Gifts for the Hard-to-Buy-For from Oprah's Favorite Things

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The thing about the person who’s hard to buy for is … it isn't just one type of person. There's the one who seems to have everything, the colleague you're grateful for but don't actually know that well, the relative who's grown up since you last saw them, the friend who's gone through a big life change… Certain fellas can be hard, as can certain gals, and generally speaking, teens are never easy.

There isn't just one present that will solve this problem. First order of business, then, is to ask yourself if your recipient falls into one of these particular categories. If, for instance, a friend has just weathered a divorce, maybe give them a new warm throw — an embrace for whenever they need it. For that terrific colleague? Socks might seem unoriginal, but luxurious socks are wonderful — everyone loves them, yet no one buys them for themselves. Gadget lovers, 1980s lovers, and party lovers may seem like disparate groups, but we've found they all like a snazzy hybrid camera that takes and prints photos the old-school way.

Notice the theme here? Essentially, you're reframing the question from "Why are they so hard to buy for?" to "What makes them so unique?" And that will point you toward one of these gifts, selected from this year's Favorite Things list.

Mini EVO Hybrid Instant Camera

Your teen will get a serious '80s throwback from this camera, which produces 100 images on one charge. They can also quickly download the associated app to print images from their phones or from remote shooting.

Griffin and Montclair Watches

Now that we all depend on our phones to tell the time, set alarms, and give directions (among 10,000 other things), watches have become accessories to swap in and out. These 44mm options with stainless steel cases and striking color-block designs will delight anyone looking to add a hit of color.

Women’s Cozy Full-Zip Jacket

The oversize fit and dreamy plush fabric make this a go-to for anyone whose errand-ing happens in places where the weather can get frosty. Oprah says it's a great dog-walking jacket.

Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The budget-minded traveler on your list will love this innovative bag, which holds three to five days' worth of clothes and has removable wheels. That transforms it to fit under a plane seat. In other words … no additional baggage fee!

The Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

Oprah thought this smart-looking tote looked a lot more expensive than it is. Which makes it just right for the person who appreciates luxury styling — and the person on a budget buying it for them.

I'm Dead. Now What? End-of-Life Planner

The title is an eye-catcher, for sure, but this easy-to-follow journal includes prompts to help anyone organize details about their contacts, legal matters, health, financial affairs, and wishes. It's ideal for anyone who wants a little peace of mind, or who loves that Scandic death-cleaning tradition.

Italian Herringbone Throw

This 50-50 cotton-and-soft-acrylic blanket is not too thick, not too thin — the perfect weight for the most persnickety recipient. And the company offers this style in dozens and dozens of colors, to fit into any home decor.

CozyChic 3-Pair Sock Set

If you're dealing with a homebody who seems to have everything, consider this set of three super-cozy lounge socks. Trust us, there's no one who won't appreciate them.

Diamond Initial Necklace

This company's initial necklaces come in handcrafted sterling silver or 14-karat-gold-plated — and the slim ⅜-inch pendant means it's right both for the friend who layers necklaces and the one who's more quiet luxury.

Hand Crème Gift Set

Three hand creams formulated with essential oils are an excellent gift set for the person who loves scents that don't overpower.

White Truffle Gift Set

There's perhaps no better gift for the flavor hunter than this decadent duo: olive oil and hot sauce, both infused with white truffle.

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