Stocking stuffers are often forgotten until the last minute after we check the much bigger buys on our shopping list. We’ve all been there, in a last-minute shuffle reaching for useless items that spark little to no joy. Well, I’m here to change that this year by deep diving into Urban Outfitters unique, fun stocking stuffer offerings.
In reality, those smaller gift purchases can be some of the funnest. Ahead, check out fashion editor–approved curation of small budget–friendly holiday gifts that pack a punch. Whether it’s a cool 35mm reusable camera, colorful statement barrettes, or the perfect beanie, Urban Outfitters is a solid one-stop shop for all your stocking stuffer needs.
There’s a commonly used “law” of business that promises the following: Nothing can be fast, good, and cheap all at the same time. It can be fast and cheap but not good; good and cheap but not fast; fast and good but not cheap. No matter what, there’s something you have to sacrifice. But after Who What Wear’s team of experts put their heads together ahead of the holiday season, one thing became clear. Whoever came up with this theory hadn’t met us or, better yet, shopped for the gifts we spend the majority of November sourcing. If they had, they’d see quite clearly that this particular law of business isn’t without exceptions. The 76 gifts below are proof enough of that.
Fast, good, and cheap (like under-$40 cheap) are three words that describe to a T every one of the gift ideas featured ahead. From premeasured Sicilian sea salt that your foodiest friend will delight over to a table-top loom that’ll get the creative juices flowing for your right-brained family member, the presents you’re about to see and shop are destined to spark joy in whoever unwraps them. Scroll on for Low Cost, High Joy with Who What Wear, our under-$40 guide to making everyone on your holiday gifting list happy.
All last month we were putting out holiday gift guides—and now it’s time for some graphic novel gift ideas! This one took me the longest because I take gift-giving (all times of the year) very seriously and love, love graphic novels. Therefore, it is hard to narrow all these suggestions down. Graphic novel memoirs are literally my favorite genre of stories, and if you mix in a little fantasy or horror, I’m sold.
Below are graphic novels that were released in the last year or so and would make great gifts for friends, co-workers, and loved ones. These are mostly for general audiences and adults, but they range in maturity level, so these are organized from the safest for work to the least safe for work.
(Kokila)
As a 2021 National Book Award Finalist in the Young People’s Literature category, this isn’t exactly a hidden find. However, that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t make a great gift, especially for those interested in folk tales and American history. This story follows a young girl and her family working at a logging camp in 1880s Nevada as tensions are getting worse for the immigrant community following the Chinese Exclusion Act. One way the main character, Mei, and others process these transitions is by telling stories—like her take on newly forming folk heroes.
(Graphic Universe)
The premise of this story is relatively straightforward: a recent high school grad finds herself in a high-profile fashion magazine internship the summer before she starts college. While it hits the expected beats suggested on the cover regarding body image, social media, and advertising, it doesn’t feel as preachy as it could be. Instead, the story leads with empathy and honesty. It’s also a much needed update on how media-induced body dysmorphia has changed in the last 10 years. This is a great gift for those who shudder when they look at their screen time.
Inspired by the author’s childhood, The Magic Fish features three overlapping stories that center on identity, family, and magic. In between reading fairy tales together, Tien is struggling to tell his mother that he likes boys, and his mother is grappling with feeling disconnected from her homeland in Vietnam. Between the coloring and creative storytelling, The Magic Fish is easily one of my favorite books I read this year. It’s one of those books I will obnoxiously put in people’s faces because it’s that good. The book is often found in middle-grade parts of stores and libraries, but is great for all ages.
(Random House Worlds)
This is for that person who loves mythology and love stories. Or, better yet, one of the hundreds of thousands of Rachel Smythe fans enthralled by her retelling of Hades and Persephone. In this version, the young goddess is training on Mount Olympus to be a sacred virgin. However, plans go awry and promises are at risk of being severed once she meets the King of the Underworld. If you’re feeling extra giving, volume two was released earlier this year.
(Harry N. Abrams / Marvel)
I could just tell you to look at the cover, and there’s all the reasoning you need because it’s mesmerizing. This is an all-in-one Fantastic Four story in which parasites invade the Baxter building. With traces of Negative Energy, the group decides to travel to the Negative Zone, putting their lives and the universe at risk to find who—or what—sent these creatures. Although the story is a licensed sequel (produced outside of Marvel), it feels like it’s totally part of the 616 Fantastic Four. While the story is not too intimidating to newcomers, the psychedelic art and paneling are a little experimental.
(Chronicle Books)
Speaking of this year’s faves and books where the creators were interviewed at TMS, Wash Day Diaries is a must-consider book. The story follows four best friends during a wash day as each one is dealing with issues of family, love, and mental health. I don’t think it’s for everyone, but certainly perfect for those that like slice of life narratives, stories about friends, and self-love. This book will make you smile and might make you cry.
(Iron Circus Comics)
This entry into the Smut Peddler catalog features 13 stories of erotic historical fiction spanning thousands of years. Many at TMS have been fans of different Smut Peddler novels and anthologies (like this book) for years. After reading Patience and Ester, I joined the chorus, too! While you can get this on Bookshop, it’s also available on the publisher’s website as a DRM-free PDF (meaning you actually own it) for a discrete and eco-friendly reading experience.
(Image Comics)
This is a very violent story, so it’s going below the fun erotica. While Simon Says is making the list because it’s a genuinely thrilling story of a Nazi Hunter right after the end of WW2, I’m also adding it because I’m selfish (I know, the opposite of the holidays). This graphic novel was released in 2019, and there’s been no part two—even though it had a wild cliffhanger! If more people read it, they will also want to ask the publisher to invite the artist back to continue the series. Or, at the very least, bring us some closure and tie up loose ends. This is a great gift for those into detective stories and history, especially entering the Cold War era.
Honorable Mentions
(featured image: Penguin Random House, Harry N. Abrams / Marvel, and Iron Circus Comics)
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When it comes to holiday gifting, take a cue from the experts. As an iconic luxury brand known for some of the most legendary watches ever made, Cartier has something for every fashion killer on your list, from sleek timepieces and festive outfit ideas to rare, unexpected objects. Shop them all below.
EVENINGWEAR
Rhapsody in Blue
Yes, denim for evening is officially a thing. Sparkles and embellishments aplenty take the Americana staple into holiday-party territory.
Toast your way through the end-of-year party scene with maximalist extras and bold pieces that pop.
Alex Perry Hudson Caped Gown
Cartier Sixième Sens High Jewelry Necklace
Handsome Stockholm Essential Extra Long Gloves
The Attico Milton Mini Dress
Cartier Sixième Sens High Jewelry Earrings
Roger Vivier Cube Strass Heel Mules
Cornelia James Lucrezia Tulle Opera Glove with Mousquetaire
Giorgio Armani Beauty My Way Eau de Parfum
Sam Edelman Anthony Mule Pump
Roger Vivier Broche Vivier Buckle Boite De Nuit Micro Clutch
ENTERTAINING
Some Enchanted Evening
From stunning tabletop inspiration to expert hosting advice, here’s everything you need to celebrate in style.
Instant Parties
Renowned event planner Chris Hessney shares his easy tricks for enhancing any setting.
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“I love setting the tone through scent,” says Hessney, who designs high-profile soirées for companies like Carolina Herrera and Goop. “Try roasting orange slices right before guests arrive, or keep a pot of mulled wine on the stove top.” He also recommends lowering the lights for an extra-cozy vibe. “I’ve actually left parties where the lights were too bright. Everyone feels more relaxed when the room’s dark and moody,” he says.
Dior Maison Smoky Jardin d’Hiver Large Night Bird Dessert Plate
William Yeoward Crystal Lillian Square Decanter
Caviar Russe Select Osetra Caviar
Cartier Panthère de Cartier Trinket Tray
Louis Vuitton Party Trunk
Houses And Parties Set of 6 Vintage Drunkard Cocktail Napkins
Houses And Parties “Edibles” Engraved Silver Passing Tray
Weston Farms Magnolia Heart Wreath
Cabana Capri Espailer Tumbler
Fete Accompli
Event designer extraordinaire Rebecca Gardner has a few shortcuts to ensuring a memorable gathering at home.
A party Gardner hosted at her Savannah home with Puiforcat.
Adam Kuehl
A little effort goes a long way when it comes to unforgettable events. “The tiniest surprises can make a tremendous difference,” says Gardner. “Try masks, party hats, or parlor games. Give them something to talk about.” Another easy way to impress? A signature cocktail. “Greet guests with something classic and strong. It loosens everyone up, and your party is likely to end with dancing on the table.”
Houses And Parties Pair of Vintage Venetian Rose Candlesticks
Anna Weatherley Thistle Bread & Butter Plate
Houses And Parties Set of 8 Vintage Silver Place Card Holders
Tracy Glover Goblet And Tumbler
Houses And Parties Spicy Floral Chair Slipcover
Houses And Parties Vintage Handled Murano Vase
Houses And Parties Champagne Bucket With Stand
Houses And Parties Crimson & Crepe Placemat And Napkin
Host With the Most
In his new book, Occasions to Celebrate: Cooking and Entertaining with Style, celebrity chef Alex Hitz serves up crowd-pleasing recipes (think: Southern comfort food with French flair), table-setting tips, and secrets for tackling tricky seating. Below, social fixture Deeda Blair’s ultimate high-low dish, included in the book.
Deeda Blair’s oven-baked potato chips with crème fraîche and caviar, from Occasions to Celebrate: Cooking and Entertaining with Style by Alex Hitz.
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OVEN-BAKED POTATO CHIPS WITH CRÈME FRAÎCHE AND CAVIAR
1 pound russet potatoes
1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter, melted
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
1 cup crème fraîche
½ cup heavy cream whipped to soft peaks
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 pound caviar
Preheat the oven to 500°F. Peel the potatoes, and slice them crosswise 1/16-inch thick on a mandoline. Rinse the slices in several changes of cold water until the water runs clear. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dip the potatoes in the melted butter, and arrange them in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Place the pans on separate racks in the oven and bake them for 10 minutes. Reverse the position of the pans front-to-back and between the racks and bake them for 10 minutes more. Remove the chips from the oven, and salt them with ½ teaspoon salt. Remove the chips from the parchment with a spatula, and place them on a clean, dry metal sheet pan. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crème fraîche, whipped cream, green onions, and remaining salt. On four salad plates, place a generous group of overlapping chips. For each serving, dollop 4 to 6 tablespoons of the crème fraîche mixture on top of the chips. Place generous spoonfuls of the caviar on top of the cream mixture on each plate and serve. Makes 4 servings.
GIFTS FOR HER
Out of the Box
Rare finds that everyone on your list will adore.
La Vie en Rose
Garden-inspired delights guaranteed to get a (green) thumbs-up.
Marian McEvoy Pink Puff Ball Bouquet With Jasmine Leaves
The Ark Elements Pompeii Amphora Vase in Seafoam
Royal Copenhagen Flora Danica Bowl
Hermès Oseraie Color Basket
Buccellati Sterling Silver & Murano Glass Fruit Jam Jar
Cartier Tank Louis Cartier Watch
Armani Casa Rovo Gardening Set
Janie Kruse Garnett Racing Green – Bridge Street Pillow Sham
Shop Here: Casa Gusto
This family-owned shop stocks a variety of tableware from Mexico and France, as well as tole flowers and papier-mâché botanical prints handmade at Casa Gusto’s warehouse in Mexico.
Casa Gusto in West Palm Beach, Florida.
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Casa Gusto Tole Tall Potted Camellia
Casa Gusto Canasta Wingback Chair
Slam Dunks
From a luxe tennis bag to chic kicks, these sporty pieces will wow even your most athletic friend.
Stage 117 Tall Director’s Chair
Dior Dior Backstage Eyelash Curler
Thom Browne Canvas Knit Cuff Collegiate High Top
D. Porthault Terry Beach Zip Case
Milkbar Bikes Black Licorice 20″
Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Cologne
Georg Jensen Sky Water Bottle
Tory Sport Performance V-Neck Tennis Dress
Cartier Clash de Cartier Hoop Earrings
Shop Here: Copper Beech
World-famous interior designers Thomas O’Brien and Dan Fink’s store, which specializes in home furnishings and prepared food, also honors its coastal Long Island locale with beachy caps and sweatshirts and cozy hand-loomed blankets.
Copper Beech in Bellport, New York.
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Pillivuyt Sancerre Coffee Cup And Saucer
Copper Beech Stainless Steel Lunchbox
Tob-Aero Mortar And Pestle By Thomas O’Brien
GIFTS FOR HIM
Playing It Cool
Unexpected finds for the adventurer who has everything.
The Elder Statesman Hoodie
Echo Park Pottery by Peter Shire Orange Splatter Mug
Mi Cocina The Classic Apron
Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Foosball Table
Shop Here: Flamingo Estate
A passion for growing and harvesting vegetables in his seven-acre Los Angeles garden inspired Richard Christiansen to start selling produce and pantry items, along with hand-poured candles and bath and body products. Flamingo Estate is full of atypical finds for outdoorsy types.
Flamingo Estate in Los Angeles, Calif.
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Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle
Flamingo Estate Blackberry Vinegar
Flamingo Estate The Regenerative Farm Box
Now 75% Off
Beyond the Ordinary
Whether he’s dapper, athletic, or a little bit wild, these updated classics will freshen up any style.
Parvum Opus Obelisk Nº 5
Cartier Tank Chinoise Watch
Larusmiani Humidor “Bodeguita Del Medio”
Taconic Distillery Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup (Set of 2)
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in Natural Mint
Claus Porto Shaving Brush Musgo Real
Charvet Red Leather-Trimmed Woven Belt
Ralph Lauren Home Kipton Mixologist Box
Brunello Cucinelli One-and-a-Half-Breasted Coat
Shop Here: Drake’s
Savile Row menswear line Drake’s—which opened its first permanent U.S. outpost in New York City this past September—is known for its crisp tailored shirts, elegant ties, and sharp pocket squares. Take cues from the British tastemaker if you’re looking for a gift that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.
Drake’s in New York City.
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Drake’s Brushed-Wool Sweater
Drake’s Navy Birds of Paradise Print Wool Scarf
Drake’s Clifford Desert Boot in Tobacco Suede
GIFTS FOR KIDS
Play On
Put a smile on your little one’s face with luxe-but-cute toys, accessories, and games.
Steiff Franzi Riding Pony
Hermès Passe-Passe Booties
Brunello Cucinelli Fleecy Knit Down Jacket
Courtney Barton Snakes & Ladders Game Quilt
Ambosstoys Primo Ride On Toy
Copper Beech Penguin Bowling
Tender Leaf Toys Garden Wheelbarrow Set
House & Parties Vintage Murano Fish Bag Balloon Weights
The holidays are just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more delighted. It feels like the first “normal” holiday season in years, and I think this one is going to be special. And while I’m a firm avoider of throw-away, kitschy presents, the opportunity for forever pieces is always one that excites me. A timeless handbag, a leather wallet, and cashmere gloves are pieces made to last and therefore make the top of my wish list.
For a long time, Mulberry has been a go-to for these very special pieces. The British luxury lifestyle brand is so synonymous with classic accessories that when you see someone sporting a Mulberry handbag, scarf, or purse and ask them about it, they’ll often tell you it was originally their mom’s. Bottom line: Mulberry has a knack for creating accessories that are passed down from generation to generation.
This year, Mulberry’s gifting selection has more than just the classics. There are scarves that can be personalized, new leather editions in vibrant colorways and prints, recent collections (including the mini-bag series), and party-ready metallics that you’re likely to see on New Year’s Eve.
I hate to break it to you, but when it comes to gifting fashion girls, the “it’s the thought that counts” excuse doesn’t really work. More likely, this type of recipient knows exactly what they want to unwrap during the holidays, right down to the color, size, and retailer they’d like you to buy it from. The only problem is that they might not tell you these things outright, but rather, hope you just know. That’s why this year, I decided to save you the hurt. The holidays, after all, are stressful enough.
To ensure that every item on your closest fashion friend’s wishlist, whether you’re privy to it or not, gets checked off, I spent a chunk of my day scrolling through hundreds of potential gifts. A good five hours later, I’d successfully rounded up 70 options that are guaranteed to go over smoothly with even your most stylish best friend, S.O., your sister, or super-cool aunt. Scroll down to shop them all.
One of my favorite family traditions occurs on the night before Christmas. My brothers and I gather around as my mother allows us to peek into our stockings to hold us over until Christmas morning. The excitement a good stocking stuffer holds is pretty much next-level. While the biggest and most luxury gifts are typically opened separately, a small stocking stuffer can really gather just as much excitement. There’s a reason they say that it’s sometimes the little things that make the biggest impact.
One thing that I love about stocking stuffers is that they’re filled with surprises. Sneaking in a luxury item is always a good idea because your loved one will never see it coming. A statement piece of jewelry from Gucci or a luxurious upgrade to their alarm clock will definitely leave them quite surprised. Below, find 29 items that will take your stockings to the next level this year.
We all have that one friend who’s made “mixing it up” the foundation of their style philosophy. No corner of their look is off-limits when it comes to experimentation. The way they fearlessly shape shift via hair colors, graphic eye looks, and statement accessories is inspiring. What’s challenging, on the other hand, is finding the perfect holiday gifts for this style-swapper. How can you predict what someone so literally unpredictable will love? The key is to find something that encourages their beauty and fashion adventures by choosing items that are customizable, versatile, and definitely not one-size-fits-all. Below, we found 12 gifts that are guaranteed to suit their vibe—whatever it happens to be today.
I know—we’ve given you plenty of gift guides already this season. From the best luxury goods to everything that’s cool enough to gift to Generation Z, you could say we’re a little excited about the holidays this year. But since we at Who What Wear love to find a good deal, we wouldn’t be done without an ultimate under-$50 gift guide. Yes, I’m talking 50 items that won’t cost you a fortune. Whether you want them to be stocking stuffers or are on a budget with gifting this season, do not fret, because I have got you covered. I scoured through retailers that I know you already frequent often and narrowed down the best picks from their gifting sections that meet the price point you’re looking for.
There’s no shortage of goods in here from homewares that look like they’re straight from a boutique to cozy items that are just as stylish as they are comfortable. If you don’t believe me, just have a look for yourself. (I won’t blame you if you end up buying something for yourself.)
If you’re on TikTok, you may have happened to scroll past many gift guide videos all set against the cheeriest holiday songs. It’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but it seems like everyone’s ready for December. While I don’t celebrate the holidays that happen around this time of the year, I still found myself perusing through the #HolidayWishList hashtag on the app for nothing but personal amusement in my free time, and thought I’d gather my finds for you to shop from in one place.
After watching what seems like 100 videos and using my own preferences and gift-giving skills to navigate through the most popular retailers, I rounded up 50 of the best items to create the ultimate Generation Z gift guide. Whether you’re looking to shop for a Gen Z person in your life or you just happen to align with the more youthful aesthetic and want some shopping inspiration for yourself, then you’ve come to the right place.
As a Gen Z myself, I ended up adding some products from below to my own personal shopping wish lists. Yep, they’re that good. From $14 to $400, there’s a variety of price points to choose from in this mix. I’m warning you—these products will sell quickly, especially as we get closer and closer to the holidays.
The collection includes button-end braces with a matching bow tie, necktie, and pocket square available in three color options.
Press Release –
Oct 19, 2022 09:00 EDT
BOLINGBROOK, Ill., October 19, 2022 (Newswire.com)
– Today, Trafalgar announced the launch of its new product line. The collection arrives just in time for the holiday season, giving customers plenty of time to purchase high-end accessories to elevate their holiday attire.
“Every product made by Trafalgar is handcrafted from the highest quality materials and made to last,” said Jim Miller, Trafalgar Brand Manager. “We’re so excited to share our newest luxury accessories line that takes the classic look and adds a modern twist!”
The collection includes button-end braces with a matching bow tie, necktie, and pocket square. It’s available in three distinct color options: Nicholas tartan plaid, Ives green and navy blackwatch plaid, and Kincade red blackwatch plaid.
The blackwatch plaids provide just a pop of color for the more reserved gentleman while the blend of colors in the Nicholas tartan plaid is sure to steal the spotlight. All of the accessories are crafted from 100% silk. In addition, the braces feature a full-grain leather back patch and button-ends, along with an elastic backing that makes them comfortable for all-day wear. Pair these luxury braces with their matching bow tie or necktie and finish the look off with the pocket square to set yourself apart from all the other gentlemen this season.
National Sales Manager, Tom Mintal, added, “We are thrilled at the overwhelmingly positive response from our top department stores and luxury independent retailers! Our retail partners are excited to see that Trafalgar is continuing to add freshness and creativity in the Holiday Collection.”
About Trafalgar:Trafalgar is a highly respected luxury brand that manufactures a variety of men’s leather goods and fine accessories. It was founded in 1972 in Norwalk, Connecticut, by American craftsmen determined to use the most distinctive materials throughout the world. Today, Trafalgar is part of the Phoenix Leather Goods (PLG) family of brands, extending its commitment to integrity, honor, and quality to the global community. Trafalgar still stands by its original vision: combining timeless American style and refined haberdashery details for the discerning man.
