I’ll admit it. I’ve given gifts I’m not proud of: the Unicorn Poop Candy, the schlocky t-shirt, the book of poems by cats. To anyone who’s ever received a last-minute, questionable-judgement, completely useless present from me, I apologize. To make amends, I’ve been researching gift ideas that are both stylish and practical, items that anyone would be happy to receive this holiday season.
Here, 15 inexpensive presents, all priced under $30, to tuck into stockings or under the tree this year.
Above: Delfonics’ Quitterie Pen Case, shown here in dark blue, is $18 at Need Supply. Slim and streamlined, it can be used to hold more than just writing implements. Above: The Rapid Repair Kit by Merchant & Mills contains all the mending essentials you’ll need encased in a cute tin box (not pictured) that measures 3 3/4 by 2 1/4 inches; $24 at Boston General Store. Above: For the loved one on your list who refuses to take lunch breaks. This beech wood Keyboard Brush easily and gently wipes away crumbs and dust from tiny crevices; $12 at Canoe. Above: These sculptural Stainless Steel Clips are $3.50 for a pack of 4 at June. Above: The Leather Knot Keyring by Danish brand OYOY is $18 at Huset. Above: The beauty of giving Falcon Enamelware’s 3 1/2-inch-tall Tumbler is that it has multiple uses—drinking cup, pencil holder, toothbrush container, and more. It’s available in nine different colors; $8.50 each.
Above: The Standard Baggu bag folds into a flat 5-by-5 inch pack and comes in a variety of patterns and colors (shown are the Blush Gingham and the Copper Gingham); $10 each. Above: The Touchscreen Mist Cleaner is a spray tube filled with alcohol-free cleaner for smart phones, tablets, and laptops. After you spray, simply use the microfiber-covered exterior to wipe and clean. It comes in three colors (shown is the gray); $13 at at Moma Design Store. Above: A set of 2 black Mini Notebooks with rose gold edges by Wms & Co. is $18 at Makié. Above: Wires are a fact of life, but they needn’t be unattractive. Native Union’s Belt Cable provides stylish charging (via a fun black and white pattern) and easy cord control (via an attached leather clasp); $25 at J.Crew.
Above: Fog Linen’s Coasters come in a variety of patterns, colors, and fabrics; $26 for a set of 6. Above: Okay, this is admittedly not the most secure way to keep track of your passwords, but how cute is this slim little notebook? Perfect for the technophobe on your list. The Internet Password Keeper is $9.99 each at the Container Store. Above: The Speckled Stoneware Spoon Rest is $28 at Schoolhouse. Above: The petite porcelain Crysanthemum Plate would make a lovely ring dish; $18 at Nalata Nalata. Above: These Linen Bento Bags, designed and sewn in Northern California, come in two sizes and three fabrics (denim, gray ticking, and natural, shown); $20 and $24 at Shed.
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