OK, let’s face it — clothing and accessory gift-giving can feel tough and even a little awkward. Everyone has their own sense of style that can be hard to pin down and trends seem to come and go as fast as the holidays do. However, I’m here to bust the myth that shopping for style pieces is next to impossible. It’s actually a pretty damn good gift once you find the style pieces that can work for any and every fashion aesthetic.
Lucky for you, I’ve scoured my favorite shops to find the best clothing and accessories to gift this holiday season. Whether it’s for your hometown BFF or for a random Secret Santa recipient, these stylish gifts will be sure to win them over.
1. Tortoise resin earrings for a sprinkle of sophistication (Free People, $28)
These earrings are perfect for any friend with a retro vibe or a friend who’s been looking to up her accessory game. It’s no surprise that resin earrings have been absolutely dominating the earring scene right now — ’70s fashion is going strong well into the last part of the year. This pair from Free People is almost too easy to pair with any outfit, no matter the aesthetic or color palette. Whether you go for a classic hoop or a super funky square pair, there really is no wrong way to gift this earring. Any lover of vintage accessories is guaranteed to fall in love with a pair.
2. Warm up to a blanket scarf (American Eagle, $25)
TBH, blanket scarfs are the gift to give this season. Think about it — it’s basically a blanket that’s acceptable to wear outside the house. You truly can’t go wrong with this fashionably cozy piece. We’re loving the simplicity and versatility of this blanket scarf from American Eagle. The tassels at the bottom add a little more texture and detail to the scarf and are super cute. For your friend that prefers a bolder accent scarf, try this striped blanket scarf from Express or this tartan print blanket scarf from J. Crew.
3. All the scrunchies, please (Urban Outfitters, $12)
These on-trend hair accessories are still cool, we promise. Scrunchies are the perfect accent for a quick top knot, party ponytail, or for resting ever-so-casually on your wrist. Urban Outfitters is a go-to for every color, pattern, and texture you could ever want in a scrunchie (and comes in beautifully curated packs that all complement each other). If you want to switch it up on the classic scrunchie, try a pack of hair coil scrunchies, perfect for the trend-setting friend who’s been dying to try these out — these pastel hair coil scrunchies from Francesca’s are the stylishly subtle hair accessory.
4. A dainty detail with a cute message (Kate Spade, $32)
Whether your friends prefer a statement-making bangle or stick to a simple, everyday watch, they are guaranteed to love a dainty bangle with an encouraging message. Is your friend star-sign obsessed? Gift your favorite Sagittarius or Capricorn an accessory that shows off their ~astrological side~. Or, if you want to get even more personal with your gift, try an engraved paved bracelet where you can add a name, date, or even coordinates of your fave place on campus or sorority house. S’cute and sentimental, your friends will 10/10 cry.
5. Stunt in snakeskin all season long (Windsor, $43)
Tall, go-go style boots are not only so on-trend right now, but they’ll keep your legs super warm during those chilly months (because, yes, winter is coming). These snakeskin faux leather boots from Windsor are a must-have for your friend with a style Instagram or blog — she’ll be showing these bad boys off in no time. If you’re feeling something a little more low key, check out these casual snake print ankle boots from ASOS.
6. Vintage sunnies are always the move (Forever21, $10)
Just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean you have to forget about your summer accessories. While receiving cozy gifts makes the heart warm and fuzzy, receiving some must-have sunglasses is just as appreciated. Give your stylish friend a pair of vintage-style sunglasses, like this pair from Forever 21, for an added edge to their look. If cat-eye sunglasses aren’t your friends cup of tea, try some pastel oval lenses to really elevate her next ‘fit.
7. Pretty in pink? More like pretty in plaid (Tobi, $68)
You heard it here: plaid will be taking over this winter, so do your BFF a favor and get her ahead of the plaid skirt trend this season. The gray mini skirt, like this one from Tobi, will be the one to look out for when gifting your friends. For fun twist on this neutral skirt, try this paper bag-style skirt from Express for the perfect day-to-night staple or this asymmetric, wrap-style skirt from Revolve.
So go ahead and give the gift of ~style~ to your closest friends and family — they’ll be so glad you did. Try mixing and matching these pieces or even building an outfit for all your loved ones this holiday season.