Shopping·13 min read

Skimm'rs Favorite Holiday Gifts of 2023 (So Far)

Skimm'rs Favorite Holiday Gifts of 2023 (So Far)
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Rifle Paper Co., Amazon
December 4, 2023

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Below, we pulled together a list of the most popular items from our holiday guides…so far. So whether you’re looking to treat yourself or still need some last-minute ideas for your loved ones, check out these Skimm’r-approved items, from sentimental gifts that’ll make them smile to useful things they’d never think to buy for themselves.

Amazon

A weekly self-care tracker to help them relax…

Shopping for someone who could use a little help self-caring? Snag them this handy tracking pad with built-in self-care goals they can check off as they go. With reminders to take a walk, put their phone down, and avoid toxic jerks, plus weekly affirmations, goals, and feeling check-ins, they’ll be on the path to their better self in no time. ($10.50, Amazon)

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Amazon

A hydrating lip mask with a subtle, sweet scent…

Mario Badescu for the win. As the holidays wind down and winter ramps up, cold temps and nights spent by the fire are all well and good until chapped lips enter the group chat. Say hello to this moisturizing lip mask we actually swear by (we own it). A savior for dry, thirsty lips, this lightweight balm will live on their bedside table. We use it right before bed — just a swipe or two, and boom — supple lips in the morning. ($14, Amazon)

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Amazon

A peppermint essential oil roller to relieve stress…

Filled with 100% peppermint essential oil, this pocket-sized roller can help alleviate headaches when applied to the back of the ears and neck. A sniff can also help ease congestion and quell nausea, or encourage relaxation when applied to pressure points. Psst…this comes in five more essential oil varieties, from soothing lavender to energizing grapefruit. ($9.99, Amazon)

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Amazon

A jar of tiny capsules you can hide messages in…

Put pen to paper and fill this jar with sweet nothings for your special someone. Choose a 25-piece jar, or even go up to 90 pieces, and write down greetings, encouragements, poems, or whatever your heart desires on the paper inside. It’ll be a gift they’ll treasure forever. ($5.99+, Amazon)

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Amazon

“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy

Birthday, graduation, new baby, you name it, we’ve given this book for it. It’s the inspirational story of how a boy, a mole, a fox, and a horse become unlikely friends and face life together. It has lessons that apply to everyday life and beautiful illustrations. People who have received this book from us say they find themselves going back to read it over and over. It was also turned into a mesmerizing short film you can watch here. ($12.01, Amazon)

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Amazon

A DIY fan’s new right-hand man…

This slap-on magnetic wristband fits any wrist, keeping essential small tools right where they need them — on hand. It's a simple tool, but one that makes those home improvement projects just a little bit easier. ($18.99, Amazon)

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Amazon

A quick solution for cold drinks…

If they’ve ever suffered through a lukewarm iced coffee or left a beer in the freezer only for it to explode, they might benefit from this invention. The HyperChiller can chill drinks in less than a minute without any dilution. The gadget has two levels of ice at work, so they can pour in their drink and start enjoying it ASAP. ($12.86+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A card deck that will bring joy on even the worst days…

Sometimes, after a long, terrible day, a little sarcasm is just what the doctor ordered. This card deck comes with 100 cheeky affirmations and offers a refreshing spin on traditional inspiration cards. Pulling one of these humorous cards will help cut the tension during a day that can only be called “exceptionally stupid.” ($17.45, Amazon)

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Amazon

A coloring book for the irreverent artist…

If you know someone who’s still into coloring books, they’ll probably get a kick out of this one. It mixes the relaxation of no-pressure arts and crafts along with the catharsis of swearing like a sailor. The book comes with 30 pages of curse words they can color to their heart’s content. ($9.69, Amazon)

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Amazon

A book by Anthony Bourdain for those who savor their travels…

This guide by Anthony Bourdain is a passport to the world's most interesting corners. Readers can get advice on the best spots to visit, dine, and stay — and also where to avoid. Accompanying the travel tips, they can find charming illustrations and additional essays from those who knew Bourdain best. ($19.99+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A genius screen cleaner to keep every device smudge-free…

They’ll seriously wonder what they ever did without this rolling screen cleaner once you gift it to them. A smart tool for anyone who loves their screen time, this roller provides a deep clean for touch-friendly surfaces, removing dust, fingerprints, and smudges with just a few quick swipes. It’s one of those items they’ll keep in their backup to use over and over again at the office. ($21.95, Amazon)

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Amazon

A fill-in-the-blank journal that will make them feel so loved…

If your partner’s (or family member’s) love language is words of affirmation, this fill-in-the-blank love journal will be a hit. It’s full of writing prompts that’ll allow you to gush over what you love so much about them. It’s a keepsake they’ll surely hold on to and look back on for years to come. ($15.94, Amazon)

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Amazon

Mini bath bombs that’ll bring on the calm…

Just pop one in and chill. These jasmine- and rose-scented bath bombs are as relaxing as they are moisturizing. They have jojoba seed oil to hydrate and support your skin barrier, safflower seed oil to help with skin texture, and hemp seed oil for boosting calm. Bath time isn’t just for kids. ($15, Amazon)

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Amazon

A card game for the entire family…

It’s not complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. This card game will have the whole family laughing, imitating animals, and possibly icing their hands after overenthusiastic card-pile slapping. It’ll be a hit at game nights — with older kids and grown-ups, too. ($5.99, Amazon)

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EngravingForever via Etsy

A personalized spoon for your resident ice cream lover…

There’s nothing sweeter than a little after-dinner ice cream. Except having a personalized spoon to eat it with. These engraved spoons for dad or grandpa will ensure there’s no confusion come dessert time. Too. Cute. ($9.58, EngravingForever via Etsy)

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The Good Patch

Wellness patches that provide all kinds of relief…

Whether they could use something for their next hangover, a dose of B12 for an energy boost, or relief from minor aches and pains, The Good Patch has got them covered. They provide long-lasting relief and are made with ingredients you can trust. Don’t believe us? Read our full review of them here. We won’t say we told you so. (Price varies, The Good Patch)

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VanWoof via Etsy

A custom dog portrait that’ll turn their pet into royalty…

We’re losing it over these, and we know they will, too. Send in a picture of their dog or cat and pick an outfit. The artist will do the rest. There are countless options, including a Renaissance royal, Sherlock Holmes, and a Jedi. Choose from digital, canvas, or poster options. ($32.87+, VanWoof via Etsy)

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Spicewalla

A full cabinet’s worth of spices…

Whether they’re a seasoned (pun intended) chef or just beginning their cooking journey, your giftee will appreciate this extensive spice kit. They'll get all the cooking classics, from smoked paprika to ancho chili powder. Here’s hoping that you get invited to try some of the dishes they make with this 18-piece set. Psst…use code SKIMMHOLIDAY23 to get 15% off your order. ($84.99, Spicewalla)

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CasaBellaPortraits via Etsy

A watercolor portrait of their home sweet home…

Whether they’re a new homeowner or you want to immortalize their childhood home, this customizable portrait is the sweetest (and coolest) way to do it. Your home of choice will instantly be turned into a piece of artwork. It comes in a range of sizes and is also available framed with a family name and address printed below. ($49.95+, CasaBellaPortraits via Etsy)

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Sprinkled With Pink

A travel jewelry case that comes in a rainbow of colors…

No more throwing bracelets in the bottom of their bag. This monogrammable travel jewelry case comes in multiple styles, fonts, and colors to choose from. It includes compartments for up to five rings and necklaces, is light and compact, and it zips closed for security. Psst…If you happen to have a wedding coming up, these would make great bridal party gifts. ($19.99, Sprinkled With Pink)

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UniqueGiftLove via Etsy

A photo key chain to remind them how much you care…

Perfect for couples, best friends, or family members, this customizable keychain contains 14 photos commemorating special moments you’ve shared together. It’s all printed on high-quality photo paper and bound with leather — and you can even add initials on the outside. It’s a keepsake they’ll take with them everywhere. ($24.80+, UniqueGiftLove via Etsy)

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hoopsbyhand via Etsy

A pair of corkscrew earrings for every event…

These gold-filled earrings are the perfect balance between understated and eye-catching. A must for earring lovers seeking an elegant touch. Plus, they come in sterling silver and rose gold alternatives for every style preference. ($17.75+, hoopsbyhand via Etsy)

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Rifle Paper Co.

A beautiful vase that might outshine the flowers inside…

Rifle Paper Co. has cornered the market on upscale-yet-playful home goods. Check out the irresistible charm of their porcelain vases, decked out in flowers or bugs. Thanks to their metallic-rimmed tops, they don't even need flowers to steal the show. These vases are stars on their own, adding a touch of whimsy to any space. ($42, Rifle Paper Co.)

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TreceCielos via Etsy

A design-y glass mug for their caffeine fix…

Whether they’re drinking coffee or tea, this handmade glass mug will add a splash of happy color to their morning routine. It’s handmade, dishwasher- and microwave-safe, and it works for hot or cold beverages. Choose from four pretty color combinations. ($21, TreceCielos via Etsy)

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