Every mother-daughter relationship can’t be as perfect as Lorelai and Rory’s — at least for the first 16 or so years of your life. During tweendom, we’re hardwired to think our moms are just out to embarrass us with their puppy-printed pajamas (you know it’s true, mom) in the carpool drop-off line and their constant need to check on us when we’re out with friends. But eventually, once we’re moved out of the house, we come to the realization that moms weren’t totally uncool at all. Rather, they were pretty fucking great.
So why, then, do we so often end up getting them such lame gifts this time of year? More often than not, when you Google search gifts for moms, you’ll find a blasé selection of kitchenware, slippers, and one too many monochrome sweater sets. Yawn. This year, instead of going the easy route and writing just another gifts-for-mom round-up, we’re dedicating this guide to what our moms really want.
Whether your mom is into traveling, mid-century design, the art of salad making, or The Go-Gos’ debut album (ahem, Lorelai), one of these 28 gift guide options will surely speak to her.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Bialetti Moka Alpina Limited Edition Espresso Maker, 3 Cups, $, available at Walmart
Simon Miller Alder Pants, $, available at Simon Miller
A cozy, colorful sweater they’ll wear over and over again.
Gap Marled Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Gap
Astr The Label Brynn Textured Pointelle Sweater, $, available at Verishop
Away The Mini: The Travel Wellness Kit, $, available at Away
Abrams Publishing Salad for President: A Cookbook Inspired by Artists, $, available at bookshop.org
Ames Jipi Plate Mat (Set Of 6), $, available at Goodee
Maison Margiela Replica Travel Size Fragrance Set, $, available at Nordstrom
Baggu Standard Baggu, $, available at Lisa Says Gah
Thrive Market Gift Card, 1 Year Membership, $, available at Thrive Market
Rosebud Original Strength Tincture, $, available at Standard Dose
Alpine by Dearfoams Moritz Bootie, $, available at Dearfoams
Vitruvi Stone Diffuser, $, available at Vitruvi
Dr. Barbara Sturm Mini Calming Serum, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Fellow Carter Everywhere Mug, $, available at Fellow
International Record Syndicate The Go-Go’s – Beauty and the Beat LP, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Longchamp ‘Le Pliage’ Pouchette, $, available at Nordstrom
Kinto USA Unitea Glass Unimug, $, available at Ecovibe
Hay Blue Lid Carafe, $, available at Hay
Ganni Seersucker Check Maxi Dress, $, available at Ganni
Slowdown Studio Colombo Throw, $, available at Need Supply
La Botica Ceremony Candle, $, available at La Botica
Anthropologie Ilana Matte Mugs, Set of 4, $, available at Anthropolgie
Little High Little Low ’80 Bruce Springsteen, $, available at Little High Little Low
Girlfriend Compressive High-Rise Legging, $, available at Girlfriend
The Nue Co. Magnesium Ease, $, available at The Nue Co
Zara Merino Wool Blend Oversized Polo Shirt, $, available at Zara
Zara Merino Wool Blend Pants, $, available at Zara
Zara Home Floral Embroidery Pajamas, $, available at Zara Home
Anthropologie Reusable Travel Flatware, $, available at Anthropologie
AllThingsHipAndCool Dragonfly Inn Key Tag, $, available at Etsy
Everlane The Rain Boot, $, available at Everlane
Amy Sherman-Palladino Gilmore Girls Complete Season 1-7, $, available at Walmart
Eloquii Ribbed Tank Maxi Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Cheap & Cheerful Under-$20 Mother’s Day Gifts
