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Gift shopping for women can be a tall order, but when you’re looking specifically for the best gifts for girlfriends, knowing exactly what to get can become a real puzzle.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand the appropriate gift depending on how long you’ve been dating. For example, if the relationship is new and you’re looking for the first gift for your girlfriend for the holidays, it can take a little bit more time to plan and shop around for the proper present.
So to make it easier, we’ve broken down the best gifts for girlfriends and divulged the best types based on categories. Whether she’s a fitness fanatic, a nature lover, or anything in between, there are many unique, romantic, and simple ideas to choose from. Plus, regardless of your budget or relationship timespan, all will be remembered by your girlfriend for years to come.
Different Types of Christmas Gifts for Girlfriends
- Unique Gifts for Girlfriends: Unique can mean something specific to your girlfriend and her interests or something special to your relationship. For example, if your girlfriend has a beloved hobby such as painting, you could gift her new supplies or a specially-engraved easel. Likewise, if you know that your girlfriend loves a certain author, you could find a book signed by that writer. These gifts might seem odd to someone outside of the relationship, but they are special to you and your person — and that’s all that matters, right?
- Romantic Gifts for Girlfriends: If you’re looking to buy a romantic gift, search for something sentimental since it goes beyond the traditional. A monogrammed necklace or bracelet or even an engraved perfume or journal are some ideas that add more meaning to the present.
- Simple Gifts for Girlfriends: Simple doesn’t have to mean boring. Opt for a cashmere throw blanket and include a little note. You could also choose a decorative item that goes with the aesthetic of her home. While simple gifts can be large or small, they are no less thoughtful.
Apple AirPods Pro
You can’t go wrong with a classic gift like Apple’s AirPods, which are the best around. They offer excellent noise cancellation and crisp sound and are especially great for music or podcast lovers. They also fit perfectly into the ear so that you don’t worry about them falling out.
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What reviewers say: “I’ve previously stayed away from AirPods as their sound quality were not up to my personal standards, especially for the high price Apple asks for. However, I am happy to say that these 2nd generation AirPods Pro significantly improved the audio quality and I am extremely happy with its quality. The transparency mode is the best I’ve ever used in any earbuds and while the noise cancelling isn’t the best in the market, it is definitely up there near the top.”
Jenny Bird Monograms – Gold
Monogrammed jewelry never goes out of style, and these sculptural letters take the icon to the next level. You can choose from gold or silver and opt for an accompanying chain that will make the pick even more unique. The body of each letter uses the cross-section of a heart, which makes it an even more memorable and romantic gift.
What reviewers say: “I got the gold and added an extender – perfect to layer with the polished pack!!”
Classic Crocs Cozzzy Glitter Sandal
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While the brand has been around for years, Crocs are officially back in style. These glittery options are a fun gift for any type of girlfriend. They are lined with soft sherpa-like fabric that will add sparkle and coziness to anyone’s day.
Slip Silk Queen Pillowcase, White
Make her bed a little more luxe with this pure silk pillowcase. This brand is not only super trendy but also offers many colors. This would be a super cute gift on its own or with other small, spa-like gifts.
What reviewers say: “I have been breaking out like crazy due to wearing mask all day. I had always been pretty lucky and never had acne issues. But lately it’s been horrible! I was told about using a silk pillow case. It allows your face to breathe. I’ve been using it for about 2 weeks and my face is 90% clearer! I’m about to purchase a second!”
Oofos OoCoozie Low Shoes
Known for their recovery footwear, Oofos makes the best foam sole in existence. They are truly so comfortable, especially if you opt for this slipper option. They can also be worn outdoors as well, so they’re the picture of convenience.
Vineyard Vines Tartan Sherpa Popover
Vineyard Vines is known for their shep shirts, and that’s because they’re as cozy as they are chic. This adorable option is perfect for the holidays, but it can also be worn throughout the year. It’s made from super soft sherpa fabric that will make your girlfriend feel super toasty.
What reviewers say: “This popover is the most luxurious and cozy fleece ever! Its fit is just right – not too long or baggy, but comfortable enough for layering. I love this and it’s already one of my wardrobe favorites!”
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Deep Round Oven
Le Creuset is synonymous with high-quality kitchenware that’s stylish and practical. Many people even collect multiple pieces from the brand. That said, this durable enameled cast iron evenly distributes heat so that everything cooks evenly. In addition, you can choose from lots of colors and sizes.
What reviewers say: “I am currently making some split pea soup in this pot and the stove and all I can say is it is well worth the price. Easy to clean and the wife is happy so I am happy! It has quickly become our new favorite pot in my house and is used three or four times a week and never a problem with sticking.”
Sperry Women’s Saltwater Buffalo Check Duck Boot
Upgrade your girlfriend’s winter boots with these Sperry options that feature an adorable beige and white checkered pattern on the side. They are completely waterproof and would also work for the snow. In addition, they have a super textured sole that will keep you from slipping and sliding.
Savory Baking: Recipes for Breakfast, Dinner, and Everything in Between by Erin McDowell
If your girlfriend loves spending time in the kitchen, you’ll want to pick up this instant classic cookbook from the pie queen, Erin McDowell. Known for her stunning pies, this cookbook offers savory options that are perfect for standalone meals. You’ll have to work hard to decide what’s better, the imagery or the recipes.
What reviewers say: “I got this in the mail the day it released and have since made three recipes. Each has been superb.
The directions have been clear and well-written. The technique portion at the beginning of each section is a great touch. It really drills down into how to treat your materials to get exactly the result you want.”
Ugg Ultra Mini Classic Boot
While everyone is at least somewhat familiar with Ugg boots, they are back in a major way. The mini versions have been super on-trend for the past couple of years, and they come in a bunch of fun colors. But, of course, they’re also known for being super warm, cozy, and grippy so that you can walk around in any winter wonderland of your choosing.
What reviewers say: “I just love these mini boots! If you wear a mid-size, my recommendation is to go down a size. I typically wear a 6.5 and the 6 fits perfect. Now I’m just waiting for some cooler weather to make its way to Texas so I can slide these minis on.”
Reformation Sigmund Dress
Reformation is known for its incredibly flattering necklines and classic silhouettes. Luckily, they’re marking their entire site 25 percent off for Black Friday. Go ahead and grab a class like the Sigmund Dress, which features an A-line skirt, fitted bodice, and square neckline.
Calphalon Performance Countertop French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Part air fryer and part toaster oven, this small appliance from Calphalon is any kitchen lover’s dream. It features little french doors that add a beautiful design element to the kitchen, and it even comes with removable roasting trays. It also has lots of pre-set cooking modes to make things super easy.
What reviewers say: “This is a replacement for my toaster oven and air fryer. Does several jobs and looks great on the counter.”
Fresh Sugar Collection Lip Care Set
Fresh lip balms glide over the lips like absolute silk, nourishing and healing simultaneously. This favorites bundle includes the original, a mint, and some of the tinted options, which are amazing. The best part is that they’re all packaged together in an adorable little Christmas tree ornament, so you can truly present it with the magic of the season.
What reviewers say: “I’ve wanted to try these lip products for so long and they exceeded my expectations!”
Where Should We Begin Card Game by Esther Perel
This card game is a fantastic gift for those in a new relationship. It was created by renowned psychotherapist Esther Perel and was designed to offer up lots of conversation starters and profound questions that will help you get to know your partner so much better. Plus, it looks nice on a coffee or side table when unused.
What reviewers say: “I played this with close friends and the questions unearth stories we all had forgotten. Get to know people better with just a few deals of the deck!”
Parfums de Marly Delina Royal Essence Eau de Parfum
A fragrance gift may be one of the most intimate gifts — if not the most personal. French perfumery Parfums de Marly presents its fragrances in stunning bottles that look like art with tassels around the lids. The Delina Royal fragrance smells absolutely amazing and has notes of Turkish rose, lily of the valley, and peony.
Shaklee Body Ritual Trio
It just doesn’t get more luxurious than this body care line. Not only does it smell amazing — no, seriously, but you’ll also want the scent in a perfume — it’s incredibly good for your skin. The all-natural line includes a body serum, super-rich body lotion, and a creamy body wash that you’ll fall in love with after one use.
What reviewers say: “Living in the Northeast – my skin starts drying terribly in the Fall through the Winter – I’ve been using the products for the last few weeks and love the way my skin is feeling – soft and supple – Looking forward to the winter months where I’m not itchy or scaly. Not much of a fragrance either which I like! All three of these products work so well together!”
Great Jones™ Straight Bourbon
Look, sometimes the best gift is one that can be enjoyed by the gifter as well. This is the first whiskey distillery to open in Manhattan post-prohibition, and the bottles celebrate that era with stunning art deco labels. Don’t worry — they taste as amazing as they look.
Huda Beauty Empowered Eyeshadow Palette
Known for her fabulous across-the-board makeup products, Huda Beauty will thrill anyone. The Empowered Eyeshadow Palette includes 18 different colors with many neutrals for everyday wear. There are also highly-pigmented metallics that will make your girlfriend’s eyelids shine as brightly as her smile when she receives this gift.
What reviewers say: “I am literally obsessed with this palette. The colors are so versatile and you can create so many amazing looks. I love the cream shadows they’re great for graphic lining. The shades blend together and I have never found a more perfect transition shade then the shade that’s in this palette. This is literally the palette of the year.”
Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
The Dyson Airwrap is the ultimate holiday beauty gift. It has six attachments, allowing you to fully blow out your hair at home. The kit also includes curlers, which will take your hair from fresh out of the shower to a professional-looking blowout super fast.
Estelle Colored Glass Set of 6 Stem Wineglasses
These glasses will make your girlfriend so excited for your next wine night. Not only are they available in a range of stunning, unique hues, but they are also hand-blown and named after the founder’s grandmother. If you’re feeling more casual, check out the stemless set.
Paige Maren Platform Bootie
Platforms are in, and thank goodness, because they are far superior to standard heels in terms of comfort. The chunky sole will absorb shock from the bottom of your foot so you can run around comfortably, even in a 4.5-inch heel. These stunning Paige boots feature a luxe suede leather upper in a dark brown that would look as amazing with dresses as jeans.
Katie Kime California Toile Robe
Katie Kime makes robes with drawings of different landmarks and cityscapes, so you could choose your girlfriend’s hometown or a place you visited together and loved. They are made of the softest Tencel cotton and are machine washable.
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Barefoot in The Wild Throw
Popularized by the Kardashians, these throws are absolutely sumptuous. They are made out of a cozy microfiber, so they are equal parts toasty and lightweight. It’s the perfect present for her if you both love staying in to cuddle and watch a movie.
What reviewers say: “I adore Barefoot Dreams product and this blanket is perfect for my arthritic needs. I place it on top of my bottom sheet and it keeps my knees warm all night. I highly recommend this blanket.”
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Beautifying Lip Set
Charlotte Tilbury is an icon in the makeup world, and that’s partially thanks to the universally flattering shade called Pillow Talk. This set includes a lip liner, gloss, lipstick, and a hyaluronic balm in that perfect light pink hue.
What reviewers say: “Love the minis to toss in my purse! Bought mainly to try out the Pillow Talk Happi Kiss and I’m obsessed! Hydrating and long lasting! Worth it if you enjoy or want to try out CT lip products.”
Olaplex Style & Strengthen Hair Set, No. 6, No. 7, & Mini No. 9
It doesn’t get more popular than the bonding oil from Olaplex. Luckily, this set includes that oil as well as the Bond Protector serum and the Bond Smoother. It’s safe to say you’re giving your girlfriend the gift of the silkiest, shiniest hair.
What reviewers say: “This is a game changer for hair that can get frizzy. I have thin and processed hair and this has pretty much eliminated the frizz I get. I have tried so many products (including other Olaplex) and this would be one of the few I’d rave about.”
Dolce Vita Caster H2O Waterproof Block Heel Bootie
Meet the waterproof boots that you’ll want to wear all the time. These Dolce Vita platforms have a 3.5-inch heel, as well as a rubber sole with lots of traction. They also have a leather upper in the most stunning shade of beige.
What reviewers say: “These boots are the perfect color for fall. They look great with jeans, and are comfortable with the block heel. Fit is true to size, but the toe does get a bit narrow, so probably not good for wider feet. Easy to take off and on.”
Kindle Paperwhite
Give the gift of endless books with this Kindle. It has a 6.8-inch display that can be read even in the direct sun, making it the perfect option for her next vacation. This is perfect for the girlfriend that loves a good book.
What reviewers say: “This kindle is quite possibly the best purchase I’ve ever made. It’s basically pocket sized so it was extremely portable. I brought it with me everywhere; On the plane, in the car, in my bag to restaurants…I even managed to fit it in a particularly spacious pocket of an oversized jean jacket I wore on cooler nights. It’s amazing. It was comfortable enough to hold in one hand, or two, depending on what I preferred at the time. The various light options on the kindle, including the warm light feature makes it easy to read regardless of where I was and what kind of lighting is available, without eye strain.”
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Whether your girlfriend is already an Apple watch devotee or even if she’s never tried a smartwatch of any kind, she’ll be pumped about this gift. It features lots of health-tracking options, as well as sleep tracking. It’s also customizable and swim-proof.
What reviewers say: “This is one of my favorite purchases in a long time. I love the Fitbit watch that my husband had purchased for me several years ago, but it was time for an upgrade. This watch is a good starter watch I think into the Apple series, especially for those like me or not tech savvy. . It comes with a lot of cool features for working out and a lot of programs that I’m still discovering. Battery life doesn’t seem as long as my Fitbit however, because of all the cool features that it offers I understand why the charge speed he’s pretty fast., on a scale of 1 to 10 I am definitely at 10 with my purchase stay on satisfied.”
