If You Want To Be The Best Gift-Giver In Your Friend Group, These 27 Things From Nordstrom Are A Good Place To Start

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21-02-2025

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Friendship isn't a competition but if gift-giving was a game, you would win.
1. A bottle of nourishing L'Occitane almond shower oil that'll lather up into a milky foam and leave their skin feeling clean and moisturized at the same time. It'll make the humble daily shower feel like a truly luxurious, spa-like experience, which is a pretty great gift, if you ask me.
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Promising review:"Awesome shower gel oil. Truly amazing on skin, especially the rough areas (elbows, knees, etc.). Also, the scent is nice. Expensive but well worth it." — One Love
2. A plush Disney-themed blanket so they can enjoy all the softness of a classic Barefoot Dreams throw — plus the added cuteness of Mickey and Minnie. It's so cozy and adorable, you might be tempted to keep it. As a Disney adult myself, I would not judge you if you did.
Nordstrom
3. A Nodpod weighted sleep mask for a gift that keeps on giving — in the form of a good night's sleep. It's not too heavy but still substantial enough to block out all sources of light, and the super-soft fleece will feel oh-so-comfy on their eyes. Ready, set, snooze.
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Promising review:"I have trouble falling asleep after I wake up (or get woken up) in the middle of the night. I also deal with ambient light issues from my neighbor's security lights. This sleep mask really helps me to rest when I need to. I don't necessarily fall back asleep, but it helps me relax, not toss and turn, and I feel more rested when I do get up. It also helps staying asleep / restful during sunrise as it totally blocks the light. I am not a sleep mask person, I have never used a sleep mask regularly or kept one by my pillow. Last night when I wanted to use it and couldn't find it I almost flipped out. It had fallen behind the bed, but I couldn't rest until I retrieved it. I also have dry eye, and I think this indirectly helps with it by preventing me from opening my eyes or being affected from airflow." — inkonapin
4. A delicate gold-plated necklace featuring a pavé heart and freshwater pearl to add a little sparkle to all their outfits. And they'll think of you (and how you're two peas in a pod) every time they wear it — which will be all the darn time.
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5. A tube of Clarins Lip Comfort Oil that'll help hydrate, plump, and add just a hint of color — all without being sticky. It's formulated with a trio of plant oils and other skincare ingredients so they can even use it as a soothing overnight treatment. The sleek packaging and large doe-foot applicator make it feel extra luxe.
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I have several friends who swear by this oil over other popular brands because of how light it feels on the lips.
Promising review:"If you were looking for a sign to buy this lip oil, here's your sign! They feel amazing on the lips, have great color payoff, and smell good enough to eat! Your lips will also be hydrated and the applicator feels so good. 10/10." — Camilahh
6. A Longchamp Le Pliage pouch (made of durable nylon and leather) they can use as a mini top-handle bag or a cosmetics case — or both, if they're traveling. It's kind of a splurge, but they'll definitely be getting a LOT of use out of it for years to come.
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I've actually gifted this little purse to a close friend of mine and she uses it all the time. It still looks great after being thrown around in travel bags and is easy to wipe clean, too. Many people convert this into a crossbody bag by purchasing an additional strap kit, which makes it even more versatile.
Promising review:"I adore this cosmetics case. It fits a great amount and looks so cute! I own the large tote as well and love using them together. I use the case to hold my keys, phone, card holder and sunglasses. So convenient to just grab and go when I head to the gym or on a quick errand. I highly recommend!" — Scarlett88
7. A Marshall mini wireless speaker so they can blast their incredibly niche playlists (*nostalgic bops for driving to the grocery store*) and podcasts (Gilmore Girls rewatch pod, anyone?) in the shower, their backyard, or at the beach. It's small but powerful and resistant to dust and water. The retro aesthetic means it'll look great hanging off their backpack or displayed on a bookshelf.
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8. A tube of plant-based Aesop hand cream to rescue their dry, flaky skin from the cruel, relentless winter winds. You might think I'm exaggerating but I'm not — I was gifted a tube of this during Christmas and it singlehandedly rescued my sandpaper hands, restoring them to a normal texture after a little more than a week of regular use.
Nordstrom
This product is free of parabens, animal ingredients, and color additives. Honestly, this is one of my favorite products to gift and receive. The smell is herbaceous, which I love, but some folks find it a bit strong.
Promising review:"I fell in love with this hand balm when I first tried it, years ago. I have been using it ever since. It leaves my hands soft and nourished without a greasy feel. I've even gifted to friends who have, like me, become addicted to this hand cream. I use it every night before going to bed and throughout the day as needed after washing my hands. WARNING: Don't buy unless you want soft, velvety, moisturized, youthful-looking hands!" — Nana The Champ
9. A pack of Polo Ralph Lauren socks because as adults, socks — especially fancy socks — are some of the best gifts one can receive. We all need 'em but it feels like a chore to buy them. So be that good friend who buys others new socks. Reviewers say these are super comfy.
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Polo makes pretty great socks — I had some from this brand, although not these exact pairs, and they lasted me all through college and even a few years after that.
10. A statement ear cuff for the friend who wants to try something new with their look but doesn't want to commit to a haircut or spend a fortune on new clothes. This piece of jewelry is sure to stand out and fetch them tons of compliments. The best part? They can wear it even if they don't have any piercings.
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Promising review:"Was looking for a new ear cuff, obsessed with how bold this one is. It's a super statement piece. I tried both the gold and silver on in person and ended up getting the silver. I always mix metals with jewelry and my ear lobe earrings are usually gold. I didn't want too matchy matchy so it's a perfect contrast. Get it." — stacijo
11. An internet-famous 40-ounce Stanley cup they'll appreciate even if they're not chronically online because it's actually a really great tumbler. It'll keep ice for up to two days, keep their drinks cold for up to 11 hours or hot for up to seven hours. It comes with a straw for easy sipping, has an ergonomic handle, and fits in most cupholders. Oh, and there are a bunch of cute colors.
It's also dishwasher-safe. I got this for my aunt for Christmas because she's in her Pilates era and she loves it and uses it all the time.
Promising review:"Okay I had FOMO, and I was just trying to buy it because it was on Nordstrom. I own a Hydro, and lemme tell you, this one kept my water cold for 12 hours (overnight) next to my nightstand. I also bought a straw cover and a cushion for the bottom. 40oz is better than the 30oz! It's big and obnoxious for a reason! Drink your water and be basic!" — Dandan98
12. A tube of Clinique Almost Lipstick that'll immediately become one of their most-used beauty products and lemme tell you why. The formula is sheer but buildable (kind of like a tinted lip balm), the Black Honey shade looks great on just about anyone, and it has this smooth-but-firm texture that makes it very satisfying to apply. It's one of Clinque's best-selling products and has been for years — and for good reason.
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I've literally been using this product since college and I still have a tube of this in my makeup bag because it's still so good. It really is the perfect Goldilocks product for when you don't want full-on lipstick but need a little more than a tinted lip balm or oil. This product is 100% fragrance-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free.
Promising review:"I have been using this lipstick since I was a teenager, almost 20 years now! I still love it. Beautiful color that works well in any season. It goes on very sheer, but you can pump up the color by adding an additional layer. It also works well in a pinch as a blush." — meganlbrown
13. A fruit-shaped bag charm crafted from full-grain leather for the friend who loves cute things, is always on the the go, and also prone to losing things. (Why do I know several people who fit this description?) This trendy yet practical accessory is actually designed to hold an Apple AirTag so they can keep track of their bag, wallet, or suitcase in the cutest way possible.
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14. A Fishwife Tinned Seafood Co. gift set including two best-selling smoked-fish varieties (rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon)...and a scented candle so, and I quote, "there's no need to worry about your house smelling like a fish market." Genius idea, honestly. Why didn't I think of this combo?
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The pop-top candle also comes with matches.
15. A pair of Zella 7/8 leggings with four-way stretch and sweat-wicking properties they can wear to hot yoga or just on their day off with an oversized hoodie (the best kind of outfit, IMO). Reviewers say these don't slip down during workouts nor are they see-through.
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Promising review:"Absolutely love these leggings! The material is on the thicker side, which I love, and they're high-waisted and hold you in at the stomach. They're so comfortable and they don't slide down at all during your workouts." — ZKSC
16. The stainless-steel version of the popular Always Pan by Our Place to encourage the chef in your life to whip up many more tasty dishes... for you to try *wink*. This pan not only looks stunning but the interior is actually made of titanium, which is nonstick and 300% harder than typical stainless-steel, making it virtually indestructible, safe for use with metal utensils, and able to withstand extremely high temperatures (the entire thing can go inside the oven).
Nordstrom
This multifunctional pan sautés, fries, roasts, boils, bakes, braises, sears, strains, serves and stores. It features extra-deep sides, a rivet-free design, and a domed lid that locks in steam and provides ample space for roasting. It's also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. What's really cool is that the nonstick technology used in this pan is coating-free and made without PFAS (otherwise known as forever chemicals). I bought this pan for my grandma when she moved into her new place and loved it so much that I bought it again...for myself.
18. A plant-based soap that'll clean their jewelry every time they wash their hands. The nontoxic formula is designed to trap dirt, oil, beauty buildup, and other residues, leaving their bracelets and rings sparkling clean while still being gentle on their skin. Big applause to whoever invented this and also to you for treating someone to this clever gift.
Nordstrom
This product is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfate, ammonia, fragrances, and dye. It's safe for use on all metals and stones.
Promising review:"Cannot rave about this product enough. FINALLY a convenient and all natural way to clean and shine my engagement and wedding ring. It is the best 2 for 1 because all you have to do is wash your hands and the product looks great on my sink counter. The results are wild and having sparkling jewelry gets addicting real quick! The product also lasts a long time and has an airless pump that cuts down on single use plastic... amazing. Seriously buy this now!!" — Bgerard
Price: $28
19. A sleek JW Pei faux leather bag just big enough to hold all their essentials for errands or a night out (e.g. keys, phone, wallet, lip balm). It has an adjustable strap so they can wear it on the shoulder or crossbody, and the unique wave shape makes this bag stand out despite its minimal design. And unlike genuine leather bags, this one will survive a sudden downpour or a spilled drink — she's resilient, okay?
Nordstrom
Promising review:"This little purse is absolutely charming. Not too small, not too big, but exactly right for what you need with you if you go to a restaurant, theater, party. Very good quality and nice presentation of the package. Bought it in white, now thinking — should I buy it in another color? Highly recommended." — Rachel27
Price: $89 (available in four colors)
20. Mixer cubes for making a perfectly balanced martini with no bartending skills required. They'll be so grateful for these when they throw their next party and have to make drinks for over a dozen people. Cosmos, espresso martinis, and lemon drops, coming right up!
Nordstrom
This set comes with three flavors of mixer cubes and a muddler.
Price: 18 cubes for $48
21. A Jellycat puppy plushie to be loved and cherished by grown-ups and kiddos alike. How does Jellycat makes these stuffed animals so soft and adorable?! Argh. I swear it's some kind of ancient toy-making magic.
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Promising review:"Love Jellycat products! We buy them for all of our friends having babies or grandchildren. They are so soft and sweet looking. Bashful went to London. I'm sure his new owner will love him as much as I do giving them a Jellycat." — Topo
Price: $28
22. An aesthetically pleasing detangling hairbrush with two-tiered teeth — the long teeth detangle, while the shorter teeth smooth, allowing the brush to glide smoothly through all types of dry or wet hair, pain-free. It's also designed to evenly draw shampoo and conditioning treatments through the hair in the shower. So you're really giving them the gift of smooth hair with less breakage, if you think about it.
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Promising review:"I have long hair that falls below my waist and when I tell you how amazing this hair brush is. I have tried many different types of hairbrushes and this is by far the best one. It is so gentle on the hair and especially on the scalp, I've also noticed that my hair doesn't fall out as much as when I used to use my wet brush. Another important thing I liked about it was how easy it is to remove your hair from the brush. Everything about it i love, from the color to the design to the quality and everything else. It has such a sleek look to it. Finally found a hairbrush that I actually like, I am going to be buying more to keep in my travel bags. Definitely recommend!!" — idkmynameisnessa
Price: $18.99 (available in two colors)
23. A bottle of Brightland Alive extra virgin olive oil made for drizzling, dipping, and dressing up salads, soups, breads, roasted veggies, and even ice cream or sorbet (don't knock it 'til you try it) — the list goes on. The giftable bottle is just an added bonus. I mean, who wouldn't want this sitting on their countertop?
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According to Brightland, their extra virgin olive oils have a polyphenol count ranging from 280-330 mg/kg. A high polyphenol count means it's rich in antioxidants, which may have some health benefits. Their olives are grown on family farms in California's Central Coast and Valley.
I've gifted and received this olive oil many times and it's pretty much beloved by everyone who's tasted it. It's incredibly fresh and smooth. Fun fact: the fully-recyclable glass bottle has been UV-coated to protect the olive oil from damaging light.
Price: $37
24. A pair of washable Rothy's slides that can be worn on city streets and sandy beaches without worry because they'll rinse clean or can be tossed in the laundry. Reviewers say they're comfortable out of the box and they look pretty stylish, too.
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These are knit with Rothy's signature thread, which is spun from recycled plastic bottles.
Promising review:"LOVE these shoes. Comfortable right out of the box!" — Emelda
Price: $139 (available in women's sizes 5–13 and six colors)
25. A paint-by-numbers kit so your pal can enjoy a chill yet fun at-home activity and also have a cute painting (we're talking guaranteed good results) to hang up afterward. These kits are so great, they've been included on Oprah's Favorite Things three (!!!) times.
Nordstrom
This kit includes an 8x10 canvas, brush set, and color map.
Price: $38
26. A chic Marc Jacobs leather card case to help your friend fulfill their New Year's resolution of downsizing their wallet, which still holds receipts from, idk, 2017?? This one has four card slots and a center slip pocket, which is just the right amount of space for credit cards, ID, and their library card (save our libraries!!).
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Promising review:"This wallet is perfect size and the quality is amazing." — jaynell
Price: $75 (available in six colors)
27. A pair of silky soft modal pajamas featuring the superior long-sleeve top and shorts combo (don't @ me, I don't make the rules) for possibly launching their career as a beauty influencer who does skincare reviews in their bathroom wearing extremely cute sleepwear. But actually, your pal will still adore this set even if they have no social media aspirations.
Nordstrom
Promising review:"These are soft as silk. I love the way the fabric feels and continues to feel after they have been washed. This color is fabulous. The fabric is light weight enough so that I can wear it in summer but I don't get chilly at night." — Baby I love this blues
Price: $48+ (available in women's sizes 1X–4X and two patterns)
After they open your amazing gift:
Netflix
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.