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By Jordi Lippe-McGrawShopping for the women in your life—whether they're your mom or wife or girlfriend—can feel like navigating a minefield. Gift the wrong thing and it's curtains. You're one scented candle away from the doghouse. But here's a secret: Instead of guessing (or panic-buying something on sale), why not just ask? That's exactly what I did. I went straight to the source and asked 14 women—busy moms, multitasking wives, and powerhouse girlfriends—what they actually want this holiday season. Spoiler: It's not another vacuum.
What I discovered might surprise you. These women aren't asking for over-the-top jewelry (well, not all of them) or luxury spa days (though they wouldn't say no to either). Their lists were a mix of practical, thoughtful, and delightfully indulgent. Think cozy essentials for their busiest days, little luxuries they'd never buy for themselves, and a few surprises that prove they're way cooler than we give them credit for.
So if you're still scratching your head over what to get for that amazing woman in your life, don't worry. I've got you covered. These are the gifts that'll actually make her smile—like, really smile—not the polite "thanks" smile you get when she's pretending to like it. Ready? Let's dive in before you settle for another bathrobe (unless that bathrobe is from Weezie, of course).
As I prepare to welcome my first baby, my goal is to transform our home into as much of a sanctuary as possible—think luxury-hotel vibes. That's why I want Jenni Kayne shearling Moroccan slippers. I've never met a slipper I didn't like, but these shearling beauties are on another level. They're cozy and chic and feel like a warm hug for your feet. —Dylan Gracen Essertier, travel journalist
I am loving the large Balenciaga rodeo bag. The soft leather, gold hardware, and unstructured shape are perfect—all while being super functional and effortless looking. I can use it daily with ease because it fits a laptop and has lots of compartments. It's the ideal quiet-luxury bag and elevates any look.—Dani Shea, stylist
Dyson's new Airstraight hair straightener has been on my Amazon wish list since it was released. Right now I'm on maternity leave and could use a little pick-me-up for myself, and I think it's finally time to upgrade. —Megan Jones, registered nurse
I succumbed to the trend of sourdough baking, and for the past six months I've been doing it without any tools, like a pioneer woman. I'm kneading dough a few times a week now, and I don't want to be sore every time I do it. For that reason, a nice stand mixer is at the top of my wish list. —Leah Dudley, government program specialist
A good belt is such an underrated gift. It’s stylish, practical, and a thoughtful way to help someone elevate their everyday wardrobe. I’ve always loved the belts from Khaite for their timeless, versatile appeal, but I recently discovered this one from Favorite Daughter, and it offers that same chic look for much less. It’s an ideal piece for the holidays, adding just the right touch of effortless polish to any outfit. —Hannah Zeskind, marketing director
I love presents—it's just who I am. Give me one big, showstopping gift over a pile of small ones any day. I am due with my third baby in January, so I am looking for a combo Christmas and push present. This watch took my breath away. A girl can dream! If my dreams don't come true, I'm new to the world of Diptyque, but my love is already deep. The classic Baies candle might just be the best candle scent in the world. So what could be better than a giant version of it? —Madison Rae, influencer
I always carry my computer in a simple black bag. I want a nice bag to have my work stuff that's professional but also practical. Everyone raves that Dagne Dover is just so practical for both day-to-day and travel. I can't wait to use its useful compartments —Biz Dziarmaga, vice president of sales, IBM
My boyfriend and I love to get dressed up and go out often. Any given Friday night you'll find us swooning over a bottle of Champagne for hours at one of our favorite spots in the city. There's something immediately sexy about a beautiful heel that sets the vibe, and I've had my eyes on the Row's Bare Sandal forever. You can't go wrong with a style that is timeless and sophisticated, and she'll think of you every time she puts them on. —Margaret Short, senior communications director, Carfrae Consulting
I am nine months pregnant with a baby coming the week after Christmas, my spending has already shifted to all things for the baby. But that's why I wanted to ask for at least one cozy thing for myself this year. This sweater will help me feel put together in the new year and will be easy to feed a baby with. Win, win. —Kristin O'Connor, private chef and founder, Superdirt
As a writer, I'm looking at a computer screen all day. Then I like to unwind at night by watching a show with my husband. So I'm constantly exposed to blue light, which can disrupt sleep patterns. That's why Warby Parker's blue-light-blocking glasses are on my wish list this year. They're cute and practical. —Jordi Lippe-McGraw, travel journalist
One of my favorite stores to visit in Hudson, New York, is Geoffrey Good's jewelry atelier. I'll be honest: I first ventured in because of his duo of adorably fluffy Samoyed dogs who are often lounging around the studio. But I keep going back because Good's pieces are dazzling, elegant, and unique. My dream would be a pair of the climber studs; I love their art deco appeal and understated size. —Juliet Izon, travel writer and author
I want a new set of tarot cards. Not sure if it's true, but I've heard they only work if you receive them as a gift. So it's the one thing I can't buy. I gave my old set away, and there's been a void in my life ever since. —Jesenia Ruiz de la Torre, lawyer
I’m a big fan of monthly massages and cupping sessions. I love this portable cupping device from Therabody that gives me the ability to recover while traveling. —Megan Graham, founder and CEO, Ries
I love the concept of a ridiculously luxe spin on a childhood favorite, like the charm necklace. And it's fun to customize jewelry to make it your own. —Chelsey Kirby, travel publicist
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