Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.
Just because you’re on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t give gorgeous, long-lasting gifts they’ll love. We’ve found some hidden gems that will spread holiday cheer, all at under $50.
To shop more holiday gifts, click here.
A candle that doubles as decor…
We don’t have to tell you that candles make excellent gifts, but these candles from Paddywax are simply next-level. We’d put them all in the Louvre, but our favorites include the A Dopo (pictured), the Bistro and the Melt collections. Oh, and their scents? Unique and refreshing, without being overpowering.
A pair of faux-fur earmuffs for the upcoming cold season...
Girls know — beanies can mess up hair, especially if you've just gotten a blowout or have curls. We love earmuffs for these reasons. They're non-intrusive, provide warmth, and can make a bulky winter coat appear more stylish. They're an easy accessory to gift to a sibling or friend, and with the cost of under $25, they're a friend to budgets everywhere.
An on-the-go teeth whitening kit…
Instead of springing for a pricey appointment, go for this easy, at-home treatment. It uses the same teeth-whitening ingredients dentists use, and shows results in under an hour. No batteries required.
A gorgeous puzzle they’ll want to frame…
Puzzle fans and novices alike will drool over these sturdy, high-quality puzzles from Piecework. Like their other gift and decor items, Pieceworks’ puzzles are colorful and cheery, ideal for the “aesthetically obsessed.” Plus, many of their puzzles come with dedicated themed playlists for an even better puzzling session.
A personalized photo frame that’s not like other photo frames…
It’s a cool photo frame, and everyone will be asking you where you got it. It’s a thoughtful gift for someone special on your list to celebrate “your song.” We’re not crying, you’re crying.
A LEGO set everyone in the family can enjoy…
This fun (and easy) cactus kit from LEGO’s Botanicals collection has less than 500 pieces, so it’s ideal for both bigger kids and adults alike. It’ll make a great desk companion once complete.
An editor-approved puzzle subscription…
We tested Completing the Puzzle for a month and loved it, so naturally it made our official wish list. Subscribers receive puzzles directly to their door, and can trade it in after completion for a new puzzle at no additional cost. It’s the ideal gift for serious puzzlers with limited storage space.
A mini fire pit they can use year-round…
Gifting this tabletop Solo Stove is basically gifting them endless snow-, sleet-, and rain-proof s’mores sessions, and we think that’s beautiful. It uses the same clean-burning gel fuel as their larger stoves, only this one can be enjoyed indoors. When not in use, it doubles as decor, thanks to its natural stone finish and bamboo base.
A sophisticated notebook…
We may be biased, but we firmly believe one can never have too many notebooks. We love this pocket one from Papier for its sleek leather cover and premium, sustainably sourced paper. Add their initials for a personal touch.
A lightweight cardigan they can wear everywhere…
A cozy cardigan is like a little black dress: a staple you’ll reach for again and again. This one from Old Navy is more wrap than sweater and acts as the perfect layer for freezing cold offices, airports, and movie theaters. It’s available in sizes XS-4X, and regular, tall, and petite fits.
Cashmere gloves that will last through multiple winters…
Cashmere under $50? We’re sold. These Mongolian cashmere gloves are luxuriously soft and designed to last a while. The hardest part will be choosing among the nine neutral colors.
A photobook for their most treasured memories…
We love how elegant and simple this photobook is because it really lets the photos speak for themselves. First, you’ll pick the size, cover color, and length of the book. Then, you can use Papier’s easy online editor to upload your photos, add captions, and customize the page layouts. It’s a heartwarming gift that will keep on giving.
A charm necklace we can’t stop thinking about…
Gifting jewelry doesn’t have to be serious, and it definitely doesn’t have to bankrupt you. Case in point: this statement necklace from Free People. We love its whimsical charms and overall star power that make even the most casual outfits shine.
A bestselling bracelet from one of our new favorite jewelry brands…
One of our editors discovered Artizan Joyeria earlier this year and still calls it one of her favorite jewelry brands. This link bracelet is made of a tarnish-resistant 18-karat gold-plated stainless steel that can handle daily wear.
A drawstring lunch box that could pass as a purse…
It’s roomy and insulated and oh-so cute. This lunch bag will keep hot food warm and cold food cool thanks to its water-resistent, temperature-controlled lining. The core colors are fabulous, but don’t sleep on the limited-edition patterns.
Earrings that are always in style…
If anyone on your list has Big Hoop Energy™, gift them these earrings from En Route. They’re large and catch the light in the best way, but are surprisingly lightweight.
A travel mug that sparks joy…
For any tea or coffee lovers, go for this sturdy, spill-proof BruMate travel mug. It’s as beautiful as their ceramic mugs at home and will keep their beverage’s temperature regulated.
A mini perfume set…
Luxury, but make it affordable. We love Burberry’s Goddess and Her fragrances, and this set has them both for less than $40. It makes a great stocking stuffer or last-minute gift.