It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… I am SO excited to share Bowtiful Life’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide with all of you!!! This year I’ve released a total of EIGHT gift guides! For each category, I’ve hand-picked 10-15 items that I’d personally purchase. (And in some cases, items that I’ve already bought!) Each item is available online since I know that most of us are planning to order gifts from the comfort and safety of our own homes this year instead of shopping in person.
Below, I’ve put together what to get for your parents, great gifts under $35, fun gifts for your gal pals, what to get the guys in your life, my holiday wish list, gifts for the beauty queen in your life, gifts for the home and cozy gifts for your favorite cuddle bug. I hope that this gift guide is helpful for anyone who’s shopping this season and needs a little inspiration. Enjoy!
Gifts for the Home
1. CRATE & BARREL CAMILLE 23 OZ. LONG STEM WINE GLASS // These are my favorite wine glasses in the world! I first became familiar with them from Olivia Pope on Scandal and now my whole friend group owns and loves them. They’re very affordable but give you that luxe look!
2. RIFLE PAPER CO. FLORAL EMBROIDERED PILLOW // We love a good Rifle Paper Co. product. I like that this pillow is embroidered instead of just printed and I love the color palette.
3. JO MALONE LONDON ROASTED CHESTNUT CANDLE // If you follow me on Instagram you may have seen my stories raving about this candle. What can I say, I’m obsessed! This is one of my favorite scents ever. It’s definitely a more expensive candle, but it burns relatively slowly and is fully worth the price in my opinion if you burn it for shorter periods of time.
4. CRATE & BARREL HATCH COCKTAIL SHAKER // Christmas and cocktails just go together, so this shaker is a great gift for anyone who doesn’t already own one.
5. “ESCAPE” BY GRAY MALIN // Gray Malin is an incredibly talented photographer and his coffee table books are simply beautiful! I own one of them along with a few framed prints. This book is a great way to give the gift of Gray Malin if you’re on a budget.
6. NESPRESSO AEROCCINO 3 FROTHER // Having a frother for my coffee has honestly been life-changing and I can’t recommend one of these enough. Not only can you froth and heat, you can also froth and chill.
7. “YAY YOU’RE HERE” DOORMAT // This is just so cute, so I had to include it. Plus, it’s under $15!
8. ONE KINGS LANE MARARA JEWELRY BOX // This jewelry box would look beautiful in an entryway for keys or in a bedroom for jewelry. Such pretty colors!
9. MISS MISTER // The perfect gift for the plant parent in your life.
10. MARBLE AND GOLD 6 BOTTLE WINE RACK // Honestly, I want this… A great way to store wine while also adding some decorative flare to your space!
11. FAUX FIDDLE-LEAF FIG PLANT // After killing my first Fiddle-Leaf Fig Plant I got this faux one and it looks way better than my real one ever did. Plus, it’ll never die!
12. LE CREUSET MINI ROUND COCOTTE // A cute and affordable way to give the gift of Le Creuset this year! I love these little soup containers.
13. PEAK SPHERE ICE TRAY // On the topic of Christmas cocktails, sphere ice cubes a so fun. These trays are a great gift for the cocktail or spirits fan in your life.
14. CATBIRD HEART IN HANDS TRINKET DISH // A cute little, loveable trinket. This would be great for on a bedside table or in a bathroom.
15. WOOD AND MARBLE COASTERS // I grew up in a house that heavily used coasters and I’ve continued to be a coaster person as I’ve gotten older. I think that these coasters are aesthetically pleasing and would work for almost any decor style.
Gifts for the Cozy, Cuddle Bug
1. PATAGONIA RE-TOOL SNAP-T® FLEECE PULLOVER // Patagonia fleeces are classic and make the perfect gift for your friend who’s always chilly or bundled up.
2. “THE POPPER” MICROWAVE BOWL // Cozy movie nights aren’t complete without popcorn and this microwaveable bowl eliminates bag waste!
3. BAREFOOT DREAMS COZYCHIC® RIBBED THROW BLANKET // Barefoot Dreams is one of the iconic “cozy” brands and I think that this blanket is super cute. I love the ribbed pattern in particular.
4. SLIP PURE SILK PILLOWCASE // Silk pillowcases are supposed to be better for your skin and your hair and Slip brand pillowcases are SO incredibly well made. I was gifted a navy one a few years back and I still absolutely love it!
5. LILLY PULITZER 30″ PJ KNIT PANT // These are my favorite pajama pants! They’re super soft and one of the only brands of pajama pants that are truly long enough for me. (For reference I’m 5’8″.) I can’t tell you how many pairs of pj pants I’ve owned over the years that look like capri pants. These are the best!
6. UGG® COZY KNIT GENUINE SHEARLING SLIPPER // A knit version of the iconic UGG slide-on slipper.
7. SLIP PURE SILK SLEEP MASK // If you know someone who has trouble sleeping or wakes up too early in the morning (as soon as it gets light out) this just might be the gift for them.
8. WHIM BY ULTA BEAUTY CACTI SPA HEADBAND // Cozy nights are perfect for some DIY spa treatments. Putting on a face mask or jumping into a bubble bath? Throw on one of these.
9. ADIDAS TREFOIL BEANIE // I’m not a beanie person myself, but I see them everywhere in Chicago and this pastel one is really cute!
10. HONEYDEW INTIMATES SUPER SWEET PLUSH ROBE // Let’s be real, every cuddle bug needs a cozy robe!
11. JO MALONE LONDON CHRISTMAS CRACKER SET // Scent is something that I associate with cozy nights in and Jo Malone makes some of my favorite scents for lotions, candles and such. This set is a great way to get to know some of their popular scents. I especially love the Peony and Blush Suede scent that’s included.
12. FREE PEOPLE MOVEMENT SUNNY SKINNY SWEATPANTS // 2020 has been the year of athleisure and I think that these skinny, tapered sweatpants are so flattering. They come in a ton of different colors too!
13. BAREFOOT DREAMS COZYCHIC LITE® CIRCLE CARDIGAN // Once again… Barefoot Dreams. And once again… their circle cardigan! I included this in my personal wish list as well (see below) and I think I need to just order myself one of these in the near future. The epitome of cozy!
Gifts for the Beauty Queen in Your Life
1. KYLIE COSMETICS LIP KIT // These lip kits are seriously the best. I like to use the lipliner on its own and then throw a clear gloss on top for an easy, no fuss lip combo. I personally own the shades “Ulta Exclusive” and “Kristen.”
2. BENEFIT COSMETICS CHEEK STARS REUNION TOUR PALETTE // Benefit’s blushes are some of my favorites! I have an older version of this palette and my favorite shade in this one is “Sugarbomb.”
3. BEAUTY BLENDER SHINING STAR BLEND & CLEANSE SET // If you’re shopping for any beauty lover they could probably use a new beauty blender.
4. BLUE SODALITE FACIAL ROLLER // Facial rollers have been getting more and more popular over the last few years. This sodalite roller is a nice alternative to the typical rose quartz ones.
5. BRUSHED BRASS HALO LIGHTED VANITY MIRROR // I personally have been in need of a new lighted makeup mirror since mine decided to die on me. After owning a light-up makeup mirror I don’t think I’d ever go back. I think this one is a great, aesthetically pleasing option.
6. CONAIR SHINES & SMOOTHES PADDLE HAIRBRUSH // This may seem like a silly one, but these brushes are seriously the best if you ever have issues with flyaways or static from brushing your hair.
7. ALL THAT FAB SKINCARE SET // One of my favorite skincare brands, First Aid Beauty, came out with this set including some of my favorite products! The Facial Radiance Pads are my #1 must-have skincare item!
8. BATH SALTS // A very basic yet relaxing gift.
9. LAURA MERCIER TRANSLUCENT POWDER & PUFF SET // Laura Mercier’s setting powder is one of the best! This cute little puff to go along with it makes it a great gift.
10. LANEIGE LIP DAYDREAMS SET // I’ve been wanting to try out this cult-favorite lip sleeping mask for ages and they just came out with this balm recently as well.
11. TULA ROSE GLOW & GET IT // I own this and LOVE it. The perfect morning pick me up for your under-eyes!
12. OUAI SUPER DRY SHAMPOO // This is the BEST dry shampoo I’ve ever used and it smells SO good.
13. TARTE TARTELETTE TOASTED EYESHADOW PALETTE // I have one of the Tartelette palettes and they are the perfect size for everyday use! I think the colors in this palette are so pretty, plus I love the tortoiseshell cover.
Gifts for Your Parents
1. MODERN SPROUT GARDEN JAR // The perfect little addition to any home kitchen!
2. ABERCROMBIE SHERPA HOLIDAY BLANKET // Plaid + sherpa for the holidays are a classic combo and a great way to to give the gift of cozy to your parents!
3. CRATE & BARREL AGATE SERVING BOARD // Charcuterie boards are all the rage and this neutral-toned agate one would make a beautiful gift.
4. OUR PLACE’S ALWAYS PAN // This pan is a cult favorite and keeps selling out or going on backorder! It can act as a fry pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, non-stick pan, spatula, and spoon rest. Right now it’s on sale, so definitely something to look into!
5. SUGARFINA HOLIDAY CRAVINGS CANDY BENTO BOX // Everyone’s got a little bit of a sweet tooth and Sugarfina’s candies are some of my favorites!
6. & 7. RECIPE TIN & CITRUS FLORAL RECIPE CARDS // I’ve never been a major cook. However, as I’ve gotten older and have been 100% out of my parents’ house for 4+ years, my mom and I talk more & more about cooking. This gift is great for holding onto favorite recipes while also adding personal notes to them.
8. ANKER POWERCORE 10000 PORTABLE CHARGER // I have this charger and swear by it! This is a great gift for any parent (or person) who’s always on their phone.
9. NESPRESSO VERTUOPLUS COFFEE & ESPRESSO MACHINE // I ordered this Nespresso machine for my birthday this past year and when I went to visit my parents I brought it with me. They fell in love with it and I ended up making coffee for the whole fam each morning. 10/10 would recommend!
10. REBECCA MINKOFF TRAVELING RIB SCARF // I got scarves for my moms last year for Christmas and they have gotten plenty of wear over the past year! I really don’t think you can ever go wrong with a nice scarf as a gift.
11. VINTAGE SUCCULENTS PUZZLE // Puzzles have become very “trendy” during quarantine and this succulent themed one is so cute!
Great Gifts Under $35
1. FIRST AID BEAUTY HOTSY TOTSKY SKIN SET // First Aid Beauty is one of my favorite skincare brands and this moisturizer and cleanser are two of my favorite FAB products! This set is a great way to gift them both in cute holiday packaging.
2. VOLUSPA MILK ROSE EMBOSSED JAR CANDLE // I shared this candle on my IG stories a few weeks ago and it’s one of my current favorites! The jar is absolutely gorgeous and the scent is amazing. It reminds me of how rose milk bubble tea smells!
3. VOLUSPA SANTAL VANILLE 3-WICK TIN CANDLE // Another VOLUSPA candle in a different format! I love three wick candles because the scent is usually a bit stronger than single wick candles. This one would be great for any fan of home decor.
4. CUFFED BEANIE WITH FAUX FUR POM // These pastel pom pom hats are so cute for the colder months!
5. FRESH POP POPCORN MAKER // Big popcorn fan over here! Nothing beats air popped popcorn in my opinion and this popper is super affordable! This would be a great gift for at-home movie nights.
6. “STAY POSITIVE” RETRACTABLE CHARGING CORD // A nice “positive” reminder and an easy way to carry around a charging cord with you.
7. TARTE SHAPE TAPE STAR SQUAD CONCEAL & BRIGHTEN DUO // Shape Tape is a cult-favorite concealer and Tarte’s Glow Wand is another one of my favorite under-eye products! This would be a great gift for anyone who loves makeup and hasn’t tried Shape Tape yet.
8. TRAVEL SIZE SUGAR LIP MOISTURIZING TRIO // Travel size beauty items are always great stocking stuffers!
9. RIFLE PAPER CO. MONOGRAM MUG // This mug is super cute while also being personal (since it’s monogrammed) and affordable!
10. LELE SADOUGHI STAR FACE MASK // 2020, the year of the face mask. Need I say more?
11. LILLY PULITZER ROUND KEY CHAIN // Last but not least, a cute and colorful way to carry your keys when your hands are full! I love Lilly’s keychains and card holders/wallets because they hold up so well even with plenty of wear.
Fun Gifts for Your Gal Pals
1. BRÃœMATE HOPSULATOR SLIM CAN COOLER // Hard seltzers are so popular these days and this fun coozie/cooler comes in multiple colors!
2. J.CREW METALLIC GOLD KNOT HEADBAND // Headbands are a great fall and winter accessory! I like pairing them with a simple top and a pair of jeans for an easy, yet pulled-together look.
3. SPANX FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS // I personally own these and I LOVE them. Spanx Leggings are definitely a cult favorite.
4. “PER MY LAST EMAIL” HAT // We’ve all been there… especially during these “unprecedented times.” The featured black version of this hat just sold out, but I’ve linked the same hat in blue right here.
5. LILLY PULITZER “CHEERS” SWEATSHIRT // A fun and festive sweater that’s perfect for any celebration.
6. BARBOUR BARMACK HOUNDSTOOTH TARTAN SCARF // Scarves are a must-have during Chicago winters and this Barbour one is SUCH a pretty pattern.
7. REIKO KANEKO LIP TEASE MUG // I own so many mugs already, but I still love giving and getting them as gifts! The gold foil lip print is SO cute.
8. KENDRA SCOTT SKYLAR NECKLACE IN BLUE LAPIS // This arrowhead shape was a KS fan favorite back when I first started working at the Michigan Ave. store back in 2015. I am so happy to see that they’ve brought it back. I also love lapis!
9. FRINGE STUDIO ZODIAC CERAMIC TRINKET BOX // This little box is cute and affordable while still having a nice personal touch to it!
10. KENDRA SCOTT JACK GOLD HUGGIE EARRINGS // I own these and wear them at least twice every week. They look far more expensive than they are too. Highly recommend these!
11. GOODNIGHT MACAROON ‘ANJA’ CROSS BODY BAG // I own this bag in grey! This is my go-to bag a lot of the time when I’m going out for a night with friends (during non-COVID times of course). I love how many pockets this bag has. It gives you so much space and is pretty well made!
12. CATBIRD “THE LIGHT YOU SHED” TOKEN CHARM // This quote was taken from a letter from RBG to Justice Brennan: “Dear Bill, See how the light you shed has spread! With appreciation, Ruth.” I think that this mother of pearl pendant would be a wonderful gift for anyone you know who spreads light and sunshine into you life.
13. STEVE MADDEN AMULET BLACK BOOTS // These are so fun! Talk about an elevated pair of boots. (Both the heel and the bling!)
What To Get The Guys In Your Life
1. L.L.BEAN BOOT, 8″ SHEARLING-LINED // I have a pair of Bean Boots myself and I love them! These are a classic staple and great for keeping feet warm in the winter.
2. LE LABO FRAGRANCE DISCOVERY SET // Fragrance is something that is SO personal. So, if you don’t know what kinds of scents the guy you’re shopping for is into (or if he’s never owned a cologne in the past) testing out a few from this set is a great place to start!
3. J.CREW MIDWEIGHT FLANNEL SHIRT // I love dark green plaids for around the holidays! This slightly heavier flannel is perfect for transitioning into the chiller months.
4. LULULEMON CITY KEEPER GLOVES // My boyfriend actually just bought these for himself for when he’s biking in chillier temps. Can confirm that these are a solid purchase! These gloves are great for fall and winter since they’re waterproof and have “tech fingers.”
5. ABERCROMBIE COTTON-CASHMERE SWEATER HOODIE // A soft and elevated staple for the guy who doesn’t love dressing up on a regular basis, but still likes to treat himself and look good.
6. ABERCROMBIE PATTERN CREWNECK SWEATER // A classic holiday crewneck. This also comes in other colors and a variety of holiday themes!
7. BRIXTON DECANTER // Perfect for the whiskey lover or a guy who already has a bar cart.
8. JACK BLACK “IT’S THE BALM” SET // Chilly weather = chapped lips! This set is perfect for the guy that needs a little extra self-care.
9. J.CREW SUEDE MOCCASIN SLIPPERS // This classic moccasin slipper is a nice and affordable alternative to the cult-classic UGG moccasin.
10. OONTZ BLUETOOTH SPEAKER // I got this speaker for my boyfriend’s birthday this past spring and he loves it! This speaker in particular is great because it’s waterproof and it can be connected to a second speaker at the same time to create surround sound. The battery life on it is also pretty solid!
11. A NEW WALLET // I have gifted wallets to multiple guys in my life over the years, both platonic guy friends and past boyfriends. For some reason, most guys don’t think buy themselves nice wallets, even when theirs is on its last legs. SO this is great gift! Herschel wallets are especially nice and affordable (usually under $40). If you’re looking to go the leather route though, I’d suggest Fossil wallets (most are under $55).
12. HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO. NOVEL DUFFLE BAG // This is a great gift for someone who loves to travel! Frankly, I almost want one of these bags. We obviously can’t travel much right now, but this is a nice nod to when we can travel normally again. Plus it’s Herschel, so it’s well made while still being under $100.
What’s On My Wish List
1. CUSTOM LEATHER PLATFORM CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STARS // I love the idea of converse I could actually wear during the winter when canvas don’t quite cut it. I custom designed these platform converse in ALL white with gold eyelets. P.S. I’d be a size 9 in these. 😉
2. TORY BURCH PERRY BOMBÉ MINI BAG // The royal navy is the perfect shade of blue! It’s also a limited edition capsule color.
3. HARRISON SHELF FLOOR LAMP // This lamp/shelf from Pottery Barn Teen is super cute and also a great use of space!
4. PHENOMENAL WOMEN “I’M SPEAKING” CREWNECK SWEATSHIRT // This sweatshirt really speaks for itself.
5. WHITE & GOLD 3-PIECE TABLE SET // I still need to get a real kitchen/dining table for my apartment and I LOVE this set! I really like the glass shelves which allow for additional storage, but are also aesthetically pleasing.
6. BAREFOOT DREAMS CozyChic Lite® CIRCLE CARDIGAN // I’ve had one of these on my list for a few years now, but they always sell out of the colors that I like best in my size (XS/S)! The Heather Blue/Pacific Blue is my personal favorite color way this year!
7. LOUIS VUITTON CÅ’UR BATTANT PERFUME // This is honestly one of the best scents I’ve ever smelled! I got a tiny sample of it a few months ago and it quickly became one of my favorite perfumes that I’ve ever worn. Scent notes include: pear accord, jasmine from Egypt, ylang-ylang, patchouli heart, ambrette and narcissus.
8. MAC ART LIBRARY PALETTE: NUDE MODEL // I love a good neutral shadow palette! This one includes a bunch of shadows that I’ve wanted to try from MAC, so I love how affordable this option is for the number of colors included.
9. LEITH CLARK X CATBIRD RIBBON NECKLACE // I love bows and ribbons… Obviously, my blog is called BOWtiful Life! This gorgeous, fair-mined gold pendant is inspired by a suffragette ribbon. Also, Catbird has donated over $98k Planned Parenthood (partially in honor of this Leith Clark collab) so I love that that’s associated with this piece as well!
10. AIRPODS PRO // The reasoning here is simple… I kinda need new earphones. I think it would also be fun to get the case engraved with my monogram, MRR!
11. RIFLE PAPER CO. AIRPODS PRO CASE // This one is really like #10.5 vs #11, but it obviously goes with the AirPods Pro listed above. I think that Rifle Paper Co’s tech accessories are just the cutest, especially this “Luisa” print.
I hope that you enjoy my 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! Who are you shopping for this year?
