How to find unique Christmas gifts for that person in your life who has everything

Browse our guide to the best unique Christmas gifts and get expert advice for thoughtful gifting

A composite image of three of the best unique Christmas gift ideas for 2022.
(Image credit: Future/Canva)

Get inspired by our expertly curated guide to unique Christmas gifts for loved ones. After all, we all want to gift something that's both thoughtful and special, but it can be hard finding something that's truly unique.

Maybe your loved one already has everything they need, or are particularly picky about the sorts of presents they like to receive. But whether you're looking for the best Christmas gifts for her or a Christmas gift for friends a unique and truly thoughtful present is always a winner.

That's where we come in. We've curated the best unique gifts to choose from this Christmas and chatted with experts who shared their top tricks for finding the perfect gift, even if you're all out of ideas.

The best unique Christmas gifts to buy now

Read on for our recommendations to get the perfect unique gifts for loved ones this Christmas...

Where to find unique Christmas gifts in the UK

Our pick of the best unique Christmas gifts in the UK

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1. Happiness is a Cup of Coffee and a Good Book Leather Bookmark: <a href="https://tinygiftcompany.co.uk/collections/bookmarks/products/happiness-is-a-cup-of-coffee-and-a-good-book-leather-bookmark" data-link-merchant="tinygiftcompany.co.uk"" target="_blank">View at The Tiny Gift Company

RRP: £9.95 | Delivery: 2-5 days | Refundable: Personalized items cannot be returned

For book-obsessed loved ones, it can be hard to think of unique gift ideas that don’t include another book to add to their ever-growing collection. A personalized bookmark is a sweet way to add a unique touch to a practical item that every book-lover needs.

Choose between several different colors for this Italian leather bookmark, and add a personalized message so your loved one thinks of you each time they open their book. Being leather, this thick bookmark is also unlikely to fall out of a book when thrown into their bag for the day, meaning they won’t have to scramble to find the last page they were reading.


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2. Paper & Word Book Sleeve: <a href="https://www.paperandword.com/shop/p/dawn-sleeve" data-link-merchant="paperandword.com"" target="_blank">View at Paper & Word

RRP: From £18 | Delivery: 3-10 days | Refundable: Not unless faulty

If you do want to gift a book to a loved one, jazz it up with these practical yet unique handmade book sleeves. Choose from hardback, paperback or e-Reader sizes, to keep books safe from dirt, dust and getting scuffed up when thrown into a bag for work.

The hardback sleeves will generally fit all shapes and sizes of books, but purchasing one of each makes this a great set to gift to a bookworm. Each sleeve is made from natural cotton or linen and arrives in compostable packaging - plus, for every order placed, a tree is planted, making this a perfect fit for those looking to find <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-sustainable-christmas-gifts-our-green-pick-of-planet-friendly-presents-theyll-love/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="paperandword.com"">sustainable Christmas gifts.


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3. Constellation Star Map: <a href="https://magicalnightsky.uk/product/classic/editor/" data-link-merchant="magicalnightsky.uk"" target="_blank">View at Magical Night Sky

RRP: From £34 | Delivery: 3-5 days for prints, 5-7 days for canvases | Refundable: No

A perfect personalized <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-her-ideas-that-will-surprise-and-delight-the-special-woman-in-your-life/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="magicalnightsky.uk"">Christmas gift for her or a <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-husbands-here-are-the-gifts-hell-be-truly-thankful-for/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="magicalnightsky.uk"">gift for husbands, this unique star map allows you to create a print or canvas which displays the constellations of the night sky on a particular date, for example, an anniversary. Just input the date, time and location of the event in question, choose from a range of different designs, and a personalized message will sit underneath the constellation in your chosen font.


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4. Gold Plated Moon Charm Necklace: <a href="https://decadorn.com/products/march-birthstone-aquamarine-moon-charm-necklace-gold" data-link-merchant="decadorn.com"" target="_blank">View at Decadorn

RRP: £99 | Shipping: 1-3 days | Refundable: Within 14 days of purchase

A birthstone necklace might seem more appropriate for a loved one’s birthday - maybe even for an <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/gifts/best-18th-birthday-gifts-ideas-372731/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="decadorn.com"">18th birthday gift - but there’s no reason why this personalized jewelry can’t be given at Christmas as well. Decadorn has plenty of unique birthstone necklaces to choose from, but we especially love this charm necklace, which features a vintage-style chain and a selection of pendants, including a mini pearl, a crescent moon, and of course your chosen birthstone.

The semi-precious stones have been naturally sourced, so no two necklaces will look the same. This would also make a great <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/gifts/best-30th-birthday-gifts-for-her-him-372859/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="decadorn.com"">30th birthday gift or a <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-mom-considerate-and-exquisite-present-ideas-that-will-prompt-squeals-of-joy/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="decadorn.com"">Christmas gift for mom. 


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5. Jungle Plant Terrarium DIY Kit: <a href="https://bloomboxclub.uidg.net/c/221109/616261/10032?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fbloomboxclub.com%2Fproducts%2Fterrarium-eco" data-link-merchant="bloomboxclub.com"" target="_blank">View at Bloom Box Club

RRP: £49.95 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: No

Plant lovers and foliage novices alike will adore this unique jungle terrarium, which is easy to care for and a great <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/family-christmas-gifts/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="bloomboxclub.com"">gift for families. Everything your loved one will need is included in this gift, so they can build up each layer - gravel, active charcoal, soil, and of course the plants - in the 100% recycled glass container, which is available with or without a small light attached to the lid. 


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6. Make Your Own Face Mask Kit: <a href="https://www.wearthlondon.com/make-your-own-face-mask-kit" data-link-merchant="wearthlondon.com"" target="_blank">View at Wearth London 

RRP: £21.50 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: Within 14 days of delivery

For the friend who’s tried every skincare product around, this face mask kit is full of naturally sourced, vegan ingredients, such as coconut oil and cacao powder, to create unique face masks which will be kind to the skin and the planet. These handmade boxes are available with gift wrapping, and come in home-compostable, plastic-free packaging, with an optional personalized message available.


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7. Blind Date With a Book Christmas Book Box: <a href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=6091&awinaffid=103504&clickref=hawk-custom-tracking&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fuk%2Flisting%2F939605582%2Fblind-date-with-a-book-mystery-gift-box" data-link-merchant="etsy.com"">View at Etsy

RRP: £25 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: No

This bookish gift box features a new paperback book, a trio of handmade fabric heart bookmarks, a coaster, an A5 print and randomly selected quote card, three packets of biscuits, three tealight candles and three sachets of Pukka tea, coffee or hot chocolate (you choose). Select a genre of book from a selection including thriller, romance, and Christmas, and your loved one will be surprised and delighted by a carefully selected, brand-new book alongside the unique gifts in this sweet box.


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8. 100 Things to Do Scratch-Off Poster: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prezzybox.com%2F100-things-to-do-poster.aspx&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - prezzybox.com"" target="_blank">View at Prezzybox

RRP: £12.99 | Delivery: 2-3 days | Refundable: Yes

A great gift for those with the travel bug, adrenaline junkies, or <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-parents-to-enjoy-with-the-whole-family/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - prezzybox.com"">new parents who need some inspiration, this poster allows your loved one to scratch off the experiences they’ve completed, as well as providing ideas for new, interesting things to do and hobbies to try.


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9. Grow Your Own Chamomile Seed Kit: <a href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=18484&awinaffid=103504&clickref=hawk-custom-tracking&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notonthehighstreet.com%2Fsoseedkits%2Fproduct%2Fgrow-your-own-oregano-organic-herb-kit" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"" target="_blank">View at Not on the High Street

RRP: £18 | Delivery: 3-4 days | Refundable: Within 28 days of delivery

This chamomile tea seed kit contains three pots, three compost pellets, a hand-made oak plant marker, an A6 hand-illustrated botanical print, and the chamomile seeds themselves. All aspects of the seed kit are recycled and biodegradable, and there’s a gift wrapping option available, to make this gift even more special for your tea-obsessed loved one. There are also lemon balm and peppermint tea kits available, among others.


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10. Grounding Aromatherapy CBD Candle: <a href="https://thelondondispensary.com/product/cbd-candle-grounding/" data-link-merchant="thelondondispensary.com"" target="_blank">View at The London Dispensary

RRP: £28 | Delivery: Next-day available | Refundable: Within 14 days of purchase

CBD is a naturally derived ingredient that can soothe anxiety, create a sense of calm, and also help with <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/benefits-of-cbd/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="thelondondispensary.com"">women’s health issues, including side effects of <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/health-wellbeing/benefits-of-cbd-oil-for-menopause/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="thelondondispensary.com"">menopause. This grounding candle features notes such as sweet orange, bergamot and Indian ginger, is fully sustainable and vegan, and features no harmful chemicals.


11. Personalized Sound Wave Print:

11. Personalized Sound Wave Print: <a href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=18484&awinaffid=103504&clickref=hawk-custom-tracking&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notonthehighstreet.com%2Fyveprintco%2Fproduct%2Fmetallic-personalised-favourite-song-sound-wave-print" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"" target="_blank">View at Not on the High Street 

RRP: From £24.45 | Delivery: 3-15 days | Refundable: No

Choose your loved ones’ favorite song - or a couple’s first wedding song, for a unique <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-couples-personal-practical-present-ideas-372645/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">gift for couples - and see it converted to visual soundwaves on this striking metallic print. Choose from gold, silver or copper metallic foil, a variety of different colors for the background, and a personalized message for this truly unique and thoughtful gift. A perfect <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-dads-these-present-ideas-will-go-down-a-treat/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">Christmas gift for dads who are audio-obsessed.


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12. Bookbinding Kit: <a href="https://www.wearthlondon.com/bookbinding-kit-uk" data-link-merchant="wearthlondon.com"" target="_blank">View at Wearth London

RRP: £25 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: Within 14 days of delivery

This unique gift is not just a fun, DIY experience - it will also produce notebooks that can be used for years, made all the more special to your loved ones with the knowledge that they bound it themselves. Make a pamphlet notebook, a Japanese-inspired notepad, and an ‘adventurer’s journal’ with this kit, which includes tools, paper and detailed instructions.


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13. Pastel Green Collage Kit: <a href="https://caiandjo.com/products/pastel-green-collage-kit" data-link-merchant="caiandjo.com"" target="_blank">View at Cai & Jo

RRP: £45 | Delivery: 1-2 days | Refundable: Within 14 days of dispatch

If you’re stuck on a unique gift for someone who’s recently moved house or is just looking to revamp their living space, this collage kit is a perfect gift that allows your loved one to get creative with their feng shui, by creating a feature wall (or four of them), using the 50 prints however they wish. There are several different themes to choose from, but this nature-themed collage kit has a calming, aesthetically pleasing vibe.


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14. Leo Zodiac Earrings: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pdpaola.com%2Fproducts%2Fleo-earrings&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - pdpaola.com"" target="_blank">View at PDPAOLA

RRP: £57 | Delivery: 5-7 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of purchase

<a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/best-zodiac-gifts-bespoke-fashion-beauty-and-home-presents-for-every-star-sign/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - pdpaola.com"">Zodiac gifts are similarly not just for birthdays - these gold-plated earrings feature rose quartz, malachite, mother of pearl, lapis lazuli, tiger eye and white zirconia, and with both studs differing in size and shape, your loved one will doubtless draw attention and compliments when they put these on. There’s a three-year warranty, too, so if they do end up damaged, you’re covered.


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15. Bunny LED Mood Lamp: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=kXQk6%2AivFEQ&mid=43176&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.urbanoutfitters.com%2Fen-gb%2Fshop%2Fbunny-led-mood-lamp" data-link-merchant="urbanoutfitters.com"" target="_blank">View at Urban Outfitters

RRP: £35 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of dispatch

Also a great <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/the-best-christmas-gifts-for-teenagers-from-tech-toys-to-cool-clothes-these-are-the-hottest-gifts-for-young-women-in-2020/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="urbanoutfitters.com"">Christmas gift for teenagers or for <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/gifts/21st-birthday-gifts-present-ideas-for-him-her-372769/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="urbanoutfitters.com"">21st birthdays, this cute mood lamp changes switches between seven different color and mood options, and its rechargeable battery lasts up to eight hours. 


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16.  Personalized Book Just of You: <a href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=18484&awinaffid=103504&clickref=hawk-custom-tracking&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notonthehighstreet.com%2Fletteroom%2Fproduct%2Fpersonalised-book-just-of-you" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"" target="_blank">View at Not on the High Street

RRP: From £39.95 | Delivery: 3 days | Refundable: No

Another personalized gift, this book tells the story of a loved one’s life through cultural events and facts throughout the years - using the date of birth of the recipient, this 60-page book provides a thoughtful, special gift to read through and keep for years to come. Perfect for a milestone birthday as well as being a sweet Christmas stocking filler, this would work well as a <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/us/life/gifts/40th-birthday-gift-ideas/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">40th birthday or <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/us/gifts/50th-birthday-gift-ideas-372992/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">50th birthday gift, too. 


Where to find unique Christmas gifts in the US

Our pick of the best Christmas gifts in the US

1. Initial Pastel Pavé Huggie Earring:

1. Initial Pastel Pavé Huggie Earring: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fedgeofember.com%2Fproducts%2Finitial-pastel-pave-huggie-earring-gold&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - edgeofember.com"" target="_blank">View at Edge of Ember

RRP: $105 | Delivery: 2 days | Refundable: Extended until January 14, 2023

This personalized huggie hoop comes on its own, so it's perfect for stacking with other earrings. The initial charm is detachable, meaning your loved one can wear the hoop as it is or add the initial charm themselves - the huggie earring features lilac enamel, and is lined with gemstones, including citrine and pink sapphire.


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2. Create Your Own Custom Neon Sign: <a href="https://customneon.com/create-neon-sign/" data-link-merchant="customneon.com"" target="_blank">View at Custom Neon 

RRP: From $132 | Delivery: 3-5 weeks | Refundable: No 

For the loved one who has just moved into a new home, or is simply looking to add something new to their feng shui, these neon lights are a conversation-starting bedroom or living room accessory - and they can be completely personalized, by adding whichever text you like. There are several different sizes on offer, up to ‘supersized’, and there’s an option to add waterproof technology to the sign.


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3. Jonathan Adler Muse Valet Eyes Tray: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=kXQk6%2AivFEQ&mid=25003&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimanmarcus.com%2Fp%2Fjonathan-adler-muse-valet-eyes-tray-prod202050098" data-link-merchant="neimanmarcus.com"" target="_blank">View at Neiman Marcus

RRP: $75 | Delivery: 3-5 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of purchase

This striking trinket tray has high sides, meaning your loved ones’ jewelry won’t escape the tray when they reach to find a new pair of earrings or necklace for the day - the golden accents, gorgeous amethyst color, and high-quality porcelain also makes this a thoughtful gift to be appreciated for years, without breaking the bank.


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4. Neva Collection Steel Candle: <a href="https://everlastingcandleco.com/products/neva-sets" data-link-merchant="everlastingcandleco.com"" target="_blank">View at Everlasting Candle Co.

RRP: $70 | Delivery: 2-10 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of purchase

We all have a friend or family member who’s candle-obsessed, which likely means they’ll require a restock every time a festive occasion comes around. These steel candles never actually melt, meaning literally endless hours of relaxation and clean burning.

Do note that these everlasting candles only burn with the accompanying Pristine Oil, in which they need to be soaked for thirty minutes before lighting. There are different colors to choose from for your candlesticks, but the gold looks especially luxurious alongside the round glass vase.


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5. Lavender Pear-Shaped Pendant: <a href="https://www.bayouglassarts.com/collections/pressed-flower-necklaces/products/lavender-oval-necklace" data-link-merchant="bayouglassarts.com"" target="_blank">View at Bayou Glass Arts 

RRP: From $54.95 | Delivery: 2-9 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of delivery

Made with real dried lavender, this handmade pendant features a pressed flower between two teardrop-shaped pieces of glass. Choose from a black or silver shiny finish, three different adjustable chain lengths, and even add a personalized message alongside the gift wrapping option available.


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6. Quench™ Lightweight Solid Face Moisturizer: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fethique.com%2Fproducts%2Fquench-lightweight-moisturiser&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - ethique.com"" target="_blank">View at Ethique

RRP: $30 | Delivery: 3-6 days | Refundable: Yes

Solid moisturizer may sound strange, but this handy bottle is hydrating, non-greasy, and can be used both as a daily moisturizer in the morning or as a night cream. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and jojoba oil are all enriching ingredients that ensure a dewy, healthy look for oily to balanced skin - a perfect <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/beauty/beauty-gift-ideas/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - ethique.com"">beauty gift for the skincare obsessed.


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7. OCOOPA 2-Pack Hand Warmers Rechargeable: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107649&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FOCOOPA-Warmers-Rechargeable-Electric-Portable%2Fdp%2FB09LYTQNVD%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank">View at Amazon 

RRP: $55.98 | Delivery: 3-6 days | Refundable: Return until 31st January, 2023

We all have a loved one who’s always cold, so what could be better than a sleek hand warmer? These rechargeable hand warmers come in a variety of different colors and are perfect for dog walking, camping, and hiking, as well as just keeping hands warm on those unbearably cold winter days. Having a quick source of heat to hand is also integral for lots of arthritis sufferers, and this warmer instantly heats up, giving you three levels of temperatures to choose from as needed.


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8. Composite Agate Coaster: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=kXQk6%2AivFEQ&mid=39789&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.anthropologie.com%2Fanthroliving%2Fshop%2Fcomposite-agate-coaster%3Fcolor%3D000%26type%3DSTANDARD%26size%3DCoaster%26quantity%3D1" data-link-merchant="anthropologie.com"" target="_blank">View at Anthropologie

RRP: $11.20 | Delivery: 7-10 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of purchase

Made from natural agate stone, each one of these coasters will look slightly different, making this a truly unique gift for a loved one. The heaviness of agate means these durable coasters will last for years to come, and the stunning colors in the stone will be sure to please.


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9. Personalized Wildflower Balloon Gin Glass: <a href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=18484&awinaffid=103504&clickref=hawk-custom-tracking&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notonthehighstreet.com%2Flisaangeljewellery%2Fproduct%2Fpersonalised-wildflower-balloon-gin-goblet" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"" target="_blank">View at Not on the High Street

RRP: $27.93 | Delivery: 5-10 days | Refundable: No

This perfect <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/best-gin-presents-from-bottles-and-glassware-to-candles-and-books-these-are-the-best-gin-presents-you-can-buy/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">gift for a gin-lover would be well-received alongside a bottle of their favorite gin - though wine, cocktails or any non-alcoholic beverages would look just as pretty in these stunning glasses. Delicate floral designs combine with the personalized aspect of engraving your loved ones’ name, resulting in a thoughtful gift for a friend or <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/gifts/christmas-gifts-for-your-mother-in-law/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="notonthehighstreet.com"">Christmas gift for a mother-in-law.


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10. Desk Gift Set: <a href="https://www.thelittlemarket.com/products/desk-gift-set" data-link-merchant="thelittlemarket.com"" target="_blank">View at The Little Market 

RRP: $116 | Delivery: 2-3 days | Refundable: Within 30 days of delivery

For the friend or partner who works from home, this carefully curated gift set supports artisanal producers around the world who have hand-made these unique products. The kit features a hand sanitiser - choose from citrus, lavender, patchouli or peppermint scents - a small cup made in Morocco, a small square tray, and a frame. There are different color patterns to choose from with the tray and cup, meaning you can create a gift set that caters to their desk space’s particular vibe.


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11. Instax Acrylic Flip Calendar: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=kXQk6%2AivFEQ&mid=43176&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.urbanoutfitters.com%2Fshop%2Finstax-acrylic-flip-calendar" data-link-merchant="urbanoutfitters.com"" target="_blank">View at Urban Outfitters

RRP: $30 | Delivery: 5-8 business days | Refundable: Gifts purchased before 24 December 2022 can be returned until 28 February 2023

A Polaroid camera is a great way to capture memories and treasure them in physical form: this flippable calendar is a perfect gift for someone who already has a Polaroid (and lots of snaps to boot), or a perfect stocking filler alongside the film camera. The calendar can be curated to your loved ones’ needs, allowing them to mix and match Polaroid pictures and create a personal, quirky bedside table or desk accessory.


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12. Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=107649&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FEmber-Temperature-Control-Copper-Battery%2Fdp%2FB07Z5HHD52%2Fref%3Dsxin_15_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank">View at Amazon

RRP: $143.95 | Delivery: Next-day available | Refundable: Return until 31st January, 2023 

This smart mug allows you to control the temperature of your mug with an app - but it can still be used without the app, too. The copper mug keeps your drink hot for up to an hour and a half on a full charge and automatically senses when to turn on (when liquid is poured into it) and when to turn off (when the mug is empty, or after two hours of inactivity). The mug remembers the last-used temperature and is also a great <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/life/best-gifts-for-coffee-lovers/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"">gift for coffee lovers.


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13. 'Merry Christmas' Gift Box: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tinggly.com%2Fcollections%2Fmerry-christmas-gift-box&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - tinggly.com"" target="_blank">View at Tinggly

RRP: $129 | Delivery: 2-5 days | Refundable: Yes

Gift a one-of-a-kind experience to your loved one via an email or in a carefully packaged gift box, and they pick from 550 options, including everything from wine walking tours to surfing lessons and sunset cruises. The experiences have no expiration date, plus Tinggly pledges to plant eight trees for each gift box purchased.


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14. Birth Month Flower Gift Set: <a href="https://uncommongoods.sjv.io/c/221109/483884/8444?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uncommongoods.com%2Fproduct%2Fbirth-month-flower-gift-set%23573290000005" data-link-merchant="uncommongoods.com"" target="_blank">View at Uncommon Goods

RRP: $74 Delivery: 3-7 days | Refundable: Yes

This personalized gift set includes a floral tumbler glass, illustrated tea towel and handmade jewelry dish, all featuring the flower associated with a particular birth month. Treat your loved one to a personal, unique gift that's still useful enough to use everyday.


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15. Handmade Profile Earrings: <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Flisting%2F1185871300%2Fhandmade-minimalist-gold-art-deco-small&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - etsy.com"" target="_blank">View at Etsy

RRP: From $39.96 | Delivery: 7-14 days | Refundable: Within 14 days of purchase

These stunning handmade earrings are available in sterling silver or 14-karat gold fill, but we particularly like the gold option. The long, straight side of the earring is threaded through the piercing and the unique crescent shape is worn to face the front of the face. Threader earrings are a <a href="https://www.womanandhome.com/fashion/jewelry-trends/" data-link-merchant="womanandhome.com"" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - etsy.com"">trendy jewelry piece, and this pair will make any outfit look more glamorous.


How to find unique Christmas gifts

It's not always easy to think of outside-of-the-box gift ideas for special people in your life. Holly Harper, Head of Product Curation at Not on the High Street, says that "In these difficult times, the old saying 'it's the thought that counts' has never been truer". It's true that you don't need to splash out to find a gift to make your loved ones happy, but how do you set your gift apart from the rest of the presents that people will receive this year?

We asked gift-giving experts for their top tips on finding unique Christmas gifts that will be remembered fondly for years to come. Read on for their best advice.

Top 5 tips for finding unique Christmas gifts

1. Cater to your loved ones' interests and passions

Harper’s advice for carving out a truly special gift for a loved one is to “start by thinking about the interests of the gift recipient. Do they like to stay active? Have they taken up a new hobby recently? Have they shared happy memories from a recent holiday?” Emma Threlfall, Buyer for Gifts and Collectibles at gifting retailer I Want One of Those, agrees, stating that “You don’t need to spend a lot of money on something, but rather find something that relates to a hobby, interest or passion of theirs”, and adding that the key is finding “the balance of sentimentality and novelty”.

Indeed, a unique gift doesn’t have to break the bank, but if it’s specific to a passion, interest, or hobby that the recipient loves, they’ll know you’ve really put the time in to think about what they would genuinely use and appreciate. Harper says a unique gift can “enhance or contribute to their passion or interest. For example, if your friend went to Sicily and was bowled over by the lifestyle, how about local artisanal olive oil, marmalade or wine to remind them of their trip”.

2. Shop independent brands for unique ideas

When it comes to where to shop for unique gifts, Harper suggests seeking out “independent brands or stores to help you find a gift that will make their Christmas - local homeware stores can often be a treasure trove for unique and affordable gifts”. Beck Prior, founder of Bristol-based hub for artisanal and handmade products, Prior, also believes that shopping “with your local independent shop who supports makers” will allow you to find “completely one-of-a-kind” products in “beautiful boutiques, modern design pop-ups and family-run shops”. Many of the options in our list below are handmade or handcrafted by small and/or independent brands, meaning that it’s more likely your loved one won’t come across their gift anywhere else. “Products made by hand are not only unique”, Prior says, “but also great for the local economy and often the planet”.

3. Personalize your gift

One relatively simple way to make a more mainstream gift unique is to add a personalized aspect. Sites such as Etsy and Not on the High Street feature hundreds of personalized gift ideas. “One way to really stand out is to give a gift that’s made just for the recipient”, says Dayna Isom Johnson, Trend Expert at Etsy. For example, engraving “a custom initial to a piece of jewelry”. Adding a name, important date, or anything else that holds meaning for you and/or your loved one is an easy way to gift them something that no-one else will have.

Steph Douglas, CEO of unique gifting site Don’t Buy Her Flowers, adds that you should “always include a note. Everyone loves a personal message, and it’s a chance to tell someone you think they’re brilliant and you love them. It also makes your gift unique, as only you could write that message”. Lots of retailers allow you to add a gift note, even if the product itself is not personalized.

4. Give a gift that focuses on self-care

Douglas explains that when buying a gift, “work out how you want the recipient to feel. Are they tired? Do they need some TLC? Is it a bit of luxury they’re after? People often fall into the trap of buying the same things over and over, but if you think about the person you’re buying for and what has been going on in their life, it should help steer you to something thoughtful”.

She adds that “Most people - especially around Christmas when December may have been a whirlwind of shopping and planning and social gatherings - need a lie down by the time they get to the big day”. Douglass recommends looking for a gift “that’s all about encouraging rest and saying ‘I see you, you deserve some time for yourself” - think scented candles, bath salts, or a voucher for a massage or spa treatment.

5. Try out brands and retailers you haven't shopped before

As we’ve noted, retailers like Etsy, Not on the High Street and Don’t Buy Her Flowers are a great way to seek out specific brands, especially independent ones you may not have heard of before. Douglas suggests another easy way to find new brands: “Look for independent gift guides, or if you have a product in mind, search it on Instagram - i.e. ‘#necklace’ - and you’ll find a wealth of brands you’ve not heard of”.

Hannah Holway
Shopping writer

Hannah is the UK Shopping Writer for woman&home. As a shopping writer, Hannah has written on everything from period pants to wine subscriptions, and is especially interested in sustainable alternatives to well-known products, as well as books and homeware accessories. 


Before she joined the team at woman&home Hannah headed up the social media accounts for Wonderland in 2019, where she was also a Contributing Editor for the magazine’s sister titles. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannah also explored evolving shopping trends at New York Magazine’s The Strategist UK, researching everything from face masks to status candles and even pens.