12 Holiday Gift Ideas for The Everyday Minimalist

I’ve compiled the best holiday gift ideas for the everyday minimalist. Whether you have a friend that lives by the “less is more” mantra or perhaps they just like fewer, better things. Consider these gifts upgrades to everyday lifestyle choices. Whether you’re on the hunt for holiday gifts for the special women in your life or perhaps you just want to treat yourself—I’ve put together 12 holiday gift ideas for the everyday minimalist. From sustainable beauty to luxury basics, here’s a curated collection of items that are versatile, easy to use and elevate everyday.

Rothy’s Piano Keys Handbag
Aside from my obsession with beauty products, you could say I also have a penchant for Rothy’s. The brand is known for sustainable shoes but they also make really cute handbags! The handbags are machine washable and made from recycled plastic bottles. The Piano Keys handbag is the perfect everyday purse that will fit all your essentials plus more. They also have a limited edition mini size.

Mount Lai Gua Sha
This is perhaps one of the best beauty gifts I’ve ever received and would highly recommend for the skincare obsessed. Skincare is very personal but a Gua Sha lifting tool is a must-have for any routine and has a multitude of benefits (relieves tension, brightens complexion, and contours the face) . It comes in a cute box and with an easy how-to pamphlet.

Subtl Beauty Stack
This is a great holiday gift idea for the friend who rarely wears makeup. You can build a stack that includes all the essentials for on-the-go touchups or, choose from the selection of curated stacks and exclusive holiday sets (like the Ready Set Glow stack). They are small but mighty gifts! Get 10% off your purchase with my promo code KARA10!

Glossier Beauty Bag
Most makeup bags have just one big pouch and it becomes a bottomless pitt of products. The Glossier Beauty Bag is a dream for those that like to be organized, whether at home or for travel. There’s a felt insert with multiple sections and pockets to store someone’s entire makeup routine, plus a zippered pouch on the back.

Necessaire Body Essentials
The Body Essentials is a $60 trio that includes a body wash, exfoliator and lotion. It’s sensitive skin friendly but will still keep skin nourished and clean.

Parachute Cotton Robe
This is for the homebody: the person who prefers to lounge, take hot baths and enjoys plush and snug comfort. This is a 100% Turkish cotton bathrobe that is soft, light and luxurious.

Sephora Favorites Lip Set
Who doesn’t love a good holiday lip set? The curated collection includes full-size lip products from NARS, Summer Fridays and Huda Beauty, plus deluxe minis from YSL and Clinique (in the best-selling viral TikTok shade Black Honey). The kit has versatile shades (both natural and vampy lip colors) and is an ideal way to sample various shades and brands without overspending.

Dior Apricot Cuticle Cream
Have a friend or relative with a penchant for luxury beauty? This Dior Cuticle Cream is equal parts luxurious and effective – and will definitely keep dryness at bay through the winter months.

Minimalist Magnolia Jewelry
This is my favorite jewelry shop on Etsy, especially when it comes to minimalist looks. The items are perfect for those that prefer delicate, quality gold and gold-filled jewelry. Shoppers can customize their choice of metal and add personalization on most pieces. The prices are reasonable and you’ll be supporting a small business!

L’Occitane Ornament Gift
Here’s an affordable, under $20 holiday gift for your co-worker, neighbor, teacher, or party hostess. The set includes an almond shower oil, body lotion and hand cream.

T3 Blow Dry Brush
This is a must-have for any hair novice. Long gone are the days of using a traditional blow dryer and round brush. The reviews for this online are largely positive and many people rave about how versatile it is with the round/flat brush options. The dryer is stylish and sleek and doesn’t have a steep learning curve (looking at you, Dyson). It’s also under $200 – definitely a splurge for someone special.

Jack Black Head-to-Toe Set
This set is for the minimalist man in your life and includes the Turbo Wash Cleanser for Hair & Body (my husband’s favorite), Cool Moisture Body Lotion, and Pit Boss Deodorant.

This post was originally published in November 2018 and updated in November 2021.