Reading: Holiday Gift Guide 2023: What Your Gen Z-er Really Wants

Finding gifts for Gen Z can be challenging, so we pulled together a list of recommendations straight from their TikTok pages, Pinterest boards, and Instagram reels. Gift-giving has never been so easy. Seriously, just grab one of these for the Gen Z-er in your life and thank us later when your Z thinks your gift is LIT! 

Le Volume de Chanel Mascara ($38) by Chanel

If your glam-loving kid is all about those fluttery lashes, this mascara is the MVP. It’s like a magic wand for the eyes, giving that intense black drama in just two coats. Andrea Tiller, the wizard behind some Hollywood magic, swears by it for a dreamy false-lash effect. It’s not just mascara; it’s a confidence booster. So, if you want your kid to bat lashes that could stop traffic, this is the secret weapon. Need a budget-friendly option? The Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara ($9) is a perfect stocking stuffer. It’s the drugstore hero that’s been making waves since it went bananas on TikTok in 2020. The secret sauce? A thin, flexible brush that serves up intense volume and length from root to tip. Tested by ophthalmologists, it’s gentle enough for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Pair either of these mascaras with a gift card for lash extensions at the salon. Gen Zs love waking up every day with the lashes of their dreams, no effort needed. Lash extensions are the secret for that effortlessly glam look, and a salon gift card is like granting them a backstage pass to instant fabulousness. It’s the gift of time-saving beauty, letting them skip the mascara step some days and still rock those stunning lashes. 

The Tote Bag by Marc Jacobs ($195) 

Totes have come back into fashion for Gen Z! Hollywood celebs like Jennifer Lopez and Katie Holmes have been seen parading around with totes, which have got Gen Zs in a spiral! Not only are these tote bags super cute, but they’re ultra convenient as well. Whether it’s for lugging around textbooks for school, packing up essentials for a spontaneous weekend escape, or tossing in gym gear for those fitness feats, the tote bag is the go-to companion. As a student, totes are my best friend — my laptop, umbrella, makeup — it’s all there. Sure, this tote is a bit on the expensive side, but its branding is exactly what it’s known for. The ALL CAPS text makes it a popular brand that will make your child feel like they’re the star! Other very cute options are the simple but feminine Puffer Tote Bag ($28) or the Valleycomfy Corduroy Tote ($15). Both come in different colors, and the corduroy tote has a super handy sling.

Gold Hoop Earrings (starting at $100) from Kendra Scott

Jewelry, with its enduring allure and ability to express sentiment and style, remains a timeless choice. In recent months, Gen Zs have been obsessing over the “clean girl” look, and gold hoop earrings have been a statement piece for TikTok and Instagram influencers who embody this look. Supermodels like Hailey Bieber, who is the ultimate clean girl, have also been seen wearing chunky gold hoop earrings, which, of course, look elegant! You really can’t go wrong with any of these: Ellen Hoop Earrings In 18k Gold Vermeil ($100); Davie Wide Huggie Earrings in 18k Gold Vermeil ($120); Ellen Wide Huggie Earrings in 18k Gold Vermeil ($140).

Fenty Beauty Gloss ($22) by Rhianna

Beauty influencers spill the tea that nailing the clean and elegant vibe is all about having that impeccable lip game. Whether it’s a subtle wash of color or a glossy statement, it’s the finishing touch that says, “I’ve got my act together, and I’m here to slay effortlessly.” So, parents, if your Gen Z is chasing that clean, elegant vibe, a lip gloss collection is basically the secret weapon. If you’re looking to give them the best lip gloss in the market, start with this one — Rihanna’s cult-favorite. With a killer formula and shades for every skin tone, it’s the cool kid on the beauty block. Other choices we love: Rhode Beauty Peptide Lip Treatment ($16), endorsed by Hailey Bieber, making this lip-loving treatment a hot commodity; Dior Addict Lip Glow ($40) moisturizing, pigmented, and a touch of glam; a more budget-friendly Maybelline Lifter Gloss ($9), which comes in a rainbow of shades and is another drugstore hero; and Glossier’s clear lip gloss ($15), which hydrates and shines. 

Adidas Samba Sneaker ($100)

The Adidas Samba is claiming the throne as the ultimate sneaker right now. Worn by beauty influencers and fashion divas, it’s the shoe I’m sure every Gen Z would love to have in their collection. First off, it’s like the James Bond of sneakers — timeless and always in style. The Samba has been kicking it since the ’50s, and guess what? It’s still as cool as ever. Plus, comfort is king, and the Samba really gets it. It’s not just a looker; it’s like slipping your feet into clouds. Whether you’re strolling down the street or hitting the dance floor, these sneakers got your back… uh, feet. You can rock it with jeans, shorts, or even a snazzy suit. It’s the Swiss Army knife of sneakers, adapting to whatever style you’re vibing with. The Samba Classic is always a good choice, but it also comes in different colors such as White Green and White Halo Blue. 

Instax Mini 11 ($75) and Instax Mini 40 ($96) by Fujifilm

Polaroid cameras are little gadgets that are like time-travel machines with a side of nostalgia. Imagine your phone’s camera, but instead of tapping a screen, you snap a pic, and voila! You’ve got a physical print in your hands. Now, why are they such a hit, especially with Gen Z? Well, first off, it’s a vibe thing. Polaroid cameras bring this retro, artsy feel to the table. They’re not just capturing moments; they’re creating little pieces of instant art. It’s like taking a step back in time when photos weren’t just files on a device. And speaking of vibes, let’s talk aesthetics. These cameras are like fashion accessories. They come in all colors and shapes, making them a style statement for the cool crowd. It’s not just about capturing memories; it’s about doing it in style. But wait, there’s more! Polaroid pics aren’t hidden in some digital abyss. They’re real, tangible memories. Gen Zs like sticking photos on their wall, gifting them to friends, or making a scrapbook. It’s fun, it’s trendy, and it’s a gift that captures moments in more ways than one. You’ll be the cool gift-giver of the year. Trust me.

Keurig Single Serve Pod Coffee Maker ($59) 

Your Gen Z kiddos absolutely need a coffee maker in their apartment, and here’s the scoop: It’s not just about staying awake; it’s a survival strategy. No more splurging on fancy coffee shops; a coffee maker is like a financial superhero, saving them from a latte-induced bankruptcy. But it’s not just about being frugal; it’s about embracing adulthood and starting the day on their terms. Picture this: waking up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in their own space — it’s like a ritual that turns their apartment into a home.