Best Gifts for Acquaintances

The Christmas bells are ringing, meaning the season for giving to those special people in our lives is upon us. Buying gifts for acquaintances near and far is a sentimental gesture. By giving Christmas gifts to new friends, your neighbors, your favorite coworkers, friends from your social club, and other acquaintances, you will deepen those connections and bonds.

Don't wait to do your shopping, especially if you must send your gift through the mail. Also, buy something that reflects their personality, tastes, and interests. Finally, make sure to use quality, beautiful wrapping paper or bags, and a sweet note or card. Below are suggestions for meaningful gifts for all the acquaintances on your list.

Gifts for the Fashionista

There are so many options for a fashionista who knows how to put together outfits for any occasion. Your fashion-obsessed friend probably has so many apparel items and shoes to choose from in her wardrobe, so narrow your choices down to items that are practical, stylish, and versatile.

Let her take on cold weather in a cute women’s fleece jacket, fleece vest, or fleece coat. Fleece outerwear offers a lightweight fit while keeping her cozy style in check. She can wear her new favorite layer to work, while running errands, or almost anywhere else.

Another idea is buying leggings she can wear from work to hanging out. Buy a pair for working out and neighborhood walks, and another she can layer underneath her knit dresses. Try to include multiple styles you think she’ll like, from solid hues to lively prints and patterns.

Your chic pal would appreciate accessories that’ll tie together all her outfits. Top off her style with stylish headwear, such as a knit winter hat with real fur trim, a cable-knit beanie, an any-season baseball cap, suede earmuffs, or a vacation-ready floppy hat. A statement-making wrap trimmed with fur will lend elegance draped over any fashionable ensemble. Or impress her with a designer accessory, like designer sunglasses, belts, card cases, or an umbrella.

Gifts for the Outdoorsy Pal

Surprise your adventurous pal with a gift she can use while out exploring. Buying a gift that can keep up with her outdoor shenanigans will let her continue making lifelong memories. She’ll definitely appreciate a quality backpack or a women’s overnight bag with ample space for her hiking and camping essentials. Or a handy new camera and a portable phone charger will let your tech-savvy friend stay connected while exploring the unknown.

Give her the gift of hydration with a durable water bottle. Choose durable material — plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, and glass — and pick the right size too. And personalize it with her initials and name for a sweet finishing touch. A pair of binoculars will enhance her vision while stargazing or birdwatching. And a thermos or stainless-steel flask will let her enjoy more than water while out and about.

Gifts for the Self-Care Guru

Your buddy talks a lot about self-care, so help her practice what she preaches with updated grooming and personal care swag. The perfect gifts will elevate her DIY spa days at home. Give her the gift of coziness with a women’s robe and matching monogrammed slippers made of faux fur or any other comfortable fabric. Or purchase for her a breezy nightgown, a breathable nightshirt, or fleece-lined pajamas for sweeter dreams. Choose a pattern or design she’ll love, like fun polka dots, classic stripes, or funky tie-dye.

Buy her a new personalized ceramic mug so that she can sip her coffee while lounging in bed. Or give her candles that’ll create a relaxing environment, such as a candle scented with mint, vanilla, pine, or cinnamon.

Gifts for the Hostess With the Mostest

She loves to throw parties and dinners in her always put-together home. And she’s always showing off her latest cookie recipe. Give your hostess friend practical gifts she’ll use in her kitchen or dining room.

Buy her personalized tools that’ll fit snug in her home. A personalized cutting board, utensils, and coasters made of acacia or another durable wood will last her a lifetime. Or update her breakfast nook or home bar with a glass set. Mix and match with the various types of wine, beer, and tumbler glasses. Purchase adorable mugs she’ll cherish and reach for every day. Or switch things up by gifting a portable cocktail set or icebox set so she can practice her bartending skills while out on a picnic.

Gifts for the Dog Lover

Your puppy-loving pal and her furry loved ones will raise their paws in delight after receiving gifts they can enjoy together. Keep her furry family members nice and comfy in chilly weather with dog jackets, sweaters, or flannel pajamas. Or round out their dog accessories collection with a dog treat tin, personalized dog ornament, or a designer dog collar.

If your friend and her pup are an active pair, they’ll both love a portable water dispenser for refreshing drinks while on long walks. And for a fashion statement, give your friend customized socks printed with her beloved dog’s face or a pet carrier for all her pet accessories.