With the first flecks of snow starting to softly pile up on the ground, Starbucks’ holiday drinks released, and Christmas music slowly creeping its way back onto shuffle, it’s time to start thinking about that Christmas wishlist! This year in particular, I’m carefully choosing gift ideas that are either something I wouldn’t buy myself, something I’ll have for a long time, and/or something I’ve been wanting for over two months. With these criteria, I’ve been able to start building a list that is not only well thought-out, but also isn’t full of trendy items that I would get sick of in a few months.
From my list this year, and from years past, here are five timeless gift ideas that you might want to add to your list, or even use for a loved one’s gift.
1. A nice, high-quality sweater
Now, this one might seem a little bit boring. After all, who doesn’t have a favourite sweater already? However, at least for me, I find that many of the cheap sweaters I buy don’t tend to last more than one or two winters without looking very worn or pilled. Investing in a good-quality sweater that might have a longer shelf life than the average fast-fashion sweater makes for a thoughtful, lovely gift. Last Christmas, I was given a sweater from the Gap, and it’s held up wonderfully over the past year. You could even modify this to be a high-quality fleece! I have one from Patagonia and I wear it all the time.
2. Makeup (Specifically, Rhode or merit’s cream blush)
One thing about me is that I absolutely love a cream blush. I find them to give that perfectly glowy, natural flush and I love that they can be used as both an eyeshadow and a lip colour. I have two Rhode pocket blushes and they last so long, especially under powder. I’ve also heard great things about the Merit cream blushes, which come in a wide range of beautiful shades. I love putting a makeup product on my Christmas wishlist because I can try it out that day! Like when I was given a new toy as a child, there’s something so exciting and nostalgic about opening a present and being able to play with it right away.
3. Perfume (for everyday, and for travel)
Perfume is one of those things I always run out of around Christmastime and one of those things I will never buy for myself! It makes for a perfect gift, either for yourself or for a loved one, and gets used almost every single day. Gifting something that is practical yet highly desirable is perfect and never unappreciated. I love the Chanel Mademoiselle and the YSL Libre perfumes and I’ll be asking for a new Mademoiselle this Christmas!
4. Thermal brush or another hair tool
This one really depends on your hair type, but for me with slightly wavy hair, I love a blowout tool to smooth out my hair. I currently have the Revlon one, but I’d love to try a thermal brush to get more of a curly blowout look. For someone who might have a thermal brush already, another hair tool, like a curling wand or straightener makes a great gift. Hair tools are one of those items where you might not use them every day, but you’re so glad to have them when you need it.Â
5. socks!
The final gift idea might be controversial, but I actually love getting socks for Christmas. I hate buying them for myself and I feel like I always need new ones (I swear my dryer is eating them). I love the TNA ankle socks from Aritzia, but at $28 for a three-pack, it’s not something I would buy for myself. They’re the perfect sock, though, so they make for a great gift!
While Christmas gift-giving and receiving can be fun, it’s not all there is to the holiday season! Some of the best gifts I’ve ever received are fun Christmas memories with friends and family, so try not to get too caught up in the material. Happy (early) holidays!