The Best Gifts of 2023

The Most-Desired Items of 2023, According to *You*

collage of makeup, a pan, and a belt bag

Graphic by KCM

Because our readers have really great taste in presents. 

Products you buy through our links might earn us a commission. We update links when possible, but please note that all prices are subject to change.

If we were on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and had to guess which gift would be the most well-received, we wouldn’t think twice about utilizing that “Phone a Friend” lifeline.

Friends and family are great resources for shopping inspiration — an honest recommendation will always trump a stale description on a retailer’s website. Not sure what to get your self-care-lovin’ neighbor? Bogart your friend’s skincare routine and add the new serum she raves about to your cart. Want to surprise your aspiring athlete of a brother? Ask your marathoning husband for advice on the best sneakers. No matter where you source the recommendation, a personal suggestion is always preferred. (Who isn’t guilty of relying solely on Yelp for restaurant reviews, or only purchasing items with five-star ratings on Amazon?)

That’s why we’re looking to you, our loyal readers (and friends!), and dedicating an entire gift guide to ideas you curated. We trust your impeccable judgment, so we pay close attention (not in a creepy way) to what you’re currently eyeing, buying, and loving. Everything on this list is a top-selling item from our very own readers, and some of them also happen to be on sale. 

Whether you’re shopping for a colleague or a partner, here are the items Katie Couric Media readers purchased most often in 2023. After all, if you covet these goods yourself, we bet your closest kin will adore them, too.

For more gift ideas, visit our complete 2023 Holiday Gift Guide.

Jones Road Miracle Balm

Jones Road

It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Jones Road, which was founded by pro makeup artist Bobbi Brown. The brand’s signature balm lives up to its name and works, well, miracles: This high-performing, multi-purpose balm is a makeup and skincare product all in one that’s full of clean, moisturizing ingredients like jojoba seed oil, argan oil, and Vitamin E — it nourishes your skin, and instantly makes you look healthier and brighter when you apply it. One jar can be used on your lips, cheeks, eyelids, or anywhere else you want a subtle wash of glowy color. So while you’re stocking up on multiple shades for yourself, spread the joy to others this season.

$38 at Jones Road

Hoka Sneakers

Zappos

Whether your recipient is constantly hitting the trail or strolling through the farmer’s market, Hokas will fit right into their shoe collection and lifestyle. These have become some of the most-loved sneakers by athletes and casual walkers alike, thanks to their comfortable and supportive fit. (One of our editors even wrote an emotional ode to Hokas because of their significance in her marriage.) So do yourself a favor and grab a pair in a snazzy colorway.

$112 at Zappos

Cushion Lab Deep Sleep Pillow

Cushion Lab

Let’s be real: Most of us spend each night tossing and turning, hoping to extract a drop of comfort from a flat, worn pillow. Don’t let your loved ones have sleep suffering: Cushion Lab’s Deep Sleep Pillow features sculpted side bolsters that promise to cradle your neck, and a sweeping shoulder line that ensures a seamless fit.

$83 at Cushion Lab

Dermelect Self Esteem Neck Firming Duo

Dermelect

It’s natural for skin to change over time, but it’s also natural to want to address that issue, which can include dealing with newly crepey neck skin. This neck-firming duo includes a smoothing serum and a targeted lifting cream that leave skin rejuvenated and toned. This Katie Couric Media reader favorite could be a game-changing gift for a close friend who loves skincare. 

$79 at Dermelect

Laneige Sleep Mask

Amazon

Is it just us, or is 2023 the year of the Laneige Sleeping Mask? This nourishing and hydrating lip product went viral for a reason — with consistent use, it smooths and plumps your pout. It’s also one of the most popular products our readers bought on Amazon, but if that’s not convincing enough, the proof is in the pudding (or this jelly-like formula): As one reviewer writes, “It provides effective overnight moisturize, leaving my lips feeling soft and smooth in the morning.” 

$24 at Amazon

Apple AirPods Pro

Amazon

If you want to really make someone’s day, give them the gift of Apple AirPods. These life-changing earbuds will make music-on-the-go a total breeze because of their easy fit, sleek design, and seemingly endless features. This version is noise canceling (perfect for planes or working in a crowded office) and has an ample battery life. Worried about losing them? Don’t! The Find My Device app works on AirPods, too.

$190 at Amazon

Kinfield Shark Tank Bundle

Kinfield

Looking for something thoughtful for that friend who’s always Googling the products that appear on Shark Tank? Or have a clean skincare freak on your list? What about an avid outdoorsman? Scoop up a few of Kinfield’s Shark Tank bundle. This set features a natural bug repellant, bug bite relief patches, SPF lip balm, facial SPF, and a package of cleansing wipes. Hiking and trips to the beach will never be the same — they’ll smell and feel better, and won’t end in itchy red welts. 

$76 at Kinfield

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

Cozy Earth

One review says it all: “The Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set is nothing short of a dream. From the moment I unfurled these sheets onto my bed, I was transported to a world of unparalleled softness and comfort.” The 100 percent bamboo viscose helps to tame those night sweats, giving sleepers a cool and more restful snooze.

$203+ at Cozy Earth

Warmies Neck Wrap

Warmies

There is no one on this earth who doesn’t enjoy getting snuggly and cozy. That’s why we (and you!) adore these microwavable, warming neck wraps. They can help relieve a sore neck, but you can also pop one in the freezer and enjoy the chill. Either way, this neck wrap is a one-way ticket to relaxation. Buy them in bulk and hand them out as stocking stuffers.

$30 at Warmies

32 Degrees Down Jacket

32 Degrees

You folks cannot get enough of this affordable 32 Degrees puffer, and we can see why. If you’re sick of gifting shawls and scarves, show some love by giving this heavy-duty down jacket instead. Thanks to the light yet warming down fill powder, your friends and family will stay toasty even in the snowiest of snowball fights. 

$38 at 32 Degrees

Our Place Mini Always Pan 2.0

Our Place

It’s safe to say we’re crazy about the non-toxic, non-stick Always pan, so it’s also safe to say someone on your list would be, too. As one happy reviewer writes, “The pan that made me fall in love with Our Place! I made a great decision and paired it with steamers — my gyoza and veg have never been better! This mini pan is the perfect cooking companion for everything and the depth allows me to cook curries without spillage! Easy to clean, aesthetically pleasing, 10/10 for me.” We couldn’t have said it better. 

$85 at Our Place

lululemon Belt Bag

lululemon

By now, you’ve heard of this Katie-backed belt bag (and maybe even purchased one for yourself). Spread the gospel by gifting your loved ones this perfect unisex bag. We love the delightfully fluffy fleece texture of this version, but there’s a simple nylon style as well if you’re better acquainted with minimalists. 

$58 at lululemon

Augustinus Bader The Discovery Duo

Augustinus Bader

It’s notoriously difficult to prevent skin from drying out during the winter months. That’s why just about any giftee can use this cult-favorite Discovery Duo, which features a hydrating cream and an ultra-hydrating rich cream. They’re packed with antioxidants, amino acids, and Augustinus Bader’s groundbreaking TFC8 formula. This is a leading luxury skincare brand, so don’t be surprised if your recipient gets a little teary-eyed in gratitude.

$165+ at Augustinus Bader

Revlon One-Step Volumizer

Amazon

We publicly declared our love for this hair tool earlier this year, and it seems quite a few of you were convinced to give it a spin. Now that you’re addicted to it, too, help others in your life who do not yet know its powers. A combination hair dryer and round brush, this tool ensures that you can easily blow out your hair at home in a fraction of the time it would normally take. Whether if they’re a haircare amateur or savant, this is a gift for all who want to make professional blow-outs a daily, yet affordable, habit. 

$28 at Amazon

Spanx AirEssentials Got Ya Covered Pullover

Spanx

You (and Katie!) adored this pullover in 2023 for many reasons. It’s both lightweight and substantial (not to mention super soft), features four-way stretch for fluid movement, and it looks more chic than an average hoodie. One buyer says it’s a match for all the challenges and joys of daily life: “This is the perfect top to wear at the lake, running errands, kids’ sports, and the gym.”*

$94 at Spanx

NuFACE Trinity Starter Kit

Amazon

The skincare enthusiasts in your life might be stocked up on all the creams, lotions, and other potions, but you can still impress them with a microcurrent device. This powerful tool tones and contours your face muscles while smoothing your skin in just a few minutes. Buyers recommend watching tutorial videos to get started, but say it can make a major difference in addressing fine lines and loss of collagen with proper and consistent use.  

$280 at Amazon

Revitalash Lash & Brow Conditioning Set

Nordstrom

It can be hard to gift makeup because it’s so personal and particular, but almost everyone has eyebrows and eyelashes, and most probably neglect them. We use products to keep the hair on our heads healthy, so why not do the same for the hair on our faces? In this reader-favorite set, one conditioner is infused with amino acids and antioxidants to up the drama of your lash line, while the conditioner moisturizes your brows and can lead to softer, fuller brows over time. They’ll have an enviably eye-catching look in no time. 

$100 at Nordstrom

Jo Malone Cologne Collection Set

Nordstrom

It’s typically unadvisable to gift perfume unless you know someone’s signature scent, but that’s what makes this set a genius idea. It comes with five distinctive perfumes to choose from, ranging from wood sage to wild blueberry, so there’s bound to be a fragrance they’re drawn to.

$115 at Nordstrom

Maude Vibe

Maude

Don’t forget to set some time aside for yourself during the stressful holiday season. The pointed tip on this pleasure-providing toy offers precise vibrations wherever you want them, whether you’re using it alone or with a partner. 

$49 at Maude

*Denotes a paid placement.