Gift Ideas

The Best Under-$40 Gifts to Give Your Friends This Year

written by HAILEY TAGLIARINO

The Everygirl’s gift recommendations are curated by our editorial team with some items hand-picked by editors from our sponsors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. As always, we only choose items we genuinely love, use, have purchased ourselves, or recommend.

The Best Under-$40 Gifts to Give Your Friends This Year
Graphics by: Aryana Johnson
The Best Under-$40 Gifts to Give Your Friends This Year
Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

As someone with a gift-giving love language, I absolutely thrive during the holidays. Choosing the perfect gift and wrapping it up with a big bow makes me truly giddy. From buying extra special gifts for friends to curating little tiny gift bags for coworkers or neighbors just because, gifting with purpose without breaking the bank is something I’m proud to say I have managed to learn how to do (after years of ignoring the fact that money doesn’t grow on Christmas trees, of course.) A wonderful and thoughtful gift doesn’t have anything to do with the price tag, and there are hundreds of incredible items that are actually affordable. Ahead, we are sharing under-$40 gifts for friends that you can give this holiday season, and rest assured that your end-of-year budget meeting with yourself won’t be a total disaster.

Velvet Bow Hair Tie
Amazon
Velvet Bow Hair Tie

Nothing says, “I’m classy, trendy, and have my life together” quite like a velvet hair bow. We love this easy-to-secure hair tie that can be added to any hair style, no matter your friend’s hair texture.

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Two-Tone Phone Case
The Everygirl Shop
Two-Tone Phone Case

We’re obsessed with this two-tone phone—basically everyone on our team owns one. Thanks to its trendy pattern and protective design, it makes for a standout gift that anyone will love.

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Peptide Eye Patches
Rhode
Peptide Eye Patches

Infused with caffeine and peptides, these cooling patches smooth and hydrate tired eyes in minutes. They make an easy under-$30 gift that still feels luxurious and is Hailey Bieber-approved.

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1000-Piece Puzzle
Anthropologie
1000-Piece Puzzle

Featuring dreamy photography of Nantucket, this puzzle offers a delightful challenge for just about anyone. Each piece fits perfectly together to reveal stunning coastal scenes—and it’s only $30.

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Connection Cards
Esther Perel
Connection Cards

If you’re looking to bring the party wherever you go, look no further than this perfectly priced deck of Where Should We Begin connection cards. With 200 story-starting cards, a dice for endless variations, and a compact design, it’s the perfect gift to take office happy hours, date nights, and girl’s night up a notch.

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Icon Juice Glass
Anthropologie
Icon Juice Glass

Icon juice glasses are still having a moment, and this one feels especially trendy thanks to its western detail. No matter who you’re gifting to, this glass, or one of the other icon glass designs, makes for a fun, affordable gift at only $16.

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Pet Photo Holder
Anthropologie
Pet Photo Holder

Available in six adorable dog and two sweet cat breeds, this photo holder adds a charming touch to any interior. Want to make it extra special? Print a photo for them before you gift it.

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Cashmere Twist Headband
Quince
Cashmere Twist Headband

Anything that doubles as a cute accessory and keeps us warm in the winter is an automatic win, which is why we adore this Mongolian cashmere twist headband.

6 colors available

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Custom Boat Tote
Etsy | thenuushop
Custom Boat Tote

This classic tote bag is made from heavyweight canvas and has reinforced handles and double-stitched seams, so you can rest assured that no matter what your friend uses it for, it will stay intact for years to come.

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Press For Champagne Ornament
Carlyle Avenue
Press For Champagne Ornament

This chic ornament catches the eye without raising the price point—a subtle, sophisticated pick for the girl who doesn’t settle for anything less than Veuve Clicquot.

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Dainty Name Bracelet
Caitlyn Minimalist
Dainty Name Bracelet

Available in sterling silver, gold, and rose gold, this delicate and dainty bracelet makes for the perfect personalized accessory that will be worn for years to come.

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Custom Tiny Birthstone Ring
Caitlyn Minimalist
Custom Tiny Birthstone Ring

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that this custom birthstone ring is under $35. Adorned with your choice of baguette and pear-cut gemstones, it is just as special and stunning as it is affordable.

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Embroidered Smiley Cap
Junk Food Clothing
Embroidered Smiley Cap

The ’90s-inspired cap is perfect for weekend errands, coffee runs, or just hiding a bad-hair day in style. Soft, adjustable, and effortlessly cool, it’s a gift that’ll make it into their weekly rotation.

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Quilted Toiletry Bag
Amazon
Quilted Toiletry Bag

A soft quilted bag with a sweet pink floral print is not a want but a need for any beauty-loving friend you have. The best part? Its under $10.

10+ colors available

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Tangle Teezer Chrome Brush
Ulta
Tangle Teezer Chrome Brush

Yes, brushes this chic do exist. It offers quick, easy, and painless detangling for all hair types, so whoever is receiving this gorgeous brush will benefit from smooth, shiny, and tangle free hair for the foreseeable. Plus, it’ll look gorgeous on their vanity.

4 colors available

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Calendars & Planners
THE EVERYGIRL X DAY DESIGNER
Calendars & Planners

The perfect gift for list-makers and multitaskers, because everyone needs a planner or calendar to keep their life in order.

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Satin Heatless Curling Set
CVS | Kitsch
Satin Heatless Curling Set

This heatless curling set helps to create effortless yet polished curls or waves without heat (or hassle). The best part? The satin construction keeps hair frizz-free and prevents breakage. Perfect for anyone who’s on a hair journey or wants to save some time in the morning.

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Zodiac Mug
The Everygirl Shop
Zodiac Mug

There’s nothing more fun than when your zodiac just gets you. Gift them a cheeky yet uplifting mug that perfectly captures their vibe—one that makes them laugh and say, “That is so me!”

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READ: What to Buy Your Pickiest Loved Ones for the Holidays

Shopping List Notepad
Papier
Shopping List Notepad

Whether it’s shopping lists for the holidays or grocery lists for dinner parties, anyone can benefit from having a to-do list notepad by their side.

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Glossy Lip Stain Shades 4 Days Kit
E.L.F. Cosmetics
Glossy Lip Stain Shades 4 Days Kit

For the beauty lover on your list—and your budget—this lip stain set delivers long-lasting color, four stunning shades, and a formula that punches above its price.

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Reusable Tote Bag
BAGGU
Reusable Tote Bag

These are the ultimate cool-girl reusable bags. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Available in tons of colors and patterns, this bag can be used for groceries, wine, workout clothes, office essentials, and more.

10+ patterns available

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Scrunchy with Hidden Pocket
Smunchys
Scrunchy with Hidden Pocket

I am all for a multi-purpose product. This scrunchie features a large hidden pocket that can hold keys, makeup, earbuds, or cash for when a purse is just not in the cards.

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Set of 2 Scarves
Anthropologie
Set of 2 Scarves

For wearing in their hair or tying around their bag or waist, a set of scarves is a multi-functional gift that any trend-setter will love.

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Custom Quote Print
Etsy | MidnightGalleryStore
Custom Quote Print

Know a favorite quote or lyric of theirs? Get it printed on this vintage-inspired gingham-backed design. Since this is a digital download, it makes for a great last-minute gift, too. Just add a frame!

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Hand & Body Wash
Malin + Goetz
Hand & Body Wash

A luxuriously lathering, hydrating, and beautifully scented hand and body wash is a gift I’m happy to receive over and over again. Trust us, they’ll be asking you where you got it once it’s time for a restock.

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Volcano Candle
Anthropologie | Capri Blue
Volcano Candle

The candle scent that we all know and love is a no-fail gift idea time and time again. Available in multiple sizes, you can gift whichever one fits your gifting budget best.

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Gua Sha Cryo Sticks
Amazon
Gua Sha Cryo Sticks

Combining the functions of traditional gua sha facial tools and ice globes, these stainless steel facial sticks are the ultimate self-care gift to give. Who needs a salon when you can get lifted, firm skin at home?

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Mani Prep Set
CVS | Olive & June
Mani Prep Set

For the friend who loves a little at-home pampering, this mani prep set has everything she needs to get polished and prepped. From clippers and a buffer to a clean-up brush and polish remover pot, it makes DIY nails feel easier than ever.

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Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist
OSEA
Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist

When you spritz this mist on your pillow before bed. it instantly creates a more relaxing atmosphere. This is a great gift for your friend who takes their closing shift seriously.

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Gingham and Stripe Laces
Anthropologie
Gingham and Stripe Laces

Take any pair of shoes up a notch with these novelty shoe laces. We love the blueberry tone of these, but they also come in a fun red plaid and a polka dot pattern. Choose whichever fits your friend’s style best!

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Stargazing Puzzle
Amazon
Stargazing Puzzle

For astrology lovers or puzzle fanatics, gift this bright puzzle featuring zodiacs and constellations. It includes a magnetic keepsake box that looks great on a bookshelf or coffee table, too.

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Classic Hinge Bangle
Baublebar
Classic Hinge Bangle

Bangles can be extremely expensive, but this classic hinge bangle is just as beautiful as high-end options. Pictured is the classic thin gold bangle, but Baublebar has multiple style options and finishes, all at an affordable price point.

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Boucle Throw Blanket
Amazon
Boucle Throw Blanket

A blanket is a classic gift that everyone loves. And this one for under $30 will become their new favorite. It’s lightweight, soft, and stretchy, so basically, it feels like you’re wrapping yourself in a cloud.

8 colors available

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Spa Set
Anthropologie
Spa Set

This spa set includes a full-size ice roller, silk sleep mask, gua sha, exfoliating mitt, hair clip, shower steamer, scalp massager, and silk scrunchie—all for $40!

3 colors available

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READ: 40+ Practical Gifts They’ll Actually Use and Enjoy Long After the Holidays

Holiday City Mug
Anthropologie
Holiday City Mug

There is something about Anthropologie’s mugs that feel ultra luxe. At just $16, this “Holiday in the City” mug would make a perfect gift alone or paired with a gift card.

7 locations available

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Personalized Keychain
Daily Disco
Personalized Keychain

We love these wavy personalized keychains because they perfectly blend fun and function. Choose from sturdy denim or classic canvas, add a name or a word to be embroidered, and gift it to any (or all!) friends in your life.

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Pizza Topper Collection
The Spice Collection
Pizza Topper Collection

These herbs, spices, and seasonings will elevate any pizza—no matter if its made from scratch or taken straight from a freezer box. I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t want to make a slice taste even better.

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Wildflower Bookmark
ETSY | GRACESLITTLEBOOKCASE
Wildflower Bookmark

Made with real pressed wildflowers, this bookmark is a beautiful addition to any reader’s collection.

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Plaid Scarf
Amazon
Plaid Scarf

This plaid scarf comes in tons of unique color combinations, so no matter your friends style, you can be sure this cozy and warm scarf will be a hit.

10+ colors available

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The Encyclopedia of Cocktail
Robert Simonson
The Encyclopedia of Cocktail

This is perfect for cocktail lovers (*raises hand*) as well as anyone interested in learning about cocktail culture. It’s both a recipe book and a fact-filled history guide with interesting stories explaining how some of the best drinks, famous bars, and bartenders have shaped our world.

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Custom Book Embosser
ETSY | DELIGHTFULSTAMPS
Custom Book Embosser

So every book that your friend lends to another finds it way back home, gift them this custom book embosser personalized with their birth flower.

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Magnetic Tripod
MOFT
Magnetic Tripod

Small but mighty, this sleek phone stand keeps your device propped up for video calls, content creation, or hands-free scrolling. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who works from their phone or is constantly on the go.

10+ colors available

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Padlock Initial Necklace
Caitlin Minimalist
Padlock Initial Necklace

This gorgeous initial necklace can be customized on one or both sides and is available in multiple lengths and finishes.

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Cashmere Gloves
Quince
Cashmere Gloves

This gift screams luxury—at a fraction of the cost. Since cashmere is incredibly long-lasting and three times as warm as wool, you can be sure that whoever you gift these gloves to will wear and love them for years to come.

6 colors available

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Sherpa Slippers
Amazon
Sherpa Slippers

A non-negotiable in the cold months? These sherpa slippers. We love that they are lightweight and comfortable and that they look and feel way more expensive than they are.

6 colors available

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Travel Jewelry Case Organizer
Amazon
Travel Jewelry Case Organizer

Travel jewelry cases aren’t just a want, they are a need, and we love this affordable option because of its functionality. If you need further convincing that this is a great pick, just look at the 13k reviews.

7 colors available

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Weighted Sleeping Mask
Nodpod
Weighted Sleeping Mask

Designed to alleviate stress and anxiety, gifting a weighted sleep mask is like gifting self-care. Since it’s lightly weighted and made from soft fleece, it’s both comfortable and effective.

9 colors available

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Makeup Organizer
Target
Makeup Organizer

This leopard printed makeup organizer features multiple divided compartments to help keep brushes, makeup, and other accessories separate and handy in one spot. The best part? It’s only $20.

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Ruffle Socks Pack
Amazon
Ruffle Socks Pack

As soon as I saw these ruffle socks, they became an immediate need. You friend will be just as obsessed as I am with this ultra-comfy neutral set.

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Conversation Cards
Friends of Mine
Conversation Cards

From book club to after-dinner drinks, these conversational card decks are a must-have to get to know those around you. They are so unique, we can almost guarantee your friend doesn’t have a deck already.

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Shop All of The Everygirl’s Holiday Gift Guides

Why You Can Count on Us

The Everygirl Media Group has published our beloved gift guides for 12+ years. Whether you’re shopping for a gift for your work wife, an insanely cool cousin, or your significant other’s dad (why are dads so hard?!), we have an idea they’ll love. The Everygirl editorial team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible and affordable list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.

the everygirl holiday gift guide
hailey tagliarino
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hailey Tagliarino, Assistant Managing Editor

As the Assistant Managing Editor for The Everygirl, Hailey Tagliarino oversees, writes, and edits content across various categories on the site. From the pitching stage through publishing, she works alongside the team to ensure that the content that our readers see every day is inspiring, relatable, and timely.

This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Sephora, e.l.f. Cosmetics, CVS, and Carlyle Avenue, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board.

Products included in graphics linked within article.