Trust me when I say you can’t go wrong with these 11 iconic (and affordable) products for gifting season

Something for you and something for them

E.l.f Cosmetics holiday gifts
(Image credit: e.l.f)

As a beauty editor who is inundated with deals and gift sets come the festive season, there are only a few I'd recommend as gifts people actually want that are also affordable. The brand that nails this combo (and seems to get better every year) is one of my all-time favourite brands: e.l.f. Cosmetics.

Known for its innovative products, budget-friendly price tags and ingenious marketing, e.l.f. Cosmetics delivers on pretty much all make-up fronts from complexion products to eyes, delivering premium products at affordable prices. On top of innovative formulas, the brand is also vegan and cruelty-free. It's one of the few brands I recommend to anyone who will listen and feel like I can do so without caveating that any of the products are a huge investment. There's a reason so many e.l.f. Cosmetics products go viral on TikTok.

For dedicated e.l.f. Cosmetics lovers, the Beauty Squad is a must. If you're unfamiliar, it's essentially the brand's rewards programme earning you money off, free gifts, early access and even the chance to try new products ahead of launches. In the lead up to Christmas, expect to see lots more promos and deals coming for Beauty Squad members.

If you're in need of some beauty gift inspiration then read on for my top festive gift picks, whether you're looking for early treats or epic sets, there's a little bit of everything here.

For the ultimate beauty obsessive

Sometimes, the best way to say I love you to a beauty lover is through a beauty gift set full of their favourite products. Luckily, e.l.f. Cosmetics has plenty to choose from. I'm a particular fan of the three listed, which cover the lip oil lover, dewy skin chaser and even pro artist with these make-up products and tools. It's an ideal way for you or a loved one to discover something new without having to trawl through various brands. You know these products deliver and won't ever leave you feeling disappointed.

Viral hero stocking fillers

If you're looking for a few stocking fillers that are far more interesting than your standard orange and chocolate coins, try these viral favourites. These are the products that if you spend any time on #BeautyTok, you'll see doing the rounds because the formulas are that good. The Power Grip Primer is a total must and, trust us, it'll get a welcomed reception.

For the skincare lover

e.l.f. Cosmetics doesn't just do make-up brilliantly, but the skincare is some of the best out there, too. I personally have e.l.f. Cosmetics skincare in my routine rotation at all times. It's uncomplicated, effective and affordable—the key to a great skincare routine. These gifts are ideal for a skincare lover, or someone who is confused by the market and wants some simplistic but efficacious products to update their routine.

Beauty Contributor

Tori is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor for Marie Claire. She has written for various titles, including Allure, Glamour, Elle, Refinery29, Brides, and more. Currently training to be a nail tech, Tori is a total nail enthusiast and always has time to talk all things nail art. When she’s not writing about beauty and testing products, Tori can be found walking her rescue dog Pip, drinking great coffee, and eating as many croissants as humanly possible.