Traditional gift guides can be found all over the internet and in every magazine. They aren't particularly helpful, and in many cases, are pretty boring. This year, we decided to put together a non-gift guide for you, asking everyone from Rihanna's personal chef to a pair of middle schoolers what they want to give and get for the holidays.
Every day for the next month, a new pick will be sent to you in our newsletter (subscribe!), and we'll also add it here. Want to make donations your gift of choice instead? We've got you covered on that front too.
Sarah St. Lifer
Co-owner, Night + Market Song
Lot, Stock, and Barrel Customization, starts at $25
One of the best gifts I have received was a monogrammed towel from L.L.Bean. Instead of my initials or my name, my friend had "STIFLER" embroidered on it. (My high school nickname was Stifler because it is similar to St. Lifer, and everyone loves Stifler from American Pie.) Nothing beats a one-of-a-kind present!
This year, I'm making all of my gifts personal by hitting up Lot, Stock, and Barrel in Los Angeles. The vintage shop also provides custom chain-stitching. You can go to one of its two LA stores, buy a denim jacket, and have any name embroidered on it. It's thoughtful and makes everyone feel like they're in some exclusive and cool club.
Erin Gibson
Writer, Funny or Die | Co-Host, Throwing Shade
Le Labo Rose 31 Liquid Balm, $90
Maybe you're not rich. Maybe you're like me and are still using the down comforter your mom bought you at Marshall's ten years ago, a comforter so old that when you make your bed, feathers burst out of it like a duck being murdered by a jet engine. Just because you're not rich, like me, doesn't mean you can't smell rich, like me.
That's why you need Le Labo Rose 31, or as I fondly call it, "Classic Wealthy Stank." It's the smell of a rich grandma sitting at a mahogany study smoking a cigar reading legal briefs. Woodsy and floral, it's the perfect mix of hyper-masculine and hyper-feminine, warning people olfactorily that confidence and boldness is approaching. If you use it liberally, the $90 roller bottle will last you nine months. That's only $10 a month to smell like another tax bracket. What a bargain!
Robert Best
Senior Director, Barbie Design
Leica M240 Camera, $11,950 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Mini Classic Instant Film Camera, $130
People who know me know I am obsessed with all kinds of gadgets, whether the latest smartphone or tablet, or my personal favorite: cameras. The ultimate gift for me would be the beautiful full-frame Leica M240 digital camera with a superb 35mm lens, as seen exclusively on Mr Porter. While it's true that every smartphone has a camera, I love the idea of photography as an art separate from sharing your latest selfie or updating your Instagram. What better way to unleash your inner Avedon than with this German-made marvel?
While I personally am still a novice photographer, I am sure that this would help up my game. The M240 is a full-frame digital camera with all the bells and whistles, and of course comes with the superb 35mm lens as only Leica can make. This particular exclusive also features textured leather paneling for a decidedly chic look.
I also have another gift that would make me (or any other shutterbug) happy, and for a considerably smaller price tag. The Fuji Instax Mini 90 is an instant film camera that has the look and feel of a classic. It's available in both black and tan, and you see the results immediately with an actual physical artifact known as a photograph. I will always love the art of photography both as a spectator and a practitioner. I am the first person to cheer for all the ways we can share digital images and the many advances we have made in photography, but there is something I will always love about shooting pictures the old-fashioned way.
Lindsey Weber
Co-host, Who Weekly | Editor, MEL
Himalayan Salt Lamp, $39
On the advice of a friend, last year I bought myself a Himalayan salt lamp. I bought it on Amazon because I'm basic and didn't feel like comparison shopping something I assumed I would find two to three hours of joy from and then abandon forever. Apparently, the lamp gives off negative ions that combat positive ions produced by electronics (my laptop, my phone, my television, everything I own), so really, it was a wellness device, not a meaningless purchase at all!
When it arrived, it weighed what felt like about 1,000 pounds and, yes, it was real salt (I licked it to make sure, please don't judge me). But aside from the science and logistics, it produced a lovely, warm orange light that I was immediately obsessed with. From then on, it became my very own night light — the grown-up version of a child's safety blanket — less to combat fear, but rather because the light was just so damn soothing. Were the ions working their magic? No, I discovered after a light Google; the lamp doesn't produce nearly enough heat to change ions in the air and produce any positive (or negative, as it were) effect. Who cares? I love my Himalayan salt lamp and you would love it, too.
Stephanie Danler
Author, Sweetbitter
Clare V. Passport Case, $115
My sister is a planner, a perfectionist, a Virgo, and a master gift-giver. Three years ago, she gave me a Clare V. passport cover with my initials (a camel-colored leather with a gold monogram), onto which I promptly spilled argan oil. I freaked out. But two things: one, spread baby powder on oil spills and let it rest; and two, that doesn't always work entirely.
The beauty of the case is that it's been all over the world with me: Cairo, Bangkok, Paris, Tokyo, Mexico City, the Andes. At this point it's covered with marks and smudges, and the leather has only deepened and wizened. I confess to having planned trips solely inspired by seeing the small leather book on my bedside table.
Mistress Couple
Head Mistress, La Domaine Esemar
Sin in Linen Fetish Al Fresco Toile Bed Sheets, $99-$139
As head mistress of the world's oldest (and many say finest) BDSM bed and dungeon, I am always looking for kinky, kitschy details that will make our guests feel comfortable enough to hop between the sheets and try out their new skills. Last year, one of my submissives, who is a professional house cleaner, noticed these Sin in Linen sheets on the bed of one of her clients. Obviously I asked her to check the label and find out where to buy some!
The toile print is classic and subtle enough from far away that it adds a sophisticated feel to the decor of any room, but once you slip between the sheets you notice all the sexy details. When your head hits the pillow, you'll be dreaming of stilettos, chains, and spankings galore. Not only do they offer these amazing prints as sheets, they also sell pajamas, shower curtains, table linens, and all sorts of other home goods for wherever your home needs a splash of spice — all wonderful gifts for empowered women and the people who love them.
Chrystin Garland
Background Artist, Dreamworks Animation TV
Grass-fields Yello Dress, $62
As a child, my mother always told me, "When in doubt, wear black. It matches with everything!" Don't get me wrong, I've always enjoyed the sharp, crisp look of an ebony ensemble. However, a closet full of charcoals and midnights leaves me craving a bit of change every once in awhile.
That's why I'm so happy to have discovered Grass-fields and its amazing collection of bright-colored dresses, pantsuits, and headwraps. Each piece features a fresh, bold pattern that promises to shake up your wardrobe and make a fabulous statement at any event. I've currently got my eyes on the gorgeous Yello skirt with its lovely leaf print.
Mason, 13 & Parker, 11
Middle Schoolers
Human Bowling Ball, $5,500
A gift that my friends and I would love is a human bowling ball, which is pretty much a giant hamster ball that you can roll around in. However, I live in a city, so I would not be able to use this too often. If you happen to live in the suburbs or the country, this could lead to hours of excitement as you roll in it around your backyard. At $5,500, this is more of a fantasy item, but I think this would make an amazing gift if it was cheaper. —Mason
Audio-Technica Headphones, $169
A lot of kids my age like to listen to music or watch YouTube, which is why I think a pair of headphones is a good gift. I like to watch gaming videos on YouTube. I suggest the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor headphones — they're very comfortable. I like the red ones the best, but there are other colors too: black, white, and gray. —Parker
Maggie Ruggiero
Food Stylist
Jeremy Deller God Bless David Bowie Shopper, $33
As a food stylist, I spend my days hauling groceries all around. Plastic bags are taboo, so I'm always on the lookout for that one ideal bag to lighten the load. I felt mad love at first sight for this tote from artist Jeremy Deller. I've got no doubt that it's the perfect gift: sturdy, stylish, and perfect for groceries, protein pills, and helmets.
Jessica Kane
Social Manager, Sweetgreen
Dear Evan Hansen tickets, $69-$175
Since getting tickets to Hamilton is nearly impossible, I'm going to be asking for tickets to see Dear Evan Hansen, a show that's making its Broadway debut this month. It's a stunning and heart-wrenching musical that provides an accurate commentary on the effects of social media, alienation, and mental health.
Sallie Krawcheck
Founder, Ellevest
Fran's Gray Salt Caramels, $15-$58
Chocolate is my love language. Period. When I agreed to co-found my most recent business venture, Ellevest, last year, I knew wine and chocolate would be a necessity for the startup life. And really, any life, for that matter. Fran's Chocolates, based out of Seattle, is my go-to gift for friends and family. The authentic French salted caramels are beautifully packaged and rumored to be an Obama family favorite. Sure to impress.
Pat Craig
Executive Director, The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Johnston & Murphy McHugh Shearling Boot, $225
Since the dawn of time, many of those who walk erect have been challenged to endure nature's elements; finding comfortable and steadfast protection for one's feet has remained a never-ending journey for men and women alike. Without fail, boots are the be-all and end-all for those who require the utmost protection and durability. Beyond providing critical fortification in uncompromising situations, boots also bring style, sensibility, and a bold statement to one's wardrobe.
I think strong and stylish boots make a great holiday gift for everyone. Boots are an indispensable part of my everyday life — whether it be elements or inhabitants, daily threats to the wellbeing of my feet are not taken lightly. The boots I choose must be reliable and adaptable so they can perform well in any situation. From working in extreme situations to simply going out to dinner, whatever I choose to clad my feet has to also have my back.
Maggie Gould
Violinist
Kate Spade Cameron Street Neema Backpack, $348
I am forever schlepping with a violin and bags, whether it be to rehearsals, a last-minute sub in the pit, a recording session, or to teach. I've been looking for a feminine, beautifully-made backpack that will last me through the schleps, evenly distribute the weight, and house my music, strings, teaching materials, etc. Always a fan of Kate Spade, this one seems up to the task and is the perfect size. I haven't worn a backpack in a while, but this may be a step up from my grade-school L.L.Bean-initialed backpack, don't you think?
Sarah Pappalardo & Beth Newell
Cofounders, Reductress
Steph Mantis Kitty Kitty Charm, $175
People freak out every time I wear this two-headed cat necklace. It is the biggest piece of jewelry I own and the only statement jewelry I will wear in public. This is great for anyone who is obsessed with said animal, weighty brass, or gunmetal objects, and has incredible taste in jewelry. Works for both dudes and chicks, too. —Sarah
Psychic Reading with Gemma Deller, $321 for a 45-minute session
I know this suggestion will make me sound fully crazy to a lot of people, but if you're looking for a gift for someone close to you who isn't a total skeptic, I highly recommend it. It's great for people who want to connect with deceased loved ones or who are just feeling stuck in their lives.
I don't know if I'd be making a living in comedy if it weren't for Gemma, who I first saw six years ago, and I love what I do so much. She has none of the woo-woo vibes people expect from psychics and isn't about simply predicting your future. She will help you find direction and figure out how you are getting in your own way in your life and relationships. —Beth
Rabbi Judah Mischel
Executive Director, Camp HASC
B4 Adventures Slackers Screamin' Water Slide Combo Kit, $119
We have seven children and shopping for gifts is complicated for many reasons. There's the age range of our kids — infants to teenagers — where one thing won't suffice. And then there's the fact that I just can't handle shopping for my teenage daughters; I don't even try. In general, though, I like to buy gifts that have meaning, and this usually involves something with an experience. The best gift you can give a kid is one you can enjoy and experience together. It's the great equalizer.
Last Hanukkah, we bought the kids this giant water slide from Target. After we lit the menorah, I gave the kids a whole talk about "slipping and sliding." Hanukkah is about revealing light within darkness, and so I told them that even if you slip and slide and fall and hit the ground, it can still be okay. It's important to celebrate vulnerability and open up conversations so there's room for mistakes. After some talking, we took them outside, where we had turned the backyard into our own little water park, complete with tiki torches. We set up a kiddie pool at the end of the giant slide for us to land in. In Israel, where we live, the winter is pretty mild, so we were able to enjoy the family gift all night long.
Emily Kaplan
Assistant Vice President and Head of Contemporary Curated, Sotheby's
Yoshitomo Nara PupCup, $145
At Sotheby's, we've seen record prices for paintings, drawings, and sculptures by Japanese pop artist Yoshitomo Nara. Nara's irresistible work depicts a range of angelic and devilish characters paired with wry phrases and rendered in a cutesy, cartoonish aesthetic. (Even Kylie Jenner has a Nara.)
I'm crazy about the Nara PupCup, an editioned sculpture fabricated by the artist and sold by Artware Editions for only $145; it's a great way to acquire a work by Nara at an affordable price. Sotheby's is selling several pieces by Nara in our contemporary art sales that begin today priced around $30,000, so until I find someone to buy me one of those, I'll be very content with my PupCup!
Debbie Solomon
Personal Chef for Rihanna
Vintage Rolex President Watch, $10,495
My husband has been dying for a black Rolex President from 1978 — he says it symbolizes our black president and the year he was born. Time represents so much and he believes a timepiece can say more than it needs to.
Himanshu Suri, a.k.a. Heems
Rapper, Swet Shop Boys
Royal Elephant Shawl, $125
I'm a big fan of Rajput and Mughal miniatures. I studied them for a while at my alma mater, Wesleyan, and at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. Whenever there's a show in town highlighting art from the region, as there was last May at the Met, I find my way to the appropriate space.
I'm not too big on museum gift shops, but I've always been big on scarves and shawls. For some time, my preference was Hermès, but these days I'm balling on a budget, and the only scarves I find of comparable visual quality hail from museum gift shops. I bought this scarf last year. I lost this scarf last year. I want this scarf again this year. I just bought this scarf this year. Buy it for your friends and be like me.