I'm a Gen Z shopping expert—these are the gifts guaranteed to satisfy even the fussiest of Gen Z's
A fail-safe guide
Look, I get it. Gen Z is not the easiest generation to shop for—I should know, I am one. With TikTok serving gift guides and It-girls providing style inspo every day, it's no surprise your favourite Gen Zer might have an ever-growing wish list that they probably started curating in June (true story).
To take the stress out of gifting your loved ones, BFF, colleagues or partner, I did my due diligence by scouring the internet (TikTok included) to find the top gifts. As a shopping expert, it's literally my job to know what's hitting the shop floor and where to purchase the most covetable items, so I can safely say these picks are good—several have made their way to my wish list. As an aside, make sure you check out our other Christmas gift guides including Christmas Gifts For Her.
From beauty to fashion and wellness to health—I tapped up our resident Wellness girlie, Ally Head, Senior Health Editor for recommendations—we've got you covered. So without further ado, below you'll find a variety of thoroughly researched pieces that cover different price points. Whether you're looking to secure the perfect stocking stuffers or want to invest in forever pieces, these are the gifts that your favourite Gen Zer wouldn't think twice about exchanging. Happy shopping.
Shop our top picks
Quite possibly one of my top three desert island products, these super nourishing lip treatments hold guaranteed satisfaction points for any fussy Gen Zers.
Mini hand warmers are superior stocking stuffers, especially if they come in a super cute cowboy boot design. Bonus points, as this option has a lavender interior for some added aromatherapy.
A Gen Z favourite, Merit's blush balms are a super creamy alternative for those who opt for a fail-safe mode of application. Coming in three colours and currently on sale, now is a great time to invest in this set for your favourite Gen Zer.
Perfect for those hard-to-shop Gen Zers, this mini dress is perfect for an evening occasion or even worn over jeans for the ultimate cool-girl look.
Containing essential oils to offer some aromatherapy relaxation to soothe period aches, these are a great safe tool to help your loved one soothe their menstrual symptoms.
A daunting product at first glance, but trust me, this lip buff is one of the best products I've ever tried. Containing a non-burning plant-based formula to gently exfoliate the lips, my parched winter lips are always quenched after use.
Currently wearing them as I type this, these frames have been one my top purchases of 2024. Featuring trendy designs and incredible quality, Jimmy Fairly's frames are a no-brainer.
Known for their thoroughly researched, science-backed formulas, the vegan-friendly products are a great starting point for Gen Zers starting their skincare routine. This clear set includes an easy three-step routine to support acne-prone skin.
A great multihypenate bag that doubles as a sleek everyday tote and gym bag.
Papier's diaries are a cult favourite for a reason: their sleek designs and concise interiors that make getting organised seamless.
If anyone gives me this gift set for Christmas, I will love them forever. Including some of the brand's key best-sellers in their signature top shades, it is a make-up lover's dream.
Zara's latest collaboration with fashion brand Nanushka is an excellent option for your adult Gen Zers who are either moving into uni dorms or in their own flat.
Offering cases compatible across Apple, Google, and Samsung, CASETiFY historically has one of the most ample collections of phone cases, charms, and other tech accessories. This checkered phone case offers a sleek design and phone protection.
Made from recycled materials, these hiking shoes were directly recommended by my Gen Z friend, who has been totally obsessed with hiking. Expertly crafted for comfort and safe grip, they feature a sleek look that takes you from the trails to the everyday.
One of my favourite autumn/winter collaborations, these powder-blue tights serve as a great chic stocking stuffer that they'll be sure to love.
Resistance bands are a great workout tool for various at-home workouts and stretching. Available in five different colourways, they make great stocking stuffers.
These are hands down the comfiest shoes I've ever worn. Following the suede trend and currently working alongside actress Sydney Sweeney, gaining Tik Tok virality, these shoes are well on their way to becoming a favourite among Gen Z.
This travel set features three super sleek cases under £50. That's a total bargain if I've ever seen one.
These are some of the most covetable trainers of 2024, rarely remaining in stock; now is the perfect time to invest if you or your Gen Zer has been eyeing them for a while.
Available in eight colours, these scrunchies are equally as comfortable as they are fun.
A. Bocca's shoes are so incredibly high-quality and fun that they'll be sure to be in their closet for many years to come.
These D-Bronzi drops were one of the first tanning products I used when I first delved into bronzers. These drops work as a serum mixed with a moisturiser and blend seamlessly for an even application. To remove it, simply wash away with makeup remover.
This phone charm has been firmly at the top of my wish list for many months now.
This year, bag charms went completely viral on social media. This Oliver Bonas one is spectacular and makes a great accessory for bags or key rings.
Knitting is a great hobby, especially if you're looking to spend less time on screen. This knitting kit will serve any Gen Zer well for the winter months ahead; simply choose their favourite colour for the yarn and expect it to arrive alongside the pattern and needles for a no-fuss experience.
Great for carrying make-up or any other essentials on the go for school, travelling, or simply every day.
Look at Reformation's Bethany ballet flats if you're looking to treat your special person to an instant hit pair of shoes.
I don't know a single Gen Zer that wouldn't prefer using a pimple patch over concealer everyday. This sleek compact case makes traveling with your hydro face seamless as it has a mirror for precise application and a storage pocket for the patches.
"Weight training is one of the most effective forms of workout you can do, yet so many of the weights on the market are - well, quite ugly, and therefore unappealing. Not this Obshay swirl weight, though, which will look great in any space and help you up the ante with your strength training, too." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
A piece from Taylor Swift's favourite jewellery brand is nothing short of a perfect gift for your Swiftie Gen Zer. This under £50 18kt gold plated bracelet is great on its own or as used as a layering piece.
Currently on sale, this H&M brown shoulder bag is an excellent Western-style handbag with a timeless chunky metal buckle for some extra style points.
This product has reigned supreme amongst all beauty lovers for quite some time now, known for its moisturising formula that isn't sticky or gloopy and featuring a light tint of colour on the lips. Perfect for those looking to invest in a luxury product as an extra treat.
Fun Fact: I collect Anna + Nina mugs, and this leopard mug is 100% at the top of my Christmas wish list.
A viral TikTok sensation, Damson Madder's Tilly Gillet is a great layering piece for any season. Often sold out, now is a great time to invest if it's been on your special person's wish list for some time.
"A quick, easy and tasty snack option for on the go, Missfits vegan protein bars pack a punch with 15g of protein per bar with added vitamins and minerals, too. These make a great present for the gym-goer or working Gen Z in your life who's constantly spending money on protein snacks on the go." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
An option for your adult Gen Zers, this incredible pair from the Simone Rocha x Crocs collaboration is usually sold out, so now is a great time to invest.
Good Squish has firmly cemented itself as Gen Z's favourite scrunchie brand. This baby Blumberg white scrunchie will please anyone upon receipt.
I'm obsessed with Lepelclub's homeware pieces as they add a twist to any staple. These twisted spoons are a great gift if you have a Gen Zer in mind who just moved into a new place or is looking to upgrade their kitchenware.
For those indecisive Gen Zers, myself included, who struggle with choosing holiday dresses, this corduroy is an excellent option if you want to help them avoid the I-have-nothing-to-wear troubles.
"Gua Sha's are a great gift for anyone and everyone, but will be a particularly good present for the 20-something in your life who may not have the money to invest in a six step skincare routine. Used morning or night to depuff and soothe a tired face, they add a bit of simple self care to any day." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
"This Lush body spray, originally designed for their limited edition Eid range, went insanely viral (so much so, bottles were sold on eBay after it was discontinued for over double the price). Now restocked in time for Christmas, it makes a great gift thanks to its warming velvety blend of benzoin bark extract and sandalwood and affordable price point." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
This TikTok viral lip mask is known for its ultra-nourishing formula featuring hyaluronic acid and shea butter. A great lip product to keep in your arsenal during winter. Simply lather a thin layer over the lips before bed and wake up with silky smooth lips.
Known for their Gen Z-approved homeware, Urban Outfitter's bedding was the single coolest thing I yearned for as a teenager. And to be honest, the feeling remains as an adult.
"I always have a pack of these Ross J Barr patches in my handbag - simply pop on your wrist or temple in times of stress to feel the soothing effects. A blend of safflower, Raddix alba root and more, the subtle patches also promise to help ease headaches, tension, brain fog and neck pain - and yes, they really work. What's not to love?" - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
"Dr Julie Smith's debut book, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before, became a Sunday Times bestseller when it was released in 2022 and has stayed in the charts ever since. A bible for any 20-something looking for stress coping or life building techniques, the psychologist's soothing, sound advice is relevant to anyone." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
South Korean brand Gentle Monster has some of the most stylish designs in the market at the moment; these clear glass aviators are a great lens-wear update. For any of my friends and family reading this, take note!
A trinket dish is an excellent homeware staple for anyone. From holding perfumes to jewellery, this Kinship Press X Soru piece is a sleek yet fun option.
It-girl-approved, this double heart keychain with a bedazzled initial is the perfect personalised gift to attach to a purse, backpack, or to use as a keychain.
Another viral sensation, these cheek tints are a great Gen Z gift option for their versatility, staying power, and smooth application. Glaze over the cheeks or lips for a fresh everyday look and you're all set.
No holiday gift is complete without a pair of socks and these Hugo shimmery socks are the perfect elevated stocking stuffers.
"Free People's best-selling Get Your Flirt On Shorts make the perfect present for any runners or cardio lovers in your life. Sweat-wicking, supportive and stylish, they come in a wide range of colourways and will become a staple in any runner's wardrobe." -Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
Probably one of my most complimented pieces in my jewellery collection, July Child's rings are just chef's kiss.
"Beats have long been designing functional yet fashion forward in-ear and over-ear headphones, and their bestselling Solo 4's make a great gift thanks to their longevity, usability, and design, too. I personally love the Cloudpink colourway and know these will go down a treat with everyone, from those studying at uni to working their first job in the city."- Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
Easily one of the most coveted products from Gisou, The Honey Gloss & Go set from Gisou is perfect for delivering on-the-go honey infused nourishment to your hair and lips. Worth £59, now is a great time to invest.
A super sleek investment ring from the female-owned brand Carrie Elizabeth is a great chunky ring for the jewellery-obsessed Gen Zer in your life.
This investment piece is perfect for those looking to treat their Gen Zer to a cult favourite fashion staple that is sure to last them for many seasons.
"While this raved-about Mr Maria x Smiley lamp might not strictly be a wellness gift, I raise you this: it'd be pretty hard to wake up feeling anything other than happy with this glowing light beaming up at you every day. It gets my vote as a stylish and mood-boosting gift for any age, but particularly wellness and interiors-loving Gen Z's." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor.
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Sofia Piza is the Fashion Writer at Marie Claire UK.
Sofia Piza is a Fashion Writer with experience working across runway trends, shopping picks, creative production, and celebrity fashion news. Born in Mexico and raised in five countries, Sofia decided to settle in London after spending four years at the London College of Fashion, studying Fashion Journalism. When she's not sourcing inspiration from social media, you will most certainly find Sofia anywhere from a local vintage market to busy central London streets people watching - the possibilities are endless.
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