Shopping Writer-Approved Fashion and Beauty Gift Ideas Starting at $14

I may be the best gift-giver in my family, but I’d like to think I’m a pretty good gift receiver, too — something that’s made easier by the well-researched wish lists I send to my family and friends each year (direct links included).

As an admittedly picky fashion and beauty writer — with a double earth placement in my astrology big three — I don’t like to leave much up to chance when it comes to holiday gifting. That’s why this year, I already did the work to narrow down my most-wanted items from hot-ticket and tried-and-true brands like Ugg, Coach, Aritizia, and Dolce Vita (to name a few). 

Because I’m not in the business of gatekeeping, it only feels right to share my list with the masses — in the hopes it sparks some holiday shopping inspiration for the fashion and beauty lovers in your life, too. Below, stock up on Gen-Z shopping writer-approved gift ideas from $14.

Writer-Approved Gen-Z Gift Ideas

• Crowdpleaser: Ugg Classic Mini Platform Boots, $119–$125 (orig. $170); amazon.com 
• Under-$20 Makeup Must-Have: Morphe Cheek Thrills Multi-Finish Face Trio, $19; ulta.com 
• Reader-Loved Brand: Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28, $295; amazon.com 
• Balletcore Comfort: Dolce Vita Loris Heels, $150; dolcevita.com 
• Upgraded Basic: Set Active Set Socks, $14; setactive.co 
• Cute, Cozy, and Luxe: Damson Madder Brushed Oversized Scarf, $88; damsonmadder.com 
• Glowing Skin in a Bottle: Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint, $49; amazon.com 
• High-Quality Closet Hero: Aritzia Babaton Calloway Sweater, $110; aritzia.com 
• Little Luxury: Emi Jay Ponytail Barrette, $29; emijay.com 
• Grab Bag-Ready: Jo Malone London Holiday Favorites Gift Set, $45; nordstrom.com 

Morphe Cheek Thrills Multi-Finish Face Trio

This affordable (and adorable) blush trio by Morphe rivals the long-lasting pigment of high-end brands at a fraction of the cost. I already own the pocket-sized palette in a few colors — Blind Date is my favorite for everyday, while Wine & Dine has been a go-to for fall and the holidays — and I’m constantly impressed by its color payoff and glowy finish. It’s my most-reached-for blush of the year.

Ugg Classic Mini Platform Boots

I’d love to say I’ve outgrown my 13-year-old self, but apparently, we still agree on one thing: Ugg boots always make the holiday wish list. In 2025, I’m gravitating toward this platform mini silhouette similar to those I’ve seen on Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. Amazon reviewers love that their thick soles add some height to everyday outfits and that they feel like “walking on a fluffy cloud.”

Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28

I’ve lost track of the number of times I’ve stared longingly at this Coach bag in my web browser. Its chocolate brown color is the trendy neutral my purse collection is currently missing, and it pairs “beautifully with seasonal outfits like cozy sweaters, boots, and neutral layers,” per one five-star reviewer. 

Set Active Set Socks

How do I know I’m officially a real adult? I’m now excited at the thought of opening socks on Christmas Day. This pair from Set Active is thick, comfy, and perfect for workouts, according to shoppers. While I’m at it, I might as well add one of the brand’s charming matching workout sets to my wish list, too.

Dolce Vita Loris Heels

I own multiple pairs of Dolce Vita shoes and can confidently say that they are some of the most comfortable styles in my closet (especially when compared to how stinking cute they are). The latest style to catch my eye? These darling ballet-inspired slingback heels. I love that the chunky block heel isn’t too high and that the Mary Jane strap adds a vintage touch. 

Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint

Only add this Hourglass skin tint to your cart if you’re prepared to be bombarded with compliments about your glowing complexion. Its lightweight formula is buildable, radiant, and hydrating — so much so that I often forget I even have it on. It quickly cemented its place as a holy grail item in my beauty lineup, and as fate would have it, I’m due for a refill just in time for gifting season. 

Damson Madder Brushed Oversized Scarf

Snagging a statement scarf for your winter wardrobe is an easy way to add flair to outfits without committing to, say, a bright blue winter coat (although I’ve been there, too). This option from cool-girl brand Damson Madder landed on my list thanks to its eye-catching patterns and luxe design — while it comes in at under $100, it easily looks like it could cost double that price. 

Aritzia Babaton Calloway Sweater

Aritzia’s knitwear selection has never disappointed me: The brand has a way of making even the most basic silhouettes feel sophisticated, expensive, and totally stylish. This crewneck sweater, in particular, caught my eye for the winter due to its flattering drape and slouchy (but not sloppy!) design. 

Emi Jay Ponytail Barrette

I already know that this little luxury will make a big impact on my hair game. Its stunning shape is well-suited for ponytails and half-up, half-down hairstyles alike, and its butter yellow shade is versatile enough to wear with a variety of outfits.

Jo Malone London Holiday Favorites Gift Set

Sometimes, the hardest part of holiday shopping is finding a gift that satisfies the requirements of an office, family, or friend group gift exchange. This year, skip the mug or candle in favor of this under-$50 set by Jo Malone. It comes with a travel-size version of one of my current favorite perfume scents and a nourishing hand cream that’s sure to have people fighting over your contribution all night.