This Baked French Toast Recipe Lets You Host a Stress-Free Brunch

Jessica Smith
Jul 17, 2018

If you’re looking to host your pals for brunch with minimal effort, consider this baked French toast. Throw it together in minutes; toss it in the oven; and use your extra time to whip up a killer pitcher of Bloody Marys (or maybe even catch a few extra zzz’s!). You and your guests will enjoy a warm, custard-laced dish that tastes even better than it looks. We brightened up our version with a pile of fresh berries, but you can easily sub in any other fruit of your choice. Serve with warmed maple syrup and — voila! You have a no-fuss, seriously delicious dish.

EASY BAKED FRENCH TOAST RECIPE

Recipe Note: This recipe can be easily doubled; use a 9 x 13-inch pan or equivalent.

(Serves 6-8 )

Ingredients:

  • 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for preparing the pan
  • 1 (1 pound) loaf of challah bread, preferably a few days old
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tablespoon flaked almonds, toasted (optional)
  • 1 heaping cup berries or sliced fruit
  • powdered sugar, for garnish
  • maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter an 8 x 8-inch glass baking dish and set aside.

2. Slice the bread into approximately 1-inch pieces. Spread over a rimmed sheet pan or in a large bowl and toss with melted butter. Pack the bread into the prepared baking dish.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together half and half, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest. Pour over the bread and allow to sit for 30 minutes.

4. Bake until custard is set and the top is golden brown and nicely puffed, approximately 40 minutes.

5. Cool 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with toasted almonds (if using), fresh fruit, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Looking for more easy summer recipes? Check out our DIY Recipes!

(Photos and recipe via Jessica Smith / Brit+Co)

I Made The Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink At Home – Here's How It Went

When I was working barista shifts at Starbucks over the winter, we'd get Medicine Ball orders every single hour. And not going to lie, I really hated them. Let me get this straight — I didn't hate the drink, but I more so disliked the fact that the customers ordering them almost always demanded their tea between a swarm of thick coughs and countless small sniffles. Yuck.

It truly felt like I was on the fence of getting sick pretty much every time someone stepped up to the register. But, I remained strong and I did what I had to do as a service worker, which in this case, was to pour the peachy-citrus tea into a pool of honey syrup, then top it with steamed lemonade. Coughs and sniffles aside, I often questioned why someone would order the Medicine Ball, based on the cost of the drink alone (up to $6, and that gets expensive when you're ordering it all the time).

Popular during sick season, the Starbucks Medicine Ball (AKA the Honey Citrus Mint Tea) may be good, but it's not good enough to cure you of that semi-flu, or whatever other pathogens might have been floating around in my café. It's also not worth putting someone else's health in jeopardy. Turns out, you can make the Medicine Ball at home — which saves money and effort (and spares others' safety) in the long run.

Scroll on to find out how simple making the Starbucks Medicine Ball really is!

@k.ard Medicine Ball for only $1.69 each! #medicineball#fluseason#coldseason#starbucksdupe#budgettok#SephoraConcealers#DrPepperTuitionContest#halloween#fall2022♬ Halloween - KenZie DarkStar

TikTok always makes recipes look effortless. So, I took this trusty tutorial into our own hands to compare how good an at-home Medicine Ball could really be against the real one from Starbucks.

Ingredients for the Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink

Starbucks

How can I make a Medicine Ball at home?

Anna Pou / PEXELS

Making a Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is pretty straightforward:
  1. Heat 1 cup of lemonade in the microwave for 45 seconds to a minute.
  2. Add 1 cup of hot water and stir in 1 tablespoon honey.
  3. Add one bag of Peach Tranquility and one bag of Jade Citrus Mint, then steep for a few minutes.
  4. Enjoy your Medicine Ball!

How I Made The Starbucks Medicine Ball At Home

Meredith Holser

First, I embarked on an ever-iconic Target run to gather my copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe ingredients. Since they were out of the exact Teavana teas I needed to replicate the TikTok recipe, I picked up two similar ones: first, the Good & Gather Organic Peach Honey Tea, and the Good & Gather Organic Mint Tea. I also picked up a jug of lemonade, and planned to use the honey I already had at home. All together, the three ingredients I needed ended up costing me about $9.50.

Step 1: Heat Lemonade

Tara Winstead / PEXELS

I measured a cup of lemonade, and just popped my Starbucks mug in the microwave for a minute.

Step 2: Add Water and Honey

Roman Odinstov / PEXELS

While the lemonade was in the microwave, I set some water on in my electric kettle. Once both liquids were heated up, I measured a cup of water and combined it in the mug with a tablespoon of honey. Yum!

Step 3: Steep Tea Bags

Anna Pou / PEXELS

Then, I put the two teabags in the mixture to steep. The tea wasn't overly hot either, and I steeped them for about 3 minutes before giving my homemade Medicine Ball recipe a lil' sip.

Is the homemade version of the Medicine Ball as good as the one from Starbucks?

Meredith Holser

To my surprise, my homemade Medicine Ball recipe was extremely delicious, and it mimicked the Starbucks one so closely. Before tasting, I gave my tea a sniff, and the smell was pretty much identical to the drink made in stores. The flavor hit the exact same mark.

Overall, I rate my homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball a 4.7/5.

The only detracting factors are the temperature of the drink – Starbucks steams their lemonade to make the drink super hot, and mine wasn't nearly as piping. Of course, this is just personal preference, and next time, I can heat the lemonade for a longer duration, or reheat the drink altogether. Another reason for the minimal point deduction is the drink wasn't as sweet as I expected it to be. Again, this is a personal preference, and you can add as little or as much sweetener you desire!

All of this goes to say, that a homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball is just as yummy as the one you can get at a Starbucks cafe. By following the steps above, you can make a copycat recipe that's going to satisfy your hankering for a citrusy, hot tea!

Looking for more at-home copycat recipes like this Medicine Ball from Starbucks? Browse our site for more DIYs!

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.

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5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Loud budgeting may be popular on TikTok, but conversations about money can still be awkward. I've been in romantic relationship for a little over a decade and we're just at a point where we've become aligned on finances. So imagine having random conversations with your family or friends that begin with, "I know I've never really asked before, but is it okay if I can borrow [insert x amount of $] until I can pay you back?" The nature of your platonic and familial relationships will totally determine whether you receive positive or negative responses.

As helpful as money can be, it can fracture even the closest relationships. Why? Well, psychologist Veronica West of My Thriving Mind, head of advice for Wells Fargo Emily Irwin; and Founder of Her First $100K money expert Tori Dunlap have a few ideas!

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:


1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

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It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

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"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

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No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

RDNE Stock project

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

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When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

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Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

  1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
  2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
  3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

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Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

  1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
  2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
  3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
  4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
  5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
  6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Alexander Grey/Unsplash

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

  1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
  2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Emil Kalibradov/Unsplash

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."

If you set clear financial boundaries and still find that your platonic relationships are weird, we have tips to help you navigate a potential friendship breakup.

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16 Costume Ideas To Rock a Wig This Halloween

Halloween isn't until next month, But if you’re still at a loss for a costume, don’t wig out — er, actually, that’s exactly what we want you to do! Because basic wigs are all it takes to build out an Insta-worthy costume on the fly.

Once you have the rainbow-colored hairpiece in your hold (chances are, you own one from Halloweens past, but even if not, you can grab the real deal from any costume shop for as cheap as $10), it’s all about pairing it with easy-to-find pieces that will round out your look.

DIY Costume Wig Ideas

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your closet or athrift store, or order from Amazon Prime to get just in time for the big day. With just a little pop culture brainstorming, you won’t believe all the ways you can wow in these wigs from head to toe.

Blue Wigs

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First up, my personal favorite, the bold blue wig. Here are our versions of Cookie Monster, Katy Perry, Sailor Mercury and Sexy Marge Simpson.

1. Cookie Monster Costume

An all-time classic and the best possible outfit for the gal who wants to have an excuse to pretty much wear a snuggie out for the evening.

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2. Katy Perry Costume

A beauty that has inspired SO many Halloween costumes over the past several years. We chose to veer away from the infamous cupcake bra version and tap into a more sophisticated look that’s still obviously the one and only KP.

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3. Sailor Mercury Costume

If you’ve never seen the TV show Sailor Moon before but love this look, here’s the 411: you’ll pretty much be dressed up as a badass anime cartoon who’s in a girl gang of other ladies similarly named after planets who take over the world and also happen to be really hot!

What You Need:

  • Sailor costume
  • Boots
  • Teal ribbon
  • Gold head piece
  • Blue gem
  • Hot glue

This little lady is easy to recreate with a simple basic classic costume you can find anywhere and by simply adding a few embellishments. For the headband, I used a gold necklace that has a solid structure (you could even use a gold ribbon if you wanted to) that has a blue gem hot glued to it. The ribbon is just an added piece to tie around your neck.

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4. Sexy Marge Simpson Costume

The sexy Marge! You know the episodes where she decides to let her hair down? The tall beehive hair is obvious but this is SO much more fun, not to mention easier to manage all night.

What You Need:

  • 1 yard of green spandex fabric
  • Sewing machine
  • Red beaded necklace
  • Heels

The dress, seriously the easiest thing to make EVER. Simply get a yard or two of the lime green stretch spandex fabric, measure around your body, sew inside out and voila, you are her! The beaded necklace you can make in a pinch if you can't find one — we scored and found this one at Goodwill!

Now, moving onto our yellow wig costumes. We tapped into a couple more Pop Stars: Miss Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga, an Angry Bird and a crazy Pop Art Comic Book Gal.

Yellow Wig

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5. Lady Gaga Costume

This crazy lady is definitely among the leaders in sporting brightly colored hair as a fashion statement. For this costume, we went with an actual Gaga dress and topped it off with a pair of shoes that are NO JOKE!

What You Need:

The shoes! This is not a necessity, but with the dress being so inexpensive, we decided it may be worth the splurge to commit to the investment in the shoes. The dress comes with eyewear, but these glasses truly take this costume to a more glam look that seems less out of the bag.

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6. Nicki Minaj Costume

We went with yellow-haired Nicki, but in all honesty you could literally wear any of these wigs for this chick — she wears 'em all! The key is exuding her sex appeal in combination with her sometimes crazy eyeball face topped off with not taking yourself too seriously. But this jam packs more punch if you go for being funny rather than sexy.

What You Need:

  • Tight leopard print dress or leotard
  • Black eyeliner
  • Heels
  • Gold bling

Definitely go with a dress size slightly smaller than what you would ordinarily wear. Then, feel free to stuff your bra with a little tissue paper to get those signature Nicki curves. Throw on a few gold chains and heels, and have a friend draw on her arm tattoo with eyeliner. I have to give it up to Miss Minaj, trying to copy her crazy eye look is REALLY hard.

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7. Angry Bird Costume

We've seen this costume before, but this look is still too dang cute to pass up. Especially when the list of what you need to make it happen is this simple!

What You Need:

  • Yellow outfit
  • Red, white, yellow and black felt
  • Black Sharpie
  • Hot glue
  • Headband
  • Flash tape

You could go with any shade of yellow really, I happened to have this little getup in my closet (just for the record, the shirt and skirt are from H&M and the sweater is from Target). Draw out the face onto the proper colored felt and cut it out. Glue the head piece to the headband. Everything else can be taped to the wig.

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8. Pop Art Comic Gal Costume

There are SO many versions of this look out there in the cyber world to choose from. Here is our take, where the outfit is pretty simple and it really comes down to the makeup.

What You Need:

  • Comic leggings
  • Graphic t-shirt
  • Ben Nye Color Creme Pods in a blue, white, yellow and purple
  • Electric Pallete by Urban Decay
  • Black gel liner
  • Fine-pointed synthetic makeup brush

Pop on the leggings and the top and then all that's left to tackle is the makeup. And once you have the right makeup on hand, it's not all that hard to achieve this head-turning look. The dots are all about precision — use a pencil eraser or tip of a makeup brush to apply the cream dots consistently all over your face.

Now for our orange wig costumes. We went with Leeloo Dallas (the hottie from The Fifth Element), a pumpkin, Fraggle Rock and the Mad Hatter.

Orange Wig

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9. Leeloo Dallas Costume

Channeling this sci-fi film icon is a really fun way to tap into a more sexy look while maintaining a quirkiness that keeps it fun. Truth: this teeny tiny outfit has indeed been my Halloween costume in the past — join the ranks this year!

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10. Pumpkin Costume

Okay, this may be really, really basic, but it is a Halloween staple. Plus, it’s the one time of year you can wear all orange all the time. #goGIANTS

What You Need:

  • Orange top
  • Orange bottom
  • Black felt
  • Hot glue
  • Green foam
  • Orange fabric

This look is all about orange everything! Orange leggings, an orange pumpkin t-shirt and that orange wig. Turn yourself into a pumpkin by pairing a green cone with an orange doily, and you're good to go.

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11. Red Fraggle Costume

One of the leading faces from the kooky '80s TV series can surely help bring back the nostalgia this Halloween. It's sure to put a BIG muppet-style smile on your face in this getup.

What You Need:

  • Red turtleneck
  • Nude leggings
  • Orange yarn
  • Bobby pins
  • Tail

Score a turtleneck from your local thrift store like we did. For the headpiece, grab a skein of orange yarn, cut it in half, tie each side off and attach to either side of your head with bobby pins. Grab any tail (this is from a lion costume kit) and add orange yarn to it too.

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12. Mad Hatter Costume

We're going with the Johnny Depp version, obviously!

What You Need:

  • Top hat with ribbon added
  • Jacket
  • Cream colored blouse
  • Spools of thread
  • Scarves
  • Gloves
  • Pants

As you can see, I purposely left out super descriptive details from each garment. The thing is, as long as you get the gist of the color scheme down and the general silhouette, this costume is so easy to replicate. Every clothing item is from my closet. I made the thread holster by stringing thread spools onto yarn and draping it over my shoulder. The makeup is a an understated version inspired from the original, but really easy to recreate. And yes, those are fake eyelashes as eyebrows!

Last we have our costume picks using a pink wig. These were our selects: Strawberry Shortcake, a unicorn, Jem and Frenchie from Grease.

Pink Wigs

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13. Strawberry Shortcake Costume

Another '80s classic that can be played down with a pair of white sneakers or sexified by wearing a pair of t-strap pumps.

What You Need:

If there is an option to wear flats, I say TAKE IT! How cute are these gifts to carry around as a fun accent piece? This costume definitely errs on the quick and easy side of the spectrum, so the hand-wrapped gifts make it feel a little more DIY! For your makeup just add some freckles using either black or brown eyeliner.

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14. Unicorn Costume

Real talk: I just wanted an excuse to dress up like a unicorn. The pink wig is just a bonus.

What You Need:

This costume is so comfortable and super cute! You can also add glitter or do your makeup really crazy if you want to take it to the next level.

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15. Jem Costume

Clearly, we are as obsessed with our '80s cartoon characters as we are with wig costumes. For bright pink tresses, Jem is an absolute must!

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16. Frenchie From 'Grease' Costume

“Beauty school drop out, go back to high school” — the tune never gets old. Typically the go-to Grease costume is the lovely Sandy, but let’s think outside the box and use this opportunity to channel the sweetest pink lady and her accidental pink hair. If only she knew how trendsetting she was back in the day!

Follow us on Pinterest for more Halloween ideas!

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25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

If you’re one of those people that prides themselves on delivering the perfect present and finds joy in seeing the giftee's face light up, Anthropologie is going to be your BFF for finding gifts this holiday season! From home decor to apparel and everything in between, Anthropologie delivers unique and eclectic finds that are fun and fashion-forward. It can be challenging sifting through the endless online racks of their treasures, though, so I’ve broken down the best gifts from Anthropologie so all you have to do is press *add to cart*!

Our 25 favorite Anthropologie gifts for 2024 gifting:

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

Anthropologie

For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

Is there ever a better gift than something that'll help them keep their life in order? 2025, we're coming for you.

Anthropologie

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

These mini UGG boots are so on-trend right now, any cool fashion gal will adore them as a gift.

Anthropologie

Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

This bag fits everything your giftee could possibly need in the day-to-day – and then some.

Anthropologie

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

This slightly-bougie skincare device tones and lifts your face while targeting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. It'll be such a luxe upgrade to your giftee's current routine!

Anthropologie

For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

These fashion-forward sneakers work well across a variety of outfits and occasions, like hitting the gym, going on a hot girl walk, or running weekend errands. The cool girl in your life will love pairing them with her favorite matching workout set and a sleek trench coat when it's cold out.

Anthropologie

Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage right now, so help them hop on the trend with this adorably eye-catching keychain.

Anthropologie

To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are the perfect head gear for a casual-get up. Styles that make a statement like this one are perfect for the Western fashion lover!

Anthropologie

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Anthropologie's candle selection is bomb – you're bound to find a scent your giftee will approve of. We recommend this seasonal woody scent encased in a festive, tree-dotted glass!

Anthropologie

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Pick up this electric lighter to coordinate with any candle gift. We promise they've never owned a lighter like this!

Anthropologie

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Whether she's working through her current TBR list or starting off the workweek, these chic readers will help her see clearly. You can snag 'em in a handful of colors and different strengths based on her vision.

Anthropologie

Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

All the cool girls are rocking pointed flats for winter. Bonus points for this pair being metallic!

Looking for more gift recommendations for 2024? Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

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.

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Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

Surprise your loved ones with these cheeky gift ideas that are perfect for anyone and everyone! From quirky gadgets to fun, useful finds and playful accessories, these picks are designed to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you're shopping for a close friend or that hard-to-please relative, these unique finds add a dash of humor and charm to your holiday gifting. Explore these playful gifts and make this season memorable with presents that everyone will enjoy.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

Amazon

This Purrble calming toy has been awarded Amazon’s choice, and will be both fun and soothing for children. It is a high-tech tool and a soft, furry toy that is a cuddly interactive companion that can help children stay calm in moment of stress and anxiety!

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This Puffer Bomber Is So Chic

Amazon

Keep your EveryGirl warm and stylish all winter with this beautiful puffer bomber. It comes in a range of classic colors and bright, bold, eye-catching colors so you can find the perfect look.

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Blow Off Some Steam With A Dammit Doll

Amazon

When you just can't take it anymore and need to yell and scream, take it out on a Dammit Doll. "The Classic Dammit Doll is engineered to absorb all that negative energy so you can let go and get your happy back on." Verified Purchaser, A. Preston, said, "I have been gifting Dammit Dolls for several years, they never fail to get a smile out of the recipient!"

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A Form of Shart

Amazon

This gift is just so hilarious, it had to make the list. If you have a friend who enjoys a good giggle, this is the one!

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Fidget Putty Is Perfect For Concentration

Amazon

Forget the fidget spinner, it's all about the fidget putty. This clever product contains over 500 ferrite stones that mould together like putty. It can help to calm an anxious mind or keep you focused.

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Advent Calendar But Make It Makeup

Amazon

Bring back all of the childhood feels with this advent calendar stocked for the makeup guru who likes to sample new high-end products and fragrances.

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Mini Karaoke Machine

Amazon

Bring the party home with this Mini Karaoke Machine. This portable Bluetooth speaker for kids comes complete with two wireless microphones, perfect for family singalongs or as a unique gift for the little songbird in your life.

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These Slippers Are Perfect for Cold Weather

Amazon

These UGG Slippers are made from ultra-cozy dyed sheep fur and feature a cushiony insole and rubber outsoles. They will keep your giftee’s feet warm inside but are also a total delight to look at.

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Remove Sebum and Blackheads With This Tool

Amazon

This adorable tool was made to clean out your pores with just a few sweeps. The Tako pore scrubber pulls out impurities to leave your skin looking and feeling clean and bright.

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The Not-So Piggy Bank

Amazon

This piggy bank is lacking a piggy but serves adults and children alike. You can put in whatever amount you'd like and take out any amount you like (hence the ATM.) Genius!

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Put Your Phone on DND and Enjoy Some Quiet Time

Amazon

Bring back the art of conversation with this card game designed to spark meaningful discussions. Featuring over 300 questions, it's perfect for fall camping trips or cozy nights in with friends and family. Whether you want to reconnect or have fun, this game is a great way to spend those crisp autumn evenings.

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The Top Selling Pillows On Amazon

Amazon

Want a hotel feel every night? These Beckham Hotel Collection Pillows are the answer we're all looking for. They outsell every other pillow on Amazon by a landslide and are made with a cooling gel fiber to keep you from overheating. You'll sleep like royalty.

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Shoe Spray to Spray the Stink Away

Amazon

Enjoy a fresh pair of shoes every time you put them on and avoid the embarrassment of taking off your shoes that have a stench when at someone’s house. The shoe spray gets rid of the nasty odors that may happen over time so you can feel confident in your walk.

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This Organizer Bin With a Genius Design

Amazon

If you've little ones with a million toys that are always making a mess, then you know the struggle that comes with getting them to tidy up. This organizer bin is a game-changer, perfect for small toys since not only does it have large storage space, but it also doubles as a playing mat so that when your kids are done playing, everything can cleaned up at once, saving you the hassle and stress.

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A Portable Photo Printer To Make Prints Anywhere

Amazon

Just when we thought we had enough photos on our phones, the HP Sprocket Photo Printer stepped in to display our shots physically. The portable photo printer boasts Bluetooth connectivity and can print images at 2 x 3in, roughly the size of a credit card. The best part? It can also apply effects, filters, and more.

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This Desk Lamp For Lighting But in the Cutest Way

Amazon

Light up your space with the desk lamp in the shape of a bird, making it a cute gift for a child or adult. It adds the essence of nature inside.

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Cowboy Hat-Wearing Duck Lamp

Amazon

It doesn't get more unique for a gift than this cute little cowboy hat-wearing duck table lamp! This little guy includes a USB port for rechargeable ambiance and touch control for personalized dim light.

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This Comfortable Bath Pillow Takes Relaxation to Bliss

Amazon

Indulge in the ultimate bath relaxation with the LuxSetp pillow, a #1 best-seller, complete with a plush cushion and neck roll. It is designed for supreme head and shoulder support while soaking and is crafted from breathable, quick-dry mesh. Attaching it to their tub is a breeze, with six handy suction cups included.

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The Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler Is a Fan Favorite

Amazon

Don't miss out on gifting the popular Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler, which will be a hit this holiday season. This double-wall vacuum-insulated tumbler is available in almost two dozen colors and four sizes.

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Go Solo

Amazon

The Solo Stove has been all over the news lately, thanks to Snoop Dogg's hilarious commercial. The Stove was made to fit perfectly on backyard tables, offering the lucky recipient with the perfect place to roast marshmallows or a just fun spot to enjoy a bit of backyard rest and relaxation.

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Wrap Up In Warm in These Essentials

Amazon

This season, gift comfort with these teddy slippers. You won't believe how quickly they will mold to feet. Perfect for winter evenings of fireside lounging.

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Comfy Couch Blanket

Amazon

This is an easy and fail-proof gift to give someone you don't know well. A fuzzy blanket for comfy movie nights and an easy way to add style to their living space!

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Nostalgic Glow From This Tetris Lamp

Amazon

Light up a gamer's world in more ways than one. This Tetris lamp isn't just about illumination; it's a tactile experience, a puzzle in itself. Let them design their own luminous masterpiece. Beyond being a practical gift, it’s a journey down memory lane, evoking nostalgia and delight.

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They'll Feel Pampered With This Laneige Holiday Gift Set

Amazon

After trying the popular Laneige lip mask, we fully understand the hype. This gift set has all of the star favorites from your favorite moisturizing brand, from a cream moisturizer to their coveted, best-selling lip mask. There are a few different sets to choose from, making it easy to tailor to your gift recipient.

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Astronaut Galaxy Night Light

Amazon

This SunTime Star Projector Galaxy Night Light is a mesmerizing gift that transforms any room into a starry galaxy, perfect for kids and adults who love a touch of celestial wonder.

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Handprint Kit

Amazon

With this CHERRY CHEERS Family Handprint Kit, you can create a personalized keepsake wooden frame, an endless gift set that captures family moments in a unique and fun way.

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This Heated Neck Stretcher For the Whole Body

Amazon

Since it is connected, your body will feel better using the heated neck stretcher. Gift a loved one this gift for muscle relaxation and therapeutic heat done right at home.

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This Camera Bundle for Pro-Level Shots

Amazon

This bundle includes the Canon EOS Rebel T7 camera, which is compact but can capture high-quality photos and videos. It comes with additional accessories, including extra camera lenses, filters, a tripod, and more tools that’ll give them more freedom to experiment with different photography styles.

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Give Their Plants a Personality with these Magnets

Amazon

For the plant lovers among you, these magnets are the perfect gift. With three expressions and three adorable animals, they add a playful touch that’ll bring a smile to your recipient’s face. Take it from this reviewer: “These are such a unique and inexpensive gift for the plant enthusiast in your life. Turn a simple plant into an adorable conversation item. They will make you smile when watering your houseplants.”

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This Book Nook for DIY Enthusiasts

Amazon

Available in four beautiful designs, this book nook is not only a wooden puzzle that’s very fun and fulfilling to assemble, but it also culminates into a beautiful and functional display piece for your recipient’s bookshelf.

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Relieve Tension With an Infrared Heat Mat

Amazon

This infrared heat mat delivers far-infrared heat that relieves your sore muscles. It's a great way to stimulate muscle recovery and ease into relaxation.

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A Coloring Book with a Sense of Humor

Amazon

The "Things You Want to Say at Work But Can't" coloring book is the perfect gift for that person just trying to get through the work week. It not only offers an outlet for stress relief, but each page has hilarious sayings that are sure to get a much-needed laugh.

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Legacy Journal

Amazon

This Legacy Journal by Duncan & Stone is a thoughtful gift that lets grandparents share their stories and wisdom across 85 beautifully designed pages.

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Christmas Snow Globe for Magic Glittery Moments

Amazon

Shake the Christmas snow globe and watch as snow starts to fall on the tree and presents inside. It is a beautiful sight that makes for a beautiful gift.

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For the True Crime Lover

Amazon

The excellent gift for the Law and Order true crime junkies is this criminal minds brain game is a fun way to test their memory and gives them an excuse to play private investigator.

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This Kit to Crochet the Stress Away

Amazon

Whether they want to try their hand at crocheting their clothes or trinkets like book sleeves, mats, and more, this crochet kit includes everything needed, including 21 crochet hooks, 15 skeins of yarn, and 37 additional accessories that’ll come in handy. It’s a therapeutic hobby and the key to making practical yet cute items they’ll love.

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These Solar Wind Chimes For Musical Days and Nights

Amazon

Add sound to time spent at home with the solar wind chimes that make for a gift that keeps giving. The sounds of chimes have a calming effect on anyone.

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Every Kitchen Needs One

Amazon

High-quality pots and pans aren't easy to find, but this set fits the description. The gorgeous, non-stick, oven-safe, and dishwasher-safe set comes with a detachable handle that can change from pot to pan and back again to offer the ultimate convenience for the home chefs in your life.

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This B5 Balm Soothes Dry Skin

Amazon

The hands and body can get seriously cracked and dry during the unforgiving winter. This La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 is a must-gift for your friend who needs a soothing balm. Healing and therapeutic, this multi-purpose cream will soothe dry and cracked skin.

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Gift the Joy of Cozy, Warm Sips with a Temperature-Controlled Mug

Amazon

For that person who always has a hot drink at hand during the holiday season, this temperature-controlled mug is the most practical and thoughtful gift. It has three heat levels, ensuring that they can savor every sip in perfect peace without worrying about a lukewarm drink.

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The Screaming Goat: For the Office Jokester

Amazon

The Screaming Goat figurine, which is complete with a book, is a must-have for the office prankster. The unexpected goat scream will effortlessly lighten the mood and draw laughs on busy days filled with silence and concentration.

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This Smart Notebook Transmits Handwritten Notes

Amazon

Pop your notes online, and then here's the magic: zap your Rocketbook reusable notebook in the microwave, and voilà, all 80 pages are fresh again! It's a game-changer for doodlers, busy students, or note-takers in endless meetings. Say goodbye to carrying a pile of heavy notebooks - this journal is about making their life lighter.

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Healing Crystal Candle To Calm Their Bah Humbug Attitude

Amazon

Aromatherapy tea light candles filled with crystals to channel positive energy and encourage holiday cheer. Illuminate their home with Amazon's Healing Crystal Candle!

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These Nostalgic And Fashionable Mini Ugg Boots

Amazon

These Mini Ugg Boots will put a smile on any fashionista's face. With sheepskin lining and insoles, these boots will keep anyone warm all winter long whether they are inside or outside.

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This Unique Jewelry Wash Makes It Easy to Keep Your Jewelry Sparkling

Amazon

Featured as one of Oprah's favorite things, this jewelry wash cleans your jewelry while you wash your hands. It uses safe and effective ingredients to give your jewelry a deep clean while nourishing your skin, and it's formulated to be safe for all metals, gemstones, and jewelry types.

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Chill Out with These Meditation Disks

Amazon

These tone therapy meditation disks are meant to be placed on either side of the body to release a full meditative 3-minute healing sound bath that's helped thousands of people with their anxiety.

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Portable Blender

Amazon

This Ninja Blast Portable Blender is a cordless, rechargeable device perfect for health-conscious individuals who love their shakes and smoothies on the go.

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Keep your pet entertained for hours with a motion-activated toy

Amazon

Every pet owner knows how it feels to want to spend hours playing with their pet but remember that they have other obligations they must attend to. If you think this is you, you can provide your pet with entertainment without having to spend hours playing. Enter this motion-activated toy that dogs will love.

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This Bracelet Doubles As a Charging Cable

Amazon

You would never guess that this wristband also serves as a mobile phone charging cable. This fashionable accessory is ideal for anyone consistently on the go and is available in several hues to suit personal style.

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This Toiletry Organizer For Travel

Amazon

Anyone who frequently travels will appreciate this Toiletry Organizer. It features separate compartments for everything you need for a successful trip, including makeup, skincare, and hair products.

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Unlock a World of Unusual Knowledge With This Book

Amazon

‘The Book of Unusual’ is a best-seller on Amazon, and its name is the only gag aspect. Filled with intriguing trivia across entertainment, politics, art, and more, it's a wealth of unusual and fascinating information, perfect for the curious mind.

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This Drawing Tablet is For Beginners of Graphic Design

Amazon

Beginner-friendly, this drawing tablet has ample drawing space so that creating digital artwork is easy and comfortable. It has various levels of pressure sensitivity for accurate drawings, and there are eight customizable keys on the side that your recipient can set up with convenient shortcuts.

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A Set of Kawaii Erasable Gel Pens That Is Just Adorable!

Amazon

According to Wikipedia, "kawaii" (rhymes with Hawaii) is the "culture of cuteness in Japan." That explains how popular Hello Kitty and Pikachu are. The Pig, Bear, Cat, and Mouse that make up this Set Of 4 Erasable Gel Pens can certainly be described as Kawaii. See, listicles can be educational! Only .55 cents!

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This Adult Sensory Toy for Relief

Amazon

Get out your stresses of the day with the adult sensory toy. It makes for a terrific gift, even if just for play. Build funky structures with the magnets.

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An Oasis Of Relaxation With This Shower Bomb

Amazon

Transform your daily shower into a spa retreat with this Shower Bomb, the ideal gift for those who appreciate moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. This Shower Bomb infuses your shower with soothing scents and a refreshing ambiance, turning your routine into a wellness experience. Whether it's for a self-care enthusiast, a fitness fanatic, or someone who simply enjoys the gift of serene moments, this Shower Bomb is the ultimate gift that ensures your shower becomes an oasis of relaxation.

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Everyone Needs These Apple Air Tags

Amazon

Your family and friends will love these popular Apple Air Tags that can track personal belongings ranging from cell phones and wallets to keys and wireless headphones.

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The Ultimate Chill Onsie

Amazon

These are the perfect PJs or loungewear for a homebody. It doesn't get more comfortable than hanging at home in a onsie.

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Glass Teapot For Two

Amazon

Brewing the perfect cup of tea with this exquisite glass teapot for your folks. It makes a splendid gift for tea-loving parents who enjoy sharing this delightful beverage together.

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This Lip Sleeping Mask Nourishes Overnight

Amazon

This LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask is essential for nourishing lips overnight. This product blew up after Sydney Sweeney campaigned with the brand, hyping it on socials, and then it started flying off the shelves.

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This 3-in-1 Charging Station Is a Great Secret Santa Gift

Amazon

This compact 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is a great Secret Santa gift as it can charge various tech essentials and easily fits any tabletop.

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These Classic Athletic Socks

Amazon

There is no stocking stuffer better than Classic Socks. These athletic unisex socks come in white and black color options and can be worn during leisure or physical activities.

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These Satin Bed Sheets Enhance Comfort in the Bedroom

Amazon

Slide into luxury with DECOLURE's satin bed sheets. Their silky texture is a dream against your skin. This lightweight, wrinkle-resistant set, complete with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases, comes in various sizes and colors to suit any taste.

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Streak-Free Cleaning with These Microfiber Glasses Cleaner

Amazon

This Microfiber Glasses Cleaner is ideal for effectively cleansing lenses while avoiding scratches. They are an excellent substitute for wearing a shirt to wipe glasses and serve as a practical present for those wearing spectacles.

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An Adorable Note Dispenser for Your Office Buddy

Amazon

Add a touch of whimsy to any desk with this adorable cat-themed note dispenser. Beyond its endearing design, this little feline friend serves a practical purpose by effortlessly dispensing post-it notes. It's not just a desk accessory; it's a charming companion that brings both the cuteness factor and functionality to the workspace.

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Boost Productivity Anywhere with This Work From Anywhere Kit

Amazon

This Work from Anywhere Kit is ideal for remote workers or digital nomads. With 17 essential items, it transforms any location into an efficient workspace inspired by the latest TikTok trends.

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This Mini Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Amazon

This Mini Bluetooth Speaker is perfect for travel and outdoor use. It can even be used in the shower to deliver high-quality sound without distortion for the ultimate listening experience.

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For the Traveling Soldier

Amazon

You can't go wrong with gifting the best makeup bag on the entire planet! This traveling organizer unfolds to reveal four separate storage compartments and even has space for makeup brushes so they don't get crushed in transit. The 360-degree swivel hook makes it easy to hang up in a hotel room or the car for easy access anytime.

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Customizable Door Mat Is a Cute Addition to the Home

Amazon

Gifting this Customizable Door Mat will turn a house into a home and bring a smile to their face every time they see it. It definitely adds a personal touch when welcoming guests this holiday season.

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This Star Map Showcases the Sky on Their Special Day

Amazon

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind way to show someone how much you care, this customizable star map is perfect. This artwork will show the constellations in the sky on any date you choose; how cool! You can customize the phrase, names, date, location, and font, so it’s a thoughtful and chic decor item.

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A Tray to Enjoy a Romantic Breakfast in Bed

Amazon

Let your parents know you want them to enjoy their time with a bedtable tray. It holds lots of food and coffee so they can stay in bed for hours.

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Dad Will Love This Beard Trimmer

Amazon

Get your dad to chop off those extra hairs so he doesn’t look like Santa, and see how much he will love this Beard Trimmer.

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These Best-Selling Earbuds Are Quality Sound On a Budget

Amazon

The TOZO earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.0 and a water-resistant design. They're the savvy pick over pricier brands, boasting a stellar 4.3-star rating from 357K+ reviews. Users are raving about the impressive 30 hours of playtime.

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