Think grown-ups are too old for holiday stockings hung by the chimney with care? Nah. Who doesn’t love reaching deep down inside a stocking full of mysterious goodies and fumbling around for a tiny gift with a big impact. Even the oldest of elves appreciate the good things that come in small packages.
But for those of us doing the stocking stuffing, finding petite presents with the “What’s in that gigantic box?” wow factor can be challenging. Unless, of course, you’re springing for a sparkling ring or an awesome gadget—but we’re not talking big-ticket items. The ideal stocking stuffer should strike the perfect balance between affordable and thoughtful. Which is why today’s shopping list features many items that come in at around $10 and under (plus some irresistible splurges that are sure to change the ho-hum reputation of holiday stockings everywhere).
1. Sophisticated Suds: Remember all of those times your mother washed your mouth out with soap? Yeah, our mothers never actually did that either. But they were tempted to do so—frequently. For such patience and restraint, we’ll be placing a few bars of Claus Porto soap in our dear mothers’ stockings this year. These swanky suds are rumored to be an Oprah favorite. Each bar is made in Portugal with 100 percent natural pistachio butter and wrapped in packaging based on authentic engravings from the 1930s. It’s no wonder that the queen of talk is such a fan. Classico Soap Bar in Pear Sandalwood, Lilane Lavender and Vetiver, Claus Porto.
2. Classic Cool: Wayfarers may be all the rage among the Hollywood set, but these sunglasses certainly are nothing new. The classic style has been reinvented to fold into a small case for easy travel. While this selection certainly falls under the category of stocking stuffer splurge, we couldn’t resist adding them to the list. They’re effortlessly cool and perpetually stylish—not to mention, they’re gender neutral and perfectly suitable for both the ladies and gents on your list. Folding Wayfarer Sunglasses in Tortoise, Ray-Ban.
3. Up-to-Par Present: Have a golfer in the house? We suggest stuffing his stocking with a theme in mind. Fill his stocking to the brim with golf balls, tees and The Ultimate Golf Journal. The journal includes score sheets, practice logs and handicap charts along with sections to jot down personal information, including course notes and favorite 19th holes. Plus, the journal is sprinkled with enough tips and trivia to keep his head in the game even when he’s too busy (or cold!) to hit the greens. The Ultimate Golf Journal by Lisa Bach, Chronicle Books.
4. Sweet Kisses: Lip gloss always makes for an inexpensive, sweet indulgence for her primping pleasure—and no one does gloss better than Burt’s Bees. This gift set of super-shiny glosses are 95 percent natural and sure to perfectly prep her smacker for any stints beneath the mistletoe. Mini Lip Gloss Set, Burt’s Bees.
5. Singing in the Rain: If your significant other is known to break out into song during various morning grooming activities, this shower radio is an ideal stocking stuffer. Tech lovers take notice: This is not your father’s shower radio. While it is equipped to tune to your favorite stations, it also features a water-resistant compartment suitable for most iPods or MP3 players. MP3 Shower Radio in Silver, Tech Toys for Princess International.
6. Animal Appeal: Those who jet set frequently for work or play loathe the black bag parade at the luggage carousel—the one that compels you to pick up bag after wrong bag as you suss out suitcase imposters. Leave it to the folks at REI to design a luggage tag that is not only chic and hard to miss in a crowd, but also incredibly affordable. Animal Luggage Tag in Leopard, REI.
7. On the Run: Give the gift of the perfect workout soundtrack to your spouse or loved one with the iPod nano Armband, which features a pocket designed to carry your iPod as you walk, run, bike, lift weights and so on. The fully adjustable band fits your arm or wrist, has a headphone jack and promises to provide 100 percent skip-free playback—even during the most vigorous of workouts. iPod nano Armband in Grey, Apple.
8. Eau de Starlet: When it comes to style, Sarah Jessica Parker has the indelible influence of a true icon. So, it follows that her signature fragrance also would be, well, iconic. With hints of geranium leaves, lemon, honeysuckle, chocolate, lavender, amber and more, her Covet perfume is feminine and fashionista worthy. And, for those not familiar with solid perfumes, it’s important to note that solid scents in compact cases are the most travel-friendly perfume options. She’ll be able to zip through airline security and fawn over the lovely crystal casing while in flight. Covet Solid Perfume, Sarah Jessica Parker.
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