially bought one for my son’s dorm room, which tends to get warm and stuffy, and quickly ordered a second for my bedside. I even keep one in the kitchen, where I diffuse essential oils to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere while humidifying the air.
This thoughtful gift is practical and health-conscious—ideal for anyone on your list.
Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner: Sparkle at Home
Have you ever had your jewelry cleaned at a jeweler or nail salon? The results are stunning! This ultrasonic jewelry cleaner brings that professional-level sparkle to your home. It’s a great gift for anyone who loves their accessories to shine.
Personally, I think it’s perfect for gifting to someone nearby—so you can enjoy it too! Whether it’s for a family member or a close friend, this highly-rated device is sure to impress.
Beauty Must-Haves: Skincare Upgrade
In September, we shared a list of beauty favorites, and I updated that post with even more ideas! One standout item was the Olay Pro-X battery-operated facial cleansing brush, which is great for gentle exfoliation and cleansing. However, I’ve been eyeing the Clarisonic facial cleanser, which offers a kinder, oscillating motion that’s gentler on the skin.
While the Clarisonic is pricier (around $130 compared to Olay’s $30), it’s worth scoping out for a good deal. This device is a luxurious gift for anyone looking to upgrade their skincare routine.
More Favorites and Ideas
I could go on and on about my favorite things—books, makeup, workout gear, travel essentials—but I’ll stop here for now. If you’re like me and love discovering fun, practical, and indulgent items, I hope this list sparks some inspiration for your holiday shopping.
Don’t forget to check out the incredible wish lists from my talented co-hosts:
- Cassie from Hi Sugarplum!
- Kris from Driven By Decor
- Pam from Simple Details
- Jennifer from Dimples & Tangles
Between all of us, you’ll find over 60 amazing gift ideas to make this holiday season truly special.
