no one needs this vol. 2
but here are my actual favorite things curated into a list that might resemble a gift guide
Well, well, well. Look who we have here. It’s me! Subjecting your eyeballs to yet another gift guide that you probably don’t need, but will probably read (I mean, here you are) because for whatever reason, we love seeing what other people would like to or have already bought, whether or not we choose to follow suit or not.
I absolutely love to give a gift. It’s one of my favorite things to do, other than eat hummus at home on my couch, with no one bothering me. I like giving gifts even more than I like receiving them (and who doesn’t like receiving a gift? I don’t know the answer!)
My gifts are intentional and catered to the recipient of course, but in addition to this stipulation, I also have another one: I probably want the gift for myself, too. This way it’s personal and has your own signature touch. So here is my list of things that I love that may look like a gift guide…but really is whatever you want it to be ;)
THE USEFUL GIFT THAT WON’T GATHER DUST
A bougie but also practical notebook for the person who likes to write things down instead of break the notes app on their phone. I love how beautifully vintage yet classic these feel - they’re compatible with Moleskine notebooks also, and you can personalize them! Tons of colors to choose from.
I loveeee this mat for at home workouts. It stacks (as per the name) to double as a block - and it’s cushioned enough where your knees won’t give out mid workout. Very versatile and useable - whether working out or even just taking a beat to stretch or do a quick yoga flow from the comfort of your home.
I have been using this bag for travel and it’s incredible. Not too heavy, super flexible, and you can throw everything in there. I used to carry a backpack because it was always easier but just NOT chic, so I feel way more adult with this new bag…
Yeah so unfortunately I love this hair dryer. I dragged my feet for the longest time because I didn’t want to convert (and it’s obviously quite pricey) but…I have never looked back. I will admit, I got it in an ugly color because it was on sale, so I could feel better about my choice. But really, I’d buy it again in a heartbeat. I thought about putting this in the self-care / hair-care category below but…it’s practical and a gift I would have loved to receive.
KITCHEN THINGS
I think I talk about this coffee maker on every newsletter buuuuttt I am obsessed with it. As I’ve said before, this product is so chic on a counter, easy to use, and you can control the flavor profile + strength of brew with each use (i.e. if I want a lighter roast in the afternoon or medium in the morning, the machine can do that).
This has been my go-to cutting board for several months and I am absolutely obsessed with it. It’s got this gorgeous wood grain, and is functional both for cooking, or for even assembling a charcuterie board.
Idk about you but I’ve never gotten a pepper mill as a gift but I sure would like to. This one is stunning, functional, well-designed and from one of my favorite kitchen brands at the moment.
Homecourt Dish Soap and Surface Cleaner and Hand Wash
Perhaps best paired with a cutting board or another kitchen product, it really is a game changer to have some fancier and aesthetically pleasing soaps and cleaners in the kitchen, especially for the host in your life. It will always be used and we love to see it!
This gorgeous cutlery set is made in Paris and is the chicest way tot serve.
I am in love with this brand! I have been using their bowls and plates for awhile now and they’re so stunning and functional. The mugs and serving ware are also worth taking a look at!
MAKEUP, SKINCARE, SELF-CARE, HAIR-CARE, ETC.
OmniLux LED Red Light Mask (discount included with this link)
If you don’t have a Red Light Mask and have been looking to upgrade your skin routine, you should a) definitely get this for yourself, or b) get this as the ultimate self-care gift for someone you love! There are clinically proven results of red and near infrared LED light therapy to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten your skin, and serve as an anti-aging tool. I LOVE this mask and use it while I’m working or watching TV. Easy add to the routine with big results!
I loooooove Elf! When I had a birthday party last month at Matchaful all my guest got to take home Elf products and it was the best. This lip reviver oil was something my sister gifted me and that I became obsessed with and now buy it for all my friends. It’s glossy, lasts, and comes in some really beautiful colors. It’s a perfect stocking stuffer, or something to stock up on just for you (see what I did there)?
Out of all of the questions I get, recently the one I’ve been asked the most is what blush I wear! Recently it has been the Rhode pocket blush in Toasted Teddy. The best. Seriously - it blends well and is buildable so I don’t feel like I have extra pigmented cheeks in a way that looks clown-ish. I did a lot of research and it seems like Toasted Teddy and Tan Line are the two most popular - I find that Toasted Teddy looks really pretty on olive skin so it suits me better than the other colors. It’s my daily makeup non-negotiable.
We love a little pre-packaged gift that takes the guess work out of your gifting! I love this Jones Road lip kit - the products are in mini sizes so it’s perfect for travel. I have the color Tawny Nude.
Makeup Forever Lip Liner in Anywhere Caffeine
This is the best lip liner of all time!! I have never found another that compares. I like the darker color to pair with a lighter lip or gloss for a naturally contoured look.
Merit Highlighter — (and they give you a cute bag that ships with your first order)
I am not shy about proclaiming that Merit is one of my favorite makeup brands and this highlighter stick though, is my personal favorite. Sometimes I don’t want to look like a disco ball when I use highlighter, so I find that this is the perfect amount of shine and shimmer to look like you have a natural glow but it’s not too aggressive. They also have this cute bag that ships with your first order from their site!
How can you go wrong with a Chanel gift set? Answer: you can’t. A perfect little travel eye set with a cute bag, too.
CLOTHING&ACCESSORIES
These pajamas are extremely luxe, comfortable, and so cute. I personally got these as a gift myself - it’s something I would never get for myself, but if I have a pajama party (which I very much intend to in 2026) this is something I’d feel excited and not embarrassed to wear lol.
I love all things Kotn - the brand, the storytelling, their give-back initiatives, and the products. This essential hoodie is perfect for the colder months or for lounging at home. I tend to purchase menswear because I find the fit more comfortable but they have hoodies in womenswear as well.
Sézane Embroidered Custom White Button Down
This Sézane button down has been my absolute go-to for years. I love that it is comfortable fit, but it still feels tailored enough to be chic and not look like you’re drowning in the shirt (though I also love a heavily submerged, oversized moment too). The best part of this shirt for a gift is that you can do custom embroidery! You can add someone’s initials, or a little icon like a star or a heart on the shirt. Love!
How good is this blazer????? I discovered this brand in Copenhagen and I’m obsessed with it. Tailored but still oversized and cool.
This Kaza jacket is stunning. I love Kartik’s work and this jacket is no exception. You might have seen it on Lewis Hamilton…
These loafers are on my own wishlist because I have two pairs of Jamie Haller shoes and love them - the ballet flats, and the penny loafers. I am obsessed with the trim on these. I find it difficult to get ballet flats and loafers because they tend to be soooo uncomfortable for me, but both of the shoes I have from this brand are SO comfy and chic.
FOOD THINGS
Spring and Mulberry Embellished Gift Set
A more gift-able chocolate does not exist. Date sweetened, pure perfection!
For the matcha lover in your life - look no further! Doing a collaboration with Matchaful Cafés in NYC this year was a highlight of my year. I love this brand, the matcha, and the cafés — and of course the desserts I got to make for them!
Who is shocked. Not me. BEST DATES EVER
After spending time in Copenhagen with the noma / noma projects team last year, I have felt so inspired by these incredible people and the thoughtful innovation behind every product. For the home cook or simply someone interested in entering the noma world, this is a great start.
Jacobsen Salt Infused Slide Tin
Jacobsen Salt is incredible and these tins are my favorite gift because they’re so cute to carry around in a bag for salt emergencies! This is a perfect stocking stuffer or pairing with another hosting item for the person who loves food / cooking / hosting.
What did I miss? If you have a favorite gift you love to give, LMK! As always, if you need anything or just want to say hi, hit me at samah@dadaeats.com.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! I love you!
x Samah
Amazing list!! I also love the Fireside candle collab between Cade Black and Chilao. Smells so perfectly dreamy this time of year. Their pine mountain poncho is also very cool if you’re the outdoorsy type!