Shopping secrets from one of the best gift givers we know.
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Fun fact: Katie is a truly devoted gift-giver. It’s not just a gesture to her; it’s a fulfilling experience for all parties involved. From picking a product that feels personal to packaging it just so, she’s invested during every step of the way, every time — especially when she gets to see that spark of joy as the recipient unwraps their surprise.
This year, she’s curated a thoughtful collection of gifts designed to bring comfort, joy, and a touch of luxury. From cuddly home essentials to timeless wardrobe staples, each item reflects her signature mix of practicality, style, and heart, and she’s been itching to share them with you.
Katie’s philosophy on giving is simple: the best presents don’t just fill space under the tree — they actually enhance your life. That’s why her go-to gifts often include elevated essentials like silky-soft cotton sheets, which she loves so much she’s outfitted her entire house with them, and her go-to cashmere sweater for the transition from fall to winter.
Whether you’re searching for something special for a loved one or treating yourself to a well-deserved upgrade, her selections are designed to inspire shopping with intention. Pour yourself a cup of cocoa or a glass of wine and settle in for a master class in thoughtful gift-giving.
For more holiday gift ideas, visit our complete 2025 guide.
Katie’s Handpicked Holiday Gifts for 2025
Ginger Peach Green Tea
Amazon
When she’s in a pinch and needs a quick gift that’s as useful as it is adorable, Katie wraps up her favorite tea with a special mug (like this one from Anthropologie). She’s currently sipping this ginger peach green tea, which has a soothing base that’s brightened with juicy notes of fruit and a touch of warmth from the ginger, making it a comforting, refreshing, and a subtly-sweet treat. It’s basically the equivalent of giving someone a quiet moment for themselves.
Barefoot Dreams Blanket
QVC
We all know one person who’s perpetually tucked into a corner with a novel in one hand and a steaming mug in the other. To complete their reading nook, only the coziest oversized blanket will do. This one from Barefoot Dreams has rave reviews, and it’s big enough for two if your recipient is willing enough to share.*
Jenni Kayne Flynn Cashmere Sweater
Jenni Kayne
Jenni Kayne sweaters aren’t just a mainstay in Katie’s wardrobe — they’ve become her go-to gift for the people she loves most. This 100-percent cashmere V-neck comes in 12 stunning shades, and its relaxed fit still has some structure, striking a balance between comfort and sophistication. Even the pickiest daughters-in-law will appreciate this timeless piece.*
A Book from Book Outlet
Book Outlet
One of Katie’s favorite items to gift? Books. One of her other passions? A good deal. If you’re in the same camp, head over to Book Outlet, which has plenty of new releases and classic titles at prices that’ll make every good bargain-hunter and bookworm smile. And these aren’t dusty old leftovers — they’re fresh reads from authors like Abby Jimenez and John Green, some priced as low as $5. Whether your gift recipient devours biographies, swoons over romance, or can’t put down a page-turning thriller, you’ll find something just right.
Jones Road Mini Miracle Balm Trio
Jones Road
Just in time for the holidays, Katie’s friend Bobbi Brown unveiled three new shades of Jones Road’s beloved Miracle Balm. Creamy, buildable, and utterly foolproof, this trio doubles as a lip and cheek tint that creates a gorgeous glow in under five minutes, even for makeup minimalists.
Quince Giza Cotton Sheets
Quince
These luxurious Quince Giza Cotton Sheets feel like they belong on a five-star hotel bed — without the five-star price tag. Katie recently added a set of these to every bedroom in her Hamptons home, because she knows they’ll help any guest drift off in bliss. Woven from 100-percent Egyptian cotton, they’re breathable, buttery soft, and get better with every wash. It’s a gift that’ll have even perpetual night owls looking forward to bedtime.
Barbour Arlene Jacket
Nordstrom
For those wanting the title of “style icon,” a Barbour jacket will help them achieve that status — while staying warm and dry. The longstanding go-to brand for rugged waxed jackets has gotten a new wave of adoration recently, thanks to it releasing a slew of fresh, chic styles crafted with the same quality Barbour has been known for since 1894. The quilted construction adds warmth without bulk, and the waxy sheen keeps the wearer safe from rain. Katie owns the classic style with a longer silhouette in forest green, but this cropped mulberry version is a fun, modern take.
J.Crew Cashmere Wrap
J.Crew
Equal parts scarf and blanket, this ultra-soft cashmere wrap is a cold-weather essential that’s worth reaching for all season long. Whether the giftee is layering it under a coat for extra warmth or snuggling up with it on a long flight, it’s effortlessly stylish and endlessly useful — which is why Katie has gifted it to several friends throughout the years.
Soma Cool Nights Pajamas
Soma
There’s a reason Katie is obsessed with these pajamas: they’re unbelievably soft, breathable, and never clingy (even when you’re tossing and turning). Cool to the touch, they feel like a dream against skin, and the drawstring waist means the fit is easy to adjust. You can buy the top and bottom separately to mix and match prints, but we want to grab the matching pants to complete the set.
Jenny Bird Florence Earrings
Jenny Bird
Don’t be fooled by their size — these mini hoops make a major statement. Jenny Bird’s most buzzed-about design now comes in a shrunken version that hugs the ear and cleverly looks like two hoops in one. Lightweight and finished in high-polish silver (they also come in 14K gold, if that’s your recipient’s preference), they’re comfy enough to wear all day and night without causing achy earlobes.
L’Agence Anita Blouse
L’Agence
Elegant with a hint of drama, this blouse is Katie’s latest wardrobe obsession. Made from delicate floral lace with puffed shoulders and a scalloped hem, it’s romantic, feminine, and just a little bit flirty. Unfortunately this creamy chocolate brown color that Katie’s wearing is sold out, but it’s still available in black and white.
Quince Initial Charm
Quince
Made with real pavé diamonds and 14K gold, this charm adds the ideal amount of shine and sentiment to any chain. Katie loved it so much, she got one for her daughter after the birth of her son last year. Whether it’s the initial of your kid, your partner, or yourself, it’s a personal gift that hits the mark every time.
KissModa Lounge Set
Amazon
When you’re constantly jetting between Zoom interviews and cross-country flights like Katie, a mix of comfort and polish can be hard to come by. But this matching sweat set turns long travel days into style moments — and at under $50, you can grab a few sets for yourself and any frequent flyers on your list.
Alex Mill Taylor Cardigan
Alex Mill
Forward and backward, the Taylor cardigan is the definition of timeless with a twist (literally — it’s reversible). It’s crafted from a soft, substantial cotton-cashmere blend and designed to be endlessly versatile. Last year, Katie bought each of her daughters one, and she said it was an absolute hit.
Dr. Dennis Gross Mask Set
Dermstore
Who doesn’t love a good glow-up? This brightening and firming set from Dr. Dennis Gross brings the dermatologist’s office straight to the bathroom, delivering smoother, brighter skin in record time. Katie has been using the brand’s LED mask for ages, and yes, this set is pricey, but it comes with the mask and a high-impact cleanser, peel, and moisturizer, amplifying results. It’s the ultimate self-care gift for anyone who prioritizes their complexion.
Quince Cashmere Cardigan
Quince
A classic cashmere cardigan is the sartorial equivalent of a warm hug — and this one from Quince nails that closet staple, for under $150. Made from 100-percent Mongolian cashmere, it’s feather-soft, beautifully tailored, and shockingly affordable. Whether tossed over jeans or layered for travel, it’ll feel sumptuous every time they slip it on.
Ferragamo Small Double Gancio Leather Crossbody Bag
Nordstrom
Created with timeless lines and impeccable craftsmanship, this designer handbag is meant to be worn for decades, not just admired — though it’ll certainly be admired. It’s definitely a generous gesture, but if you pool resources with family or friends and make it a special-occasion gift, it becomes a shared statement of love (and good taste). If you want to invest in something with a similar luxury feel without the high price tag, this Tory Burch handbag sports a similar hue for one-fifth of the price.
Caddis Readers
Caddis
Finally — reading glasses with personality. Caddis combines high-quality lenses with cool, modern frames that make you actually want to put them on. They’re smart, stylish, and a little cheeky, just like the person on your list who’s always losing their specs. The only problem? You’ll end up wanting a pair in every color for yourself, too.
Cartolina Silk Scarf
Cartolina
Katie’s often given her daughters silk scarves as gifts over the years, not only because they instantly elevate anything they’re paired with, but because they’re practical, too. Tied around the neck, hair, or the handle of a favorite bag — they always look chic. For this gorgeous specimen, we even scored you an exclusive discount from Katie-approved retailer Cartolina: You’ll get 20 percent off this scarf (or anything else) with the code KATIE20.
TerraKlay Wave Wood Bowl
TerraKlay
Katie loves to host, and when she stumbled upon these hand-carved Higuerilla wood bowls, she found out that they are as stunning as they are meaningful. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, crafted by artisans and designed to last for generations. Each one is hand carved from a single piece of wood, making it a true piece of functional art.
For more holiday gift ideas, visit our complete 2025 guide.
* Denotes a paid placement.