I like to take things people already use and find a version they wouldn’t get for themselves

The best kind of gifts are the ones the recipient really wants. But when it comes to gift giving, it’s so hard to know what that might be. I like to take things people already use and find a version they wouldn’t get for themselves. Sometimes that means finding unusual, creative, and higher-quality items.

And no worries if these feel out of reach — next week’s gag gifts promise far less sticker shock.

For the Home

Serving Plate

abc carpet & home, Ichendorf Milano Footed Plate, $65

It may be small, but this broccoli plate carries its weight… and it’s sure to be a conversation starter.

Measuring Cups

Amazon, Matryoshka Measuring Cups, $13.99

The baker in your life will love taking it up a notch with these Russian nesting dolls. They’ll look really good on your counter, too.

Vase

Como Disc Urn, Jonathan Adler, $105

This vase doesn’t even need flowers.

For Him

Belt

Shinola.com, 1¼” Dress Belt, $150

Yes, the men always have one, but this one is beautifully crafted. It doesn’t look like an afterthought you grabbed while you were buying a Yom Tov suit.

Heated Vest

Amazon, Loowoko Heated Vest, $96

Does he always underestimate the weather, and think he’ll be fine when it’s frigid outside? This heated vest anticipates the cold before he does.

Magnetic Wristband

RAK Magnetic Wristband, Amazon, $15.98

Help that handy person in your life keep track of screws and nails.

Sunglasses

FOR HIM: Huron Matte Black Sunglasses,
Shady Rays, $46.20

FOR HER: Allure Sunglasses in Pink Tortoise, Shady Rays, $23.60

Eyes still need protection in the winter, and these cool sunglasses are perfect year-round.

For Her

Jewelry Box

Pottery Barn, Quinn Jewelry Box, $149

Keep your jewelry organized in this pretty leather box.

Tote Bag

L.L.Bean, Boat and Tote, $49.99

L.L.Bean’s iconic tote bag is perfect for a family outing or travel. You can get the zippered version, and there’s an option to monogram.

Yoga Mat

JadeYoga Travel Yoga Mat, Amazon, $69.95

Also good — The Mat, 5mm, Lululemon, $118

This is the best yoga mat out there. Trust me — I’ve tried more than a few. This one has a great, grippy surface, and it’s comfortable for working out.

Scarf and Gloves

Nordstrom, Winter Chill Blanket Scarf, $48

Overland.com, Mink Fingerless Gloves, $139

Who doesn’t love a cozy, fun scarf in the winter? And these fingerless gloves keep your fingers free and the rest of you warm. Or you can pull them up on top of your sweater  so they become cuffs.

For the Girls

Jewelry Roll

Bag-all, Couture Jewelry Roll, $48

Perfect for Shabbos away.

Slippers

Nordstrom.com, Ugg Tasman II, $84.95

These are the slippers all the girls want. Or so I’ve been told by a reliable source.

Sweatshirt

Alo, Accolade Crew Neck Pullover, $138

Cozy and perfect for keeping the winter chill at bay. It also happens to be the sweatshirt of the moment. Don’t settle for black — there’s an array of colors to choose from.

(Originally featured in Family First, Issue 971)