50 Gift Ideas For Girls/Girlfriends

This holiday season I asked you guys who you needed help shopping for. One of the most popular answers was teen/twenty-something females. Whether this young lady happens to be a daughter, niece, granddaughter, or girlfriend she’s sure to love any of these gift ideas!

I want my gift guides to be as authentic and helpful as possible for you this year—so, I’m starting off by sharing a few things on my own wishlist! I also took it upon myself to sit down and ask many of my friends what they would like to receive this holiday season/some of their favorite gifts they’ve received in the past.

I’ve generated a list of the top 50 most popular answers amongst them and threw in a few favorites that I’ve received in the past. As always, everything (that I could find) is linked in order from least expensive to most expensive (left to right) to make things as convenient as possible for you!

Also, the more “relationship-y” ideas are towards the end!

(click on the photo to open the link!)

1. High Top Converse 

I never thought I’d ever crave a pair of Converse in my wardrobe again but it’s true what they say—what goes around comes around. And suddenly everyone and their mother is wearing platform, high top Converse. I’m dying to get my hands on the white pair and these are at the top of my Christmas list this holiday season!

2. Nike air forces 

Nike Air Forces are the ultimate college shoe and shockingly enough, I don’t already have a pair. There are a few different versions out there and I’m loving all of the leather versions, platform soles, and even the hightops. I know I already have high top Converse on my list, but a pair of tall Nikes to go with my comfy joggers and edgier outfits is sounding very appealing all of a sudden.

3. Prada-Like Crossbody Bag 

Prada recently released their Nylon Re-Edition 2000 Shoulder Bag and it is the cutest bag ever. However, I certainly can’t justify spending $1,200 on a trendy bag nor would anyone ever purchase one for me, lol. Therefore a look-alike is on my wishlist this holiday season. I’ve found tons of bags similar in style from places like SheIn, Boohoo, and Pretty Little Thing that will serve the same purpose for a fraction of the cost. My favorite is the Amazon one!

4. Claw clips

Hair accessories are always a good Christmas gift idea, especially if you need something small to complete a gift basket or to fill a stocking. I’ll be asking for a few claw clips this holiday season so I can rock Jennifer Anniston’s most popular hairstyle from the 90s. Nothing beats the twist back look with a few strands framing the face!

5. Alexa Plug In Device

This was on my holiday wishlist until Connor’s parents surprised me with one “just because”. I have an Amazon Alexa Echo Show at school and it sits in my bedroom. I seriously use it for everything and would be lost without it! I’ve been wanting something to listen to music on and ask questions for my living room/desk area and Amazon just came out with these small plug-in devices that respond to commands and act as a mini speaker. This hooks up to my larger Alexa so I’m able to have her in two places at once without having to buy a whole new device.

6. At Home Gel polish machine

Onto the actual gift ideas and not my own wishlist, lol. One of the questions I get most often across my platforms is what I wear on my nails. I bought myself this at-home gel polish machine for my birthday and it is the best. My nails last anywhere from 10-20 days (depending on if I start picking them off) and they don’t chip which is the best part. It’s super easy to use and pays for itself within the first two uses since nail salons charge upwards of $40 for a gel manicure. You can also add additional polishes and gems for extra gift ideas.

7. 2021 Planner

A new planner is something I ask for every holiday season. I swear by Happy planners from the brand Create 365. I’ve been using their planners since my junior year of high school and will never go back! I typically get the size large, horizontal layout. I’ve already purchased the one I will be using in 2021—this specific one (the one with the heart cover) comes undated so you can begin it any month you desire. The cover isn’t the cutest but I prefer the inside to be neutral colors and this one checked that box. Linking a few other ones I like in different styles for you to shop as well.

8. Planner Accessories

If you’re getting your girl a planner, I highly recommend getting her a few accessories to go with, especially if she’s trying to get organized in the new year. Tombow calligraphy pens, washi tape, and Create 365 sticker sets are all things I use daily when planning. Grab a few small things to fill out your planner purchase.

9. Revlon one-step Hairdryer

So many people love the Dyson Airwrap for giving themself an at-home blowout and while I would love one myself, I can’t justify spending $550 on a hairdryer. And I’m sure many of you can’t either. The Revlon One-Step Hairdryer is an awesome alternative. These are only $40 and go on sale every holiday! You can dry your hair while styling it super quickly using this bad boy. It works best on hair that’s a little thicker, however, I have pretty thin hair and it still gets the job done.

10. Ring Light

Ring lights aren’t just for content creators. Although, if you do have a girl in your life who is super into blogging, YouTube, or Tik Tok I highly recommend gifting them a ring light or some other type of artificial lighting. I also have these umbrella lights and box lights but the ring light is hands down my favorite. I use this daily when taking my outfit of the day photos in my bedroom, a mini one is great for taking selfies and doing your makeup too!

11. Initial Necklace 

At the end of my junior year, Connor’s mom gifted me a small gold ‘M’ necklace to symbolize being a baseball manager, my name, and their last name. It’s one of my favorite pieces of jewelry and I wear it daily. It’s from The Silver Heron, a small local store here in Maryland. Here is their Instagram @thesilverheron if you’re interested in checking them out. However, any type of initial necklace will do. I’ve had a few that I’ve cycled through over the years and always love how timeless they are!

12. Hydro Flask

If you don’t have a Hydro Flask by now, what are you waiting for?! Every girl needs one. These will keep your water ice cold all day long and they come in tons of colors. I know a water bottle may not seem like the most exciting gift, but it’s something practical that she will use almost daily.

13. White Booties 

White booties are another staple piece in my closet. I’ve got a few different pairs and I reach for them constantly for sorority functions, going out, and everyday wear. The Chinese Laundry pair is definitely my favorite despite them being a bit pricier.

14. Mantra Band

My mom gifted me a Mantra Band a few years ago and it’s hands down my most worn piece of jewelry. Mine is gold and says “Dream, Believe, Achieve” because that’s the kind of mindset I have. This is a classic piece of jewelry that’s still rather thoughtful as you can choose a mantra that you feel suits your girl best.

15. Keurig 

Keurigs are an awesome idea for the coffee lover. There are tons of different models out there but the solo cup seems to be the most popular, especially amongst college students. I’m not a coffee drinker myself but my roommate last year and my current roommate both had this model and use it daily. If you have a soon to be college student in your life, I highly recommend gifting them something like a Keurig that they can use now and bring to their dorm/appartment in a few months.

16. Fake Eyelash Set 

Fake lashes are something I wear on a weekly basis but absolutely hate purchasing for myself. I always feel guilty spending money on makeup despite wearing it every day which is why I love receiving Ulta gift cards and things like lash sets around the holidays. I swear by the Ardel Demi Whispies #105. I wear these lashes for every photoshoot but love getting the holiday variety packs to try out new styles too.

17. Airpods 

Moving onto a few tech-related gift ideas. Airpods are an absolute must-have at this age. I seriously do not know how I would survive college without my Airpods. Wireless headphones make life so much easier and are a necessity when studying in public spaces or while editing. I know for a fact my roommates don’t want to hear my voice replaying over and over each morning, lol. I don’t have the wireless charging case and if I’m being honest, I don’t really feel it’s worth the price difference.

18. Alexa 

I mentioned my Alexa earlier in this post and it’s one of the best gift ideas. Connor’s fam gifted me mine a few years ago and I use it daily. I have the Echo Show 2 which has a rather large screen and it sits on my nightstand. However, there are several different versions that may work better for you. I gave my parents one last year after they swore they would never use it and I catch them talking to her daily! It’s so convenient— especially for listening to music, setting alarms, and calling people!

19. Apple Watch 

Apple watches are so popular amongst college kids right now! They sync up to your phone and allow you to track your steps, receive messages, and get notifications. If I’m being honest, I go through phases where I wear mine daily and then forget about it for a few weeks. But, that’s mostly because I dress nice every day and love my gold jewelry. My roommates and mom all swear by theirs and wear them 24/7. I highly recommend it if you’re trying to get in shape or if you’re headed to college soon! You definitely don’t need to pay extra money for the GPS + Cellular and although there’s a Series 6 out by now, the 3 does everything you could ever want.

20. Procreate

If the female in your life is creative, has an iPad, wants to up their YouTube game, or is interested in pursuing an arts degree in college I highly recommend gifting them a Procreate subscription. Procreate is a digital painting app that allows you to doodle and create sketches. Fashion Design majors use this religiously at Kent and I know so many YouTubers who swear by this for creating their thumbnails. It works best with an Apple Pencil and an iPad which are obviously investments but worth it in the long run.

21. Customizable phone case/computer case

The amount of comments I get on my customized computer skin from Case App is unreal. I created a custom picture collage laptop skin and matching phone case a year and a half ago featuring some of my favorite photos and I love them. This is a super sweet gift idea for your best friend, sister, or girlfriend. Points for sentimental value too! I know there are a few different websites that allow you to create these but CaseApp is where I made mine. It’s just a skin which means it’s a sticker so I recommend buying a clear case from Amazon and sticking the skin over top of the clear case so that your computer is still protected

22. Slippers

I collaborated with Ugg back in August and I got two pairs of slippers from them. The Fluffitas are my absolute favorite shoes and I wear them daily around my sorority house. They have super thick soles so they can be worn out of the house while running errands too which is a lifesaver. Ugg has so many adorable slipper styles worth checking out and although they are an investment, they will last you years. There are so many other awesome slippers out there if you’re just looking for something cheap!

23. Christmas pajamas

You can’t go wrong with Christmas PJs. I mean come on, who doesn’t love curling up in something fun and festive?! Old Navy is always my go-to spot for jammies. They sell separates, fuzzy socks, and matching sets (my personal preference). However, I’ll link a few other favorites from various retailers so you can get some variety. A pair of these would go perfectly with new slippers if you’re looking to group a gift together.

24.Cardholder/Wallet

I have been needing a new cardholder for months now and have yet to get my hands on one. Although I would love a nice “big girl” wallet, a small cardholder is what I prefer throughout my college days because I can hook it to my car keys and lanyard. This is so helpful, especially because I need my Student ID on me at all times. Kate Spade has my favorite ones but there are plenty of affordable options out there. This would be the perfect smaller gift idea paired with a college lanyard for your soon to be high school graduate!

25. Hair Rollers

I don’t know why but something about hot rollers seems so appealing to me these days. I’ve been seeing so many Tik Tokers rolling their hair for the perfect at-home blowout and it looks amazing every time! I’d recommend double-checking with your girl prior to purchasing this one to make sure it’s something she’ll actually use since it is such a unique idea! I’ve used the velcro rollers from the Dry Bar and they are awesome (although not heated)!

26. Teeth Whitening System 

Teeth whitener is another one of those things that every girl wants but doesn’t want to pay for themself. I used the Smile Brilliant teeth-whitening system over three years ago and my teeth are still as white as ever. That was a professional kit however, many people are fine using the Crest whitening strips as well. This is an awesome idea for anyone who is a heavy coffee or red wine drinker since those stain your teeth so easily.

27. Self Tanner

Self-tanner also falls under that category and is a must if you want a summer glow in the winter without risking skin cancer from the tanning beds. There are all sorts of self-tanners out there. I recommend Jergens Wet Glow for self-tanning beginners. Tanologist if you’re looking for a natural, everyday glow, and either Mystic Tan or Loving Tan if you’re wanting a bold, bronze tan for a special occasion. Don’t forget a mitt and some face drops to finish off this gift.

28. Weighted/heated Blanket 

I can’t think of a single girl who’d ever complain about receiving a weighted or heated blanket for the holidays. Bonus points if the blanket does both, lol! Make sure you do a little research before buying a weighted blanket; there are specific weights you are supposed to buy depending on how much the person weighs.

29. Clothing Rack 

My sister’s boyfriend always buys me something within the $20 price range for Christmas and many years ago he bought me my first ever clothing rack. And although it was just a cheap little thing off of Amazon, it’s one of my favorite gifts I’ve ever gotten. I keep my clothing rack in our guest room and it’s how I keep track of new clothing, what needs to be photographed, etc. I highly recommend a single rod rack for the fashion lover in your life so she can display her new, trendy items!

30. Subscription To Spotify/Apple Music

I listen to music every day on Spotify and yet I’m still too cheap to buy myself Spotify Premium. It’s only a few dollars a month if you’re a student and an awesome gift idea. I don’t know anybody who would complain about having ads removed from their Monday morning jam session! Some people prefer streaming through Apple music which is a subscription service as well. Such an underrated gift idea!

31. Buxom Lipglosses

Every holiday season Ulta and Sephora come out with the cutest holiday gift sets and every single year they do one featuring the Buxom Full-On Lipglosses. These are my absolute favorite glosses ever. They are minty, opaque, and last for ages. I know for a fact I will be getting my roommate one of these sets for Christmas since she’s obsessed too!

32. Self Defense Keychain

My friend Sam actually recommended this gift idea to me when fixing my pepper spray one night. He mentioned that his sister has one that she keeps on her keys in case of emergencies and suggested I get one just to be safe. This is an awesome stocking stuffer idea. You never know what kind of sticky situation you may be in!

33. Belt

I’ve got 101 belts in my closet by now. There is no closet essential I swear by more than a belt. Belts can completely transform an outfit in no time and the best part is, they can be so inexpensive. My favorites are from SheIn and Romwe but of course, there are plenty of nicer options out there from designers like Tory Burch and Gucci if you’re looking for a professional one that will last a lifetime.

34. Phone Wallet

Little stick-on phone wallets are a must for many teens. This is a super inexpensive gift idea yet something so practical. These simply stick onto the back of your phone case and provide easy access to your student ID and credit cards. Such a perfect idea if your girl doesn’t like the fuss of carrying a wallet/purse everywhere!

35. Perfume 

I’m not a perfume wearer myself but I know most ladies are. A new perfume is such a luxury and something most ladies look forward to receiving a refill around the holidays. If you know her favorite, pick her up a new bottle. If you’re unsure of a scent, pick up one of the sampler sets from Sephora so she can test a bunch of new ones. Then for her birthday, you can buy her the full size of her favorite!

36. Face Mask Kit

Everyone loves a little self-care action around Christmas time. Face masks are always a sweet treat to unwind from the week. Peter Thomas Roth and Laneige have my favorites! This is a great gift to add to a gift basket/stocking.

37. Cute Beanie 

Beanies are always appreciated once it gets chilly. Whether you’re grabbing a cute puff ball beanie or something edgy from Carhart, she’s sure to appreciate this one.

38. Lululemon Leggings

I love receiving activewear for Christmas and I know so many females who would agree, While there are hundreds of brands out there—Fabletics, Ellie Activewear, 90 Degree By Reflex, Yogalicious, and more. Lululemon seems to be the most desired of the bunch. I can’t blame them; Lululemon leggings last years and are among the highest quality. The Wunder Under and Aligns are their two most popular styles; do a little reading and find out which style would suit your girl best!

39. A Nice Watch 

I love wearing a watch. And while yes, some days do call for my Apple watch, most days call for my gold Fossil watch that I received many Christmases ago from my mom. My sister’s been wearing a silver one from them since her freshman year of high school and swears by it! Watches are definitely an investment but they really are a timeless essential in so many female’s wardrobes. DKNY, Michael Kors, and Daniel Wellington are other brands worth checking out.

40. New Palette 

Eyeshadow palettes are always an exciting gift to receive. I used to get the new Urban Decay Naked palette every year for Christmas but in recent years I’ve loved Too Faced, Morphe, and Violet Voss. If you’re unsure as to which palette she may enjoy, play it safe and give her a gift card to Sephora or Ulta to choose one for herself. In my experience, buying neutrals is always a safe bet!

41. Presets

If you’re a boy who’s reading this, trying to find last-minute ideas for your girlfriend, presets are an awesome idea! If you don’t know what a Preset is, it’s a filter that can be used to edit photos. Most girls use a preset to edit their Instagram photos (it’s how she makes your skin look tanner, and your teeth whiter lol)! Find out what her favorite kind are and buy her the latest pack! You typically buy these from a website and just download them to your phone. Tezza, Aspyn Ovard, and Cardigansandlattes have some of my favorites.

42. Streaming Service Subscription

Similar to Spotify/Apple Music, a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney Plus is so underrated. This is something you can use almost daily and it’s something you can watch together! Hulu comes free with a student Spotify subscription so perhaps you could double up in this area! Que the movie marathon now….

43.Thoughtful Jewelry 

Now that we’re dabbling into more “girlfriend” gift ideas, I do just want to mention that all of these gift ideas came directly from my guy friends. These were all items that they’ve gifted significant others in the past OR items that you ladies said stood out from your boyfriends!

Thoughtful jewelry was the number one most said answer from both the ladies and the gents. Which, was no surprise to me. Most guys said they purchased a piece of jewelry that had some sort of sentimental value—either a birthstone, anniversary date, or initial on it to represent their relationship.

If you’re wanting something a bit more generic that she’s sure to wear forever, I always recommend something from Kendra Scott. They have so many beautiful pieces! I’ve given and received jewelry from them countless times and wear them almost daily. Don’t forget to do some research beforehand to see if she prefers silver or gold!

44. Rings 

Rings were another very popular answer. Which, I realize is very similar to “thoughtful jewelry”, lol. However, most people responded by saying their ring was more than “just a ring”, it was either a promise ring, something engraved, or it was an engagement ring—which, I realize isn’t just any gift.

My twin sister has a few Pandora rings from her boyfriend and has worn them daily over the last four years. As far as favorite gifts go— this answer won by a landslide amongst you all! My everyday gold rings are from Ana Luisa.

45. Lingerie 

To no surprise, many guys said a bottle of wine + lingerie was one of their favorite gifts to give. Depending on where you buy from, this can be a rather inexpensive, yet exciting gift idea. Obviously, make sure you are in the stage of your relationship where buying your significant other lingerie is acceptable. Even some of the ladies I spoke with for my moms/mother in law gift guide said this was a gift they would still love to receive. Plus, it’s sort of a gift for both parties too so double win here.

46. Photo Of You Two

You can never go wrong with a framed photo, whether it’s of you and your best friend, sister,  or girlfriend. Frames can be found literally anywhere and photos can be printed at your local CVS or Walmart for super cheap. This is such an easy idea that’s still super sweet!

47. Photo Keychain 

There are so many cool ways to display photos of you and your significant other—keychains rock because she can carry it everywhere! I’ve seen so many cool ones on Tik Tok recently and linked some that I think she’ll love.

48. Something Homemade

Aside from jewelry, most females responded saying their favorite gift from a significant other was something homemade; whether it be a box of memories (old receipts, movie stubs, corsages, etc), a photo album with handwritten captions, or a sweet love letter. I know it may seem cheesy, but gifts from the heart always mean more than something store-bought.

When asking guys about gifts they’ve given significant others, all but one said they usually give one store-bought gift and one homemade/couple-ish gift like the ones we just discussed.

49. Mani/Pedi

Give your girl some time to relax and pamper herself! A gift certificate to the local nail salon for a manicure/pedicure is one of my favorite gifts to receive. The baseball coaches always gave me one of these at the end of the season and it was such a treat for me since I’m not usually someone who pays to get their nails done.

50. “Open When” Letters

If you and your significant other are long-distance “open when” letters are an awesome idea for the holidays. There are tons of ideas for these on Pinterest that you can check out here. Like I mentioned earlier, love letters were a huge hit, and being reminded you’re loved when you’re sad, reaching an exciting milestone, or feeling alone is always appreciated. You can even find a cute box to put the letters in from the dollar section of Target.