How To Win At Gift Giving This Holiday Season

It's crunch time and you still have a handful of people left on your gift list! Don't fret, J.Crew has the only gift guide you need to get through the holiday season stress-free. Here are my top picks for everyone in the family. Happy shopping!

Photo Courtesy J.Crew

What lady could resist this fabulous signet bag in a shadowbox print! With luxurious embossed leather, custom-developed hardware and a cute keyfob for extra flare, that special someone in your life will be thrilled to wear this outfit-maker again and again. Bonus - It comes in a variety of saturated colors and it's monogrammable! Need I say more?

​Editor's Tip: Currently monogrammed items won't arrive by 12/24, so order the bag as is and have a customizable Italian leather bag tag or monogrammed coin purse shipped later. The recipient will love the added surprise, and cherish the thought you put into a gift that keeps on giving.

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Shopping for the man who has everything? When I am on the hunt for something I know my husband will love and get a ton of use out of, I go for a high quality pair of shoes. These Original Chippewa for J.Crew leather plain-toe boots were inspired by a pair of 1930s work boots from the 100-year-old brand's archives. From durable boots for loggers, to cold-weather boots for infantry soldiers in WWII, Chippewa has been a trusted name in rugged footwear for over a century. Who knew? Bonus - J.Crew's version is updated with an oil-resistant outsole and sleek leather body. Just another reason to snag a pair for your hardworking beau.

Editor's Tip: Throw in a pair of these limited edition Chup prairie socks which are super cozy and come in a rugged yet sophisticated print. When paired together, this will be a go-to look he'll reach for all winter long.

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Photo Courtesy J.Crew

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Bundle up your picky pre-teen in this pint-sized version of Mom's favorite - the stadium-cloth chateau parka. Its faux fur collar and electric pop of red will ensure your little one is on trend when she heads back to school for the New Year. Bonus - it has deep pockets to stow whatever her heart desires - iPhone, hair ties, mittens, lip gloss.

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Photo Courtesy J.Crew

​Maybe it's the fact that Home Alone is one of my all-time favorite holiday movies - next to Christmas Vacation, The Holiday and Polar Express - but this Fair Isle trapper hat has that cool kid, Macaulay-Culkin-vibe written all over it. It's a toasty topper that'll keep him warm while he's out building snowmen in the front yard, or being adventurous on the slopes. 

Editor's Tip: Make it a Christmas he'll never forget by hanging it from the vintage-inspired snow sled you bought him months ago.

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Another fabulous find - these Toysmith Shelby Cobras! I snagged one for my nephew from J.Crew Factory back in November. What boy wouldn't want one of these little gems in his toy car collection? Bonus - They have a classic pullback motor and are on sale for only $10! Ultimate stocking stuffer found.

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Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens...when I stumbled upon this adorable velvet kitty bag at J.Crew Factory I knew immediately I had to purchase it for my 3-year-old niece - who, much like her aunt, loves all things girly and fashionable. It's the perfect mix of whimsy and fun, with a cute ribbon strap and boxy style for her to hide all sorts of little people, princess dolls and plastic fruit from her kiddie kitchen.

Editor's Tip: Unfortunately the velvet kitty bag is currently sold out, but you can still find equally impressive girlie things here, like this glitter wink emoji bag or these sparkly shearling lodge moccasins. Have a great last minute gift idea? I would love to hear in the comments.
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Cheers to a style-filled holiday! Oh, and keep the change ya filthy animal.

AP
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Special thanks to J.Crew for contributing to this post.