2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Presents to Make Those on Your List Look Good
2020 Holiday Gift Guide: 10 Presents to Make Everyone on Your List Look Good
Must-have fashion and beauty items that won’t break the bank
The Ophelia II hair clips from Fibs and Fables. Photo courtesy of Fibs and Fables
A lot of things have changed in 2020, but there’s one thing that doesn’t change: the desire to give rad gifts to the people you love this holiday season. However, if your brain’s a little fried from, you know, everything, and you don’t know where to begin, we’re here to help. All week, BU Today is providing affordable ideas for what to get everyone on your list, from the hardest-to-please to the person who’s happy with anything.
We kicked off our series on Monday with gifts that will make most any living space look good, whether it’s a dorm room, apartment, or house in the suburbs. Tuesday, it was gifts that entertain, Wednesday, gifts that support local shops and businesses. Today, it’s gifts that will make your recipient look good. Our series concludes tomorrow with suggestions for gifts that give back.
Happy gifting.
A set of hair clips
Acrylic hair clips are back this year, and the permutations—tortoiseshell, glitter, pearl—are endless. If you know someone who hasn’t let a pandemic make them neglect their hair game, snag them an assortment of clips from Fibs and Fables, a Black-owned business based in Washington, D.C. For a classic acrylic look, we vote for the metallic-flecked Ophelia II clips ($16 each), and for elegant effect, check out the gold-plated Cleopatra set ($25 for a set of two).
A pair of faux leather leggings
Faux leather leggings are just the gift for the friend who still insists on dressing up for Zoom calls: they’re sleek, they’re versatile, and they’re sneaky-comfortable. This pair from 90 Degrees by Reflex ($25) is a great dupe of pairs from more expensive brands (hint: one that rhymes with thanx) and come in a variety of colors.
A face mask and brush duo
We’re talking about the other kind of face mask here. Treat someone on your list to a luxurious mask and brush set, like this all-natural cacao and honey mask from Birchrose + Co ($38 for the set). They can use the included brush to sweep on the antioxidant-rich clay mask, which will have their skin clear and glowing in no time.
A pair of versatile booties
Who doesn’t love a good bootie? And with the slushy season just beginning, it’s a pretty practical gift, especially if you opt for something chunky, like the Lido bootie from Chinese Laundry ($70). Over practicality entirely? Then go for the Davinna bootie ($80), in all its snakeskin glory.
An oversize cardigan
Big, cozy cardigans have long been a wardrobe staple, but never more so than now as the pandemic stretches into the cold months. (Need to dress up your sleep shirt for a morning meeting? Hello, cardigan!) We love the offerings on ModCloth, like this star-covered cardigan ($40), which comes in a wide range of sizes. Looking for something a little more classic? Thread & Supply has you covered—its longline Perfect cardigan ($49) lives up to its name.
A pair of cap-toe boots
Think dress shoes, but with a kick—a good boot works just as well at the office as it does for after-work drinks, whenever those become possible again. It’s a classic look that gives you just a touch of edge, no matter the occasion. Not sure where to start? Check out this pair ($90) from DSW for starters.
A not-so-ugly sweater
Need a comfortable yet sophisticated look for winter? Check. Something warm for après ski? Double check. This sweater ($40) from J.Crew is as versatile as it is comfortable and comes in several colors, so it’s a no-brainer for that special guy in your life.
A classic plaid scarf
Nothing says cold winter days like a good scarf. Whether you’re just running out for an errand or huddling around the firepit for a safe get-together with friends, this scarf from J.Crew ($16) has got you covered. Literally.
A casual winter coat
Looking for comfort, warmth, and style? This army green coat by Levi’s ($79) might be just is what you’re looking for. Check it out.
A pair of corduroys
Bring a little ’70s flair to your wardrobe with a good pair of corduroys ($32). With multiple colors to choose from, they’re a good choice for any occasion. Looking for work pants? Go with brown. Something for the upcoming holiday (Zoom) party? Maybe burgundy. A night of outdoor dining? Try spencer green. And best of all? They’re machine washable.
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