🛍️ The $50 and under gift guide
Cheap thrills that deliver.
I’m aware fifty dollars isn’t what it used to be. I’m also aware many things under fifty dollars are garbage. And that’s why I’ve spent an embarrassing amount of time hunting for things that aren’t. The stuff below won’t change lives (let’s be real, nothing under fifty bucks will), but they will work exactly as promised, look good doing it, and—this is the important part—make the person who receives them feel like you actually paid attention.
Sofia Coppola didn’t slap her name on a lip balm for the check—she collaborated on a tinted version of one she already loved: and that’s something major when it comes to a celebrity beauty product.
These Nike leggings are the equivalent of a good blazer: They go everywhere, they never let you down, and unlike most athletic wear, they’re actually thick enough that you won’t spend the entire day wondering if anyone can see your entire biography.
I’m impressed by this Wayfair down comforter alternative that rivals my Buffy (though that’s also 25% off this week) at an excellent price.
The e.l.f. Beauty Love at First Frost advent calendar is filled with 12 skincare and makeup products for $45.
This Woolrich X Target collab sweater manages to be somehow beachy, yet cozy. My husband has even mentioned he loves when I wear it.
These fleece pants are the rare instance of something engineered for warmth that actually looks like you didn’t just give up on everything—which, in a man’s workout wardrobe, is basically innovation.
Spicewell New Salt & Pepper has adorable Jonathan Adler packaging I was smitten with until the actually exceptional spices inside convinced me to abandon standard-issue seasonings for good.
Le Creuset Mini Cocotte is a perfect little pot that makes you feel like you’re cooking in Lyon even if you’re just melting butter on a Tuesday.
Maison Margiela Beach Walk is the olfactory equivalent of closing your eyes on a hot day—it doesn’t transport you anywhere, it just makes you remember you’ve been somewhere good.
This leave-in spray repair treatment that promises to fix damaged hair in 90 seconds is life changing, and a single use will make you believe your hair deserves better than whatever you’ve been doing to it. Pair it with my favorite dryer (decidedly not under $50, alas), and your hair will be in far better condition by spring thaw.
The Foreo Luna 3 is a rare thing that actually does what it promises, and that’s why I’m now that person who can’t shut up about her facial cleansing routine.
Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt Candle is a candle for people who like their luxury understated, which is to say: a candle for people with taste.
Heavenly Tea Leaves Loose Leaf Tea Sampler is the gift that says you know they deserve to drink something that tastes like it was chosen with intention, not grabbed because it was on sale at Whole Foods.
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