Build-A-Present/Gift Guide 4
you don’t need to be good at DIY for thoughtful, personal gifts
Hello!
I am pleased to present you with my final gift guide of the season. I believe this one might be my magnum opus, which I hope you agree with, though I might just be deliriously jet lagged. Once again, this will likely cut off in your email and once again, I am asking you to stick with me.
Below the gift guide my life’s work, I compiled a list of sales for products/brands I frequently mention that I think are worth shopping. I tried to keep it tight so you can still hear yourself think, but in case you burn out before getting there, there are 3 call outs not to miss:
I made a discovery this afternoon. Code JOLIECB works on the Series 2 LED Mask and ZIIP Kit, which is already 10% off, getting you both products for $624.80. This is a savings of $243.20. Get it before everyone catches on or they realize it’s a mistake.
Stylevana is a reliable K-Beauty and J-Beauty retailer, just know shipping can take some time. I spent a significant amount of time in Japan researching, translating and seeking out beauty products—stories for another time. Some of my discoveries are available on Stylevana, like the best spot treatment I’ve ever used in my life. You can view them all here and use SHOPBF24 for the best deals.
Sofie Pavitt Face is 20% off site wide for the first time ever.
Now, for the main event. When the opportunity allows, I love a gift with more than one component. Sticking to a theme challenges you to be more intentional and creative. Though the pieces might seem random individually, presented together they create a one-of-a-kind gift that can demonstrate how well you know someone. It also allows you to put a new spin on a gift that may otherwise be lacking in excitement. An empty toiletry case doesn’t really have a wow factor. In this final gift guide, I’ve given you 10 primary recommendations, followed by a bunch of ways to upgrade them. Mix and match! Craft the perfect present. Let me know what you come up with.
Anything with an asterisk (*) next to it means it’s on sale, either automatically applied in cart or look at the banner at the top of the screen or homepage. ** means I have a better code than the public one, which you can find at the end.
Theraplush Hand Cream*: as foreshadowed last week, the third product in my personal hand cream triumvirate. One of the best posts I’ve ever read on Substack was Annie Kreighbaum’s deep dive into the development of this product. It’s fascinating to have a BTS look at the consideration that went into every aspect. Some highlights: it comes in a refillable pod that was designed to look nice on your nightstand, so you’d have no idea it was a cream with retinol, colloidal oats and other nourishing, anti-aging ingredients that don’t create a sticky mess all over your sheets. I recently learned that the top is meant to double as a ring dish. The brand just came out with its first scented version. It’s a pretty perfect standalone gift, but you can round it out by throwing in a daytime cream*. For nail specific care, Dr. Dana’s Nail Renewal System* is absolute magic, great for in between manis or anytime your nails need a little TLC. You can use it while watching TV, as you can the Omnilux LED Glove*, which is one of the best ways to revive your hands.
Daise UPF Clothing: UPF clothing is an easy way to up your sun protection, but a lot of it is ugly. In the spring and summer months, Daise’s gauze-y button-down and joggers* are my go-to morning dog walk uniform. I also wear a lot of Uniqlo UPF clothing, which is more affordable and this shawl* is more or less my security blanket. Daise also makes a brilliant Sun Cooler, a thermal insulated pouch to prevent your sunscreen from overheating, which can render it unstable and thus ineffective. A great tool for the beach or travel. If you don’t know their preferred sunscreen, fill it up with a rolled up UPF hat, gloves, or SPF lip product* (if you’re quick to order, you might be able to get this** or this Japanese option in time). A sun shield* is a fabulous choice if they’re the type to wear one or get regular professional treatments.
Calpak Toiletry Case Small* and/or Makeup Travel Bag*: Two of my most well-received gifts and personally gamechanging for travel. The small size is not small at all and easily fits all of my stuff, which means it will be perfect for most people. Both of these are so superior to others that you can’t go wrong with either on its own, but don’t miss out on the easy win here: fill them up. Obviously, if you know their favorite products, that’s an even easier win, but pretty much everything from last week’s gift guide works, especially for the makeup bag, which is begging for brushes (demonstrate how it works!!) Get creative! Try eyeglass cleaner, fashion tape*, blister block* or fancy floss*. I keep this nail kit in my backpack and use it constantly (actually useful, unlike a lot of “emergency” kits that are silly like cocktail kits that make 1 mediocre drink). A nice comb* that comes in a pouch, or get even fancier with a personalized one.
If you’re feeling generous, you can shower someone with Calpak’s other gem: the Luka Duffel*. My sister has traveled to over 60 countries and this is her LED mask. That is to say, the recommendation she is most passionate about spreading the word about. I finally caved for my honeymoon and lmao have you ever had ample room to spare in your personal item? It’s padded and I keep discovering more pockets. Same as with the toiletry bags, you can add some strategic surprises, but it will probably be stuffed with paper to hold the shape, so fill the outer pocket with useful things that take up little space: pocket notebook and pen*, Noshinku hand sanitizer, delicious mints, compression socks*.
Marlow Pillows* and/or Sleep Crown: Quality sleep is one of the pillars of good skin and something I am not prone to, so I have worked hard to create an environment that improves my chances. The Sleep Crown is a perfect invention–don’t knock it til you try it. The Marlow Pillows have adjustable firmness, which both Alex and I were very skeptical would wind up being an overengineered design that didn’t feel good at all. We were so wrong. They feel wondrous and it’s adjusted with simple zippers, similar to compression packing cubes. Naturally, pillow cases are a great add-on here–I like Silvon* or ettitude* the best. Commit to the pillow theme, with a Furbish needlepoint pillow* (one of my favorite wedding registry items). A quiet & easy to clean humidifier* is a more practical way to upgrade someone’s sleeping game, as is a white noise machine with a real fan inside*. And for the nights when nothing will work, these masks*, which translate to “sleep 8 hours in 8 minutes,” were recommended to me in Japan and I’m obsessed with them. All of Japan’s drugstores also sell these single-use warming eye masks**, which feel lovely after a long flight or sleepless night. There are similar things in the US, but they are 10x more expensive.
Bioeffect Eye Serum* and 30-Day Treatment*: For anyone, but especially your older relatives who think their skin is too far gone for anything to make a meaningful difference. Blow their minds with these growth factors from Iceland. I refer to the eye serum as Bioeffect’s gateway drug and the 30-Day will accelerate change and renew hope. (Want more testimonials? Here and here.) Continue the total body transformation with the Korean Body Resurfacing Set** from LILIS, which includes an instant peel to slough and brighten body skin, as well as a fast-absorbing peptide packed body serum. If you’re not convinced, read my interview with the founder. For something more nourishing and moisturizing, Kate McLeod’s solid body stones* melt on contact, come in a variety of scents and in a reusable bamboo canister.
Nécessaire Body Wash Discovery Set*: You can also bring the skin and lifestyle transforming upgrades inside the shower. A lot of discovery sets suck. This one does it right: same easy twist open packaging as full size and a generous amount of product so that you have enough uses to truly discover each one. Their cleansers are lovely and bestselling for a reason, with each one offering something different. My favorite is Santal, which smells divine and has a liquid Epsom salt complex. If you know there will be a clear winner, you can also bypass the discovery stage and snag one of the body wash & lotion sets*. For a truly unique bathing experience, Kate McLeod’s Pebbles* are solid bath and shower oils, deep conditioning your skin whilst bathing. A similar concept that’s more economic is Hanni’s Splash Salve*, an in-shower moisturizer that you apply as the last step before turning off the water. Hanni is known for their “lazy” solutions, like my favorite Water Balm*, a spray-on lotion. I hope you didn’t think I’d forget the hair. For a deep cleanse, try Ouai’s Detox Shampoo* or Goop’s Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo. Crown Affair makes a great hair mask* or you can indulge them with a bottle of K18 (code: GOPB20). Both pair wonderfully with The Towel*.
PINE by STORA SKUGGAN: you know how in college when you would meet someone at a party that you’ve never seen before in your life and then you start bumping into them 7 times a day? That’s how I feel about this perfume. I first learned about the brand when Addison included the brand on her wishlist. I was in awe of how beautiful the bottles were. I was also a little bitter because I am so picky with scents and don’t know enough about fragrance to take a risk without smelling. (My benchmark for anything wearable is D.S&Durga’s Big Sur Eucalyptus, the long-awaited perfume counterpart to their famed Big Sur After Rain candle and hand soap*, which is one of my favorite smells in the world.) So imagine my surprise a few days later when STORA SKUGGAN’s PR team coincidentally emailed about their newest launch, PINE. Housed in one of their signature glass bottles, this time in a stunning green/brown and containing just one single note: Pine. PINE! Described as evoking all facets of the pine–sap, bark, needles on the floor–I knew I would love it. I was also tickled by their copy: It’s PINE. It smells like PINE. (It also seems to be selling out quickly–try here, here and here. Other scents on sale here.) So yeah, the gift of Pime could definitely perform well solo, but something so beautiful needs to be displayed*. Along with the aforementioned hand soap, you can continue the seasonally appropriate scent-themed gift with this candle (this is actually my favorite of Hotel Lobby Candle’s holiday candles, I call it a sophisticated big red gum. The throw is so strong I don’t even light it half the time and one day I’ll remember to buy a candle warmer.) I adore Homecourt’s Room Deodorant* in Cece and am tempted to pick up Balsam Fireplace. If you need a bigger boat, this steel tray would house everything beautifully. For a fragrant gift for a different audience, go Glossier. I’m a sucker for their thumbprint bottles. The discovery set* would make a great gift if you’re not sure what someone prefers and their Big Sur-inspired (!) Sandstone candle* ensures your giftee still gets a green glass object.
Images from STORA SKUGGAN
Luxury Makeup That’s Actually Good. Obviously good performance wise, but also in presentation and vibe. It should make someone feel fancy, a little elevated and indulgent. Gucci Beauty, Valentino Beauty and Armani Beauty are the classic options. Go for Gucci’s mist* or bronzer*, Valentino’s eyebrow pencil* or twin liner* and of course, Armani’s liquid eyeshadow*. People who are into makeup will love you for one of Pat McGrath’s Mothership Eyeshadow Palettes. Westman Atelier’s Super Loaded Tinted Highlight* is in weighty packaging that’s unnecessary but feels ultra luxe, looks good on everyone and hard to mess up. I haven’t tried Fara Homidi yet, but it’s a particularly good bet for anyone under 40 who has been taunted by ads for the lip* and face* compacts, but hesitant of the $88 price tag. (Hi, it’s me.) Finally, who doesn’t want to feel closer to Victoria Beckham? The Bitten Lip Tint* is exactly what it sounds like, but you’ll feel most like Posh in her signature Satin Kajal Liner*, which is ultra waterproof and comes in so many pigmented colors. One of you cited this as the best beauty gift you’d ever received and made a compelling case for Cinnamon:
My friend gave me the Victoria Beckham satin kajal eyeliner in cinnamon for christmas...two years ago? at this point and I have used 2 of them down to stubs and am working on a third. The color is a perfectly neutral shimmery brown and the formula is amazing, you can use it as liner or you can smudge it out for a one product eye look. I have over time bought some other colors and they're all quality but I think Cinnamon is the most special one.
Freda Salvador Brooke Boots*. We’re leaving beauty now and I once again implore you to snag these perfect boots while they are 25% off. They’re so incredibly lightweight, water-resistant, handcrafted in Spain and endlessly walkable. I have them in 3 colors. With gifts like these, it’s a nice touch to include the recommended care kit or whatever the brand suggests for maintenance. If you want to protect a friend from head to toe, give them the last umbrella they’ll ever need* (it’s not everyday I agree with a product recommendation from the NYTimes!) Because who doesn’t want 2 pairs of practical shoe presents, you can add in these 30% off clogs I’m deeply obsessed with and want in more colors.
STAUD Custom Pet Collection*: Before I adopted Goose, I thought these things seemed silly and I want to sincerely apologize for my error of judgment. You can get your pet’s face embroidered on things like blankets or sweatshirts or a hand painted portrait on any number of things. Their last sale was near my birthday, which gave me an excuse to get the Shirley Pouch*, which is one of my most prized possessions. The detail is exquisite and it puts a smile on my face just looking at it. A STAUD gift is extra special, but there is no shortage of custom pet gifts that don’t cost over $100. You can pretty much find anything on etsy—I particularly recommend a shirt like this, which I got for Alex last year or these custom pet pillows, which I used as gift table decor for my best friend’s baby shower and are now beloved childhood stuffed animals.
I mean, come on!!!! Zoom in on those brush strokes.
Sales Worth Shopping
Sofie Pavitt Face: 20% off sitewide with code SPFBF. I use and recommend everything from this brand. The Mandelic Clearing Serum is the star of the show and good for all, as are both cleansers. The Acne Reset Mask is spiiicy, so only for those with inflamed acne. And Nice Ice is a special occasion treat.
Sachi Skin: 30% off all bundles/sets until 11/29, price reflects discount. A truly unique and special brand, now’s the time to try if you haven’t. You really can’t go wrong, but I encourage you to read the descriptions to see what resonates and immerse yourself in the world. I have a highlight on my Instagram from a while back with details on pretty much all. I can see 3 empty bottles of the Pro-Resilience Serum from where I’m sitting and the Complexion Clarifying Accelerator was my first love, a must for congested skin. The cleansers are unlike anything I’ve ever tried. I’d grab the duo, but I’m partial to the blue one.
Shiseido: 25% off sitewide, with some items 35% including THE SPF STICK. I’ve never, ever seen it so cheap. It’s one of my most used products ever, I have one in every bag, Alex uses it too.
Hanni: buy more, save more, applied at checkout. The Water Balm is lazy girl lotion in a spray bottle and fantastic for preserving spray tans, but they have lazy girl solutions for pretty much everything.
Crown Affair: build your own ritual of 3 products and get 30% off. The Towel is my top choice, followed by The Dry Shampoo. I also recommend the Leave-In Conditioner, Ritual Conditioner, Air Dry Mousse and The Finishing Gel.
Dermstore: up to 30% off tons of brands with code JOY. Includes BioEffect, 111Skin, Aesop, EltaMD, Dr. Bowe Beauty, Elemis, Hero Cosmetics, HydroPeptide, IMAGE, Kate Somerville, Medik8, Naturopathica, One Love Organics, Sunday Riley, Supergoop!, Vacation SPF, Sisley Paris, U Beauty & tons more.
**LILIS: JOLDEF for 15% off
**Stylevana: Everything is already discounted, but use SHOPBF24 for the biggest savings. In addition to the Japan shelf, this is where I get my favorite ever sunscreen.
Credo Beauty: 20% off sitewide. Great time to get the best mascara. They carry a lot of brands you might not expect, so take a look.
DECIEM: 23% The Ordinary and NIOD through the end of the month. Here are my favorites.
Experiment Beauty: 20% off sitewide. Everything is good, especially Super Saturated and Software.
Jordan Samuel Skin: 25-30% off sitewide. The cleansers are incredible.
Shopbop: 25% off sitewide with code HOLIDAY, which includes over 1000 beauty products.
Naturium: 25% off sitewide with code CYBER2024. The body care (especially these 3) and Multi-Peptide Line are my favorite.
CurrentBody Series 2 LED Mask and ZIIP: The best deals you’ll see until 2025. Everything you need to know about the products is here.
On CurrentBody’s site: 20% off all with code JOLIECB. Works on all CB and ZIIP products on their site.
On ZIIP’s site: 20% off with JOLIEZIIP, which brings the Superior Gift Set to 30% off.
BEST DEAL: JOLIECB for 20% off the Series 2 LED Mask and ZIIP Kit, which is already 10% off, getting you both products for $624.80. This is a savings of $243.20.
The Best Beauty Gifts You’ve Ever Received
In case you need more inspiration, here are the rest of your submissions. TL;DR gift facial gift cards. I have a great suggestion in NYC that may have openings in January.
Allure beauty box. So may great full sized products.
La Mer Lip Balm was a sweet indulgence I wouldn't have ever bought myself but felt like such a treat all winter on my chapped lips. It has a mint flavor and lasts a long time but isn't overly heavy or waxy. The ultimate bougie gift! [Ed. Note: for reasons I don’t have time to dig into rn, this is 50% off at Stylevana.]
Dieux forever eye masks with Jordan Samuel (that I have gifted, lol)
A facial! I wish I was gifted more beauty related items though.
My sweet younger brother was desperate to begin participating in the gift-giving side of Christmas and got me the Summer Fridays jet lag mask which I still purchase & use to this day as an easy, on-the go / airplane kit moisturizer that is reliable and affordable.
The best beauty-related gift I’ve ever received is a facial!
A friend once gave Avene Cicalfate lip cream out as a thank-you at an event - this was back in 2016/17 when it was tough to find in the states and so expensive (ok, at $18/tube it’s still expensive here). She had been on a trip to France and stocked up on little gifts while there, since Avene apparently has regular drugstore prices in Europe! It was so surprising and thoughtful, and literally this stuff changed my lip health for the rest of my life. I don’t use it exclusively anymore, but it totally healed my cracked and sad winter lips that season, and they’ve never returned! Probably because I consistently use quality lip balms now lol. It was an eye-opening gift!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! Really. You’re the best. I hope my gift guides have been helpful. If so, share them with friends! Send hints to your loved ones!
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. My fingers must rest now.
xx,
Jolie
