HLN Gift Guide: the most underrated gifts

The only thing better than getting someone exactly what they asked for – is giving them something they had no idea they needed. 

Now this can vary from person to person so knowing someone really well makes it easier to dream up the ultimate gift for them. But even if that’s not the case, here’s some gifts that totally deserve to be in circulation. 

A really good pen. 

We both know your bestie deserves more than a blue bic. And if they journal, write or like to draw, a quality pen is an everyday luxury that changes the game. 

Pair this with a cute notebook, journal or diary to complete the gift. 

Sakura Pigma Micron - £3.35 BUY NOW
Faber Castell Artisti Pen Sepia - £3.15 BUY NOW
Uni-ball eye (pack of 5) - £6.99 BUY NOW
Open Journal in Cloud - £25 BUY NOW
Large Toilet Paper Notebook - £19 BUY NOW
I Love People And Things A5 Notebook - £8.95 BUY NOW

A new signature scent

There’s no such thing as too many perfumes. But they can be a bit pricier than lipsticks so we don’t pick them up for ourselves as often, making them the perfect gift. And they’ll think of you every time they put it on? Come on. That’s adorable. 

Le Labo Santal 33 - £238 BUY NOW
Jo Malone London Earl Grey and Cucumber - £122 BUY NOW
Un Oud Obvious - £95 BUY NOW
Replica Lazy Sunday Morning - £122.50 BUY NOW

Expensive everyday essentials 

This is similar to my ‘upgrade theory’ (you can read about that here). Fill their life with everyday essentials that feel special. It’s the opposite of over-the-top, you’re giving them the gift of slowing down and enjoying the daily moments. 

Ouai Shampoo and Conditioner Duo £56 BUY NOW
Aesop Hand Wash £33 BUY NOW
Necessaire Body Wash £28.50 BUY NOW

Ceramics that are as unique as they are

From plates and bowls, to mugs and cups, handmade pottery and ceramics are always a special gift. Even better? Finding something beautiful from a local artist…

Kristy Adams Shallow Fruit Bowl - £168 BUY NOW
Cretan Liani Pot £80 BUY NOW
SGW Lab Tumbler - £27 BUY NOW

The finishing touches 

The best gifts are in the details. The thoughtful card, the heartfelt message, the careful wrapping and the bow on top. This is how you go from someone who gives good gifts to a good gift giver. 

Love Diet Coke Card - £3.50 BUY NOW
Aperol Spritz Card - £3 BUY NOW
Cowboy wrapping paper - £2.99 BUY NOW
Summer sage wrapping paper - £12.99 BUY NOW
Pink satin ribbon - £0.65 BUY NOW
Cheetah print ribbon - £2.07 BUY NOW
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Nula Jewel Power

creative writer and photographer

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