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15 Gifts That Lead With Intention
Published on 11/21/2024 at 12:15 PM
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Gift giving isn’t necessarily about what you give, but rather the thought behind it. A comfy pair of pajamas isn’t just something nice to wear to bed, it’s a good night’s sleep for your exhausted postpartum sister. A chocolate bar is more than a sugary treat, it’s a moment of indulgence for your bestie while she burns the midnight oil. Going the extra mile to mindfully present gifts in a way that makes each item feel special and each recipient feel seen helps ease gift-giving fatigue. No more buying travel hand lotions in bulk, passing them out like candy to everyone we come into contact with, and calling it a day. That tube of moisturizer instantly feels more personal when it’s given with an anecdote.
This season, we’re vowing to give with intention. Allow the below categories to guide your holiday shopping and inspire your purpose. Whether your loved one is a fashion girlie or a travel aficionado, these no-fail gifts won’t just delight, they’ll uplift. Welcome to the era of meaningful gifting — it starts with a plethora of gems fromNordstromand ends with, “How did you know?”
For the Person With the Most Enviable Closet
These are the people who know what’s trending before your social feeds do. Their fashion wish lists are carefully curated (and a mile long), and, let’s be honest, their taste is probably better than yours. So what to give the person who always looks put-together and has the coolest style POV out of everyone you know?
Go with accessories from an It brand or an of-the-moment statement piece. Few brands hit the mark like UGG does. Chances are, they already have their boot collection on lock, so opt for chunky, shearling-lined mittens. They’ll keep their hands toasty all season long and add charming wintery appeal to every ensemble. Adidas is another fashion-set favorite. While they probably have a solid collection of Gazelles and Sambas, we can bet a pair of Japan sneakers will be a welcome addition to their lineup.
Trendy going-out pieces like bow barrettes or sparkly bags are a proverbial hit of dopamine. They’re winners for their ability to level-up any look with personality and fun, and no matter how many options you have, backups are always appreciated.
For the Person With a Case of Wanderlust
We all know — and envy — those friends who always seem to have a trip on the horizon. These travel connoisseurs are no rookies, and most likely have their packing game down to a science with a field-tested lineup of products they bring on every trip. Rather than mess with their travel feng shui (or gift them their 17th luggage tag), help upgrade their getaway uniform with comfy, stylish pieces that aren’t the sweatpants they’ve had since 2014.
Their alma mater sweatshirt may be nostalgic, but a cozy, printed cardigan is much more polished and intentional. Plus, the zipper makes layering easy, and the pastel colors are sure to pop amongst an airport sea of black and gray. A game-changing pair of joggers (or three) is a companion no jetsetter should be without. Whether they’re flying, riding, or driving, relaxed yet elevated pants, like these, are a non-negotiable in our book.
UGG slippers are great at home, but we argue they’re even better on the go. Warm, soft, and easy to take off and put on, traveling in slippers is the only way to do it. Bonus: they’ll double as house shoes once they arrive at their destination. As for a stocking-stuffer option, you can never have too many TSA-friendly hand creams. The fact that this gift set comes with a retinol bestie makes it the MVP.
For the Person Who Deserves a Moment of Calm
Whether you’re gifting a toddler parent, your overworked SO who’s gunning for a raise, or your PhD-to-be friend who could use a break from her studies, the gift of relaxation is always appreciated. De-stressing, however, can be easier said than done, which is where these gifts come into play. Give them alone or together to inspire a chill mood and encourage peace.
Eating chocolate makes you happier — we don’t make the rules, it’s science. Upgrade their emergency stash with something much fancier than what a pharmacy run has to offer. Compartes chocolates are available at your local Nordstrom and come in fun flavors like Pancakes and Syrup and Strawberry Shortcake. Next time they need a timeout from life, remind them to take a break for indulgence and let the endorphins flow. Sometimes all it takes to unwind is an ambiance shift made possible by a flickering, fragrant candle. Between the flame and the scent, the stress will melt right off. Tell them to light it for “me time” and “me time” only.
To further elevate their journey of restfulness, nothing says, “let’s get you comfy” more than a fabulous pair of pajamas. After all, decompressing is somehow easier when you feel (and look) good. Help get their mind right by providing soft, lightweight PJs, AKA the ultimate relaxation uniform. Add even more zen vibes with an herbal soap kit from the luxe brand Sulwhasoo that’ll instantly transport them to a spa.
For the Person Who Relishes an Excuse to Glam
Credits
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR
Meg Konigsburg
DIT
Sam Kang
PROP STYLIST
Laura Woolf
PRODUCER
Becca Solovay
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, CREATIVE SERVICES
Lexie Denniston
PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Kazik
1ST ASSISTANT
Noah Bogusz
PROP ASSISTANT
Nikki Ligos
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Andreana Kraft
