UPDATED NOVEMBER 2023
Recently I did a poll on my Instagram to ask if you prefer giving DIY gifts, shop bought gifts or a combination of the two. An overwhelming majority of you said a combination. That is exactly what I like to do too. I’ve already shared a bunch of easy DIY gift ideas that you can make in 15 minutes or less so now I’m sharing some beautiful shop bought gifts. Most of us are spending less at the moment so all the gifts are budget friendly coming in at £50 or less (and mostly $50 or less where there is a US equivalent).
While I’ve kept budget in mind, all of these gifts are beautiful, considered and timeless so there’s no compromise here. Nearly all of them are on my very own wish list. From scented candles to cookbooks to cosy slippers, there’s a loads to choose from. All these gifts are the kind of things you’d use daily but a more stylish version if you like. And they’re the kind of things you probably wouldn’t buy yourself but you’d love to receive as a gift.
21 timeless gifts for under 50
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1. soft minimalism – by Norm Architects, this book is about interiors that promote wellbeing and features spaces from Sweden, Denmark, Sri Lanka and beyond. Ideal for anyone in to soft minimalist interiors.
2. marble rolling pin (US here) – this everyday object has been taken up a notch with this beautiful marble version. It’s a rolling pin that you’ll be proud to display in your kitchen, rather than hiding it away.
3. linen apron (US here) – know a keen cook or someone who like to look the part? This beautiful washed linen apron is perfect for them. There are a few colours to choose from but it was the caramel that stood out for me.
4. friendship bracelet – a simple and stylish little gift that comes in at under a tenner. It would make a sweet stocking filler or a token of appreciation for a special friend.
5. hand balm (US here) – from a favourite Danish skincare brand, their hand balm is made with organic ingredients and is so nourishing. It smells divine too. And of course the packaging is minimal and simple, making it one hand balm you won’t be putting away in a drawer.
6. fluffy slippers (US here) – nothing says cosy quite like a pair of fluffy slippers. Perfect for wearing around the house on those cold winter evenings and they’re quite a bargain too.
7. cosy socks (US here) – from fluffy slippers to cosy socks, I don’t know which will keep you warmer. These socks are made from pure cashmere so they’re sure to be so toasty.
8. casserole pan (US here) – a simple pan in black with wood details, it’s ideal to take from kitchen to table. It’s non-stick and the handle has a spoon holder, making this practical and stylish for any enthusiastic cooks in your life.
9. bubble candle – these bubble candles are so pretty. And so perfect for cosy winter nights in. This one comes in a choice of scents like vanilla, spiced orange, lime basil and even a Christmas tree scented one.
10. brass candleholder – a beautifully simple brass candle holder which can also be used for tea lights. If you’re thinking of gifting this, pair it with some pretty candles as a complete gift.
11. stoneware vase – vases that look as good without flowers as they do without, always get my vote. This simple stone vase is beautiful display piece as is. But if you’re feeling generous, why not gift it with some dried flowers that will last ages.
12. digital magazine subscription – not any magazine, but the most beautiful lifestyle magazine covering home, work, style and culture. I love gifting magazine subscriptions as they’re a gift that keeps giving for a year. It’s a digital subscription, so you can gift it to anyone, anywhere.
13. wooden star decorations – these minimal yet striking wooden stars come in three different wooden tones and three different sizes. And of course they can be saved and re-used year after year. They are selling out fast — just saying!
14. undated planner (not available in the US) – a simple, minimalist planner that lays flat – so handy! And it’s undated which is always better because you can start and stop as you want. No wastage.
15. linen napkins (US here) – a pair of soft linen napkins in pale beige. They do come in a few other colours too. And they’re well under budget so you can easily gift a set of three (that’s six napkins) which will still be under budget.
16. the new way to cake (US here) – this book is all about cakes but with unexpectedly delicious flavour combinations. And no, it’s not about complicated or difficult recipes either. In fact it’s for any skill level. But don’t take my word for it, read the reviews.
17. white truffle olive oil (not available in the US) – a nice looking bottle of good olive oil is a gift you can’t go wrong with. I liked this one because it’s got truffle too, but really you could gift any good olive oil that comes in pretty packaging.
18. fluted tumblers (not available in the US) – these gorgeous tumblers are simple but have the fluted design which makes them a bit more special. I was so surprised when I saw the price for a set of four, I was expecting much higher. I always love a gift that looks so much more expensive than it is.
19. Christmas scented candle (US here) – what is Christmas or even winter without candles? They are a must. And this one is extra special because it smells of Christmas. Think baked gingerbread and winter cloves, spiced oranges and mulled wine. Delicious!
20. fringed blanket (US here) – blankets are always useful and these fringed ones are cosy, soft and very warm. And they look great as sofa throws when not in use. This blanket comes in a beautiful soft brown (my favourite) as well as a grey.
21. body care set (US here) – a gorgeous smelling body care set including a body cleanser, hand and lip balm from a timeless brand that has a cult following amongst minimalists. Thanks to the simple, stylish packaging, this is something you’ll be proud to display in your bathroom, rather than stashing it away.
22. Pyjama set in very dark blue
23. pink floral pyjama bottoms
Which of these timeless gifts for under 50 is your favourite to give (or maybe even treat yourself)? I have my eye on those Christmas stars, that marble rolling pin and the planner. And I’ve already bought the soft minimal book so I guess thats on my list too!
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