I Have High Standards and Expensive Taste—34 Gifts That Would Impress Me
They raise the bar.
Most Coveted is a shopping series sharing our editors’ curation of the must-know items they can’t stop thinking about.
I'll admit I'm notoriously difficult to shop for. Aside from the fact that I have no issues treating myself year-round, my standards are high, and my taste errs on the expensive side. But that doesn't mean that I'll skip out on a good deal. My wish list consists of high-quality, luxe items that will stand the test of time regardless of their price point. This includes cashmere that won't pill after one wash, timeless jewelry that's nice enough to pass down, and leather handbags that will live in my closet forever. Shopping for gifts is no easy feat during the busiest time of year, so I curated this gift guide full of high-low pieces that anyone with good taste will enjoy. I'm feeling generous, so I included two skincare products below, as well. Happy holidays, and happy shopping!
You can't go wrong with the classic argyle sweater.
A bag so good the rest of your outfit doesn't even matter. Prepare to get stares and endless compliments when you walk down the street with this bag on your arm.
My love for barrel jeans runs deeper than you can imagine. These sweatpants are an absolute must.
Rely on these calfskin suede slip-on loafers to add a casual touch to every outfit. I love the idea of these with a cropped pant, a colored sock, and a long wool coat.
I'm having a hard time choosing a color. Every shade looks amazing.
Sequins done right. It's time to RSVP to that holiday party invite.
I'd style this sweater exactly like the model has.
Corduroy is a majorly underrated fabric this time of year, but I'm committed to changing the narrative. Are you in?
Classic.
It's a need, not a want.
This navy and brown color combo is elite.
The double band creates a nice stack without the heavy lifting of mixing and matching.
The kitten heel, the pointed toe, the suede? These will fit perfectly with a pair of wide-leg dark-wash jeans and any of the sweaters above.
Funnel-neck tops and outerwear just might be my favorite trend of 2025. It takes sporty chic to new heights.
I don't know about you, but I'd gladly unwrap a tennis bracelet this year. If you're feeling generous, this one is under $100 and would make anybody swoon.
There's just something so effortless about a barn jacket. This one is a bit more relaxed and longer than your standard barn jacket, perfect for pairing with puddle pants or stirrup leggings.
The North Face puffers take over NYC during the winter, but I rarely see this colorway. This is the key to standing out in a sea of black jackets.
To my family and friends reading this: Yes, this snakeskin bag is at the top of my wish list.
Meet the new base layer for your maximalist necklace stack.
Trends that keep comfort at the forefront? I'm in. Track pants are just as comfortable as leggings but feel much more 2025.
These earrings are best sellers for a reason. Stack them with other earrings, or add your favorite charms for that personalized touch.
Good news: This is the pop of color your neutral winter outfits are missing.
You're officially holiday-party ready.
Puffer jackets get a bad rap in the fashion community, but this cropped one is proof that they can be stylish.
In case you needed another TikTok-viral closet staple that's under $50 and on sale right now.
In this case, the jacket is the outfit.
More puff sleeves, please.
This is such a cool way to add metallics to your holiday wardrobe.
Jenny Bird has finally introduced belts, and they're convertible and reversible with removable hardware and two leather sides. I'm sold.
These rhinestone buttons add a nice festive touch.
It wouldn't be the holiday season without a little bit of velvet.
It's like walking on a warm cloud.
I'm fully prepared to enter 2026 with hydrated and rejuvenated skin.
It's a good morning when I can wake up with lifted and radiant skin. This night cream will do the trick.
