With the holidays inching closer, it's time to start thinking about gifts for your nearest and dearest. Whether you want to get them something based on their MBTI type, their zodiac sign, or their favorite hobby, we've got you covered. For the cocktail enthusiast in your life, we’re sharing our list of incredible gifts within every budget, guaranteed to match any style! From swizzle sticks and cocktail napkins that add flair to mixers and infusions for some added flavor, here's what to look for.
You’ll be sure to stay long after the gifts are opened to toast these cocktail gifts!
Anecdote Candles
Anecdote Candles Cocktail Hour Candle
Happy hour starts with this delicious-smelling candle. It carries notes of sparkling champagne, lemon juice, cognac, juniper berries, and tarragon – which all sound like a great build for an actual glass. Cheers!
Amazon
PolyScience Breville Gun Pro Smoke Infuser
This super cool gun adds a delicious smoky flavor to boozy drinks with minimal effort.
Amazon
Thoughtfully Cocktails Mix & Match Mini Cocktail Mixer Set
This sampler set is the easiest way for cocktail connoisseurs to try a whole bunch of flavors and create endless yummy drinks right at home!
Anthropologie
Lina Wine Bottle Holder
Full of midcentury style, this wine bottle holder is super on-trend and will complement any oenophile's bar cart beautifully.
Etsy
Cheers Stir Stick Set
Every good cocktail deserves a snazzy swizzle stick, and every bartender deserves a classy set. You can go with the default option (cheers!), or even request a custom design for a personalized look.
Amazon
The Art of Mixology
This classic go-to source for mixology wisdom is both useful and pretty to display on the bookshelf.
Amazon
YETI Rambler 20-Ounce Cocktail Shaker
This shaker features double-wall insulation to keep those cocktails nice and oh-so cold.
Seedlip
The Seedlip Trio
Seedlip's non-alcoholic spirits have earned widespread praise for their deliciousness and contribution to booze-free drink making.
Williams Sonoma
Williams Sonoma Signature Muddler
A serious bartender needs a serious muddler. The tool turns fresh herbs and produce into cocktail magic.
Uncommon Goods
Uncommon Goods On The Rocks Set
Once you’ve got everything to make the perfect whiskey cocktail, you’ll want these granite stones to keep your drink cold (without diluting it).
Amazon
Mocktail Party
If your drink lover in interesting in trying their hand at mocktails, this book is the perfect (and prettiest!) resource for new recipes.
Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters Marina Bar Cart
An aesthetic bar cart is where the magic begins. Upgrade their entire set-up with this sleek pick!
Anthropologie
Ramona Coupe Glasses Set
These gorgeous glasses are great for holding cocktails, mocktails, wines, and even sparkling waters. They're a must-have for anyone with a penchant for serving classy bevvies!
Amazon
The New York Times Essential Book of Cocktails
This informative guide has everything a person would want to know about the art of making cocktails. Plus, it looks so good on a coffee table!
Williams Sonoma
Williams Sonoma Signature Bar Spoon
Save your table flatware for ice cream and pudding — a real cocktail requires a stirrer spoon.
Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters Cocktail Icons 2025 Calendar Tapestry
This artsy tapestry would look so chic hung next to their bar cart.
Target
Blush Cocktail Shaker Set
This colorful set has everything they need to concoct the tastiest cocktails around!
Amazon
The Drunken Botanist
This intriguing book goes back in time to shed light on the plants that make your favorite varieties of booze.
Uncommon Goods
Uncommon Goods Flavored Simple Syrup Set
This set of four simple syrups includes creative flavors like Cherry Almond and Cucumber Habanero to jazz up your favorite liquors with sophisticated notes.
Amazon
3-Tier Cocktail Seasoning Box
This 3-tier seasoning box keeps all of those cocktail-making essentials in one easy to access place.
Uncommon Goods
Uncommon Goods Personalized Whiskey Barrel
Personalize spirits for your favorite whiskeylover in a special barrel with their initials or name emblazoned on the front!
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Saluti Cocktail Napkins
These adorable reusable napkins will instantly cheer up happy hour!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!
Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!
Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought
Amazon
1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer
I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.
Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:
- It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
- I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.
I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.
Amazon
2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum
I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.
This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.
I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.
Amazon
3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip
This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.
I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!
Amazon
4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara
I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.
As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.
Sephora
5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation
Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.
I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.
Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.
Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Admit it: when the weather turns cooler, your diet basically becomes that of Buddy the Elf. That means candy, candy corns, candy canes, and syrup will be your main food groups. Instead of pouring maple syrup all over your spaghetti like he does, try mixing it into your favorite cocktails! Whether they’re bourbon-based or laced with rum, the sticky sweetener, maple syrup, is perfect for fall and winter libations. If you still need convincing, check out the maple cocktails below that are like having a maple tree tapped in your backyard all year long.
A Beautiful Mess
Maple Pumpkin Martini
This cocktail combines two of the most iconic fall flavors for a whole new taste that we love. Not only is it delicious, but it's also non-dairy, which makes for a great option if you or your guests need to opt for coconut or oat milk anyway. (via A Beautiful Mess)
Clean Cuisine
Brandy Lemon Drops
Citrusy and sweet, these brandy-filled maple cocktails are sure to get any holiday party going. (via Clean Cuisine)
Half Baked Harvest
Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz
The bourbon, citrus flavors, and homemade (!) maple syrup in this sip are out-of-this-world delicious, but topping the drink off with champagne really takes it to the next level. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Cookie + Kate
Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
Give your typical whiskey sour a sweet and spicy twist with cinnamon and a splash of maple syrup. Truth be told, you may not be able to go back to regular simple syrup again. (via Cookie + Kate)
Lemon Blossoms
Cranberry Maple Bourbon Cocktail
This holly-jolly cranberry maple cocktail is perfect for all of your holiday get-togethers. Garnish this drink with sugared cranberries and an orange wedge to make it extra festive. (via Lemon Blossoms)
Crumb
Spiced Maple Manhattan
The maple syrup echoes the sweetness of the rye in this cocktail, and the slight warming spices are truly like autumn in a glass. (via Crumb)
How Sweet Eats
Maple Honeycrisp Margaritas
You shouldn’t have to give up your margarita nights when the seasons change. The next time you go apple picking, whip up these margs afterward to enjoy the fruits of your labor. (via How Sweet Eats)
Earthly Provisions
Blanton's Old Fashioned
With just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes, you can have this strong (and a bit sweet) maple cocktail ready to sip. Cozy weeknights just got a whole lot better! (via Earthly Provisions)
Cookie + Kate
Maple New York Sour
If you’ve never had a New York sour, now is the time. You don’t have to choose between a whiskey sour or a glass of wine, because this drink combines the two for a sweet and tangy nightcap. (via Cookie + Kate)
Cheese and Chocolate
Figgy Maple Bourbon Fizz
This maple cocktail gets its fizz from ginger beer, sweetness from syrup, and a nice kick from the bourbon. (via Cheese and Chocolate)
Gastronom
Cold Brew Bourbon Cocktail
There are times when you need a pick-me-up, but you also want a second to chill. Those moments call for a stout cold brew cocktail that’s spiked with bourbon and sweetened with a hint of maple syrup. (via Gastronom)
Food Fanatic
Maple 43 Cocktail
When a cocktail is garnished with a maple-soaked mini waffle, you happily accept and don’t ask questions. (via Food Fanatic)
Just a Little Bit of Bacon
Pear Bourbon Smash
Winter fruits like pears and apples are perfect to pair with maple syrup and bourbon. This bourbon smash has half of a pear in each glass and is full of whole fruit flavor. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)
Feasting At Home
A Long Winter’s Nap
You’ll feel like a snooze is on the horizon with this aromatic drink. Flavor it with everything from whole allspice pods to pine needles. (via Feasting At Home)
Mixop
Gingerbread Latte
This creamy and frothy latte can be made with alcohol for a yummy caffeinated treat. (via Mixop)
Follow us on Pinterest for more cocktail ideas and fall recipes!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.
Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!
Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain
Romantic Silhouettes
Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.
Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter
Western Cowboy
This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.
Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison
Saturated Colors
Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.
courtesy of Stewart-Schafer
Pattern Drenching
Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.
McGee & Co.
Embellishments
This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!
McGee & Co.
Seaside Inspiration
Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.
Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!
Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.
The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!
Brit + Co
Apple Cider Shooter
That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Root Beer Float Shooter
This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Rainbow Shots
Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)
Sprinkle Bakes
Champagne Chantilly Shooters
Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)
Feast + West
Champagne Jell-O Shots
Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)
Dine and Dish
Blackberry Gin Shooters
This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)
A Year of Cocktails
Butternut Rum Lifesaver
A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)
Holly's Cheat Day
Tipsy Spritzer Shots
Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)
Bubbly Nation Creations
Sparkling Jello Jigglers
Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)
Broma Bakery
Champagne Jello Shots
Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)
The First Year
White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters
This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)
Cookin' Canuck
Cranberry Kamikaze Shots
NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)
Tablespoon
Banana Split Shooters
This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)
Something Swanky
Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)
If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)
Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.