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We get it. There are A LOT of gift guides out there. Seemingly every publisher on the interwebs comes out of the woodwork right about now waxing nostalgic about the holidays while pushing mediocre gifts at you for three months straight. Thankfully, you won’t find any of those humdrum guides around here.
This holiday season, our TQE editorial staff worked very hard to bring you the best of the best gifting ideas. We tasked our team with sourcing the greatest gifts they’ve received or given, and from a list of several hundred entries we voted as a group on our standout favorites. Below you’ll find outstanding gifting inspiration across the core seven categories we cover year-round at TQE: Fashion, Beauty, Food/Bev, Home, Wellness, Parenting, and Pets.
Without further ado, we give you our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide. It’s worth pointing out this guide is completely free of outside influence: no sponsored placements; no here today, gone tomorrow trends. Just the best gifts, period. From all of us at TQE, we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season ahead.
Best Holiday Gifts In:
1. Fashion
2. Beauty
3. Food & Bev
4. Home
5. Wellness
6. Parenting
7. Pets
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Fashion
Words by Zoë Brown
Baboon To The Moon’s Go Bag is the gift that keeps on giving – meaning, you could keep on giving it to everyone on your list, and it’s sure to please. Not only is the Go Bag Big uber-functional – it can fit 5+ days of clothing, has a waterproof shell, four organizational pockets, and can slide right into most airline overhead bins – it’s also sleek, unfussy, and comfortable to carry. Buy this for the backpacker, the kid who just went off to college, your partner, or yourself. Drop some hints about enjoying a more adventurous 2023.
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With holiday season comes hygge season. And who doesn’t want (or need) an upgrade on an indulgent at-home wardrobe? OFFHOUR’s Homecoat, a cotton jersey-lined, super soft French Terry robe that feels like a wearable blanket but looks too chic to keep it hidden in your bedroom, is the equivalent of sending a warm hug in the mail. Wear it in the kitchen, living room, or on your morning coffee walk. Ideal for the person you love who would work-from-bed at all hours of the day if it were socially acceptable.
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We dream of J. Hannah pieces year-round, but it just so happens that the brand makes one necklace to rule them all (for holiday gifting, that is). The small LA-based brand’s Initial Signet Pendant, customized to your preference between three different chains, four lengths, and 100% recycled 14k gold or sterling silver, re-envisions the long history of signet jewelry in a distinctly modern fashion. It’s elegant, simple, and versatile, making it the perfect layering piece they’ll never want (or need) to take off. Each piece in the J. Hannah collection is individually hand-fabricated – so both the intention behind this gift and the process of making it are entirely one-of-a-kind.
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For a jewelry gift that won’t break the bank but will become a part of their permanent accessory rotation, look no further than the Croissant Dome Ring from Mejuri. Handcrafted in vermeil, a thick 18k gold layer on sterling silver, the Dome Ring makes a bold but classic statement (whether shining alone or stacked with other rings). Over 700 five-star reviews confirm: this is a fail-proof gift.
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Comme Si’s Silk Duo of its best-selling La Boxer Clasica is the best “they’d never buy it for themself” gift. What’s more luxurious than two pairs of boxers made with 100% sustainably sourced silk? Available in a classic Cream and Chocolate combination or a more playful Glacier blue and Forest green, this set is the perfect way to infuse a little more luxury and self-care into their everyday routine, whether they’re wearing these boxers to sleep, lounge, or layer.
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Whether you’re searching for a unique stocking stuffer or a playful gift that shows you care (and proves that you know your friend’s stylistic sensibilities from their head to their toes), snap up The Frida Headband from Ceremonia. Made with satin to protect the hair and shaped comfortably to fit easily around all textures, it’s the ideal accessory to upgrade and polish any look.
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Made of 50% recycled material, these durable, magnetic and refillable capsules offer a foolproof design that doesn’t leak, break or leach contents (take that silicone bottles). Available in 10 colors with a range of customizable labels, this 6-capsule bundle bestseller helps maintain control of your day. Use the handy capacity calculator to determine how much product – everything from pills and powder shampoo to serums and mouthwash – these beauties can hold; with its wide opening and rounded interior, you will get every last drop. It’s the little things that make the big difference.
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Crown Affair takes beauty from the top, leading the charge in the “skinification” of hair with scalp and strand-nourishing products. The Complete Ritual is the comprehensive set of daily necessities – for pre-shower, in-shower and post-shower – to restore hair’s balance for beautiful, healthy locks. Despite the brand’s “less is more” philosophy, this haircare ritual is steeped in splendor with incredibly stylish, sustainable handcrafted tools: The Comb No. 002, The Ritual Shampoo & Conditioner, The Renewal Mask, The Towel, The Brush No. 001, The Scrunchie No. 001, The Dry Shampoo, and The Oil.
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Merit is a natural at makeup, especially when you’re pressed to primp. The core collection for makeup in minutes includes: The Minimalist (available in 20 shades), the complexion perfecting stick that will have you saying farewell to foundation; Brush No.1, a vegan bristle go-to for blending; Flush Balm (available in 5 shades), a cream tint for all-day rosy glow; Day glow (in 3 non-sparkly shades), a vitamin-rich balm for a dewy finish, plus the brand’s Brow 1980, Clean Lash, and Shade Slick.
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The epitome of travel and leisure. By popular demand, the infamous scent of Vacation sunscreen – with classic notes of coconut, banana, pineapple and orange blossom coupled with a hint of slightly chlorinated pool water, sea spray, and lycra – is available in an Eau de toilette to wear year-round. Evoking the memory of summer’s glory is just a spritz away.
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Food & Bev
Words by Ryan Willison
The only thing better than Brightland's deliciously smooth olive oil? That same oil infused with more flavor. A sampling of four flavor-forward blends – ARDOR, infused with chilis; ROSETTE, with garlic; LUCID, with lemon; and ARISE, with basil – the Infused Mini Series sports custom labels designed by genre-defying artists, as well Brightland's dependably chic gift box packaging. And then there are the oils themselves: from using Ardor as the base of a homemade chili crisp to drizzling Lucid over grain for brightness and lift, with these four knockouts in your arsenal the possibilities are endless.
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At this point, any foodie friend of yours has surely heard of Fly By Jing—their sauces (and cheeky branding) are hard to ignore. Luckily, a good chef could always use more spice, and if your friend is anything like us, they’re restocking Fly by Jing on the monthly. Show them you care (and that you’d like them to cook you a Sichuan dinner, stat) with The By Jing Box. The perfect staple for any pantry, it features their all-new Chili Crisp Vinaigrette, the Sichuan Chili Crisp (which has sold out five times already), Zhong Sauce and their Mala Spice Mix. Your giftee’s taste buds will thank you.
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I love a buzzy opening, but the line outside the brand new Canyon Coffee in Echo Park is so long, just looking at it gives me hives. I'll stick to enjoying Canyon's (admittedly fantastic) brews at home, with its subscription system that offers flexibility in flavor, from Ethiopian Gedeb to Colombian Sagebrush, as well as whole bean and pre-ground options. A pre-paid three-month subscription is the perfect gift for the caffeine aficionados in your life – or honestly anyone who lives for gorgeous packaging.
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Nothing, I promise you, nothing will make you feel like more of a chef than tasting a dish and proclaiming, "Needs more acid." With Acid League's New Essentials Kit, you'll have a world of solutions at your disposal, with vinegars and sauces that dial the tang up to 11. All The Alliums brings black garlic and onion notes, the Rare Citrus Vinegar zings with grapefruit and yuzu, and the hot sauce makes use of the sexiest phrase I've heard in a minute: "saffron condiment." With a single-origin Spanish EVOO rounding out the mix, this is an all-star line-up of finishing sauces sold at one affordable price.
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It may sound far away, but Dry January comes just on the heels of the holiday season – and no one makes a better non-alcoholic tipple than Ghia. The First Sip Kit is an excellent primer into what the brand does well, highlighting its signature Aperitif while also providing cans of Ghia Ginger, Ghia Soda and Lime & Salt for sipping on the go. These drinks call on gentian root, the same ingredient that gives many boozy aperitifs their appetite-priming, digestion-aiding effect, while riesling grape juice and fig concentrates bring all kinds of punchy flavor. Whatever your reason for abstaining, Ghia ensures delicious drinking by night and lack of hangover by morning.
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The Always Pan is an iconic addition to your pots and pans lineup, and the cast iron edition may be even better. Its 8-in-1 functionality serves as a fry pan, skillet, sauté pan, braiser, griddle, roaster, baking dish, spatula, and spoon rest. For the aesthetically minded, you can choose from six of the brand’s stunning colorways. For the sustainability minded, you can rest easy knowing that the brand commits to carbon neutrality.
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The Beast 10 Blender from Beast Health is undoubtedly gorgeous. Its space-saving aesthetic and sleek ribbed plastic means your giftee will actually want to show it off. More importantly, lest its fluted design take all the credit, the Beast Blender was created by the founder of the Nutribullet and devotes plenty of energy to powerfully blending, crushing, and mixing — from smoothies to cocktails to soups. Bonus points for a two year warranty.
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Does your loved one spend every morning at the coffee shop? Have we got a gift for you! This TK-01 Machine from Terra Kaffe combines barista-grade brewing with the one-button ease of those omnipresent Keurig and Nespresso machines. And it’s artistic. Although it’s convenient, the machine also allows you to use your own beans and therefore support whichever coffee brands you like.
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Parachute bedding may dominate your Instagram feed…but you’re reading this in your bathrobe, aren’t you? The Waffle Robe is a lightweight, softly textured bathrobe inspired by the world’s greatest spas (and made of 100% Turkish cotton). The waffle weave ensures it’s both airy and substantial, a pleasing pick for anyone.
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Bright, bold patterns characterize the Dusen Dusen line, which is why each design stands out in any space. These linens are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they’re free of any harmful substances. This Hand Towel is a thoughtful, singular gift that’s a joy to look at, use, and layer.
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An air purifier can vastly improve one’s quality of life, and this medical-grade purifier leaves no doubts that they’ll be treating their body and mind to the finest environment possible. If your giftee has allergies, pets, or even just a love for smart app-connected devices, the Air Mini + from Molekule is a guaranteed winner. Oh, and did we mention it’s light enough to carry from room to room?
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This delightful throw is made of super-soft cotton, and the pattern is a timeless addition to any area. Made in sunny Los Angeles, the Mate Throw Blanket from Bien Mal adds a fresh yet traditional vibe that brightens up your room. Have enough blankets already? Hang it on the wall for some unexpected texture.
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Wellness
Words by Remi Rosmarin
In traditional Chinese medicine, cupping therapy has been used for thousands of years as a holistic treatment to all sorts of ailments, from clearing congestion to relieving anxiety. WTHN is making it easy for everyone to experience the healing benefits of cupping, no matter where they are, with their at-home products, like the Body Cupping Kit. With eight silicone cups, a traveling case, and a detailed how-to guide, this set is perfect for cupping novices looking to experiment with the treatment and cupping virtuosos looking for an on-the-go option to enjoy.
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Anyone with a pulse on all things wellness will agree: sexual wellness is wellness. Give the gift of self-pleasure and exploration with the Aer from Dame. A sex toy from Dame is so much more than just that; it’s truly a work of art. The minimalist designs are architectural and chic – the kinds of products even your most sex-toys-are-too-taboo friends wouldn’t be ashamed to have lying around.
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We all have someone in our life who’s always game to try anything in the name of wellness. If they haven’t already discovered Kroma, introduce them to their next big thing. Unlike traditional detoxes, Kroma focuses on revitalizing your energy with superfood eats and drinks that nourish, not deplete. After all the post-holiday partying, they’re sure to enjoy trying this out.
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Just in time for New Year’s resolutions, this gift set has everything they need to crush their fitness goals wherever they are. Bala’s fitness equipment is as beautiful as it is functional. This totally giftable set features a pair of 1-lb pair Bala Bangles, a set of 3-lb Bala Bars, and a cute tote bag to hold it all. Whether they’re working out at home or looking to keep up their exercise routine on the go, these travel-friendly essentials will become their fitness VIPs.
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Letting loose, responsibly, is made easier with Drew Martin’s botanically blended pre-rolls. The brand’s founder and namesake, Drew Martin, is an herbalist with an appetite for travel. The low dose joints he’s crafted are inspired by the aromas and flavors he’s experienced all around the world. Consider this kit an introduction to Martin’s unlikely aromatic experiences. Sit back, relax, light up and revel in the moment made just a little brighter.
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A bestseller from one of our favorite maternity brands, this bundle gives mamas-to-be everything they need to nourish their growing body. It includes one of our absolute favorite pregnancy products, an ultra-light botanical belly oil that supports stretching skin and provides a ton of intense moisture. Completing the bundle is a cooling leg and foot cream that combats swelling, and a nip + lip balm that soothes sore nipps (we’ll leave it at that).
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Any pregnant mama knows just how critical compression socks are throughout pregnancy. For traveling on airplanes, sitting at a desk, or those days when you need a little extra support, these ultra breathable socks offer all day comfort, relief from pains and aches, and reduced swelling. Another great gift for the mamas-to-be in your life, particularly those in the midst of packing their hospital bags!
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Whether you live near a beach, or just simply want a cute outdoor space for your kids to play, this tiny lounge chair is a must have for anyone with kids. Featuring UV-, mold-, and water-resistant canvas and a premium hardwood frame, it not only looks cute but is functional, too. And is there anything sweeter than the tiny head pillow and scalloped detailing?
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It’s our number one baby shower gift, and for good reason. This award-winning play gym truly has it all – five developmental play zones with exploration-focused activities, four detachable toys, and four sets of cards (from black and white pictures to first word photos). Plus, it’s designed to grow with baby from day one into toddlerhood (that’s a lot of bang for your buck!).
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Cute for holiday, but truly wearable any day of the year, Roller Rabbit’s pajamas are the softest, sweetest addition to your littles’ wardrobe. They’re made with the coziest cotton that feels almost stretchy – and of course, we love the elastic waistband. They’re great for babies, big kids, and adults alike – you’ll want to pull out your camera for this adorable family matching moment.
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From one of our favorite kids brands comes the ultimate bead kit, full of colorful beads, gemstones, and pendants that encourage kids to use imagination and dream up creative jewelry designs. Sure it’s a great gift for your kids, and it’s also a gift for you (our editors have been known to rock these bracelets regularly). It’s perfect for the young designers in your life.
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Say goodbye to the giant steel cage and give a grateful hello to Fable's gorgeous dog crate, a minimalist wooden wonder that couldn't look more inviting. It's so chic it even doubles as a side table, a fab new piece of furniture for both you and your furry friend. How's that for a win-win?
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No matter where your dog sleeps, every good boy deserves his own bed. And our favorite, hands down, is the Sanctuary Dog Bed from Coop. With dogs spending on average 80% of their day lying down, a supportive, orthopedic bed can be essential for keeping their joints healthy. This one is a tufted dream, with a memory foam foundation, adjustable pillow top, and extra zip-off layers that give your dog a place to lie while you wash the others.
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Gift your favorite cat a Cat Person canopy bed, as comfy and ergonomic as it is aesthetically pleasing. With modern design touches and memory foam cushions, they and their cat will be equally happy to bring this one home.
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This Flower Power Sweater is hard to resist (even for the dog clothing skeptics out there). The heavy ribbing, cuffed sleeves and color palette have no right being that gorgeous on a chihuahua. Made in machine washable, super soft acrylic yarn, this is a genuine piece of well-made clothing. And the gateway into puppy fashion photography, which we can't even blame you for.
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If the word "robot" turns you off, the slogan "never scoop litter again" miiiiight just reel you back in. The Litter Robot 4 is futuristic in all the best ways, a self-cleaning, automatic litter box that provides you with real-time monitoring of waste and litter levels. Even its shape, with the included fence and step, is designed to stop litter from tracking all over your floors. It's stylish, comfortable, and massively cuts down on odors. What more could you want?