With the holiday season approaching, students and families are preparing for the festive celebrations. Yet, finding the perfect gift for everyone is often overwhelming and often ends up as a last-minute thing. Trendy gifts usually eliminate the stress because there are so many of them, and most people are excited about receiving something they see their favorite influencer have. With creativity and thoughtfulness, however, you can still add a unique touch to your trendy gift, making it more rewarding.

Of course, hobbies are an excellent starting point when choosing a gift. If you’re shopping for a creative friend, art supplies such as coloring books or watercolor book sets are especially popular now. These can be found all over Amazon and at craft stores like Michaels. For athletes, practical items like reusable water bottles or stylish athletic gear can be great for their activities, especially in the gym. Popular brands for this include Owala, Lululemon, and Gym Shark.

For fashion people, you can’t go wrong with stylish trending accessories like jackets, jewelry, or bags. Thrift stores are hidden treasures for vintage finds that combine sustainability with charm. Right now, oversized jackets or smaller cardigans are trending, which add so much to an outfit. Staple pieces are always loved, and these can be great cheap alternatives. Hot stores currently include Brandy Melville, Edikted, Motel Rocks, and many others. However, knowing your recipient’s style is essential, and if you are not confident they will like it, it might be best to pick something else.

For people who enjoy a good book, a gift can be some of the easiest—and most fun—to shop for. Beyond the apparent option of giving a bestseller or classic novel, consider pairing their book with a theme. A good example for a younger sibling: “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” paired with a variety of candies. For an even more unique idea, consider a Jellycat or plush to accompany your book. This adds a cute personal touch to the gift!
Self-care items are always a hit for those who love to pamper themselves. Mini skincare kits with face masks, lotions, and lip masks are a huge hit right now. Fan favorites include Charlotte Tilbury, Laige, and Glow Recipe. If you want to go the extra mile, throw each of your favorite self-care products into a basket for a personalized touch. Trendy makeup is almost always a hit, and some sought-after brands at the moment are Rhode, Rare Beauty, and Summer Fridays.

Trendy jewelry is a must-have this holiday season, making it the perfect gift for style enthusiasts. Chunky gold pieces, such as bold chain necklaces or oversized hoop earrings, are dominating fashion trends and add a touch of glamour to any outfit. Layered necklaces are also in demand, allowing the wearer to mix and match different lengths and pendants for a personalized look. Additionally, charm bracelets and necklaces are very much in style. This can allow for a more personalized gift while still keeping it in with the times. For a thoughtful touch, opt for personalized pieces, like initial pendants or meaningful charms, which feel both trendy and meaningful.

While the perfect gift is important, what matters most is the thought and care behind it. The holidays remind us to connect with one another, and a thoughtful gesture—no matter how small or basic—can convey how much someone means to you. So this season, take a step back, think about adding your own flare to make your trendy gift more creative and enjoy the process of giving.