The Ultimate Favorite Things Gift Guide: My Handpicked Must-Haves for the Perfect Holiday Season
Welcome to my much-anticipated annual Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide – a meticulously curated collection of my most cherished and indispensable items from the past year! This guide is designed to inspire thoughtful gifting, featuring products that have truly enriched my daily life and brought immense joy.
I am absolutely thrilled to share one of my most anticipated annual holiday gift guides: my definitive “Favorite Things” list! This particular guide holds a special place in my heart, as it’s a genuine compilation of items that have truly impressed me, become daily essentials, or simply brought a significant amount of joy over the past year. Unlike generic gift lists, these are products I’ve personally used, tested, and wholeheartedly recommend. If you’re curious to see how my tastes have evolved, you can explore last year’s cherished favorites right here.
Prepare to dive into an exciting and diverse array of items today, spanning a wide spectrum of categories. We’re covering everything from comfortable and stylish clothing staples, essential kitchen appliances that streamline meal prep, thoughtful houseware that elevates everyday living, to innovative gadgets that make life a little easier and more fun. Truly, all the things that have made a meaningful impact! I’ve marked items that are currently boasting special sales with an asterisk (*), but keep a keen eye out – I anticipate many more of these fantastic finds will become available at discounted prices in the coming days, especially as we approach major holiday shopping events.
As you explore my top picks, I’d love to hear from you! If you’ve discovered any personal favorites that have stood out to you from the past year, please don’t hesitate to share them below in the comments section. Your recommendations are always welcome and inspire me!
My Curated Collection of Favorite Things: Gifts They’ll Actually Love
Asymmetrical Snap-Up Fleece* – This item was a genuine surprise and quickly became one of my absolute favorite clothing purchases of the past year! To be completely honest, I hadn’t bought anything from Abercrombie & Fitch since my pre-teen years, so rediscovering their quality was a pleasant shock. I’ve practically lived in this fleece for the past month, and for good reason. It’s incredibly flattering, fitting true to size while offering a wonderfully comfortable, slightly relaxed feel that drapes just right. Beyond its stylish appeal, it’s also remarkably warm, making it perfect for crisp autumn days or cozy winter evenings. The thoughtful addition of a spacious kangaroo pocket in the center is ideal for keeping hands warm or stashing small essentials. While my preferred color might currently be out of stock, it is available in a variety of other appealing shades, and the best part? It’s currently on sale, with discounts expected to continue through Black Friday. This is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, offering both comfort and style.
Thermal Socks – These aren’t just any socks; they are a constant fixture in virtually every gift guide I’ve ever shared, and for excellent reasons! If you’ve heard me rave about them before, it’s because these thermal socks are so incredibly cozy, luxuriously fluffy, and exceptionally warm. They envelop your feet in a cloud-like comfort that’s hard to beat, especially when the temperatures drop. What makes them even better is their incredible affordability, offering premium comfort without breaking the bank. From the chilly onset of December right through the lingering cold of April, I find myself barely taking these off. They’re the perfect antidote to cold floors and frosty mornings, making them an ideal stocking stuffer or a thoughtful small gift for anyone who appreciates warmth and comfort.
American Spoon Sour Cherry Preserves – One of the delightful perks of moving to Chicago has been the opportunity to visit an American Spoon store in Michigan every summer. This company crafts truly exceptional jams, preserves, pickles, and a host of other high-quality, artisanal condiments. Their commitment to flavor and quality is evident in every jar. My personal addiction is their sour cherry preserves; the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, bursting with rich fruit flavor. Each year, I make sure to stock up on several jars for myself, generously gift them to friends and family who appreciate gourmet delights, and then savor every single spoonful throughout the year. It’s a taste of summer, a burst of flavor, and a perfect thoughtful gift for the foodies in your life.
Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones – These headphones were my main Christmas gift last year, and I honestly love them even more than I anticipated! Beyond their sleek and flattering design, the sound quality is exceptionally good, delivering rich, clear audio for music, podcasts, and calls. But the true standout feature for me is their astonishing battery life – it truly lasts forever. I use them extensively for workouts, travel, and just everyday listening, and I estimate I’ve only charged them about five times in the entire past year. Adding to their convenience, they sync seamlessly and effortlessly with all Apple products, making them a dream for iPhone and Mac users. And for those moments when you do forget to charge, a mere five minutes of charging provides an impressive three hours of battery life. They are a fantastic investment for anyone seeking high-quality, reliable, and stylish wireless audio.
Walnut Cake Stand – Every home needs a few beautiful, timeless pieces that can be put on display year-round, and this cake stand is one of my all-time favorites. Crafted from a sophisticated combination of Corian and FSC-certified walnut wood, it boasts an elegant design that transcends trends. It’s not just for cakes; I frequently use it to elevate fruit, showcase decorative items, or even serve cheeses. Its solid construction ensures durability, while its exquisite aesthetics make it a stunning centerpiece on any table or counter. If you have a passionate baker, an enthusiastic entertainer, or simply someone who appreciates elegant home decor in your life, this walnut cake stand would undoubtedly be a deeply cherished and much-loved gift.
Zella ‘Hatha’ High Waist Crop Leggings – When it comes to workout apparel, these are undeniably my favorite crop leggings. They strike the perfect balance between style, comfort, and performance. Featuring high-compression fabric, they provide excellent support during any activity, from intense yoga sessions to high-impact cardio, all while remaining incredibly comfortable for extended wear. They are also incredibly flattering, sculpting the body without feeling restrictive. Crucially, they are completely opaque – a common concern with many leggings – ensuring full confidence during your workouts. Zella is a brand known for its quality, and these leggings often go on sale at Nordstrom, so be sure to keep an eye out for discounts to grab them at an even better value. They are an essential for anyone committed to their fitness journey.
Stumptown Hair Bender – For the true coffee aficionados, our beloved Stumptown Hair Bender blend is an absolute must-try. This is the staple coffee we use daily in our espresso machine, and its rich, consistent quality never ceases to impress. The taste is remarkably smooth, yet undeniably strong, offering a perfectly balanced flavor profile that awakens the senses without any bitterness. What makes it even more versatile and beloved is its adaptability; whether you’re crafting a perfect espresso shot, brewing a meticulous pour-over, or simply enjoying a classic drip coffee, Hair Bender consistently delivers an exceptional cup. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, transforming daily coffee rituals into a gourmet experience for any coffee lover.
Madewell Berkeley Black 9-Inch High Rise Skinny Jeans* – My obsession with these Madewell jeans is well-documented, and for good reason. They are an absolute wardrobe game-changer! What sets them apart is their incredible comfort – they feel like a second skin, allowing for unrestricted movement throughout the day. The high-rise fit is not only on-trend but also incredibly flattering, providing excellent support and shaping. They are remarkably versatile, pairing effortlessly with almost anything in my closet, from casual tees to elegant blouses. I particularly adore the subtle yet stylish button details and the slightly chewed hem at the bottom of each leg, which adds a touch of modern edge. I’ve owned them for close to a year, and despite frequent wear and washes, they still look as good as new, a testament to Madewell’s quality. Madewell is currently offering a fantastic 25% discount on any purchase now through Black Friday with the code DEALWITHIT, making this the perfect time to invest in your new favorite pair of jeans.
Wemo Smart Plug – Initially, when Connor bought a few of these Wemo Smart Plugs last year, I admit I was a little skeptical. Living in a small apartment without a fully integrated smart home, the concept seemed a bit superfluous at first glance. However, we have both grown to absolutely love these ingenious devices! We primarily use them to control a few key lights in our apartment and have seamlessly paired them with our Alexa voice assistant. There’s truly nothing quite like the comfort of being cozied up in bed, suddenly realizing you left the living room light on, and being able to effortlessly say, “Alexa, turn off living room light.” Beyond voice control, you can also manage them through a user-friendly app on your phone, allowing you to schedule items to turn on or off at specific times, creating a perfectly lit ambiance or saving energy. They’re a simple, affordable upgrade that adds surprising convenience to everyday living.
Cuisinart PerfecTemp Electric Kettle – When we moved into our new apartment, I needed to replace our old electric kettle, and I’ve been incredibly impressed with this Cuisinart model. It’s a fantastic upgrade, especially for those who appreciate precision in their hot beverages. This kettle comes equipped with multiple temperature pre-sets, which is an absolute game-changer for tea lovers (allowing different teas to steep at their optimal temperature) and perfect for French press or pour-over coffee enthusiasts. It also features a convenient ‘stay warm’ function, keeping your water at the desired temperature for a period, which is ideal for multiple cups or busy mornings. Furthermore, its relatively compact footprint and attractive stainless steel design mean it won’t clutter your countertop. Compared to other brands offering similar features, this Cuisinart model is also very affordable, offering excellent value for its functionality and sleek aesthetic.
Hanselmann Pottery Thumb Mug – This is truly one of my favorite mugs, crafted by one of my most admired ceramic artisans. Hanselmann Pottery’s signature handmade thumb mug is a masterpiece of ergonomic design and rustic beauty. The unique thumb indent makes it incredibly comfortable and natural to hold, fitting perfectly in your hand and providing a comforting tactile experience. Each mug is a unique piece of art, showcasing the beauty of handmade pottery. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it’s also wonderfully practical: completely microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe, ensuring durability and ease of use. This mug isn’t just a vessel for your drinks; it’s an experience. Pair it with some exceptional coffee, a premium tea blend, or even fill it with gourmet treats for a truly thoughtful and personal gift.
Sherpa Half-Zip Pullover – Here’s another utterly unexpected favorite clothing purchase of the year, and yes, it’s also from Abercrombie & Fitch! This sherpa pullover quickly became my go-to for ultimate comfort. It is incredibly soft, feels luxurious against the skin, and has a perfectly loose fit that’s ideal for relaxing. I particularly love the stylish half-zip design, which allows for versatile styling and temperature regulation, and the comfortable, loose sleeve ends. This pullover is fantastic for lounging around the house on a lazy weekend, effortlessly throwing on over workout clothes for a quick dash out, or layering with a lighter shell jacket for added warmth without bulk. An added bonus is how exceptionally well it has washed, maintaining its softness and shape. Keep an eye out for sales on Black Friday and Cyber Monday; Abercrombie usually offers significant discounts on these popular items!
Apple Watch – This past year, Connor and I both celebrated our 30th birthdays by gifting each other Apple Watches. I can confidently say that I absolutely love mine, and I believe it stands out as one of the best investments you can make, especially if you’re looking for a comprehensive health and fitness tracker. Beyond tracking steps, heart rate, and workouts, it offers an incredible array of features that seamlessly integrate into daily life. It’s also surprisingly helpful in the kitchen, allowing me to set multiple timers with just a tap or voice command, which is invaluable when juggling different cooking tasks. From staying connected with notifications on the go to motivating me to stay active, the Apple Watch has proven to be an indispensable tool that simplifies and enhances my routine in countless ways. It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving, promoting wellness and convenience.
Sarah Kersten Covered Bowls – Sarah Kersten is another incredibly talented ceramic artist whose work I deeply admire, and I’m fortunate to own several beautiful pieces from her collection. These particular covered bowls exemplify her masterful blend of aesthetics and utility. They are not only visually stunning, adding a touch of artisan elegance to any kitchen or dining table, but they are also profoundly functional. For me, functionality is a top priority for kitchen items, and these bowls deliver. They offer an elegant and sustainable way to reduce waste in the kitchen, replacing disposable plastic wrap and containers for storing leftovers or prepping ingredients. Their sturdy ceramic construction and well-fitting lids keep food fresh, making them perfect for meal prep, serving, or simply storing ingredients beautifully. They are an investment in both art and practicality.
Anchor Glass Containers with Acacia Wood Lids – I recently undertook a kitchen overhaul, replacing many of my old plastic airtight containers with these exquisite Anchor glass containers, beautifully topped with acacia wood lids, and I couldn’t be happier with the decision. While it’s true they are definitely heavier and perhaps a bit more fragile than their plastic counterparts, their aesthetic appeal is undeniable. I love them so much that I proudly leave them out on the floating shelves in my kitchen, where they serve as both storage and decor. They are incredibly easy to use and clean, and the glass construction ensures no lingering odors or stains. I’ve acquired them in several different sizes and now use them for practically everything – from storing dry goods and meal prepping to keeping leftovers fresh. They offer a stylish, eco-friendly, and highly functional solution for kitchen organization.
Brod and Taylor Folding Proofer– This seemingly humble appliance has been an absolute game-changer for my sourdough bread making over the past few months. I honestly never thought I would own one of these, but it has swiftly become one of my most-loved kitchen appliances. The genius of the Brod and Taylor Folding Proofer lies in its ability to provide a perfectly consistent and controlled environment for dough proofing, which is crucial for successful sourdough, especially in homes with fluctuating temperatures. What’s more, it uses almost no energy, making it an efficient addition to any kitchen. Beyond its primary function as a proofer box, it also brilliantly doubles as a slow cooker and can be precisely programmed to any temperature ranging between 70 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. This versatility extends to making homemade yogurt, fermenting a wide variety of foods, and even tempering chocolate. It’s a truly invaluable tool for serious home bakers and fermenters alike.
Looking for even more inspiration for thoughtful holiday gifts? Don’t forget to explore my comprehensive 2018 Cookbook Gift Guide for culinary enthusiasts, and browse through my collection of past Gift Guides for timeless ideas!