The Anti-Basic 2021 Holiday Gift Guide: 13 Ideas Women Actually Want

Dec 06, 2021Maria West0 comments

We've got enough fuzzy slipper socks, ice rollers, and bath bombs to last us a lifetime. In the spirit of helping women take control of their lives —and ask for what they really want — we put together this list of 13 gifts from brands that help women tap into their best selves. No "wine-o-clock" tumblers here.

The Dresden Throw from Slowdown Studio

Designed by illustrator Niki Dionne, The Dresden Throw from Slowdown Studio is perfect for the person in your life who appreciates original art and is always cold. Shop more artsy, feminist-forward throw designs at Slowdown Studio.

House of Wise Sleep + Sex + Stress Gummy Trio

Who doesn’t love more sleep, better sex, and less stress? House of Wise's luxury CBD Gummy Trio, which pairs natural ingredients with CBD for added effect, is a favorite among the brand's community of #WiseWomen. Give alongside a gift card or a "Rise + Wise" cropped sweater.

Better Rhodes x Sunnyside's Mindful Drinking Starter Box

Sunnyside is a popular app helping people migrate to a low- to no-alcohol lifestyle. Since no one loves going right from binging beers to only water, Better Rhodes teamed up with Sunnyside to create a box of nonalcoholic alternatives to favorite happy hour treats.

Eight Sleep Carbon Air Pillow

Know a sweaty sleeper? Eight Sleep created the Carbon Air Pillow with carbon-infused foam that combats heat and promotes air circulation during sleep. House of Wise founder Amanda Goetz swears by it (and can't seem to keep it out of her daughter’s bed). Eight Sleep offers a 30-day trial period and a five-year warranty making it a unique, risk-free gift.

Lorimer Waterproof Fanny Pack from STATE Bags

Fanny packs are still cool (for now), and this one from STATE Bags screams sleek and functional. Choose a coordinating kids' version of the Lorimer for a family-friendly gift option. STATE gives back, too, using its proceeds to support the #WhatDoWeTellTheKids cause fighting social injustice.  

Rent the Runway Membership

For your friend who's always on-trend but anti-fast-fashion, a Rent the Runway Membership will help them stay ahead of trends without an unmanageable fashion budget. Choose from up to 8, 12, or 16 items per month to wear and return.

Spoonk Acupressure Mat

The acupressure mat from Spoonk brings the healing and restorative energy of Shiatsu massage to the bedroom floor. The spiky mat helps to regulate your nervous system, promote blood circulation, and relieve muscle aches. Mats are available at Wise Woman-owned buddhi, where proceeds go to support people undergoing cancer treatment.

ABLE's Astrology Constellation Necklace

Ethical jewelry and accessory brand ABLE combines beautiful personalization with classic style, all while empowering women they employ to break the poverty cycle. The Astrology Constellation Necklace was made for your friend who’s always reading Co-Star. This piece comes with four different length options (like an adaptable Sagittarius).

Airbnb Gift Card

Travel is a woman’s best friend. Empower a loved one to do a solo trip, girls' weekend, or much-needed romantic getaway with an Airbnb gift card that opens new doors (literally).

"The 4 G's of Gym Hooky" Crop Hoodie

If you're anything like our in-house strength expert Ariel Belgrave, you're expecting 2022 to be full of "Goals, Gratitude, Growing, & Glowing." Her soft and trendy crop hoodie from Gym Hooky pairs with Strength Gummies for the ultimate gym fit and mindset (available in sizes XS-L).

Muse 2 Headband + Premium Subscription Bundle

Muse makes brain-sensing headbands to take meditation to the next level. The Muse 2 focuses on mind-body connection with real-time sensor feedback on elements like brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and body movements. An annual Premium Subscription lets users access Biofeedback+ and more than 500 meditations on stress, sleep, and focus.

Quinn Trucker Hat

This seemingly innocent Quinn Trucker Hat will delight your sex-positive friend but is family-gift-exchange friendly. Quinn creates audio erotica for women and is the self-proclaimed "forbidden Spotify." Its new merch collection is made to jumpstart conversations and promote female sexuality in subtle (or not-so-subtle) ways.

Base Stress Testing Plan

Base's at-home testing kit measures hormones, nutrients, and vitamins that lead to high stress levels and unwanted side effects. The corresponding app provides customized suggestions for diet and lifestyle changes based on your results. Base also offers plans for diet, energy, sex drive, and sleep for all-around wellness control.

Need more ideas? Check out these suggestions from these other gift guides and our in-house experts.



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