The 2023 Gen Z Gift Guide: 48 Items They Wouldn't Dare Return

If you're on TikTok, you might have scrolled past many gift guide videos set against the cheeriest holiday songs. It's not even Thanksgiving yet, but it seems like everyone's ready for December. While I don't celebrate the holidays that happen around this time of the year, I still found myself perusing the #HolidayWishList hashtag on the app for nothing but personal amusement in my free time and thought I'd gather my finds for you to shop from in one place.

After watching what seems like 100 videos and using my own preferences and gift-giving skills to navigate through the most popular retailers, I rounded up over 40 of the best items to create the ultimate Generation Z gift guide. Whether you're looking to shop for someone in your life or you just happen to align with the more youthful aesthetic and want some shopping inspiration for yourself, you've come to the right place.

As a Gen Zer myself, I ended up adding some products from below to my own personal shopping wish lists. Yep, they're that good. There's a variety of price points to choose from in this mix, from $12 to $400. I'm warning you—these products will sell quickly, especially as we get closer to the holidays. 

Under $50

Based on the 2000+ reviews, this hair oil is certainly a fan favorite. Add a little luxury to your loved one's hair routine with this oil that'll help hydrate, boost shine, and smooth any frizz.

There's just something about a new planner that just gets you in the mood to get your life together. Help them start the New Year right with this one from Papier. 

This would look lovely in any corner of the home. And if this color isn't doing for you, there are seven other beautiful options to pick from. 

For the Swiftie in your life (we all have one.)

At just $12, this is an easy affordable gift that's definitely going to get a ton of use.

I was a big-time Stanley hater until I decided to give it a try and realized that with it, I actually improved my water intake. It's quite large, so I wouldn't recommend giving it to those who have to travel quite a bit in one day, but since I spend most days WFH, it's just perfect.

Jewelry always makes a great gift—especially when its from a viral brand like Frasier Sterling.

Do I even have to explain this one? Rhode's Peptide Lip Treatment now comes in tinted shades, and you should joint the waiting list now so you're able to get it in time for the holidays.

From Ramen Money to Book Money, there are a ton of options to choose from that'll suit your recipient's personality best.

Anything from Glossier is bound to make your gift recipient happy, but a candle is always a no-fail option.

For the friend that just can't get over the "dewy" makeup look.

Your loved one will be able to wholeheartedly relax with this plush throw blanket. Plus, it doubles as a statement decorative piece for the room.

The Gen Z in your life already has a small army worth of these adorable viral cherub figurines. Chances are they'll love more.

12 wonderful shades to choose from.

The most-wanted products from Glossier are all in a perfect set.

Wilflower's phone cases are widely beloved, so I'm not surprised that the brand's AirPod covers are also top sellers. 

With notes of plum, jasmine, and vanilla, this delicious scent has over 1000 glowing reviews and is featured in almost every TikTok wish list I've seen.

Under $150

In a TikTok world of girlhood, Sofia Coppola is a leading figure. 

Three lipglosses, a Sony Angel, AirPods... What can't you fit into a Baggu shoulder bag?

As a newbie pet owner, I can't stop buying all the cute things the internet has to offer. Whether you're shopping for yourself or the dog/cat parent in your life, a sweater like this is a great purchase. Plus, there's a human option if they're the kind of person who would be into matching. (I know I am.)

Their morning matcha routine will get significantly better.

I don't care if people say pajamas are a "boring" gift—a cozy matching pair of pajamas is a little luxury people appreciate.

If you can't get your hands on the Sandy Liang collab or simply don't care for bows, Baggu has plenty of other spacious and versatile options.

Even when you're too lazy to do your hair, a clip this pretty will make it look like you still put in effort.

All of Refy's best sellers are now available in a limited-edition set. Buy it for the beauty expert in your life (or for yourself—we won't judge.)

For the type A person in your life, the best gifts are the ones that are the most useful. 

Under $300

Just when I thought Sandy Liang couldn't get any better, the brand releases home goods. Luckily for you, this rug is still in stock.

Yes, digital cameras are back. Before you make your judgments (Gen Z loves to bring things back! We get it!), help them document their favorite memories with this compact one by Canon.

There's no such thing as too many pretty things on this list.

They'll ring in the new year with fantastic skin.

Why pick one pair of earrings, when you can have a set of four from editor-favorite brand Jenny Bird for under $200? 

Coach has done it yet again.

There's a reason Uggs are a holiday best seller—their comfort is unmatched.

Year after year, this scarf style never loses its sartorial hold. 

Who can say no to Staud? Especially when the design is this fun.

Initial necklaces tend to look a little cheesy, but this one by Stone and Strand is impeccably cool.

A lot of people won't splurge on cashmere for themselves, so it's always a treat when they receive it from others.

For under $200, this is a very designer-looking bag. The navy suede looks similar to other options I've seen from The Row or Khaite.

When a robe looks this cool, it no longer can be defined as a thoughtless gift.

Under $500

Yep, this is the coolest pair of ballet flats I've seen this season. I expected nothing less from Ganni.

If you're willing to splurge on a gift, this Miu Miu cardholder will be something they'll cherish for years to come. I was gifted with a similar one by my sister after graduating college and still use it to this day.

I've already got you covered with a cozy pair of pajamas, so how about an incredibly eccentric pair? This one is more for fashion purposes, but it's just so incredibly beautiful. 

Wales Bonner x Adidas sneakers come at a pretty hefty resale price point, but the markup on this pair isn't as high as the rest of the collab. (My pair is currently on its way to me.)

I've always been a regular AirPod girl, but once I experienced the soundproofing on this pair, I converted.

Gen Z has been sharing their vintage Ralph Lauren sweater finds all over social media. If you're okay with splurging a little, this cozy pick would make anyone happy.