“This vegan leather set is ideal for travel—with a smaller pouch perfect for makeup and a larger one for accessories. Savvy folks cinch that one, transforming it into a going-out bag.”
Also available at maliandlili
“Thanks to a full-skirt look, these loungy pants with pockets can be dressed way up. Chic and comfortable? A best-life moment.”
Also available at lunya.co
“These readers look so great that Gayle wore a pair to the Beyoncé concert. At this price, you can give more than one style. Because if someone needs readers, they need a pair for the car, the nightstand, their bag…”
Also available at peepers.com
“Traveling on a budget? As airlines add fees for putting luggage in the overhead bin, this company’s founder developed a brilliant below-the-seat bag. Pop off the wheels and you’re good to go.”
Also available at takeoffluggage.com
“You get a lot of bang for your buck with this cotton canvas tote: smart-looking, with vegan leather accents. Doesn’t it look like a more expensive bag? It’s just right for the person in your life who needs to schlep a lot of stuff. Gayle, are you listening?”
Also available at broukandco.com
“Such a smart idea—a classic loafer that’s waterproof and just right for days of running errands.”
Also available at toryburch.com
“A packable little shacket—part shirt, part jacket—will be just the thing for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. And at this price, the definition of outdoors might include lots of indoors folks on your list.”
Also available at 32degrees.com
“Education-inspired and HBCU-made, these colorful, affordable watches take their names from local elementary, middle, and high schools in the founders’ hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina.”
Also available at springbreakwatches
“It’s so hard to find a gift that works for, say, tweens to aunties, but these handcrafted sterling silver or 14kt-gold-plated initial necklaces with, yes, real diamonds at this price will add sparkle to all ages.”
Also available at ameliarosejewelry.com
“Now, this, ladies and gentlemen, is some elevated loungewear. A cashmere set, it’s comfy enough for solo reading on the couch...”
Also available at havenwellwithin.com
“...and exactly what you want to wear when guests drop by.”
Also available at havenwellwithin.com
“The Queens-born designer behind this It Bag is a star, and his faux-leather unisex tote is big enough to hold a laptop and gets oohs and aahs on city streets.”
Also available at telfar.net
“The founder, a former banker for Goldman Sachs, couldn’t find the right nude shoe for her skin tone, so she started her own company. I love her boots to go with jumpsuits, long skirts, dresses, and then as gifts for friends!”
Also available at rebecca-allen.com
“This isn’t so much a travel case as it is a treasure chest—with five earring styles we curated to cover every travel need, from day-tripping to black-tie wedding. Plus room for your other essential pieces.”
Also available at sterlingforever.com
“Looking for a cheerful stocking stuffer? You can’t do better than this fun checkered design; and yes, the index fingertip works with touchscreens.”
Also available at topitoffaccessories
“The folks at YGN have pre-tied headwraps, but I prefer this satin-lined DIY version. They’re so cute—I wear mine for many a Zoom—and anyone who wants to protect their hairstyle overnight will thank you.”
Also available at yougonatural
“Y’all know how much I love a big hoop. Even more, I love the story of how a former intern at O magazine stepped out on a dream to create these earrings in multiple skin tones!”
Also available at hoopmobb.com
“This hand-poured candle was created just for us and gives off a lush rose scent, with elements of sandalwood and clove.”
Also available at harlemcandlecompany.com
“Wow. Wow. Wow. May I tell you I got this set last year? I wore it in a photo shoot for O Quarterly and never looked back...”
Also available at spanx.com
“...This is the most comfortable fabric—now in new sophisticated colors.”
Also available at spanx.com
“I have these blissfully soft socks in a basket by my front door so people don’t have to wear shoes. Trust me, the homebodies in your life will want a pair, or in this case, three!”
Also available at barefootdreams.com
“I picked their throw last year, and I can tell you the only thing better than diving under a faux-shearling blanket is to walk around almost wearing one—makes you feel like you’re at a spa.”
Also available at houseno23.com
“I have three of these sets in green, three in pink, three in white. And now I’ve added three more, in almost purple—lavender! I wear them as pajamas. I work out in them. I wear them all the time!”
Also available at us.stripeandstare.com
“I chose a Lollia bubble bath—my absolute favorite—two decades ago, and I still have the original bottle by my tub. This year’s White Amber & Mirabelle offering is just as luxurious—and comes in bath salts, too.”
Also available at margotelena.com
“I’ve been known to give these as party favors. The faux-shearling upper is lined with cotton fleece and memory foam, and the result feels like walking on air.”
Also available at roamwears.com
“This elevated jacket has a sporty flair and is a go-to for dog walking.”
Also available at kashwere.com
“I chose a Lollia bubble bath—my absolute favorite—two decades ago, and I still have the original bottle by my tub. This year’s White Amber & Mirabelle offering is just as luxurious—and comes in bath salts, too.”
Also available at margotelena.com
“You’ll reach for this throw during the in-between seasons. Not too heavy or too light, not too big or too small (51 inches by 67 inches), and not too expensive—it’s the Goldilocks option.”
Also available at landsdownunder.com
“Loungewear is my favorite way to dress—the softer, the better. This marshmallow fabric feels delicious. And I love that the sizing is so inclusive—from small to 2X/3X.”
Also available at softiespjs.com
“We finally solved the mystery of what to wear after the matching family pajamas—matching family sweatshirts, especially ones that encourage both smiles and group pictures.”
Also available at kaansdesigns.com
“More than 74 percent of us type on our phones with two thumbs—says a 2019 study. Enter these vegan faux-fur mittens, which are thumb-accessible for our phone-fixated life. Fashionable and functional…love that!”
Also available at mersea.com
“Organic cotton pajamas for moms, dads, grandmamas, grandkids, and fur babies—you’re in luck. I think we all know what Gayle’s family is wearing this Christmas.”
Also available at honestbabyclothing.com
“If you like decorating cookies, but not so much the baking, take a look at one of these Christmas and Hanukkah kits. Each delivers delicious sugar cookies, homemade frosting, and sprinkles to keep kids engaged during the holidays.”
Also available at isleof.us
“I love these little guys—I took one home the first time I saw them...”
Also available at bukowskibears.com
“...Created by a family business in Sweden, they’re super soft and totally huggable.”
Also available at bukowskibears.com
“These high-top canvas shoes feature animal themes, come with facts about the species—and are adorable. Gayle is getting a pair in ‘lello’ for her grandbaby.”
Also available at zuzookids.fun
“Designed with imagery to help identify shapes, including stars, moons, and more, this puzzle will charm the 4-to-7-year-olds in your orbit.”
Also available at puzzlehuddle.com
“Each member of this corps de ballet is ethically crafted by female artisans in the Philippines. I so appreciate that their line includes a range of diverse faces, so little ones can see themselves.”
Also available at alimrose.com.au
“Hands-free and stylish beanie with a headlamp for kids? Rechargeable? And matching gloves? Ingenious! Get ready for nighttime snowball fights.”
Also available at roq-innovation.com
“In a classic design with a touch of Scandinavian style, this is one cool-looking scooter. The T-handlebar raises as a child grows, so they can zip around for years.”
Also available at banwood.com
“The AAPI founders designed these uplifting basketballs to remind players that life is about growth, not perfection—a concept you know I happen to agree with.”
Also available at wearechance.com
“My friends Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union were inspired by their daughter to create this line of Hydrating Baby Lotion, All Over Balm, and Nourishing Oil for melanated kids and babies.”
Also available at proudly.com
“Budding jewelry designers can make one necklace or two bracelets with this fun kit. It’s also a popular stocking stuffer or Hanukkah gift.”
Also available at supersmalls.com
“Created for kids, these little books pair famous artworks (Gauguin! Kerry James Marshall!) with read-aloud text (‘Love is…soft snuggles…and tender nuzzles’). So special—adults will want them, too.”
Also available at phaidon.com
“This delightful dollhouse bath bomb set for kids has dreamy scents and tiny surprises inside, and needs only a bow to be put under a tree. I also admire that the company hires those who need a helping hand.”
Also available at museebath.com
“We’ve got another serving board—I say that with glee, because I love charcuterie. The family behind this wood board partnered with a food stylist to create a ‘map’ of where to put everything.”
Also available at sophistiplate.com
“Is lukewarm tea anyone’s favorite? I don’t think so. Two sisters created this shapely double-walled design that keeps coffee, tisanes, and hot chocolate warm to the very last drop.”
Also available at sisterlydrinkware.com
“You know how I feel about bread, so I was very happy to see this enameled cast-iron piece that brings brick-oven baking to a home oven. In other words, it makes a crust to die for.”
Also available at lecreuset.com
“A little bit of Europe that’s capital-G gorgeous on your countertop. These 13 essential wooden utensils arrive with a hand- thrown pottery crock that was inspired by an Italian staple: the olive jar. This is a great gift for someone with a new home.”
Also available at etuhome.com
“I just love the shape and design of this kettle—but it also has ‘to-the-degree’ temperature control, which your most fastidious coffee or tea aficionado, like me, will appreciate.”
Also available at fellowproducts.com
“Some days, only a slice of pizza hits the spot. Luckily this year, Ooni, which is known for its outdoor pizza ovens, created a version that can be used indoors and is worthy of the Old Country.”
Also available at ooni.com
“Last year, I gave Leeway’s The Full Way bundle to my daughter-girls moving into dorms or setting up homes, and now I raise a glass to its 20-piece barware set that helps those just starting out to toast the season.”
Also available at leewayhome.co
“Busy chefs will appreciate this sturdy double-stitched denim apron by a former jeans designer. But so will some gardeners. I put mine on to keep track of my pruner and phone when I’m clipping roses.”
Also available at micocinaus.com
“No pods, no paper filters. Six beverage sizes brewed five ways (light, gold, bold, espresso-style, or over ice). And it grinds whole beans on demand for a full pot or a to-go carafe. A dream for persnickety coffee drinkers.”
Also available at delonghi.com
“You might be wondering why I chose a scale for a gift list. Sure, this sleek and stylish piece can weigh up to 22 pounds of ingredients, but it has a secret: It’s also a phone or tablet charger!”
Also available at zwilling.com/us
“For the great grillers in your life: This four-piece stainless steel and hand-polished-teak set will be perfect.”
Also available at schmidtbrothers.com
“A collaboration between Crux and Ghetto Gastro, a collective of chefs who use food to advance social justice, this oversize toaster does it all: toast, air fry, bake, dehydrate, reheat, and more.”
Also available at cruxkitchen.com
“I always love a great knife block set, and according to Adam, apparently you all do, too! This 12-piece option takes the stress out of holiday prep—at least the slicing and dicing.”
Also available at cangshancutlery.com
“It started with a book, became a film, then two Broadway musicals. Now a fresh new, hugely cinematic version of The Color Purple arrives in movie theaters Christmas Day—a universal story of independence, love, resilience, the bonds of sisterhood, and hope. Give a ticket and it will arrive in a custom box (or via email for last-minute shoppers).”
“I love all things Beats. Some of us are over-the-head-headphone people, and if you know one of them, these are the best of the best.”
Also available at apple.com
“Speaking as a mother of fur babies, including the one shown at left (hi, Sadie!), I think this DIY project is so neat: Turn your pet’s photo into a paint-by-number template, then print it on the enclosed canvas, and finish with the brushes and acrylics.”
Also available at paintablepictures.com
“Our first-ever reading journal has space to list your best and next reads, lines from books you don’t want to forget, and more. A book about books for booklovers—is there anything better?”
Also available at oprahdaily.com
“I did a lot of puzzles during the pandemic, and I have some thoughts: I don’t want them to take up my entire life, but this 500-piece one is just complicated enough, and it features a work by Detroit-based artist Jamea Richmond-Edwards.”
Also available at jiggypuzzles.com
“If someone on your list thinks instant gratification takes too long, consider this throwback camera—you can shoot up to 100 images on one charge, printing directly from the camera or from your phone’s camera roll, using the company’s app. Terrific for your next party!”
Also available at instaxus.com
“The title of this step-by-step planner is a doozy, but ‘I’m Dead, Now What?’ makes it easy to record everything your loved ones might need.”
Also available at peterpauper.com
“This summer, a friend I was traveling with raved about his Kindle, the first to include a notebook and a pen that never needs charging—especially how readable it was in the sun and how much he enjoyed writing notes with it. He was right!”
Also available at amazon.com
“Trees are having a moment. I’ve seen lots of books on the topic, but How to Be More Tree, with its gorgeous illustrations and wisdom of the ages, is the one I send to friends.”
Also available at penguinrandomhouse
“This headset gives both fully immersive and mixed-reality experiences for 500-plus apps. Great for gaming, or, if you’re Adam and Gayle, a quick game of virtual pickleball at the office.”
Also available at meta.com
“This is an oral history—and then some—of everything The Color Purple. With never-before-seen images and never-before-shared stories from Alice Walker, Steven Spielberg, Danny Glover, Whoopi Goldberg, Cynthia Erivo, and so many others, it’s got everything you ever wanted to know about the book, the original movie, the Broadway show (and revival), and now the new film, of which I’m proud to be one of the producers.”
Also available at simonandschuster.com
“I usually choose a neutral polish, and this AAPI- founded brand has terrific options. But this year, I’m looking for more colorful and luscious options, too.”
Also available at dearsundays.com
“During Covid, an HR exec created a line of all-natural Japanese blotting papers and a reusable holder with sponge applicator that prevents you from transferring dirt from your fingers to your face. So clever!”
Also available at lalais.com
“A nutrient-dense shea butter? Sure. In a stick format? Absolutely! I first heard about this multipurpose balm that adds glow from Gayle, whose makeup artist RaeDawn created it.”
Also available at balaeyon.com
“This trio of lush hand creams—oat milk, soy milk, and charcoal rose—are ideal for a friend facing a long January. (Chicago winters, I remember you!)”
Also available at shoparchipelago.com
“These liquid lipsticks are more opaque than a gloss but shinier than a traditional cream—and they look so good!”
Also available at bossybeauty.com
“Nobody, and I mean nobody, does a better pedicure than the Footnanny (a.k.a. Gloria Williams). You can bring it to your home with this set of all the necessities, plus my favorite eucalyptus soaking salt.”
Also available at footnanny.com
“No more shower steam ruining blowouts. Thanks to these 100 percent waterproof performance fabric caps, you can s-t-r-e-t-c-h the time between wash days. The trick is a leakproof flexiband that adjusts to any size.”
Also available at gracemygrace.com
“These soft and utterly functional makeup brushes are made from sustainable materials, with two and a half times the bristles, and are dual-headed, which means you get a dozen options (yes, 12!) in a sleek white case.”
Also available at jennypatinkin.com
“Bring eight therapies home with this one treatment tool: It has percussive massage and cleansing options, and red, blue, and red-plus-infrared light therapies. It’s for anyone looking for lifting and tightening but afraid of needles.”
Also available at therabody.com
“This hydrating goat-milk bar soap set, with grapefruit, lavender, and fig scents, is a beautifully packaged hostess gift. Each bar fits perfectly in your hand. And look at the company’s tagline: ‘There is beauty in kindness.’ Why, yes, there is!”
Also available at beekman1802.com
“Some days I need to do full glam—other days, a one-and-done stick like this can be a lifesaver. Creamy matte colors that are easy to blend on cheeks and swipe on lips—and work on all skin tones? Amen.”
Also available at amicole.com
“These four makeup palettes go from day to night, natural to dramatic, and are especially great for the over-40 woman. Each features six eyeshadows, a mix of blushes, bronzers, highlighters, and a mirror—all at an unbeatable price.”
Also available at laurageller.com
“Ayesha Curry just launched her skin line this July—and I love these 100 percent cotton face towels. She recommends the darker colors for evening and removing makeup and the lighter ones for morning. Makes sense not to ruin your good towels, right?”
Also available at sweetjulyskin.com
“After launching this plant-based jewelry cleaner that’s also a gentle hand soap—no lost rings here—the owners got tons of requests to add a brush. Et voilà!”
Also available at shinery.com
“Do you find some body butters heavy or cloying? This silky, fragrance-free version is like a light veil of cashmere on your skin—and works really well on hands, elbows, and feet.”
Also available at fountsociety.com
“A person cannot have enough olive oil. I use it for everything, and these cooking and finishing versions from Calabria make a wonderful gift for the chef in your life.”
Also available at exauoliveoil.com
“Twenty miniature almond cakes, layered with a chocolate hazelnut spread and topped with a dark chocolate drip—just right with a cup of tea.”
Also available at zolabakes.com
“Although these are low-sugar jams, these three interesting flavor combinations bring a little zing to recipes in the accompanying downloadable cookbook (e.g., PB&J Oatmeal Bowl, Peach Firecracker Salmon), a cocktail, or a cheese board.”
Also available at tradestjamco.com
“In 2009, facing the loss of her house, this founder started selling her apple cakes to pay off her loan. It worked—and we know why. There wasn’t a crumb left after our tasting.”
Also available at maccakes.com
“This ethically sourced coffee—eight-ounce bags each of Motherland, East Fourteenth, and Carver’s Dream flavors—is roasted in small batches in Oakland, California, for a smooth taste.”
Also available at redbaycoffee
“You cannot go wrong making biscuits or honey cornbread—reminds me of my grandmother’s home—with these Southern recipe mixes and the preseasoned skillet.”
Also available at hamiltoncornerstore.com
“The founder behind this box of ginormous cookies—chocolate chunk, oatmeal cran-raisin, Georgia pecan turtle, and more—promises a hug in every bite. She’s not wrong.”
Also available at kyriskookies.com
“This award-winning raw honey comes from a family farm in New Jersey—and the two flavors are a sweet treat.”
Also available at zachandzoe.com
“The only thing better than one pastry-wrapped-Brie appetizer is four of them. Pop the rosemary, tomato, and olive (or truffle, fig, and orange, or other two frozen varieties) in the oven at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. You’ll look like the hostess with the most-est.”
Also available at boarderie.com
“Gayle loves a good hot chocolate—so I trust her opinion that this rich, creamy trio of milk chocolate, white chocolate, and Jamaican hot chocolate isn’t to be missed.”
Also available at onemorecocoa.com
“Black Garlic N Peri Peri, Collards N Ghost, and Carrot N Chipotle are just some of the flavors in this set of five vegetable-based hot sauces—which deliver lots of flavor without blowing your head off.”
Also available at hotnsaucy.co
“God is in the details, and these people understand details: An exquisite breakfast—pancake mix, syrup, infused jellies, and more—arrives in a birch box decorated with dried flowers.”
Also available at stonehollowfarmstead.com
“So shiny, so pretty, and so filled with oozy salted-caramel and vanilla milk chocolate ganache—I don’t know about you, but I find that an irresistible combination.”
Also available at vestachocolate.com
“Gather friends and family with this pizza party in a box. There’s enough dough mix and slow-cooked sauce for two pizzas (which can be cooked in the Ooni Pizza Oven, also on our list).”
Also available at bellacucina
“In this elegant set—two jars and a golden spoon pretty enough to sit on your table—you’ll discover an English Flake Sea Salt, known for delicate crunch, and a hand-harvested French Fleur De Sel. Bon appétit!”
Also available at myfabulousfood.com
“Truff can do no wrong by me. I’ve given the Hot Sauce to a lot of people. This is Truff’s new set: a white truffle oil and hot sauce combo pack that’s (chef’s kiss) so delicious.”
Also available at truff.com
“It’s true that you could bring all the handcrafted, award-winning cheeses from this women-owned family farm to a holiday event. But trust me when I say you might want to save the TomaTruffle for a grilled cheese.”
Also available at pointreyescheese.com
“Allyson Felix, the most decorated track-and-field star ever, has designed a running shoe for women (e.g., narrower in the heel) with a super-plush insole. I thought the cream version was a winner—and I bet you know which color Gayle picked.”
Also available at saysh.com
“I first picked Corkcicle in 2012. This year, it has a brand-new cup, with a ceramic straw, that comes in 19 colors and keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours (or hot for five). I can’t wait to have my smoothie in the lavender one.”
Also available at corkcicle.com
“A sun hat with a twist—a satin lining that helps avoid hat-head—will protect and delight any beachgoer or hiker.”
Also available at hairbrella.com
“Our journals are one of the best things we do at Oprah Daily—and Finding Your Purpose is a great, great, great gift for anyone who wants to fulfill the highest, truest expression of themselves. I worked on every page, and I’m leading an online class based on it in the New Year.”
Also available at oprahdaily.com/purposejournal
“Now, this is a design I haven’t seen before—cute and multifunctional. It holds my water bottle when I’m hiking in Maui; for city walkabouts, the pocket holds a phone and a credit card.”
Also available at wanderfullbrand.com
“The founder of this fitness-wear company has designed pieces with higher waists...”
Also available at roamloud.com
“...and tops that feel a little more substantial—plus a pocket for your phone or keys.”
Also available at roamloud.com
“I collaborated with Arthur Brooks on this book because I think the topic is so important. If you want to be happier in 2024—or help those you care about build happiness every day—this is the gift to give yourself and others.”
Also available at penguinrandomhouse.com
“Sleeping with a mask is life-changing—I cannot tell you how much the quality of my sleep has improved! This weighted 100 percent silk one stays down and doesn’t let even a pinch of light in.”
Also available at asutra.com
“Pond-swimming, muddy-puddle-jumping dogs (and their owners) will give thanks for this quick-drying towel—twice as fast as a cotton variety.”
Also available at us.dockandbay.com
“Such an easy way to keep your dog happy on the longest walks or hottest days. Simply squeeze this 22-ounce, BPA-free plastic bottle to fill the bowl, and release to drain the water back in.”
Also available at springerpets.com
“This set proves handy, especially between grooming appointments, and features a foamy, waterless shampoo, bath brush, and protective balm. These are safe for humans, so you can treat your fur baby like you would yourself.”
Also available at prideandgroom.com
Still photographs: Gregor Halenda. Model Photographs: Eli Schmidt. Video Director: Peter Rosa. Soft Good Photographs: Regina Nicolardi. Fashion Stylist: Paula Lee. Hair: Yukiko Tajima for Oribe. Makeup: Christina Rayna, assisted by Vika Osychenko. Manicurist: Martha Fekete. Set Design & Prop Styling: Cindy DiPrima/EH Management. Product Prop Styling: Margo Latka. Soft Goods Styling: Coco Urhausen. Logo Illustration: Hitandrun/Débutart.