Ideas for thoughtful Christmas gifts for friends

We dream about Christmas all year long, and we never miss the chance to drop hints to friends, partners, and family when we see something we really love, encouraging them to gift it to us. It's a magical time that fills the air—and the shop windows—just after October 31st, and it's also a period marked by the frenzy of early shopping that starts earlier every year. The key to avoiding last-minute stress is to give thoughtful and tailor-made gifts. This way, we avoid polluting the days leading up to the big day with stress and haste, making space for reconciliation with loved ones.

It's well known that what makes a gift truly special is the thought behind it. Anyone can buy the first luxury item that comes to mind, but the best solution is to start thinking about gifts well in advance.

Beauty Christmas Gifts for Friends

I don't know about you, but for me, it's natural to think about beauty products whenever I need to buy a gift for a friend. Even if the friend in question isn't into makeup or doesn't follow a 20-step skincare routine, beauty items are still pampering and symbolize, like so many other hobbies, time spent taking care of ourselves.

Officine Universelle Buly and Other Brands that Love Personalization

Drawing inspiration from the excellence and values of the past while telling a story in the present is the goal of Officine Universelle Buly, which has been part of the pioneering luxury group LVMH since 2021. All products—crafted with a heritage of ancient and universal knowledge—have a strong aesthetic value and are customizable. The true gem of this boutique is the highly immersive customization experience it offers, both in-store and online. From combs and soaps monogrammed with initials to the chicest and most personal pocket lip balm imaginable, the gift will undoubtedly be bespoke. The only challenge is knowing the recipient well enough to make the gift meaningful. If you love personalization, also check out Bonnie Beauty and Simon Ourian MD.

Flower Knows

The Chinese brand Flower Knows offers a comprehensive collection of makeup items and accessories featuring whimsical packaging inspired by fairytales with a feminine and dreamy soul. The brand delivers quality formulas at accessible prices, all wrapped in packaging that transports you to a fantastical world of swans, cherubs, bows, and intricate silver details. More than makeup, these are true collector’s items and decorative pieces. TikTok has propelled Flower Knows to fame for its unique identity, offering a wide range of products—from blushes to eyeshadow palettes, brushes, and even handheld mirrors fit for a princess, along with intricately designed combs.

Lush

Lush is renowned for its focus on the origin and ingredients of its products. It allows customers to immerse themselves in its universe through an array of natural ingredients and customizable formulations.  Known especially among Millennials and early Gen-Z, Lush has been a pioneer in self-care products. Cruelty-free, vegan products, famous colorful and fragrant bath bombs, and the unmistakable scent that greets you upon entering their stores are just some reasons why it's a must. And don't miss their Christmas editions, such as Fairy Dust, to wrap yourself in glittery fragrance.

Personalized Gifts Everyone Will Love

Build-A-Bear Workshop

The Build-A-Bear Workshop pop-up store, the first of its kind in an Italian shopping center, is located at Le Gru in Grugliasco, Piedmont. The service is also available online. It's a dream for plush toy lovers, offering a truly emotional experience centered on the theme of "bringing your best friend to life." After choosing and stuffing your favorite character, you proceed to the heart ceremony, where you make a wish, insert a recorded message, a scent, or a beating heart, and finally test the hug. Then, you can choose from a variety of accessories and create a birth certificate for your cuddly friend, giving them a name and a distinct identity.

Wreck This Journal

Ah, nostalgia. A Tumblr-era classic we all loved, the Wreck This Journal is an interactive book created by artist and author Keri Smith. The concept behind the book is to inspire creativity through acts of "destroying" or "wrecking" it in various ways. Each page contains an instruction or activity that encourages the reader to engage their senses and embrace imperfection, turning the book into a unique and personal piece of art. Instructions may include things like "tear this page" or "write on it with food.” The idea is to let go of perfection and the need to do something 'right.' It’s the perfect gift for your most rebellious and artistic friend.

A Portrait

On Etsy, a marketplace full of independent artisans and artists, you can easily find the perfect portrait artist to create something deeply personal and timeless. Have you considered it? If you already know an illustrator your loved one admires, or if you have one in mind, this is the perfect time to gift something as intimate and unique as a portrait. It will definitely stand out among other gifts, especially when paired with a beautiful frame.

Gifts to Flip Through

For those who find safety and rejuvenation in reading or simply leafing through a book or magazine, here are some ideas for an emotional and inspiring gift. Check out this guide for more suggestions.

Book for Paper Lovers

The Book for Paper Lovers is the annual publication from Flow, filled with colorful paper delights. It celebrates the joy of touching and exploring different paper textures, making them the stars of the experience. The latest edition invites readers to disconnect from the internet and enjoy small offline pleasures. Each year, the book honors paper's infinite creative possibilities, offering a relaxing experience through cutting, folding, and exploring its pages. The 2024 edition includes 150 pages of paper for cutting, detaching, and pasting, all dedicated to the theme of mental health. It’s a perfect choice for paper lovers, showcasing works and illustrations from creators worldwide.

The Little Book of Self Care

Joanna Gray is an author renowned for her books on well-being, personal growth, and creativity. Her works aim to help readers connect with themselves, express themselves, and lead more mindful and fulfilling lives. Self-care is more than a trend; it’s essential for nourishing the soul, feeling comfortable in your own skin, and restoring mental and physical balance. This book is perfect for anyone looking to embark on this journey.

Papier Planners

"Make every day noteworthy with our range of paper goods." Papier is a French website offering customized and aesthetically pleasing stationery, including journals, planners, lists, cards for various occasions, and more. A diary is a thoughtful gift that can be used in various ways and grows in value over time as it becomes a space for reflection, growth, and wellness. If you're thinking of a friend who loves writing or reflecting, especially if they tend to overthink, a diary will surely be appreciated—especially if it’s made just for them.

What to Gift a Friend? It's the Thought That Counts

Every gift carries a message like "take care of yourself," "I'm thinking of you," or "I want to spend time with you." While over the past few years the conversation has shifted to the extreme consumerism linked to holidays—something that is undoubtedly true—it's essential to be more thoughtful when choosing the perfect gift. First and foremost, move away from the mindset of obligation. So, go find that perfect gift, and remember the golden rule: "Don’t give a gift you wouldn’t want to receive yourself."