If you ask me, stockings are half the fun on Christmas morning. Whether your tradition is to open them up before or after presents, you have to admit that there’s no feeling like plunging your hand into the bottom of your stocking and pulling out whatever feels the most interesting.
If you play your cards right, a thoughtfully curated stocking can even outshine whatever awaits under the tree. But amidst all of the impulse purchases near the register, it can be tough to sift through the garbage and find the stocking stuffers that are worth gifting. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. I’ve built a lot of stockings over the years, so I’ve learned a thing or two about what gets the best reaction and what… flops.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that there are seven stocking stuffers that never miss. Discover them all, ahead.
Cashmere Socks
If you’re anything like me, you spend the bulk of January and February complaining about cold toes. But no longer! These cashmere socks are some of the warmest, coziest little sleeves you’ll ever slip your feet into. They’re perfect for layering under your favorite booties or snuggling up indoors — you won’t even need slippers. And at $45, they’re some of the most inexpensive cashmere socks on the market.
Sunday Riley Double Your Glow Kit
For the skincare obsessive, trial sizes of Sunday Riley’s best-selling C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum and Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment will make any stocking even more exciting than the presents wrapped under the tree. The latter is a potent vitamin C serum that helps to brighten and even out the skin, while Good Genes deeply exfoliates the dull surface of the skin, and is clinically proven to plump the look of fine lines.
Reusable Hand Warmers
While traditional hand warmers are certainly practical, I love that this set is effective and reusable. Just snap the little coin inside of each pouch to activate, and you’ll have warm hands in pockets in a matter of minutes. Then when you’re ready to re-use them, just boil them for a few minutes on the stove.
Smart Sweets
Candy for stockings is a no-brainer. And while there’s nothing wrong with satisfying your sweet tooth, I’ve found that these Smart Sweets are an exceptional substitute if you’re looking to satisfy your sugar craving and give your body a little sustenance. These gummy worms have just 4 grams of sugar, but they also contain 9 grams of fiber to help you feel fuller for longer. I promise they taste just like the nutrition-less gummy worms you know and love.
Claw Clips
Claw clips dominated everywhere from street style to red carpet moments this year, and the trend is still going strong for 2022. You can’t go wrong with stuffing a stocking with a trendy clip, like this squared tortoiseshell option from Balmain. It instantly elevates any hairstyle and securely holds even thick, coily hair textures.
Eye Gels
Whether you know someone that’s up extra early to play Santa for the day or someone that loves to imbibe on Christmas Eve, a good set of eye gels (paired with a quality eye serum) can make you feel brand new on Christmas morning. This set from Wander Beauty features faux rose gold foil detail (a.k.a., they look expensive, but they’re not) for a little festive flair and hydrating ingredients like calendula and jojoba oil to help plump the under-eyes. For the best long-term anti-aging benefits, try layering them over your Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Brightening Eye Serum.
Votive Candle
Everyone loves to unwrap a candle — full stop. So why not stuff your loved one’s stocking with a luxury Votive or two? This scent from Nest Fragrances features a relaxing fragrance portfolio with top notes of lavender and cedar leaf to lull you to sleep (be sure to blow out the candle before you climb into bed).
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