The 54 Best Gifts for Best Friends of 2023
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Because they deserve nothing but the best.
Real Simple / David Hattan
Your best friend deserves the world, but when you're limited to a tangible token of affection, it's no easy feat to encapsulate your companionship with a gift. After all, you want to find a present that's just as special as they are.
“The best gift for your best friend is one that reflects their interests, personality, and the special bond you share," says Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert, author, and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach. "The most important thing is the thought and effort you put into finding an item that is meaningful to them."
We researched and found the best gifts for best friends, taking into consideration budget, uniqueness, and personalities. Whether your friend is incredibly active, loves glamor and glitz, or values the little things in life, we have unique recommendations to celebrate your BFF.
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw
If your friend loves to curl up on the couch with a good book or film, give them a comfy blanket that enhances the cozy vibe. The Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw is a minimalist's dream with a neutral color palette and plush texture that's never itchy or stuffy, just perfectly soft and fluffy.
Price at time of publish: $147
Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
Whether your best friend is working up a sweat in the gym, running errands, or working from home, a handy tumbler will be a gift they reach for time and time again. The stainless steel design of the 40-ounce Stanley Tumbler keeps cold drinks frigid and hot drinks warm, all wrapped in eye-catching colors and durable design.
Price at time of publish: $45
Ugg Women's Tasman Slipper
UGGs are notorious for their super-plush sheepskin interior, and when combined with the design of a slipper, it’s no surprise that these might be your best friend's new everyday shoes. They have a durable sole that can transition outdoors, while the plush lining makes them doubly comfortable for lounging at home.
Price at time of publish: $110
Cookie DŌ Choose Your Own Six Pack
For a friend with an undeniable sweet tooth, nothing is better than a delivery of edible cookie dough. Cookie DŌ offers a build-your-own delivery of their iconic edible treats, with 18 different flavors and offerings for vegans and those with gluten sensitivity. These little delights make every day feel a bit more indulgent.
Price at time of publish: $80
Birthdate Co. The Birthdate Book
Looking for a great personalized gift? The Birthdate Book offers an individualized breakdown of your friend's astrological chart. In these 70 pages, they will uncover more about their personality and life path based on their zodiac sign, birthplace, and more. No two books are alike, so you can rest assured that even the friend who has it all won't have this.
Price at time of publish: $115
lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
If the virality of the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag doesn't solidify its position as an ideal gift for an active friend, perhaps the impressive design will. This water-repellent belt bag features a double-zipped pouch to maximize storage space without sacrificing comfort. It comes in various colors to match any style and preferences and has an adjustable waistband—making it size-inclusive, too.
Price at time of publish: From $38
Polaroid Now+ i-Type Instant Camera
This thoughtful gift helps your best friend capture an experience and relive the nostalgia with retro-inspired Polaroids. Unlike the standard model, this updated version connects through Bluetooth to their smartphone so they can adjust the photo settings for complete creative control over the image. It's lightweight, making it easy to take on the go, but make sure you also buy some film since it isn't included.
Price at time of publish: $150
Mejuri Zodiac Pendant Necklace
The Zodiac Pendant Necklace from Mejuri comes in solid gold, but the gold vermeil is just as beautiful, thanks to the brand's elegant craftsmanship. Accented with white sapphire, each of the 12 zodiac signs subtly plays homage to your best friend's personality and birthday. It will become an everyday piece of jewelry they won't want to take off.
Price at time of publish: $128
La Colombe Greatest Hits Gift Box
A coffee lover can never have enough beans, so the La Colombe Greatest Hits Gift Box won't go unappreciated. It includes three bags of their medium-dark roast coffee beans, Corsica, Nizza, and Monaco, with the option to have them pre-ground or whole. Unlike other gift boxes that include smaller servings, each coffee in this set is a full-sized, 12-ounce bag.
Price at time of publish: $42
What's for Dessert: Simple Recipes for Dessert People
What's for Dessert from Claire Saffitz is the essential cookbook for novice and expert bakers in your friend group. Despite the seemingly simple recipe titles, each dessert featured in this book packs a flavorful punch that will bring in compliments at parties or gatherings. It helps that the cover is aesthetically pleasing, so they'll want to leave it out for use and display in the kitchen.
Price at time of publish: $38
Papier Classic Border Notecard Set
Customized stationery is perfect for the best friend who's got their life together—whether they're a hostess extraordinaire or avid letter-writer, these cards will come in handy. The Classic Border Notecards are made to order, so make your purchase a week or two in advance to ensure they arrive in time.
Price at time of publish: $66 for 20-pack
Uncommon Goods Karaoke Microphone Speaker
For a friend who loves to sing, this Karaoke Microphone is a fun gift that will liven any party. It comes in a black or gold finish and easily connects to any karaoke app for a stage-free music experience. It is also budget-friendly and typically ships within 24 hours of purchase, making it a reliable option for any last-minute gifting.
Price at time of publish: $50
Light Source Company Apple Watch Band
The standard silicone Apple Watch band won't suit your stylish friend—they need an elegant upgrade to their everyday accessory. The Light Apple Watch Band from Light House Company comes in 12 unique designs ranging from tortoise to marbled, and can work across all sizes of Apple Watches.
Price at time of publish: $23
Tata Harper 5 Minute Facial for Megawatt Glow
Self-care comes in many forms, but none are as soothing as a mini spa day. The 5 Minute Facial set from Tata Harper is a deluxe duo guaranteed to start your friend's pampering night on the right note. The regenerative cleanser is a creamy, lightly exfoliating wash that sloughs away dead skin to reveal brighter and clearer skin.
Price at time of publish: $20
Diptyque Mini Candle Discovery Set
Luxury candles can serve as a statement decor piece and fill your best friend's space with a signature fragrance. This Diptyque candle set includes three of the brand's most popular scents: Baies (berries), Figuier (fig tree), and Roses. Each mini candle has 20 hours of burn time and is available in larger sizes if one is a stand-out favorite.
Price at time of publish: $126
Furbish Studio Needlepoint Pillow
Spice up their home with a cheeky throw pillow from Furbish Studios. Each pillow is hand-stitched with a quote from a popular song, TV show, celebrity, and more. Unlike other kitschy decor, these feel elevated yet adorable. They do tend to sell out fast, so try to snag the design you like for your friend when you see it.
Price at time of publish: $110
Better Homes & Gardens Ruched Faux Fur Throw Blanket
For your friend who loves nothing more than cozying up with a good book, consider this super soft faux fur throw (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). The ruched construction gives it some extra flair, and the lighter weight means it can be used comfortably all year round. Plus, unlike other faux fur blankets, this one is machine-washable for easy care.
Price at time of publish: $25
Cherry Casa Metal Claw Clip
Elevate your best friend’s everyday hairstyle with these decorative yet functional claw clips from Etsy shop Cherry Casa. Unlike their plastic counterparts, these metal claw clips are more durable and elegant, making it exceedingly easy to achieve a gorgeous up-do. With eight designs available in both silver and gold finishes, you can match them to her go-to jewelry and personal style.
Price at time of publish: $22
Apple AirTag
If your friend is always losing their keys or wallet, then the Apple Airtag is the techy gift to give. They can swiftly locate any attached item with the Find My app on their Apple device, ensuring they never have to search for a missing something or other again.
Price at time of publish: $28
Hill House Home The Hotel Robe
The Hill House Hotel Robe is not to be slept on—this ultra plush pick with elegant designs adds a layer of pampering to any self-care night. Your best friend will love wrapping up in this cozy robe after a night of self-care. This is an especially thoughtful gift for a new mom who needs extra pampering.
Price at time of publish: $148
Calm App Subscription
The benefits of meditation can't be overstated, but creating a daily practice can be intimidating. A subscription to an app like Calm takes the guesswork and confusion out of the equation, making mindfulness feel less like a chore and more like an essential part of your best friend's routine—plus, it's just a super thoughtful gift.
Price at time of publish: $70 for 1-year
Slip Silk Sleep Mask
The Slip Silk Eye Mask, one of our favorite silk sleep masks, can give them a restful night's sleep without messing up their beauty routine. The brand uses 100 percent pure Mulberry 22 Momme Silk, which is one of the highest-quality silks available. Plus, it's super chic and can help them slumber on long flights, too.
Price at time of publish: $50
Cadence The Starter Set
Your jet-setting friend will adore the simplicity and convenience of the Starter Set from Cadence. These TSA-approved capsules magnetize together and hold just the right amount of product without becoming bulky or overbearing—plus, we love the wide mouth for easy cleaning. There are nine colors and pre-labeled containers for shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, pills, and sunscreen, plus one blank capsule.
Price at time of publish: $108
Naturium The Juicy Balm Bundle
Ultra-hydrating and effortlessly glossy, the Phyto-Glow Lip Balms from Naturium belong in your bestie's purse. They come in a bundle featuring four of the brand's sheer-colored options with nourishing ingredients like phyto-derived esters, shea, cupuacu butter, and plant squalane. Your best friend will love how these balms keep their lips looking and feeling their best.
Price at time of publish: $34
Mysa Wine Natural Wine Club Subscription
If they love a bottle of wine, a subscription to some of the top natural wines will be a real treat. You can select a subscription at a monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly schedule, as well as customize the number of bottles. No two months are the same, so you won't have to worry about redundancy, which keeps the gift from losing its wow factor.
Price at time of publish: $85 for 3 bottles
Crown Affair The Hair Towel
The Crown Affair Hair Towel is a favorite product of our editors and for good reason. It's incredibly absorbent compared to other hair towels and can help protect fragile, wet hair from damage due to friction from rubbing it dry or using too much heat. The larger surface area of the towel works for every texture and length, from long hair to short hair, fine strands, or thick.
Price at time of publish: $45
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Your TikTok-obsessed bestie has likely had this liquid blush on her wishlist for months, so what better time to upgrade her makeup collection? With 13 shades and options for a radiant or matte finish, this Rare Beauty blush is versatile for many skin tones—plus, we love that you only need the tiniest dot for flushed pink cheeks.
Price at time of publish: $23
The Skinny Confidential Hot Mess Ice Roller
Buy at Shopskinnyconfidential.com
Tired and puffy skin meets its match with the Hot Mess Ice Roller from The Skinny Confidential. Cold therapy instantly reduces inflammation, so your best friend can start the morning with a few swipes of this frigid roller to help their skin glow. Unlike other ice rollers, Skinny Confidential's design is made of stainless steel, so the coolness lasts far longer than that of other models.
Price at time of publish: $69
Anthropologie Icon Juice Glasses
Any friend with a cheeky personality will find these cups a fun addition to their home and daily beverage routine. The Icon Juice Glasses from Anthropologie have adorable rotating designs, including hearts, shamrocks, bees, and rainbows, so there is always a style to covet or add to a growing collection.
Price at time of publish: $16
Keeptake My Life In Chapters: 10 Year Journal
For the friend who always likes to plan ahead, the 10 Year Journal can help them capture moments and milestones they can look back on throughout the decade. Prompts include moments of gratitude and reflection, along with spaces for images and manifesting.
Price at time of publish: $35
Vitality Cloud II Jumpsuit
If she’s running errands, off to the gym, or simply can’t be bothered to put together an outfit, the Vitality Cloud II Jumpsuit is a one-stop shop for comfort and style. The scoop neck design, removable pads, and lightweight but squat-proof fabric can go from grocery store to fitness class in a pinch. We also love the eclectic array of 12 colors, which includes vivid brights and everyday neutrals.
Price at time of publish: $108
Material The Knives + Stand Set
If your bestie is a whiz in the kitchen, they know just how crucial a dependable knife set is. The quality and craftsmanship of this Material Kitchen knife set exceeds expectations—the Japanese stainless steel and high carbon blades chop, dice, and slice, making their next recipe a breeze. Plus, the optional knife stand is made with FSC-certified walnut or beech wood for an aesthetic touch.
Price at time of publish: $245
SolaWave 4-in-1 Advanced Skincare Wand
The Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand is a handheld device that can help with a bevy of skin concerns, from signs of aging to hyperpigmentation, thanks to the use of galvanic current, electronic facial massage, red light therapy, and heat therapy. It's quick and easy to use, so they can easily take their skincare routine to the next level. Plus, they'll love that it charges quickly and holds a battery for several uses.
Price at time of publish: $169
Beis The Cosmetics Case
A chic cosmetics case can elevate any bathroom makeup session on a trip, especially when it is as top-quality as the option from Beis. It's easy to clean and optimized for storage, thanks to a removable brush holder and pocket, so they won't need to leave behind products for the sake of space. There's even a removable mirror for quick touch-ups when they are on the go.
Price at time of publish: $68
Osea Total Body Glow Trio
The OSEA Total Body Glow Trio includes the brand's beloved body scrub and oil, both of which harness the power of sea-inspired ingredients like undaria algae, mineral-rich sea salt, and gigartina seaweed. The additional plant-based body brush can aid in the exfoliation process, helping your best friend achieve glowing skin year-round.
Price at time of publish: $98
Art of Tea Eco Teabag Sachet Sampler Box
Unwinding with a hot cup of tea is a great way to end any day, so giving your best friend an assortment of teas is as practical as it's soothing. Each sampler includes 12 individually wrapped tea sachets, all of which have a unique design on the packaging, further distinguishing them from one another and creating a more beautiful experience when brewing a nightly cup. If they love any particular flavor, they can purchase the tea bags and have them shipped directly to their home.
Price at time of publish: $20
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
A barista-worthy latte from the comfort of home is a true luxury, and the Breville Bambino Espresso Machine makes it easy for your best friend to whip up frothy steamed milk and rich pours every morning. The brushed stainless steel looks sleek on any coffee cart or counter, and will undoubtedly be your BFF’s new favorite gadget.
Price at time of publish: $300
Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose Vanity Mirror
The Gleaming Primrose Vanity Mirror makes a stellar gift for a friend who loves vintage flair in their home decor. As a more affordable rendition of Anthropologie's viral Primrose Mirror, this smaller-scaled option features a mirror encased in an ornate black or gold frame. It also makes a fantastic housewarming gift.
Price at time of publish: $168
Hatch Restore 2
Alarm clocks can be jarring, but the Hatch Restore 2 will gently wake your best friend with a sunrise alarm, gradually brightening when it's time for them to get up each day. The device is controlled with an app and offers additional features like sleep sounds and an LED clock display. It comes in three neutral colors to work seamlessly in any bedroom space.
Price at time of publish: $200
K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask
Complete your best friend’s self-care routine with the K18 Leave-In Repair Hair Mask. Whether she’s adding some TLC to her locks between trims or wants to repair damage from heat or bleach, this formula strengthens hair, infuses moisture, and seals it for a sleek, salon-worthy mane.
Price at time of publish: $75
Calpak Jewelry Case
If your friend owns and wears a lot of jewelry, giving them a way to organize their beloved pieces tastefully is a thoughtful gift they can use every day. This faux leather jewelry case is durable, and the interior includes plush fabric to keep their earrings, rings, necklaces, and bracelets secure no matter where they go.
Price at time of publish: $98
Ember Mug 2
Instead of letting your coffee-obsessed friend consume room-temperature drinks, give them the Ember Mug 2. When removed from the compressed charger, the Ember maintains the owner's desired beverage temperature for 1.5 hours. If left to rest on the charging coaster, their drink will stay warm all day. And, with seven shades available, it's easy to pick up your friend's favorite color.
Price at time of publish: $130
The Golden Beverly Birth Flower Ring
Zodiac signs are all the rage, but a birth flower ring is the subtle iteration of the astrological trend. This option from Etsy is offered in three metal finishes and a wide range of sizes, so it's easy to customize. Plus, the handmade quality of the ring feels a bit more special than something mass-produced.
Price at time of publish: $36
The Sculpt Society Subscription
Buy at App.thesculptsociety.com
For a friend who loves working out, gifting a membership to The Sulpt Society is the way to go. Founder and lead trainer Megan Roup, takes them through over 500 fitness class options, from dance cardio to low-impact body sculpting, meditation, and yoga; there is something for everyone. Classes can stream across devices, making it easy to work out from anywhere.
Price at time of publish: $180 for 1-year
Clare V. Pot de Miel Woven Bag
The Clare V. Pot de Miel Woven Bag screams Parisian chic and is perfect for a friend obsessed with fashion. Each bag is handwoven using natural straw fibers, offering a unique quality to an otherwise consistent design. The bag is large enough to hold all the essentials, from a cell phone and wallet to sunscreen and lipstick. With a leather top handle and an option for a longer strap, the Pot de Miel is the accessory they won't want to put away.
Price at time of publish: $215
Merit The Lip Duo
If they're always touching up their lipstick, snag them the ever-popular Merit Lip Duo. This customizable gift set features a tube of the brand's beloved Signature Lightweight Lipstick and Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil in the color of your choosing. The formulas for both products are comfortable, hydrating, and made to last, so they won't have to worry if their lip color is fading every few minutes. First orders also come with a signature makeup bag, only adding to the gift's aesthetic.
Price at time of publish: $44
Picnic Time Essential Garden Tote Bag and Tools
If they're frequently tending to plants in the garden, a garden tote with tools will be a delight. Each bag includes a digging trowel, planting trowel, and garden cultivator, all with wooden handles. The bag has a polyester canvas exterior construction, so it's easy to wipe down if it gets dirty during use.
Price at time of publish: $32
Olive and June Pedi System
The Olive & June Pedi System includes everything they need for an at-home pedicure. The kit has a nail file, clippers, buffer, heel file, polish remover, and other accessories to get their feet feeling fresh and ready for sandal season or a special event. Everything comes in a storage case too, so they won't have to worry about the kit taking up space in their home.
Price at time of publish: From $75
T3 Airebrush Duo
A good blowout is tough to master at home without the right tools. Your best friend can skip going to the salon every week with the AireBrush Duo Interchangeable Hot Air Blow Dry Brush. The interchangeable design allows them to get a voluminous ‘90s style without maneuvering a round brush and drier, while the EvenStream Vents ensure consistent airflow and swift styling, saving time and money.
Price at time of publish: $190
WTHN Acupressure Mat Set
While acupuncture is a phenomenal practice to alleviate physical and mental strife, it's not always accessible. At-home acupressure, like this mat from WTHN, will allow your friend to unwind after a long day and rest their body. It's easy to travel with, too—just roll up the mat and secure it inside the included carrying tote to take it on the go.
Price at time of publish: $78
Renpho Eyeris 1 Eye Massager
Whether you’re encouraging your busy friend to unwind or elevating their existing relaxation habits, the Renpho Eyeris Eye Massager provides soothing comfort. The heating pads can reach up to 107 °F and have a built-in Bluetooth speaker so they can queue her favorite playlist, podcast, or meditation soundtrack. The manufacturer recommends using the massager before bedtime for ultimate relaxation.
Price at time of publish: $130
Marc Jacobs The Medium Tote Bag
The stylish best friend needs the Marc Jacobs The Medium Tote in her purse collection—it’s versatile for work, errands, and shopping, and has a timeless design that goes with any outfit. With so many hues, patterns, and finishes, you can tailor the bag to precisely her style preferences. Plus, we love the convenient adjustable strap, secure zip closure, and interior pockets for organization.
Price at time of publish: $195
Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 XL Ice Cream Maker
Give your best friend a gift as sweet as they are with this deluxe frozen treat maker from Ninja. It can whip up ice cream, sorbet, frozen drinks, and more, and has two liters of space. Any creative home chef, ice cream connoisseur, or sweet tooth devotee will love this kitchen tool.
Price at time of publish: $250
ScreenCraft Gifts Custom Travel Photo Coasters
Take the special moments in their life and turn them into a keepsake, like these customized drink coasters. They make great conversation starters at personal gatherings, but more importantly, they have a personal touch that shows how much you care about your friend.
Price at time of publish: From $65
Questions You Might Ask
What are some unique and personal gift ideas for a friend?
“People, especially those who have everything, don’t need more stuff," says Whitmore. "You really want something you can consume. Something you can experience. Those are the more precious things that leave a more lasting impact."
Whitmore adds that one of her favorite things to give is pictures. “Take a photo that means a lot to the giftee, have it developed, and get a nice frame," she says. "If it relates to a memory you both share, that can have a greater impact on a relationship versus a fleeting moment of a spendy item.”
How much should I spend on a gift for my best friend?
“All of that depends on a person's budget, and it really doesn’t have to deal with an etiquette rule, per se,” says Whitmore. “It is more concerning your relationship with that person. If you don’t have a lot to spend, you can always make something for them.”
That said, for a best friend, a gift of $50 or more can adequately express your affection without going overboard. Consider your unique relationship and the occasion to decide on your budget.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Samantha Parsons, a beauty industry veteran and writer, with over seven years of experience. She researched countless sites and brands to find the top gifts worthy of a best friend. She also consulted Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and author, for her tips on gift-giving. This article was further updated by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor at Real Simple.
Related: The 88 Very Best Gifts for Women of 2023
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