50 Fail-Proof Gift Ideas for Those Hard-to-Shop-For Girlfriends
Self-awareness is the cornerstone of growth, so it's time for me to admit something...I am one of those hard-to-shop-for girlfriends. Ever since I was young, I've been picky about everything I own, which has made the process of gift-giving challenging for my loved ones. Unfortunately for my partner, that pickiness has only worsened with age (blame it on my career path). I've accepted that I'm not the easiest person to shop for, so I've come up with coping mechanisms—i.e., sharing an entire wishlist with my boyfriend.
But I'm guessing if you clicked on this article, your girlfriend might not be as extra as I am and has not shared an entire holiday wish list. In that case, you're probably wondering, what should I get my girlfriend? And admittedly, I know that choosing the perfect gift for a partner, especially one you know is picky or already owns a lot of great things, is no easy task. In that case, having a few fail-proof gift ideas to rely on is of the utmost importance.
Luckily for you, I've rounded up the 50 best gifts for girlfriends at every price point, using my pickiness and general fashion knowledge as a barometer for what makes these gifts great. Whether you're shopping for someone obsessed with fashion, beauty, or home décor, these gifts will surely make the special gal in your life gawk.
Under $150
Anyone who says candles are a boring gift idea has clearly never had the luxury of lighting a Diptyque one before. This set of three comes with its most popular scents (Roses, Babies, and Figuier) and is a simple way to add a whiff of luxury into your loved one's life.
For the girlfriend who loves jewelry, there's no better place to find her next favorite piece than Jenny Bird. With architectural shapes and demi-fine materials, it's the ideal place to find jewelry that will make her jaw drop.
Dior's lip balm set is the easiest way to any girl's heart.
Some gift ideas never go out of style, such as a scarf. But if you're shopping for someone more stylish, opt for this gift idea from a trendier brand like ACNE Studios.
Land yourself on their nice list by gifting them a bucket hat from Jacquemus.
The sure way to get custody of your hoodie again is by gifting them their own. We recommend this velour one from Juicy Couture.
When in doubt, a pair of sneakers is never a bad gift idea. The key is to opt for a pair of kicks with more trend-forward elements—e.g., these Converse made from leather.
Does your girlfriend drag you to every museum? Can you find her at every gallery opening? Well, you'll want to give her a gift that speaks to her love for art. And this compilation of over 200 modern paintings in coffee table book form does just that.
For the homebody on your list, give them something beautiful to add to their space, like a vase from Anissa Kermiche. These ceramics are beloved among the fashion set and make the perfect gift when paired with a floral subscription.
I have yet to meet a woman who doesn't swear by Olaplex's haircare line. It's the gift that everyone wants, no exaggeration.
Whether your partner loves to entertain or just loves pretty things, this unique set of ceramic plates is sure to bring them joy.
For the music-obsessed girlfriend in your life, there's no better gift than a record player. Just be sure to also buy a few of her favorite albums on vinyl too.
Let's be clear: Your girlfriend is the main character in your love story. And what better way to show them that than with sunglasses that embody that energy?
The sleek shoulder bag comes in 12 colorways, making it the perfect everyday bag.
Reformation's cashmere sweaters are a luxe gift idea that won't cost you a lot.
Pro tip: Gift them with pieces you know they'll actually wear, like a designer leather belt.
As a self-identified picky shopper, I can tell you without a doubt that a classic pair of riding boots is never a bad gift idea.
Do they take their skincare routine seriously? Then you'll want to consider giving them this Shani Darden skincare set with retinol, a lactic acid serum, and eye cream.
For those with a sweet tooth, it doesn't get much better than champagne-flavored gummy bears.
Under $350
I bought this Saint Laurent cardholder as a gift to myself, and my only regret is that I didn't get my partner to buy it for me.
I can't think of a more timeless gift idea than a timepiece. But if you don't want to gift them with any bland old watch, then opt for a piece from Breda, as they feature more trend-forward elements that your girlfriend will appreciate.
Want your girlfriend to stop borrowing your favorite baseball cap? Buy them a designer one (like this Off-White one) to get them to give back your beloved hat once and for all.
Apparis's faux furs are the ideal gift for the sustainability minded partner who still loves a statement coat.
Every holiday season, there's always one handbag that manages to make its way onto the wish lists of many—this year, it's sure to be Luar's iconic Ana bag.
Ganni's Chelsea boots are a perennial favorite among the fashion set, making them the perfect gift.
If you've spent hours in the aisle at Sephora waiting for your girlfriend to pick out which products she wants, then you know how obsessed they are with makeup. Consider this advent calender from Charlotte Tilbury the best possible gift for them.
You really can't ever go wrong with gifting them with initial jewelry, especially when it's as stunning as this dainty pave diamond pendant from Stone and Strand.
Give her this oversize button-down so she'll stop stealing yours.
If your girlfriend is devoutly obsessed with trends, she's probably talked about the return of ballet flats at some point. Why not prove you were listening by gifting her a pair of Tory Burch flats? These are not only back in style but also something you know she'll wear repeatedly.
History and fashion buffs will appreciate this coffee table book dedicated to the work of designer John Galliano.
Gifting them diamonds doesn't have to cost a fortune; simply opt for lab-grown versions like this one from Pandora.
Another safe gift idea? Anything from Staud. The brand is beloved among the fashion set for its knitwear, bags, and boots.
You know very well your girlfriend won't buy herself a good pair of headphones, so do it for her.
Spoil Them
Celine's Triomphe sunglasses continue to be a best seller among the fashion set—for a good reason. The classic shape makes them the perfect pair of shades for anyone.
These Prada symbol earrings were viral on Instagram for quite some time and will make the perfect gift for the social-media-obsessed partner.
Shopping for a homebody? Gift them with a luxurious set of feather-adored pajamas from Sleeper.
I have yet to hear anyone ever complain about unwrapping a pair of Loewe shoes.
Want to speed up the time they spend blow-drying their hair? Gift them this Dyson hair dryer. It's an investment in their haircare routine and your sanity.
What better way to really show them you love them than with jewelry? Made from tourmaline and diamonds, this ring is sure to put a little sparkle in your partner's eyes.
Every girlfriend who's even remotely interested in fashion will be about this Balenciaga bag.
If my partner is reading this story, these boots are at the top of my wish list.
Khaite's cardigans make for the perfect addition to any woman's wardrobe.
Made from silk and wool, this logo-adorned Fendi scarf is as functional as it is fashionable.
Nanushka's luxe vegan leathers are sure to impress the pickiest of girlfriends.
Once a day, I send this bag to my very own boyfriend begging for it as a gift, so you know it's good.
Next, Your Guide to Giving Black-Owned Brands at Every Price Point
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman is a fashion editor living in New York City. What began as a hobby (blogging on Tumblr) transformed into a career dedicated to storytelling through various forms of digital media. She started her career at the print publication 303 Magazine, where she wrote stories, helped produce photo shoots, and planned Denver Fashion Week. After moving to Los Angeles, she worked as MyDomaine's social media editor until she was promoted to work across all of Clique's publications (MyDomaine, Byrdie, and Who What Wear) as the community manager. Over the past few years, Jasmine has worked on Who What Wear's editorial team, using her extensive background to champion rising BIPOC designers, weigh in on viral trends, and profile stars such as Janet Mock and Victoria Monét. She is especially interested in exploring how art, fashion, and pop culture intersect online and IRL.
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