The best last-minute gifts to buy this Christmas (that they'll actually like)
The countdown to Christmas is on
If you’re short on time but still want to make an impression with your gift-giving this year, here are some chic ideas you simply can’t go wrong with.
Need a last-minute gift for your loved one, but aren’t sure where to turn? We’ve got your back. Gone are the days of settling for a generic gift card or blaming ‘slow shipping’ for the scarce offerings on Christmas morning.
And while opening up a pile of presents on Christmas morning is somewhat a rite of passage, we'd much rather be gifted something thoughtful a few days late than a panic-bought gift that will only gather dust in the junk drawer of our homes.
If gifting your picks on Christmas morning is a non-negotiable, but unreliable shipping timeframes and surcharges are leaving you more than a little anxious, we’ve included a few thoughtful experience-based gifts that can be presented in person with a card, email or interpretive dance.
Here are some thoughtful gift ideas that won’t require weeks of planning, because let’s face it, Christmas has crept up on all of us this year.
Cobram Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3L, $65 from Woolworths
Audible Membership, $16.45 to $164.50, from Audible
Whether it's to make the work commute more bearable, catch up on this month's book club pick, or find some well-deserved 'me-time', Audible's endless library of audiobooks and podcasts has redefined how people consume content these days. Give the seamless gift of a membership to your loved one, with options available spanning 1 to 12 months.
Frank Green Assembled Summer Core 16oz Stainless Steel Reusable Party Cup 4 Pack, $64.95 from The Iconic
With summer just around the corner, you have the perfect opportunity to spoil your loved ones with practical gifts they'll actually use. These new reusable stainless steel cups from Frank Green are not only chic, but will make any scorching pool day, summer BBQ or Ashes test at least three times more fun.
Cos Straw Bucket Hat, $105 from Cos
Major Tones Card Game, $70 from Major Tones
Turning lyrics from popular songs into questions, Major Tones will quickly become your favourite music trivia game, featuring songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s and 10s. Whether you play the classic deck or test out your recent knowledge with their newer cards, this game is the perfect excuse for a throwback sing-along.
Olsson's Sea Salt Flakes 250g, $21 from Woolworths
Sheet Society Tommy Cotton Towels, $30 to $70, from The Iconic
If you're looking for fast shipping and a seamless shopping experience, but don't want to skimp on quality, The Iconic's range of homewares is your best bet this holiday season. Nice towels are one of those things people rarely splurge on for themselves, so when it comes to gifting, they are the perfect way to bring joy come Christmas morning.
Mecca Cosmetica x SIR. Facial SPF & Sarong, $130 from Mecca
Hampers With Bite Luxe Holiday Host Hamper, $149 from Hampers with Bite
Not sure how exactly to spoil your loved ones this holiday season, but know for sure that they deserve something special? Why not give the gift of effortless entertaining with one of Hampers With Bite’s curated hampers?
Cotton On Ceramic Daydream Mug, $16.99 from Cotton On
Le Specs Outta Love, $80 from The Iconic
Much like the Sisterhood of The Travelling Pants, these sunnies are universally flattering on every face. They’re the perfect summer companion, from beach to bar. Available in 6 frame shades, these chic glasses will be wrapped and ready within days, thanks to The Iconic’s fast shipping.
Polo Ralph Lauren Mens Polo Chino Baseball Cap, $99 from David Jones
Seafolly Mirage Woven Tote, $140 from The Iconic
Can a girl ever have enough totes? Absolutely not. This room one from Seafolly will be your bestie’s go-to accessory all summer long, keeping their essentials safe from sun, sand and summer showers.
Clarins Honey Glow Lips Petite Set, $66 from Adore Beauty
KeepCup Gift Set Booked and Busy 12oz & 16oz, $68.95 from theiconic.com.au
This clever duo from KeepCup is an absolute essential this summer. Dishwasher-safe and designed to handle the hottest and iciest of brews, there’s nothing this chic beverage duo can’t do. Better yet, every time your loved one sips their morning cappuccino or homemade smoothie in style, they’ll think of you. With express shipping available from The Iconic, this handy gift set could be at your doorstep in no time.
kit: For Fresh Starts set, $70 from Mecca
Barbetta Aperitivo Allo Spritz Box, $195 from barbetta.com.au
Kick off the festive season celebrations for your loved one with a bespoke hamper from Paddington’s iconic Italian spot, Barbetta. There is an entire range of authentic Italian hampers filled with artisanal snacks, the perfect essentials for a pre-dinner drink and gorgeous accessories, bringing the charm of Italy right into your loved one’s hands.
Adore Beauty gift card, any amount from adorebeauty.com.au
Yes, I know I just referenced gift vouchers as ‘generic’, but there are certainly expectations to the rule. There are some things we simply should have the freedom to browse, buy and try ourselves – and beauty and skincare products are certainly on the list. If you aren’t sure what strength retinol your bestie can handle, or what brand of hair oil she usually gravitates towards, take out the guesswork with an Adore Beauty gift card. Trust me, the reaction will be worth it.
Frank Green Lunch Container, $79.95 from frankgreen.com.au
Finally, after years of waiting, Frank Green has entered the Tupperware game with their first drop of lunch containers. Chic as ever, these bright, stackable, spill-proof and spacious compartments will elevate your loved one’s office lunch game to new heights. Though their online timeframes for standard shipping are commendable, Frank Green offers express shipping too, in case you really leave things down to the wire.
Mecca Beauty Reboot The Power Up Edit, $59 from Mecca
Booktopia gift voucher, $100 from booktopia.com.au
Buying a book for yourself – browsing through the shelves of titles, trying not to judge any by their cover (literally) – can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task. Buying a book for someone else is even more impossible. That’s why the safest bet is to let your loved one do all the choosing themselves with a generous gift voucher to their favourite book retailer. It’s also a gift you can purchase (and an email you can forward) mere minutes before it’s time to gather around the Christmas tree.
July Juliette Soft Work Tote, $345 from july.com
Whether in the market for a chic yet practical work bag or the perfect tote to accompany them on their jet-setting this summer, July’s Juliette range is sure to impress your loved one this year. Available in a range of colours and sizes, July typically dispatches its orders the very next business day, with express shipping also available for any latecomers.
Endota Spa Surrender Spa Package Gift Card, $205 from endotaspa.com
Don’t have time to wrap a gift this year? Why not forward them a paid-for luxury spa treatment that tends to their every need? This 75-minute package from Endota Spa includes a soothing body massage with warm jade stones, an organic facial and a scalp and facial massage. You can pick up a physical card, or Endota will simply email your loved one their voucher at any nominated time.
Naked Life Sparkling Limoncello Spritz Non Alcoholic, $13.50 from Woolworths
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Originally published as The best last-minute gifts to buy this Christmas (that they'll actually like)
