Cozy blankets, adorable candy, and other winning treats.
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You already know I love to shop. But shopping for people I care about? That’s where the fun really begins. There’s something so satisfying about finding a present that makes you think, “I know exactly who would love this.” And yes, I get pretty excited about the wrapping, too. Presentation counts, people!
For this year’s gift guide, I’ve rounded up finds that make daily life a little better. You’ll find everything from cashmere and candy to a device that’s helped me put down my phone. (OK sometimes, at least.) I hope these picks help you find a gift for someone you love. And if something catches your eye for yourself along the way? I certainly understand the temptation. Happy gifting!
For more holiday gift ideas, visit our complete 2026 guide.
Katie's Handpicked Holiday Gifts for 2026
Quince Cashmere Sweater
Quince
Cashmere is such a lovely gift, especially when you don’t have to spend a fortune on it. Quince’s crewneck is made from 100 percent Mongolian cashmere and comes in enough colors that choosing just one is a challenge. I’d go with a shade they wear often, or something brighter if their winter wardrobe needs cheering up. At $50, you might be tempted to order one for yourself, too.
Lola Blanket
Lola
These blankets are so soft and comforting, but the story behind them is what really stayed with me. Brothers Tommy and Will Higham started Lola in honor of their mother, Amy, who found comfort in a faux-fur blanket during treatment for breast cancer. Before she died, she gave each of her children a blanket of their own. Whenever I’m wrapped in mine, I’ll think of Amy. Plus, Lola donates blankets to women living with breast cancer, as well as a portion of proceeds from the Rosewater blanket to fund life-saving research.
Amaryllis
QVC
I’ve been raving about these for years, and I’m still delighted by how little they ask of you. The waxed bulb doesn’t need soil or watering — just a spot where you can watch it grow. Before long, you have beautiful red blooms to brighten the house in the middle of winter. It’s a lovely gift for a host, a neighbor, or anyone who insists they can’t keep a plant alive.*
Flamingo Estate Noir Fig and Fennel Flower Duo
Flamingo Estate
I love giving food as a gift and this fig balsamic and fennel olive oil duo gives a cook plenty to play with: The balsamic would be delicious over cheese or roasted vegetables, and I’d drizzle the oil over fish or beans. Add some good bread, and dinner is all squared away.
Soma Cool Nights Pajamas
Soma
Some of us prefer to sleep in long sleeves, while others would happily doze off with the windows open in January. These PJs come as separates, so you can mix sizes and choose the combination you actually want to sleep in. Such a sensible idea, especially when matching sets don’t always fit both halves of us. The breathable jersey is buttery soft, which is exactly what I want at the end of the day.
Ralph Lauren Ralph's Club New York Cologne
Nordstrom
Scent is such a personal thing, but I think this one would be a great gift for nearly anybody. It combines citrus and lavender with sandalwood and a warm vanilla base. And it’s worth sampling if you’re shopping for someone who likes woody scents with some freshness.
Oh My Mahjong Luminaire Mahjong Tiles
Oh My Mahjong
A beautiful set of mahjong tiles is a wonderful gift for someone who loves — or wants to learn — the game. The cheery pastel artwork on these makes them especially lovely to set out on the table. A gift like this is extra-nice because it comes with the promise of time together, so I’m considering it for my daughter. (Sorry for the spoiler!) You can even include an invitation for your next match.
Jones Road The Hero Kit
Jones Road
A beauty gift set is more appealing when you can actually imagine using everything inside. This one includes mascara, two mini Miracle Balms, an eyeliner, and moisturizer, and there's options that let you tailor the selections to the person receiving it. It’s a lovely way to introduce someone to a brand they’ve been curious about — and for the makeup enthusiast, opening a bunch of new things at once is part of the pleasure.
The Brick
Brick
No matter how determined I am to scroll less at night, I can always talk myself into ignoring a screen-time limit. But this has cut down my scrolling: You select the apps you want to block, then tap your phone against the Brick to lock them until you tap it again. Leave the device in another room, and getting back on those apps requires getting up to retrieve it. Suddenly, going to bed seems like the better option.
Béis Carry-On Suitcase
Béis
I spend plenty of time in airports, and I’ve been loving this carry-on lately. The olive is such a timeless color — a welcome sight when you’re packing for another early flight. Luggage is a generous gift, but a good suitcase will accompany them on all sorts of adventures.
Dyson Airwrap
Amazon
This is a splurge, but it’s saved me hundreds of dollars over the years, because I no longer have to go to the salon for blowouts! I can dry and style my hair at home, on my own schedule. If there’s an Airwrap on your loved one’s wish list, I think they'll love it — just make sure you choose the attachments suited to their hair type.
BonBon Candy
BonBon
When I passed by BonBon on the Upper East Side, I couldn’t help but go in. It’s a sweet tooth’s dream, with so much candy to choose from that you may want to allow yourself some browsing time. These Sour Wild Strawberry fish are my favorite flavor and they'd make a cheerful stocking stuffer, or a delicious addition to a bigger gift.
Harry and David Pears
Harry and David
A box of beautiful pears feels so generous, especially during a season when everyone’s kitchen is full of sweets. They're amazing at breakfast — imagine them cut up on top of yogurt and granola? — served with cheese, or shared after dinner. I love a gift that someone can put straight on the table and enjoy. It's also a thoughtful solution when a friend insists they "don’t need another thing."
Caddis Glasses
Caddis
Of course I had to include the glasses from my collaboration! The bold shape makes them a way to upgrade any outfit, and the Heirloom color is the cherry (OK fine, the cherry tomato) on top. If you’re giving them as a gift, let them try on the frames and choose the lenses they need. You’ll still get the pleasure of treating them, even if they know what’s in the box.
Dazzle Dry Nail Polish Kit
Dazzle Dry
I like doing my own nails, but waiting around for them to dry tests my patience. And gel lasts forever, but taking it off can be such a hassle. This fast-drying system is a happy compromise, especially when I want long-wearing color but also to get on with my day. Pick out a favorite shade for a stocking, or give a newcomer the full system.
Line in the Sand Pickleball Dress
Line in the Sand
You know how much I love pickleball, so a dress that can go from the court to the pool certainly has my attention. The fabric dries quickly, and adjustable ties at the sides let you change the length. I’d wear shorts underneath for a game, then head for a swim afterward. Now that’s my kind of doubleheader.
Le Creuset Dutch Oven
Nordstrom
A high-quality Dutch oven is an heirloom-level gift so pick a winner like this one. The 6.5-quart size has room for soup, a slow braise, or even a loaf of no-knead bread. I love the idea of tucking a handwritten recipe inside before you wrap it — then the first meal is already squared away!
Roxanne Assoulin Initial Charm Necklace
Roxanne Assoulin
I bought this necklace for my assistant’s birthday, and it has such a cheerful mix of charms: a mini heart, a sapphire-colored crystal slider, and an initial you choose. It’s playful without feeling like something that was raided from a teen’s jewelry box.
Jennifer Fisher Baby Hoops
Jennifer Fisher
If you’ve seen me lately, there’s a good chance I was wearing these hoops. They don’t irritate my sensitive skin or tug on my earlobes, so I’m happy to keep them on all day. The thin shape works with jeans and a sweater or something dressier. They make a stunning gift for the person who tends to wear a “signature” piece over and over, and cares about quality.
The Peach Truck Pecans
The Peach Truck
Five pounds of pecans is certain to keep the baker in your life occupied for a while. These come raw and shelled straight from a farm in Georgia, with a rich, buttery flavor. I’d chop them into cookies, scatter them over salads, or add a handful to roasted vegetables. They’re a generous gift that's sure to be useful during the holidays — and I certainly wouldn’t object to getting a few cookies in return.
Beast Blender
Beast
Smoothies are only the beginning — this compact blender is useful for sauces, dips, and soups, too. Once the blending is done, you can store the liquid inside the same container, or even take it as a to-go drink — and the vessel is stainless steel. I like that it doesn’t demand an expanse of counter space and has a robust 600-watt motor.
Garrett Popcorn
Garrett Popcorn
Caramel and cheddar popcorn together — why choose? A tin of this mix is a wonderful gift, especially when people are coming and going over the holidays. Set it out during a movie or open it while everyone’s catching up. Or send it ahead to the host's house, so it can be part of the celebration.
May Lindstrom The Hydration Hero Trio
May Lindstrom
My skin is sensitive, and with eczema in the mix, trying something new can feel like a gamble. I’m always looking for products that moisturize without leaving me irritated. This trio includes a facial balm, serum, and mist — a generous gift for a skincare enthusiast who already knows and loves them. Take it from me: With sensitive skin, a surprise isn’t always what you want!
Elemis Cleansing Balm Duo
QVC
There’s something so satisfying about washing the day off before bed. This rich balm makes it feel like a glamorous ritual, melting away makeup and leaving skin feeling clean without that tight, dry feeling. The Black Cherry scent just adds to the luxury. Plus, with two jars in the set, you can give one and keep one.
Jenny Bird Tate Earrings
Jenny Bird
I love a gold statement earring, but I don’t want my lobes aching by the end of dinner. These have a bold shape without the weight or uncomfortable tugging. No need to save them for a special occasion: They’re lovely with something festive but just right with a simple sweater and jeans.
Haven Well Within Clogs
Haven Well Within
Clogs are back, and this is one trend I’m happy to get behind. The woven suede caught my eye — it gives this pair some character without making them difficult to wear. I’d do the warm coffee bean color with the wide-leg jeans I’ve been wearing nonstop lately.
Coach Station Tote Bag
Coach Outlet
Between my iPad, glasses, a book, and everything else I carry around, I need more than just a place to put my keys. This suede-and-leather tote can accommodate the daily haul, with pockets inside and out to keep things organized. I’m especially happy to have a zip top — I’d rather not collect my belongings from the floor every time my bag tips over.
Ralph Lauren Wool Quarter Zip Sweater
Nordstrom
A good sweater earns its place long after the holiday photos are taken. This wool quarter-zip is brushed for softness, with a stand collar for chilly days and room to layer a shirt underneath. I like the heather gray with slacks for a dinner with friends at home — it's comfortable enough to feel cozy when everyone moves to the couch.
Quince Apple Watch Band
Quince
I appreciate a watch that reminds me to move, but I don’t always want to look like I’m headed to the gym. This gold band feels like a bracelet, especially alongside rings or other jewelry. It’s a nice gift for someone who wears their smartwatch everywhere, including places where the rubber strap feels out of place.
Shokz Headphones
Shokz
I like these for working out, because there are no cords to get tangled in and nothing even tucked inside my ears. They operate through "bone conduction" (it's much less scary than it sounds,) so you can listen to music but still hear what's happening around you. And the battery lasts up to 12 hours, which is considerably longer than I’ll be exercising in one go.
Caroline's Cakes Caramel Cake
Caroline's Cakes
Seven layers of yellow cake with caramel icing in between sounds like a celebration to me. This is a lovely gift to send when you can’t be there in person, especially if family or friends will be gathering. Let the host know it’s coming, so dessert can come off the to-do list; all that’s left is cutting the slices. Warning: This cake is super sweet, so a small piece will probably do the trick!
Eli’s Cheesecakes
Amazon
Sending dessert is one way to join a holiday gathering from afar. An original plain cheesecake leaves room for fresh berries or whatever topping the family likes best. It’s also lovely as-is, with coffee after dinner. Arrange the delivery with whoever’s hosting, so they can get it into the fridge or freezer right when it arrives.
Salt + Stone Body Wash Set
Salt + Stone
This earned a spot among my Obsessions this year, and it’s something I really do use in my own shower. This set comes with a refill, so they won't be too sad when the bottle runs out. Body wash may sound like a practical present, but a special scent makes a standard shower feel like a treat. Now you just have to choose a fragrance they’ll love — I’m partial to the black rose and oud.
For more holiday gift ideas, visit our complete 2026 guide.
* Denotes a paid placement.