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This year my 24-year-old assistant decided to take the reigns and offer a look into what she thinks is the perfect gift for someone in their 20s…
Assistant Takeover:
I’ll get right into it, it’s important to know who you’re shopping for. While tangible gifts are often fun to give and receive, lots of 20-somethings could really use some extra money over anything else (see: my group chat)
But, if a more traditional present is what you’re in the market for…keep reading!
The theme of these gift guides is “Elevate”. Our early 20s is a time to evolve and come into our own. College apartments become working professional apartments and expectations begin to change at every corner. Christmas is the perfect time to ask for some high quality pieces that will help you grow into to this new stage in your life. This evolution will look different for everyone, but I think some of these items are a good start to taking that first step on the journey.
For The Girls
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1: Some Quality Pajamas
There’s really nothing wrong with boxers and an oversized tee, but sometimes it feels good to wear some higher quality clothes to bed. Now, these can feel like a frivolous spend between budgeting for groceries, loan payments, rent (you get it) so it’s the perfect thing to ask for! You don’t have to feel guilty for over spending and you get to enjoy some really nice sleepwear.
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2: An Everyday Bag
Think of this as an elevated tote! It’s spacious and low maintenance but still has a put together feel.
3: Unique Kitchenware
Boring adult purchases of your 20s can become more fun with some unique kitchenware! While some measuring cups from Target or Amazon are probably more cost effective, these are a super fun gift to spice up your kitchen!
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4: New Signature Scent
Remember this is our time to elevate 🧘♀️ A new signature scent is the perfect lifestyle change going into the New Year! Nothing too crazy, but you’ll definitely feel the difference. Personally, I like Gucci Bloom, but this scent is very popular this year! I might have to check it out!
5: Card Holder or Wallet
Gone are the days of a phone wallet! It’s time to step it up to a real wallet or card holder. But, you can still have some fun with it. One of my friends suggested this one from Kate Spade and I LOVE it! But, if you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly, check out this one on Etsy (I have it and love it)!
6: Quality Lip Care
My Aunt just gifted this to me for my birthday and it was the PERFECT gift. I genuinely use it everyday and have seen a big difference. It’s a great stocking stuffer or secret Santa gift that she’ll really use!
7: Practical Makeup Bag
Ok, I know that there are definitely more aesthetically pleasing makeup bags on the market. But, my Mom got me this makeup bag a few years ago and it’s truly one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. Can’t recommend enough!
8: Comfy Shoes
Last year was the Boston Clogs, this year it’s the Tazz Slipper. These are truly THE shoe of the Winter. If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, I think these from Boohoo are a close second (and less that $30)!
9: Quality Jewelry
Don’t forget the theme! These are definitely investment pieces, but we’re too old to have stained skin from low quality jewelry! Some investment pieces are definitely part of growing up, and they’re the perfect thing to ask for.
10: Makeup Brushes That Will Last
Again, it’s out with the disposable and in with the investment pieces. While these brushes are easily 5x (maybe 10x) the price of some drug store alternatives, they’re meant to last. And when you think about how often you might have to replace some cheaper alternatives, it does tend to even out.
11: Headphones
Lauren and I both have these headphones and LOVE them. I easily use them everyday, and usually prefer them to my Airpods.
12: Oversized Scarf
Not too much to say here besides you’ll thank me in February!
13: Luxury Skincare
Investing in skincare can feel so frivolous but has truly transformed my skin and my confidence! I also feel like the time & money I’ve spent investing in myself has really been therapeutic. If the girl you’re shopping for is looking to take the leap, consider getting her a starter kit.
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14: Perfect Overnight Bag
This bag is EVERYWHERE, and for good reason. You can watch Lauren pack it here, and you’ll see just how much space you have. While I’m not the biggest fan of duffle bags, this one is truly worth the price (and the hassle of carrying it).
15: Everything Pan
This pan was suggested to me by a friend, and the reviews really prove her right! If the 20-something you’re shopping for is in the midst of furnishing a new kitchen (or hoping to move out soon) this is a great tool to help them get started!
16: Unique To Her
Collecting vinyls is a hobby of mine that I really enjoy, and I like to think the people around me know that. If you’re close enough with the girl you’re shopping for (which you probably are, you’re buying her a gift right?) try to pay attention to her hobbies and interests. Is she a gym rat, vinyl collector, foodie, book lover etc.? Whatever it may be, thoughtful gifts are always a win.
17: Everyday Sneaker
Everyone can use a classic white sneaker, and these Adidas shoes are huge right now! The classic Sambas design is everywhere and I love a good platform so these are perfect!
18: Rhode Beauty
Hailey Bieber launched her skincare line last year and recently expanded the brand to include makeup. Her line is super popular, and while I haven’t tried her skin care yet, her lip tints are great! While I know this is the second lip-oriented gift suggestion, you can never have too many glosses.
19: Cozy Socks
Some over priced socks are the perfect splurge to ask for! These look super comfy and I’ll definitely be wearing them with my new Uggs 😎
For The Guys
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1: Unique To Him
A few of these will be repeats, and here’s the first! My brother lives in CO and loves to photograph/film nature, so a user friendly drone is the perfect gift! He already owns this one and uses it all the time. Lauren also has this one and we use it to film the Villa when we’re in St. John! If you have a nature/photo lover in your life, they’ll love this drone.
2: High Quality Graphic Tees
Graphic Tees are a staple in anyone’s wardrobe, but I do feel they get left behind when we make wardrobe updates. Some high quality tees can really elevate an outfit, and they last a long time!
3: New Hat
Again, hats are usually a wardrobe staple but can be forgotten when making upgrades. I’ve gifted a few hats from Urban over the years and they really hold up well!
4: Luxury Alarm Clock
If the guy you’re shopping for has recently joined the workforce and is having a tough time getting up early, this is a game changer. Help him get a handle on his circadian rhythm with this alarm clock that simulates a sunrise!
5: High Top Sneakers
Converse are a fantastic and durable shoe choice, and they come in so many different color combos. Whatever style he likes, you’ll definitely find a pair of Converse he’ll love.
6: Tactical Backpack
My brother has this backpack and says it’s great. He’s very outdoorsy so it comes in handy on camping trips, but this works great as a general overnight bag as well! There are lots of compartments and it has a padded pocket for a 15″ laptop!
7: Quality Headphones
These are the same headphones from my girls’ gift guide, so I’ll just reiterate my praises. Lauren and I both have these headphones and LOVE them. I easily use them everyday, and usually prefer them to my Airpods.
8: Pack of Socks
Again, some overpriced socks are hard to justify when you’re pinching pennies, but they’re very fun to receive as a gift!
9: THE Jacket This Winter
All I’m hearing this year is Carhartt everything. This brand had a sudden revival last Winter and has maintained popularity all year! They’ve been around forever (literally) and have been a wardrobe staple for generations, so trust it’s a durable buy!
10: Everything Pan
This pan was suggested to me by a friend, and the reviews really prove her right! If the 20-something you’re shopping for is in the midst of furnishing a new kitchen (or hoping to move out soon) this is a great tool to help them get started!
11: Long Sleeve Tee
Long Sleeve Tees are, again, a wardrobe staple that’s often overlooked. If you’re shopping for a guy in his mid-20s who’s still wearing tees that are leftover free handouts from trukey trots or frat events, getting some non-branded graphics will definitely help elevate his wardrobe.
12: Deep Tissue Massager
This is a big ticket item this year! If he’s a guy who frequents the gym, I’ve heard the TheraGun is super popular and makes a big difference.
13: Luxe Sunglasses
These sunglasses are a nice step in the mature direction. They’re under $100, so not they’re not technically “luxury” sunglasses, but they’re a step up from their drug store alternative!
14: High Quality Joggers
Lululemon joggers are nothing new, and for good reason! Lulu’s men’s apparel has been making waves the last few years, and they’re a guaranteed hit as a gift!
15: Next Level Jewelry
If he’s the type of guy who’s normally wearing a chain, but you suspect he might’ve gotten his current one from Amazon, try this step up. Again, it’s not necessarily luxury jewelry, but it’s a huge step up from the alternative.
16: (Off) White Sneakers
White sneakers are the perfect wardrobe staple…when they’re clean. Try these slightly off white sneakers, to help maintain the illusion of clean a little bit longer than a stark white pair.
17: New Signature Scent
Remember this is our time to elevate 🧘♀️ A new signature scent is the perfect lifestyle change going into the New Year! Nothing too crazy, but you’ll definitely feel the difference.
18: Starter Skincare
I’ll stereotype for a second, lots of guys have missed the skin care boat. But, especially as we get older, it becomes increasingly important to maintain a consistent skin care routine. This starter pack is super budget friendly and lets him dip his toe in the skin care world. And, it’s not hard for him to replenish his supply once he runs out!
19: Quest3 VR Headset
Being honest here, I don’t have a lot to say on this front, but I’ve been assured this is the gift of the season. If he’s into video games, he’ll be happy to receive this one!
And that’s where I’ll leave you guys. Hopefully your 20-something has a great Christmas and is happy with my list 🤣 If you liked this takeover, let us know! Be sure to check out Lauren’s other holiday gift guides, and have a Happy Holiday ❤️
