Life
100 Perfect Holiday Gifts Under $100
The holidays are here again, and with them the opportunity to give the people on your list things they actually want this year — without spending a fortune. Here are 100 things on the Bustle editors’ wish lists, all under 100 bucks.
A Biker Jacket for Non-Biker Chicks
“I will never look like this model, but I like to think that owning this jacket would make me look at least 10 percent as cool as her.” —Hayley, Social Media Editor
State-Shaped Cutting Boards
“Custom kitchen accessories have a special place in my heart. And so does New Jersey.” —Rosanne, Front Page Editor
Neutral Milk Hotel Concert Tickets
“I worship this band, and they are touring again after a hiatus of many, many years. Seeing them live would make my year.” —Julie, Lifestyle Editor
Neutral Milk Hotel Tickets, prices vary, Ticketmaster
Streamlined Running Pullover
“Because if you’re going to be slipping up an icy hill during an outdoor run, you might as well look cute (and feel warm) doing it.” —Kate, Managing Editor
Outdoor Soleil Pullover, $54-$75, amazon.com
Self-Esteem Sampler
“You should probably buy this for your best friend immediately. Kath, yours will be in the mail soon.” —Margaret, Deputy Editor
WhatParty ‘I Could Eat Shrimp’ Sampler, $45, Etsy
Speedy Wine Chiller
“The following is the ultimate #firstworldproblem, but it’s incredibly frustrating to buy room temperature white wine and then have to wait an hour before you can pop it open. This nifty little device cools wine to a crisp 41 degrees in seconds so, yeah, it’s a game changer.” —Alex, Associate Editor
All of ‘Friday Night Lights'
“I know it’s streaming on Netflix, but for a show like Friday Night Lights, I need the hard copies for posterity… and for when the Internet is down.” —Lindsay, Entertainment Editor
Robot Bobby Pins
“Have you ever seen more adorable robots? Plus, they’re on a hairpin. What’s not to love?” —Jenny, Associate News Editor
Bread & Butter Board
“The secret to this board is that the bowl, which fits into a small slot, is made of soapstone so you can chill it in the fridge prior to serving so it keeps your dip cool. One thing the perfect hostess in your life actually doesn’t own.” —Meredith, Senior Culture Editor
Hanukkah Mug
“This makes a great first-night Hanukkah present (or Christmas present for your famously confused Gentile friend).” —Rachel, Senior News Editor
Metal Heel Booties
“These ankle booties have that extra special flair. They’d be a fun addition to any weekend outfit.” —Rosanne
Ankle Boots, $20-$39, amazon.com
Embroidered Fox Pillow
“This is just what my couch is missing. Can’t wait to drool all over it. Literally.” —Lindsay
Life by Leaf Vibrator
“This vibrator is eco-friendly, phthalate-free, and Alicia Silverstone-endorsed. It’s also quiet, really strong (or not, it’s up to you to adjust), and designed to fit in your hand during partner use without getting in the way. Seriously, even if you don’t think you’re a ‘vibrator’ person (?!), buy this one as a gift for yourself, and send me the thank-you cookie tin later.” —Rachel
Life by Leaf Vibrator, $95, Leaf Vibes
Nail Me Ring
“Since I can’t afford the Cartier nail bracelet, this ring is the next best thing. I also like the cheeky name.” —Hayley
Urban Outfitters Nail Me Ring, $12, Urban Outfitters
Recycled Book Journal
“This was once a Reader’s Digest book, then rebuilt into a hand-made, print-covered journal. How cool is that?” —Jenny
Smashbox Makeup Pallette
“My makeup drawer is a mess, and sometimes, I wish I had one solution to replace everything. What’s that? It exists? Bam.” —Meredith
Smashbox The Master Class Palette III, $65 ($300 Value), sephora.com
The Perfect Black Lace Bra
“I’ve been looking for a black lacy bra that looks great peeking out from a slouchy top — and after the top is off — but doesn’t itch or feature too many extraneous bows. This one’s low-key and hot.” —Margaret
Peppermint Cake Pops
“Let’s face it: You’re tired of gifting your relatives peppermint bark every single year. So switch things up this December with these cake pops, which combine the holiday-friendly taste of peppermint bark with a popular food fad. Probably a good idea to pick up a package for yourself, too.” —Kate
Whale Bookends
“These cast iron bookends might finally inspire me to read Moby Dick. I love the whale’s grin.” —Margaret
Olloclip
“These days, people take more photos with their iPhones than with digital cameras. This gadget quickly turns any old iPhone into a fancy camera. The basic model includes fisheye, wide-angle, and macro lenses while the pricier version adds a 2X telephoto and circular polarizing lens to your phone (read: basically a DSLR in your pocket).” —Alex
Olloclip, $70, amazon.com
Assorted Succulents
“These require little care, and they would brighten up my apartment. They also seem almost impossible to kill, which is key.” —Julie
Gold Spiked Headphones
“I think it’s about time I accept that my $10 headphones aren’t going to last longer than a month at the gym. This pair is girly, sleek and easily transportable.” —Rosanne
Urban Decay Eye Pencils
“One New Year’s resolution? To not depend solely on eyeliner as black as a winter day. Urban Decay’s new set provides plenty of color along with its darker shades to brighten up bleak January days.” —Kate
'The Lowland'
“I’ve been so focused on reading every word of my issues of Harper’s and The Atlantic (and New York, and GQ, and Saveur) every month that my book reading has fallen off a bit. I need a novel I can really get into, and Meredith gave this one a rave review.” —Julie
The Lowland, $9, amazon.com
Ultra-Versatile Oversized Sweater
“This sweater looks SO comfy, which is pretty much my number one requirement when it comes to fashion. It also looks really cute dressed up with a leather skirt, and I imagine it’d look pretty good dressed down with jeans, too.” —Hayley
No Boys/Girls Allowed Pillows
“Perfect for a niece or nephew’s room. Always good to stake your ground.” —Margaret
Barbare Coupe Embroidered Cushions, $74 each, The Fancy
Kelly Green Wallet
“This wallet is classic, and the lively color keeps it fun. Plus, it’s really petite, so it will fit in any of my bags.” —Julie
Vegan Leather Sandra Clutch Wallet In Green, $35, amazon.com
Unicorn Slippers
“Because everyone wants unicorn slippers, especially these, which have eyes that pop up when you walk. They’re adorable, comfy, and the best gag gift $20.25 can buy. Also, “As Seen On Tv!” —Alex
The Best Smelling Body Cream
“It might be 30 degrees outside, but you can still pretend it’s spring with this floral scent. Your nose will thank you for the reminder, and your dry skin will appreciate the moisturizing.” —Kate
5 Pounds of Gummy Bears
“Nothing says the holidays like high fructose corn syrup shaped like miniature wild animals.” —Lindsay
Haribo Gummy Bears, $12, amazon.com
Monogram Pendant Necklace
“Basically the Tiffany charm bracelet for 2013, Baublebar’s monogram necklace is officially a ‘thing.’ Customizable, recognizable, and classy, it’s the perfect gift for the person you really should know more about, but all you’ve got is her initials. But you’ll want to order ASAP since it ships four weeks from the order date.” —Alex
Hi-Tech Sleep Mask
“The Glo to Sleep™ mask uses blue light to lull you into a wonderful night’s sleep. From the site: ‘gently raise your eyes upwards, hold your gaze on one of the soft points of blue light within the mask and then breathe deeply..stress and tension leaves your body, you become relaxed and before you know it drift into peaceful slumber — simple!’ That’s so crazy it just might work.” —Rachel
The New, New Canvas Tote
“These dipped bags are a stylish update on the traditional boat tote — I especially love the metallic-on-canvas look. And here’s to a cotton carryall not emblazoned with a self-consciously nerdy aphorism or kale reference.” —Margaret
'Roberta's Cookbook'
“Roberta’s is an institution in Brooklyn. Something about Carlo Mirarchi’s pizza goes beyond pizza — and this cookbook, which tells the story of the restaurant in anecdotes and photos alongside tens of recipes, gets right at the heart of it.” —Meredith
Roberta’s Cookbook, $25, amazon.com
DustBuster
“I absolutely loathe spending money on stupid necessities, so if someone could please do me a solid and buy me some cleaning supplies, starting with this DustBuster, I’d be thrilled. And so would my roommates.” —Lindsay
Black & Decker 16-Volt Cordless DustBuster Hand Vacuum, $58, amazon.com
Chambray Button-Down
“Chambray shirts are basically my year-round uniform (I can’t help it — they’re so versatile and comfy!), but I don’t own one in a lighter wash. I love this shirt because it’s plain enough to be worn regularly (if I’m being honest with myself, at least once a week) and perfectly worn-in.” —Hayley
Ceramic Hanging Planters
“Holy. Apartment. Envy. I need to grow adorable little cacti and succulents in these and hang them on my wall. You can get two for $100. Plus, I really need some updated wall art.” —Rosanne
Hanging Planter, $9 each, amazon.com
Winter Sunglasses
“The light-colored frames and subtly tinted lenses make these great winter shades. Perfect for holiday hangovers and January glare.” —Margaret
Oversize Saturday Sunnies, $50, Kate Spade Saturday
Visionary Tights
“Normally I think printed tights — especially a pair as loud as these — are the kind of gift no one ever ends up wearing. But I saw a woman wearing these here in New York City the other week, and she was working them like whoa. Give someone these, and you’re not just giving them tights: you’re giving them double-takes.” —Rachel
Nylon Journal Eye Exam Chart Hand Silk Screen Printed Microfiber Tights, $27, Etsy
Evernote-Ready Moleskine
“Hello, future, you’ve arrived: After you’re done jotting notes the old-fashioned way, take a snap of a page in this notebook, and it’ll export to Evernote to become searchable later. For the organization nut in your life.” —Meredith
Cat Ring
“It’s not enough to look at cats on the Internet — with this ring, you can look at a cat on your hand while using it to navigate your mouse towards cats on the Internet. Comes complete with a sense of self-pity.” —Kate
Teapot for One
“I’m a big tea person, and this teapot is pretty much a dream come true. Just look at that little enamel apple on the top!” —Jenny
Villeroy & Boch Winter Bakery Delight Tea for One, $183, amazon.com
Performance Pillow
“Here I am again with the sleep aids. While there are plenty of opinions out there, consumer guides often mention this baby as one of the best pillows on the market. It’s especially good for that special someone in your life with neck pain. She sure looks comfortable.” —Rachel
The Best Blush
“Tarte blush is the best. It gives you a dewy, just-in-from-the-snow look that’s great for winter.” —Lindsay
Tarte Cheek Stain, $27, amazon.com
Dachshund Sweater
“Any dog lover will go ga ga over this adorable yet fashion-forward sweater. The best part? It’s party in the front… and some more party in the back.” —Rosanne
An iPhone Case That’s Also a Wallet
“Very rarely do I get compliments on things I own, but when it does happen, it’s almost always about my iPhone case. This Speck case doubles as a credit card holder (it fits three cards), so you can finally say goodbye to your wallet. For everyone who got a new iPhone this fall (including myself), this case is a no brainer.” —Alex
Speck Products SmartFlex Card Case for iPhone 5 & 5S, $30, amazon.com
A Brick of Chocolate Bars
“My coworkers and family will attest to my probably unhealthy chocolate habit — I consume at least a third of a bar a day. I love the gorgeous paper Mast Brothers’ five flavors come in, although the true chocoholic won’t leave that wrapping on for long.” —Margaret
Equal Exchange Organic Chocolate Bar Collection, $28, amazon.com
She Hit Pause 'Stained Glass' Print
“I’ve been — I’ll say it — obsessed with Matt Schwartz’s Polaroids since first laying eyes on them at a Brooklyn street fair. I find this image most captivating, but do yourself a favor and click through to his entire portfolio. This is a gift no one else is giving.” —Meredith
“Stained Glass” 8x10 Print, $75, She Hit Pause Studios
Compass Ring
“All my rings are of the big-garish-cocktail variety. I’d like something special I could wear daily, and Of a Kind is stellar at partnering with designers to create interesting small-batch pieces like this one.” —Julie
Big Sur Compass Ring, $83, Of a Kind
Heisenberg Monopoly T-Shirt
“For the person in your life who misses Breaking Bad so, so much, pick up this Heisenberg shirt, also worn by creator Vince Gilligan during the final episode of Talking Bad. Pork pie hat not included.” —Kate
Breaking Bad Heisenberg Monopoly Mens T-shirt, $6-$28, amazon.com
Diptyque Violet Candle
“I know, $60 for a candle is insane. But it smells that good.” —Hayley
‘The Circle’
“Dave Eggers’ new book The Circle is getting some criticism for ripping off other books, but it’s a damn entertaining read. Trust me, this novel is the perfect gift for the relative who always asks you about kids and technology these days. They’ll feel with it.” —Rachel
The Circle, $10, amazon.com
Striped Gloves With Foldover Cuffs
“These gloves are perfect for cold weather: festive and adorable. I especially like the gray cuffs, and they’re a bargain to boot.” —Jenny
Blue Bird Throw Pillow
“Because your loved one gripped his or her favorite throw pillow into oblivion during the Breaking Bad finale. Also, this hugger is a cozy reminder of the spring to come.” —Kate
Hello Darling Stationery
“I spend so much money on cute individual greeting cards and thank you notes. It’s definitely more cost effective to buy a set, and I love how colorful these are.” —Julie
Liddabit Sweets Cookbook
“Come for the recipes for homemade candy bars, caramels, and more, and stay for the fun cooking commentary from the two best friends who started Liddabit Sweet. Your mouth is pretty much guaranteed to water as you attempt the duo’s confectionary creations.” –Kate
Self-Charging iPhone Case
“My iPhone seems to always be dying and at the least opportune times. A Mophie would save me from those terrifying moments when I realize I no longer know how to get anywhere or do anything without my smart phone.” —Margaret
Marc Jacobs Nail Lacquer
“Ever since reading this article, I have been wanting to try this polish. For $18, I’d never buy it for myself, but it’s a perfect gift!” —Hayley
Marc Jacobs Beauty Enamored Hi-Shine Lacquer, $31, amazon.com
Monogrammed Keepsake Box
“Something about a monogram feels classy — and one that cleans up your space? Even better. Bonus: This gift is ultra-versatile.” —Meredith
Every Episode of ‘Boy Meets World’
“Boy Meets World fans, prepare for the 2014 premiere of the beloved TGIF sitcom’s spin-off, Girl Meets World , with this boxed set. (The DVDs, which include new bonus material, went on sale Nov. 4.) You’ll start crushing on Shawn Hunter all over again.” —Kate
‘Boy Meets World: The Complete Collection’ Boxed Set, $49, amazon.com
Calf Hair Pouch
“Leopard print pairs perfectly with chambray (always a plus for me!), and this clutch seems big enough to actually fit more than just a wallet and a cell phone.” —Hayley
Grownup Steak Knives
“I already have the Laguiole cheese knife set and would love the steak knives to go with them. They are sturdy and classic and come embellished with a little horsefly on the handle. They make great housewarming gifts for others, too.” —Julie
Metal Arrow Necklace
“Trendy, affordable and the perfect everyday necklace that you can dress up or dress down. It’s something every girl needs, and I’m seriously lacking in that department right now.” —Rosanne
One-of-a-Kind Salt & Pepper Shakers
“These handmade salt and pepper shakers are adorable, and for some reason they make me hungry, which is probably what you want in objects that sit on your table every day.” —Jenny
The New 'Swann's Way'
“Okay, yes, it’s Proust — but Jessica Hische’s redesign of classic titles are irresistible and look stunning on any bibliophile’s shelf. This one was new this fall.” —Meredith
Mega Volume Mascara
“Trish McEvoy’s high-definition mascara is the best on the market — I could always use another tube.” —Lindsay
Cat Burglar Hat
“It might not be a steal, but you’ll steal plenty of hearts in this adorable hat, perfect for both cat lovers and petty criminals. Awww.” —Kate
‘Clean Food’
“It took me a good three months to realize that Terry Walters’ Clean Food cookbook is vegan, which speaks to its magical powers, and my cluelessness. It’s a really solid beginners guide to cooking seasonally, with pretty pictures and no unnecessary junk.” —Rachel
Clean Food: A Seasonal Guide to Eating Close to the Source by Terry Walters, $19, Amazon
Short PJs
“Because these are significantly more chic than the stretched-out tank top and boy shorts I’m currently in the habit of wearing to bed.” —Julie
Candle
“These candles smell amazing and are mega cheap. ‘Nuff said.” —Alex
Blocks Lamp
“It’s tetris. In a lamp. You can rearrange it. Need I say more?” —Rachel
Faux-Fur Circle Scarf
“Winter would feel considerably more manageable with this snuggly neck warmer. I like it in white, but the gray or brown might be more practical.” —Margaret
Swirled Fur Cowl, $10, Amazon
Cute Bike Lights
“These bike lights are both beautifully designed and useful. Perfect for the bike commuter.” —Meredith
Bookman Bike Light, $54, Amazon
Vintage Jets Sweatshirt
“This is a way cuter alternative to a brand-new jersey, which will cost you $125. And this one’s more comfy.” —Rosanne
'The Most of Nora'
“Almost nothing makes me feel better about the world, and especially about being a woman, than reading Nora Ephron. We lost her too soon, but in this new compendium of her work, your giftee can still access her wit and wisdom.” —Margaret
The Most of Nora, $21, Amazon
Bunny Ring Holder
“You can’t go wrong with something that’s cute and safely holds onto your rings while your hands are otherwise occupied. There’s also a cat, giraffe, and elephant ring tree too.” —Alex
Rabbit Ring Tree, $7, Amazon
Silicon Ice Ball Maker
“How cool are these? I’d also like a bartending class to go with them, please.” —Julie
SK-II Facial Treatment
“A splurge that’s worth every penny. If it’s good enough for Cate Blanchett, trust that it’s good enough for you, too.” —Lindsay
High-Tech Mini Vaporizer
“For your favorite stoner (or friend trying to quit smoking), this mini vaporizer is top rated, looks cool, and is a pretty good deal. You can even charge it using a USB cord!” —Rachel
Blue Suede Shoes
“The low heel and dainty toe on these are ideal, and the cobalt color will make add oomph to and otherwise boring outfit. If I owned these, I might actually wear heels.” —Julie
Laura Mercier Fig Wash
“Fig is the new pomegranate. Okay, maybe it’s not, but the scent is luxurious. This body wash will turn your shower into a mini spa.” —Meredith
High-Design Bottle Opener
“I have a friend who’s the consummate casual hostess, the kind of woman who can drink and talk while she cooks for friends in her East Village walk-up. She also loves architecture, design and craft beer. This one’s for her.” —Margaret
Nail Polish Advent Calendar
“Having a new treat every day of the month seems like the ultimate gift. And besides, the chocolate in regular advent calendars is usually disgusting.” —Rosanne
Grumpy Cat Throw Pillow
“What’s better than the Grumpy Cat meme? Grumpy Cat, wearing a sweatshirt, on a giant pillow. Hilarity value, cuddle value: this cushion has it all.” —Jenny
Grumpy Cat Pillow, $30, Amazon
Tom Ford Black Orchid
“I’ve never gotten more compliments on any perfume. It’s sophisticated, sexy and a little exotic, the opposite of the fruity, overly floral scents out there. Best of all, it lasts all day.” —Margaret
MistoBox
“I first heard about this subscription service on my new favorite show Shark Tank (but really, why aren’t you watching?). It’s pretty similar to Birchbox, but for coffee connoisseurs rather than beauty buffs. Every month, MistoBox delivers four sample-size bags of beans from independent coffee shops across the country to your door. If you like one of them, it’s easy enough to order a full-size bag online.” —Alex
Shearling Boot Liners
“When trudging around in the snow, ice, and freezing rain for three months, I need comfort and warmth more than ever. These furry boot inserts would do the trick.” —Lindsay
The Ultimate To-Go Cup
“If the person on your list is a caffeine addict, chances are she’s on the neverending quest for the spill-proof travel mug. This one really, truly is.” —Meredith
Nissan Backpack Bottle, $27, Amazon
Muzungu Sisters Scarf
“L-Atitude is full of stuff that I wish I could go abroad and procure for myself. Since I can’t, it’s the next best option. I’d wear this wrapped around my neck in spring or as a sarong in summer.” —Julie
Forest Green Scarf, $10, Amazon
Alex and Ani Bangles
“Remember charm bracelets? Those were so 2000 (and, I’m told, many other decades). This updated version is addictive and has anyone with just one bangle jonesing for more. Good thing there’s a huge selection of styles, including charms representing everything from favorite sports teams to hobbies and even colleges.” —Alex
Pacifica Candle Set
“Usually, I would say a candle gift set is just about the most boring gift ever, but I’m a big fan of these Pacifica soy candles. I bought the large Mexican Cocoa one close to a year ago, and it’s only just now running out — despite some epic bathtime reading use. The fragrances aren’t harsh or synthetic, which is great for those of us who sneeze over just about anything.” —Rachel
Extra Festive Napkin Rings
“Once upon a time, napkin rings and jewelry rings looked quite different. No more: these jeweled napkin rings come in a range of gorgeous colors, and you’re going to want to take them off your napkins and jam them onto your fingers.” —Jenny
Keep-Them-Guessing Pants
“Am I going to bed, or am I going to yoga? You can’t tell with these Lululemon pants, and that’s what I like most about them.” —Lindsay
Skinny Will Pant, $12.77-$16.77, amazon.com
Studded Coin Purse
“I recently lost my other card case, and this simple studded case would be a good replacement. It’s the perfect size for the essentials (subway card, credit card, ID, cash) and you know it’s cool because, according to J. Crew’s website, the color is ‘morning fog.’” —Hayley
Truffle Salt
“Plain old regular salt is for losers. Truffle salt is for winners.” —Lindsay
Truffle & Salt, $20, amazon.com
Patio Fire Pit
“It’s pretty dangerous to build a roaring fire outdoors, not to mention difficult and probably illegal in most cities. Hence this amazing, surprisingly cost-effective little fireplace, which you can cozy up to when it starts getting really cold. One of these would fit nicely on our office deck — hint, hint, Santa.” —Jenny
Brookstone Weather Station
“Almost nothing is less fun than walking into an unexpected monsoon in your new suede boots. Here’s hoping something with a Brookstone label can fix that problem.” —Rosanne
Metallic Linen Fold-Over Clutch
“Whoever invented the foldover clutch deserves a medal. It’s roomy enough for the endlessly expanding amount of stuff I seem to need with me at all times but still tucks under my arm like a well-behaved evening bag. I love the contrast between the pale linen and the black detailing on this one.” —Margaret
Foldover Clutch, $22, Amazon
Cupcakes in Jars
“I saw Wicked Good Cupcakes on Shark Tank and just have to try them. They look fantastic!” —Lindsay
Wicked Good Cupcakes Wicked Good Six pack, $56, Wicked Good Cupcakes
Layered Wood Serving Bowl
“Each of these bowls is handmade and one of a kind. They also come with a rich history and the knowledge that you’re supporting a local business. So they’re basically to die for.” —Rosanne
