Rhetorical question: Wouldn’t it be nice to go into the holiday season with a head start on your gift shopping? The answer is yes. Thanksgiving (and therefore Black Friday) is around the corner, and once that hits, it’s going to be a frenzy. The best gifts will start getting picked over, and shipping delays are inevitable. So here’s my first gift guide of the year, and it’s a good one, because it’s filled entirely with things I actually own (and love), and strongly believe would make excellent gifts. This is an instance in which the fact that I’m picky is a good thing.
Among my recommendations are the perfect faux-fur coat, the new luxury It candle, the carry-on luggage that’s as functional as it is chic, along with a variety of other highly giftable items. So, hold the gift cards and scroll on to shop my inaugural 2026 gift guide, filled with tried-and-true gems.
Shop Allyson’s 2026 Holiday Gift Recommendations
Gifting a candle is far from boring—especially when it’s the newest Le Labo candle. Papyrus 20 is the perfect winter scent—warm, earthy, and cozy.
After hearing this was the best pet bed on the market, my dog Fanny obviously had to have it, and it fully lives up to its reputation. The Pet Pad also makes a great gift.
The most elevated sweatshirt in the game.
I fell in love with this carry-on because of how chic it looks, but it’s also a great piece of luggage that fits so many items.
I’ve worn these earrings countless times but I still get excited to wear them. There’s a reason they keep selling out.
Among the many great features, the collar is detachable and it drapes beautifully as opposed to being bulky.
Who doesn’t love an
This won’t be the only time Comme Si socks make an appearance in this gift guide. I own the Yves Socks in multiple colors and can confirm that they’re very giftable.
Your fashion friends know that paisley scarves are trending, so they’ll appreciate this Zara find.
The best luxury hand soap on the market—hands down (no pun intended).
There’s nothing like opening a gift with your pet’s face on it.
I love everything about Avaline wines—including how gift-worthy they are.
A wallet-friendly It bag in 2027’s #1 color trend? Say less.
No lip filler needed. This buzzy new Dr. Diamond’s Metacine launch lives up to the hype.
These perfect ballet flats make the perfect gift. They come in so many colors, but this oxblood iteration is especially giftable.
Anyone who loves to cook or bake will be thrilled with the gift of Caraway (and it’s all on sale at Nordstrom right now).
The Pilates lover in your life will definitely appreciate the coolest socks in the game.
There’s a reason everyone is obsessed with Bêtise. It’s the prettiest universally flattering shade and gives you that coveted French-girl lip.
Upgrade their pajamas with this comfortable, low-key pair.
Trudon 45° is truly the most intoxicating vanilla fragrance I’ve ever encountered.
Trust me—once they have one, they’ll want it in every color.
I actually have this to my dad a few years ago, and he loves it.
I always feel cooler when wearing these Chimi sunglasses.
Yes, another dog-related gift. You can never have too many.
Never underestimate the thoughtfulness of gifting a great basic.
