We’re stating the obvious here, but figuring out gifts for your friends can be stressful. When your roommate is fashion-obsessed, your best friend is a makeup fiend, and your high school bestie is a fitness fanatic, how do find the time to search for that one special gift for every single one—and keep it all under budget? Luckily, the College Fashionista community gave us all their top picks for gifts this season, so look no further. From fashion staples to room décor, we’ve got you covered on what to buy everyone on your list this holiday season, all for under $50. Now all you have to do is start wrapping!
under $10
MoMA Design Store Branch Headphone Splitter: “This headphone splitter is perfect for the friend who is always trying to get you to listen to their music. Instead of one headphone each, you can each listen with your own set of headphones.” — Isabella Sorresso, University of Florida Class of 2019
Forever 21 Marled Pom Pom Beanie: “During the spring semester, your roommate will be thanking you for this cute beanie when they’re dragging themselves out in the cold for class.” — Marissa Dodd, Liberty University Class of 2018
Kikkerland Mini Karaoke Mic: “This mini microphone is perfect for that friend who loves to sing along to anything and everything.” — Isabella Sorresso, University of Florida Class of 2019
Mario Badescu Facial Spray: “This product is for all skin types, which means you can’t go wrong with it.” — Alicia Cepeda, New York University Class of 2019
Fair Isle Trouser Socks: “Cozy socks are always a great stocking stuffer, especially when they have the cutest little designs.” — Marissa Dodd, Liberty University Class of 2018
Gourmand Hand Cream: “Everyone’s skin tends to get drier in the winter, so hand cream is something anyone would like, no matter what their interests are.” — Lindsay Yates, Columbia College Chicago Class of 2019
Madewell Printed Sunglass Case: “It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be sunny outside. This case will look super cute peeking out of your purse.” — Itunu Aromolaran, University of West Georgia Class of 2018
Amelia Glass Display Frame: “This is a super-sweet small gift for a friend, and you can put your own pictures in it to make it even more meaningful.” — Guntaj Arora, Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College Class of 2018
Threshold Stoneware Hey Sugar Mug: “Almost any college student will appreciate a new coffee mug, especially with a punny or motivational quote on it. Throw in a packet of hot cocoa or a bag of coffee to complete the gift.” — Marissa Dodd, Liberty University Class of 2018
Cotton Woven Zipper Pouch: “Look at how cute this pouch is! You could use it as a cosmetic travel bag, a pencil pouch, or anything else. It is seriously so versatile.” — Emma Marlow, Metropolitan State University of Denver Class of 2019
under $25
& Other Stories Burspråket Scented Candle: “Give your roomie a candle—not only will they love it, but you’ll get to enjoy it too!” —Alexandra Grana, Miami University Class of 2019
ColourPop x Revolve Mini Liquid Lip Kit: “This lip kit is at the top of my list. The brand’s products are great quality, and they’re always a reasonable price.” — Alicia Cepeda, New York University Class of 2019
New Look Pom Slider Slippers: “Every college girl needs a warm pair of slippers to wear around the dorm, especially in the winter—even better if they’re millennial pink.” — Alexandra Grana, Miami University Class of 2019
Sass & Belle Cactus Salt & Pepper Shakers: “The cutest salt and pepper shakers—you can’t go wrong with these for any cactus-obsessed friend.” — Jess Bowman, University of Kansas Class of 2018
Moon Rivers Naturals Rose and Geranium Soak: “Bath soaks are a total treat. Give the gift of relaxation and a bomb Insta shot for your feed.” — Andrea Zerpa, Rutgers University Class of 2018
BH Cosmetics Chic 14 Piece Rose Gold Brush Set With Cosmetic Case: “Makeup brushes are the type of product that I don’t really enjoy buying for myself but always need—which is why I always love when I get them as a gift.” — Emma Marlow, Metropolitan State University of Denver Class of 2019
Umbra Pose Two-Tiered Jewelry Tray: “This is a cute present for your jewelry-loving bestie. Instead of getting someone a necklace you’re not sure they’ll like, give them pretty storage you know they can put to good use.” — Lindsay Yates, Columbia College Chicago Class of 2019
Free People Two to Tango Tassel Earrings: “I love giving earrings that embody my friends’ personalities. Give them a statement pair they can wear during the holidays and straight through the New Year, too.” — Kaitlin Yau, University of Washington Class of 2020
Ban.do Rough Draft Mini Notebook: “Not sure what to get your artistic friend? You can never go wrong with a doodling journal.” — Lindsay Yates, Columbia College Chicago Class of 2019
Terrain Stargazer Carousel Twine Lights: “No college dorm is complete without a few strings of lights. These multicolored ones will bring a cozy vibe to any room.” — Alexandra Grana, Miami University Class of 2019
under $50
Urbanears Plattan 2 Headphones: “Everyone could always use a pair of cute headphones; these come in a variety of colors and will match whatever outfit you put together.” — Isabella Sorresso, University of Florida Class of 2019
Kate Spade New York Bonjour iPhone Case: “A great way for your friend to show off her style is a phone case. Get her one that reflects her personality and you’ve got yourself a gift-giving win.” — Itunu Aromolaran, University of West Georgia Class of 2018
Doiy Terrazzo Yoga Mat: “I love this mat—it’s made out of a great material and is very durable, so it will last even the most dedicated yogi quite a while.” — Emily Myint, San Diego State University Class of 2019
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Cream Kit: “This is hands down the best contour kit I have ever used in my life. It blends amazingly, which is every makeup lover’s dream.” — Jessica Gulledge, Auburn University Class of 2020
Urban Outfitters Himalayan Salt Lamp: “These are an awesome gift—not only because they look so cute in a room but because they have amazing health benefits, too.” — Melissa Darin, Kent State University Class of 2018
H&M Soft Throw: “Keep your friends warm this winter with a snuggly blanket that will look adorable in their dorm.” — Alexandra Grana, Miami University Class of 2019
Ban.do Work It Out Gym Bag: “A bag is essential to bring to the gym, so it’s important to get one that can hold all of the necessities.” — Emily Myint, San Diego State University Class of 2019
Glossier Cloud Paint Duo: “In case you can’t decide on one blush shade, this lets you choose two (that you can also mix together!). Every Glossier fanatic will freak over this set.” — Kaitlin Yau, University of Washington Class of 2020
S’well Forbidden Posy Water Bottle: “I love these kinds of water bottles—they keep drinks cold or hot for hours, which is great for your friend who’s perpetually on the go.” — Lindsay Yates, Columbia College Chicago Class of 2019
Urban Outfitters What Do You Meme? “The most fun game I’ve ever played! It’s basically Cards Against Humanity with pictures and even better sayings.” — Jess Bowman, University of Kansas Class of 2018
What’s on your wish list this year? Let us know in the comments below!
