35 White Elephant Gifts That Everyone Will Fight Over
This holiday tradition can be fruitful, I swear!
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Towards the end of each year, I find myself increasingly anxious about upcoming holiday parties—namely, the white elephant gift exchange. Overwhelmed by the possibilities, I usually procrastinate on the process, leaving me to settle for a subpar gift that someone gets stuck with. If you’re like me, you’ve probably come to this gift guide with the same sentiment. And when everyone takes a similar approach, it defeats the whole purpose of the tradition. Sure, some take the route of gag gifts, but I firmly believe these swap offerings should be coveted by all.
The biggest dilemma white elephant parties present is the different types of people. Whether it’s your friend group, family, or even coworkers, bringing a gift that will be unanimously lusted after is the most important piece of the puzzle. So, in a favor to both of us, I got a head start this year and made sure to cover all the bases: universally loved scents, self-care must-haves, trendy gadgets, gender-neutral clothing staples, and beyond. With these picks, all you’ll need to do is sit back, relax, and watch the chaos ensue. Keep reading for 35 white elephant gifts everyone is sure to fight over.
Delicious drinks and plentiful compliments aren’t technically included, but they might as well be. This gift is especially great for party hosts.
Who could ever turn down a little Chanel?
A statement accessory, like this cozy scarf from Damson Madder, is a must-have for elevating muted winter outfits.
No elbows on the table, please! Just these darling placemats from Business & Pleasure.
A fellow ELLE contributor put me on to Mason Pearson brushes, and now I’ll never turn back. A quality hairbrush that’ll last for decades is a fantastic gift.
Can’t afford to send them to the spa? I feel that. Instead, give this perfect handheld gadget that will leave them snatched and sculpted from the comfort of their couch.
Whenever Aesop drops a product, I know it’s going to be good. The new Eleos balm is ideal for keeping hands hydrated and happy during the cold months.
Yves Saint Laurent Couture Mini Clutch Eyeshadow Palette
I was gifted this little YSL palette last Christmas, and it’s still in my constant rotation. I keep it in my purse!
Gifting reed diffusers feels decidedly elevated, wouldn’t you agree? I recommend this scent from Apotheke; it’s clean, unique, and universally loved.
I saw these stunning cashmere socks in-store last week and haven’t stopped thinking about them since. Nothing haunts me like the clothes I didn’t buy.
It might be getting cold outside, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to put my boxers away. Take the trend from summer to winter with these simple flannel pants from Comme Si.
I can’t be separated from my water bottle long enough to clean it; I’m just too attached. This genius self-cleaning invention does it for you with the touch of a button.
Not only is this chic tabletop lighter gorgeous, but it also serves a purpose for candlesticks, incense, and perhaps other things from the affectionately nicknamed brand Weedie Parker.
When in doubt, nobody can resist a good ornament set. And the only kind of Grinch I like on Christmas is a porcelain one dangling from my tree.
SURI Sustainable Electric Toothbrush
I’ve been using this Suri toothbrush for months, and I don’t think I’ll ever go back to a regular toothbrush again. It’s minimal, sleek, and comes with a magnetic wall mount to keep it off my bathroom counter.
This set of infused olive oils sold out four times in a row, but if you can get your hands on one, it’s the perfect gift for foodies.
There’s nothing more luxurious and decadent than a delectable sweet treat from Levain.
I love this makeup brush set from Saie because with only four brushes, it’s all I need to complete a look.
Organic cotton and flax linen are the secret ingredients that make this throw blanket undeniably soft.
The best kind of workout buddy supports you, tags along for every class, and provides stability in your toughest moments—but I’m not talking about any of your friends; I’m talking about this mat from Bala. It’s the ultimate gym partner.
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