Holiday Gift Guide 2025
Thoughtful pieces for the season
I know - it’s been a bit since I last wrote, but I’m hoping to get back into a more regular rhythm in the new year ahead.
With the holidays just around the corner, I’ve curated a thoughtful edit of minimal holiday gifts - a mix of ‘wish-list pieces’ and ‘tried-and-true favorites’ that make especially lovely gifts for her (or yourself!). I made sure to include at least one standout item in each category you’ll want to see. As always, I’ve focused on brands I genuinely believe in - those worth recognizing for their craft, purpose, and ethos: female-founded labels, sustainably minded makers, and designers who share my ethos and embody a “quality over quantity” approach to timeless style.
Happy Holidays ✨
THE EDIT
These are listed in no specific order (I just liked how the numbers appeared visually on this image below)
Snuggle Linen Waffle Bathrobe in Mustard (by Amour Linen)
I’ll be honest - I’m not usually a robe person (though I always want to be). But every time I do wear one, I’m reminded how good it feels- it’s one of those gifts that quietly says, I love you and want you to feel cared for.
This one from the Lithuanian brand Amour Linen caught my eye immediately. It looks like a cozy hug and the waffle texture and warm mustard tone make it feel equal parts cute and comforting. Amour Linen is a slow-fashion, sustainable label creating beautiful linen pieces that truly last, this robe being no exception.
Heirloom Tomato Candle (by Flamingo Estate)
I’m a little enchanted with this brand, to say the least. From a house tucked into the hills of Los Angeles & surrounded by orchards and dense gardens, they craft the most incredible, pleasure-minded products straight from their own grounds.
Their signature tomato candle has become something of a cult favorite, celebrated in countless publications for good reason. While it leans a bit summery (think ripe tomatoes and sun-warmed vines after a fresh watering), it still feels like such a thoughtful, unexpected gift, especially in the midst of winter.
Romy Pima Cotton Balloon Sleeve Sweater (by Na Nin)
This thoughtfully crafted statement sweater is soo good. I own it in three colors (no shame!) and know it’ll be in my closet for years to come. Every time I wear or post it on my Instagram feed, I get endless questions about where it’s from, and for good reason.
Made from soft pima fabric, it has a super flattering silhouette and a timeless, easy feel. It comes in four colors (one already sold out) and makes the perfect gift for someone special - or, of course, for yourself.
It’s no surprise this gem is from Na Nin, based in Richmond Virginia, a brand I’ve adored for years. Known for their vintage apparel, in-house clothing line, fragrances, and curated home goods, they have an effortless way of blending cool, classic, and feminine. I’ve collected several of their pieces over time, and these sweaters truly embody what the brand does best - creating timeless pieces that feel and fit great on.
Maren Essential Belt (by Natalie Borton Designs)
This almost newly released Hair-on Cowhide Belt from one of my favorite designers, Natalie Borton, is absolutely stunning. I’ve followed Natalie (a female-founded brand) on Instagram for years now and have loved watching her organically build a fashion empire, designing her own accessory line while curating her Solano Beach studio and online shop with beautifully intentional pieces.
Her focus on timeless design and thoughtful living always shines through, and this belt is no exception. When she shared a sneak peek on her Instagram stories the other day, it immediately caught my eye. It’ll be part of a small-batch release - so be sure to join her early access list to stay in the loop on launches and drops. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one.
Five Minute Morning Beauty Set (by Merit Beauty)
I’m all about a minimal, clean-beauty routine, the no-makeup makeup look is my forever favorite. I always lean toward that balmy, natural, sun-kissed glow over anything, really.
I started using Merit’s Flush Balms a few years ago, and they’re truly amazing - the perfect balance of color and moisture. While I haven’t tried every product in this Core Collection Set, I’ve used several others from this modern, minimalist brand, and everything they make is outstanding.
This set looks absolutely dreamy and would make any girl glow - literally and figuratively.
Shearling Thelma Sling Bag (by Pennyroyal)
Okay, so I haven’t received my Thelma Shearling Sling Bag in the mail just yet - but I already know I’m in love. Crafted by Pennyroyal, a small but mighty team based in Sonoma County, each piece is made with vegetable-tanned leather sourced from American tanneries. Their aesthetic strikes the perfect balance between utilitarian and luxury, bags that only get better with age.
After spotting this sling bag on a friend’s Instagram, it was love at first sight. It’s just so darling, and I can already picture it layered over outerwear or tucked underneath - either way, effortlessly cool and full of texture.
The bag comes in two sizes and two shearling colors. I ordered mine in the Teddy Bear Brown, and I know it’ll be one of those forever pieces - and one that makes for such a great gift.
Attar Floral Repair Concentrate (by Monastery)
I’m obsessed with balmy moisturizers - the kind that leave your skin glowy, dewy, and deeply hydrated. I first discovered this one months ago when it was gifted to me, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s made weekly in small batches, and somehow, I’m still working through the same little jar.
The golden hue of this cult-favorite balm makes me feel like I’m smothering pure nourishing sunshine onto my skin - it’s that good.
Monastery, the brand behind it, formulates their products in their San Francisco lab using natural botanical ingredients. The jar itself is stunning, and together with what’s inside, it truly makes for the perfect gift for any skincare lover.
8. Yves Lab White Saffire Paracord Necklace, Sable (by Dorsey)
I don’t own this one yet - but I absolutely love it (and want it!). This necklace is so cool and sophisticated. I’m not usually a “fancy jewelry” kind of gal, but when I need a touch of sparkle for an evening out, this is exactly the kind of piece I’d reach for. It instantly elevates an outfit without feeling overdone. I also feel it would pair very nicely as a layering piece!
The white sapphire slider rests on a soft woven nylon paracord, and I especially love it in the sable color - it’s understated and lets the gemstone shine. (It also comes in a variety of cord and sapphire color options.)
Dorsey, an LA-based, female-founded brand, has become known for their lab-grown gemstones and impeccable craftsmanship. Over the past few years, they’ve grown exponentially, and it’s easy to see why. This piece is proof that timeless and modern can absolutely coexist, making it a stunning gift idea.
That’s a wrap on this guide! I hope you enjoyed the items and brands I picked — a lot of love went into curating this list, and I truly believe these will make the perfect gifts.
Enjoy, Dina 💛