Decorative boxes, comfy throws, colorful scarves, cool jewelry—some items are failproof when you’re not sure what to get a friend. Lucky for you, Brooklyn-based Leif has a beautifully edited selection of these universal crowd pleasers, and most are under $100.
Top picks right now: graphic wool scarves by Donna Wilson; this crafty necklace.
Office Secret Santa swaps are always a conundrum. What’s an inoffensive step above a tchotchke that won’t set you back too far? If you find the answer, be sure to let us know. Meanwhile, Spoon Sisters has tons of stuff that comes close—and we appreciate the very detailed breakdown of gift recipients on the left-hand sidebar.
Top picks right now: spork chops for desk lunches; this chalkboard mug.
We love the arty, laid-back vibe of the wares at this LA storefront, and continue to count our lucky stars that the online offerings are just as extensive. Zero in on accessories, stationery, and living categories—these are the most extensive sections, and usually the most giftable.
Top picks right now: handpainted Falconwright clutches; this tea-for-one brewing set.
Want to gift something truly one-of-a-kind? The formerly Reston-based Three Potato Four (the family has since relocated to Philly) scours the country for retro knickknacks and reclaimed furniture, then puts it up for sale on the site. If the giftee likes antiques with a distinctly Americana spin, this is a sure bet.
Top picks right now: this antique matchstick holder collection; an antique wooden pogo stick.
The type-A, meticulously organized prepster—she’s inescapable in Washington, and almost impossible to shop for, given her very specific preferences. Luckily, blogger Mackenzie Horan decided to apply her enviable good taste to the retail realm, with a focus on elegant desk supplies, classic jewelry, and everything monogrammable.
Top picks right now: these tortoiseshell drinking glasses; this rugby stripe notebook.
When in doubt, go with food—especially gourmet sweets or small-batch artisanal sauces and spreads. Right now, the most impressive selection of uncommon treats we know is at New York Mouth, where more than 260 types of charcuterie, condiments, spreadables, pickled things, nut butters, and more await. Most are sourced in and around New York, and all will give you instant foodie cred.
Top pick right now: any of the perfectly curated gift sets.
From bourbon vinegar to Chemex coffee makers, everything on this site just looks really cool. So go on, impress the pants off the girl/guy who has everything.
Top picks right now: this simple bottle opener; this Thomas Edison-esque table lamp.
Obsessed with the accessories and home goods section of Anthropologie? Then you’ll flip for Terrain, an earthy, elegant take on gifts, gardening, and home decor from the same parent company.
Top picks right now: this chic brass plant mister; these adorable leather piggy banks.
You know the impulse buys you can’t resist at museum store checkout lines? What about the kooky ice cube holders you picked up at a fun boutique on your last trip out of town? Here’s a secret: Chances are they both come from Kikkerland. Another secret: This extensive novelty brand has an equally extensive website you can order from directly, thereby avoiding the upcharge. Like Spoon Sisters, consider Kikkerland another great bet if you’re in need of a Secret Santa gift.
Top picks right now: the Lucky Beggar change purse, made to look like a New York coffee cup; the sabre umbrella.
Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.
