The 33 best Christmas gifts for the mother-in-law who has everything

Uncover the best Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law that'll win her over once and for all

Three of the best Christmas gifts for mother in laws, according to woman&home - a wine chiller, silk scarf and pie dish
(Image credit: Future / Nordstrom / Selfridges / Anthropologie)

Choosing the perfect Christmas gift for your mother-in-law is no easy feat, so allow us to help you with our specially curated gift list, which features stylish homeware, luxury make-up and bespoke accessories. 

Depending on your relationship, finding a gift could come as easily as finding the best Christmas gifts for mom or the best Christmas gifts for friends. But for many, mothers-in-law can be tough to buy for - especially if you have a partner who's not great at helping you choose.

Luckily, we've handpicked the best mother-in-law gifts that she'll appreciate long after Christmas, with ideas to suit all ages, budgets and interests.

Best Christmas gift ideas for your mother-in-law

Regardless of how difficult your mother-in-law is, you're sure to find something in this edit of impressive gift ideas.

Where to find the best Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law in the UK

Our pick of the best Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law in the UK

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1. Dowsing & Reynolds Gypsophila Bouquet: View at Dowsing & Reynolds

RRP: £18.99 | Delivery: 7-10 day shipping | Refundable?  60-day return policy

When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gifts for her, flowers often spring to mind. But if you're looking for something a little bit different than traditional fresh flowers, look no further.  Encased in a teardrop vase, the bouquet adds a touch of elegance to any room but looks particularly striking against a darker backdrop.


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2. Mela Weighted Blanket: View at Amazon

RRP: £98.99 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

For the in-law who struggles to fall asleep, the Mela Weighted Blanket will shortly become her godsend. Available in a variety of sizes and weights, this blanket is comfortable without being too overpowering, and the cover is machine washable. The perfect sleep aid, this snug blanket will keep her toasty and well-rested this holiday season.


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3. Harmony LED Color Changing Outdoor Lantern: View at John Lewis & Partners

RRP: £65 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable? 35-day return policy

Illuminate her garden with this color-changing lantern. With the remote control, she can sift through seven color options and choose the flame setting to curate her ideal outdoor space.


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4. London Purse: View at Aspinal of London 

RRP: £170 | Delivery: Next-day delivery available | Refundable? 30 days, no returns for personalized items

Hand-crafted from full-grain leather, this classic purse is functional yet chic. At the checkout, you can choose to customize it by adding up to four embossed initials, making it one of the best unique Christmas gifts she could receive. It comes in 12 classic colors.


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5. Aura Smart Digital Picture Frame: View at Amazon

RRP:  £129 | Delivery: Next-day delivery available Refundable? 30-day return policy

A keepsake for her to share and display tender moments. Through Aura's user-friendly app, she can send over 10,000 photos to family and friends. The smart frame is compatible with Apple and Android devices all via WiFi connection. This is also a sweet wedding gift idea if you're attending a winter wedding.


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6. Silk Slip Pillowcase: View at Slip UK

RRP: £85 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

Bedhead, begone! Like all the best silk pillowcases, the Slip Silk reduces friction and gently soothes the skin, even when she tosses and turns. Slip silk material is impressively glossy and soft, yet thick and durable to withstand wear and tear.


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7. Eye trinket tray set: View at Jonathan Adler

RRP: £115 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

This ultra-lux jigsaw puzzle will keep them entertained in style. The 750-piece metallic puzzle comes packaged in a chic foil-stamped box which is perfect for storage and will look great on any dressing table. The end result is pretty special too and the puzzle could easily be glued together and framed, should they want to keep it on display (and we can guarantee they will).

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8. Theragun Mini Percussive Therapy Massager: View at Amazon

RRP: £175 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

The best gift to wrap in a bow? Pain relief. Dubbed as "a pocket-sized wellness partner," this portable massager alleviates muscle tension and knots with three adjustable speeds, plus a proprietary brushless motor. It'll become her greatest lightweight companion, whether she's a fitness junkie or a sedentary office worker. 


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9. Burberry Square-Frame Sunglasses: View at Burberry

RRP: £170 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

Revamp her eyewear with Burberry frames. A far cry from conventional glasses, these are emblazoned with the iconic Burberry tartan on the arms. They also feature chic gold-tone hardware and gradient-tinted lenses.  Gifting someone the best pair of sunglasses might not be the most obvious Christmas present but it's a timeless present that they'll wear again and again.


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10. Ugg Cozette slip-on slippers: View at Amazon

RRP: From £54 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy

Cozy up to the Cozette slipper, made from a plush sheepskin blend. This pair cushions and supports the feet, without sacrificing aesthetics. The perfect accompaniment to any women's Christmas pajamas, they can be slipped on as soon as the present is unwrapped. Available in 11 colors and sizes 5-12.


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11. Dior J'adore Eau De Parfum Spray: View at John Lewis

RRP: From £63 | Delivery: 5 day shipping | Refundable? Extended return police - see website for details

Gifting someone a fragrance is always risky but there are few safer bets than Dior's iconic J'adore. One of the best Dior perfumes it combines the essence of Ylang-Ylang, Damascus Rose from Turkey and a rare duo of Jasmine Grandiflorum from Grasse, and Indian Sambac Jasmine. The end result? A sumptuous floral scent.


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12. Ted Baker frilise floral print silk square scarf: View at Selfridges

RRP: £65 | Delivery: Next-day delivery available | Refundable? 28 days

This beautiful 100% silk scarf will add a chic touch to any outfit. With a bold floral print in striking yellow and black tones, this will elevate her best dresses in a flash. It's also beautifully soft to touch and feels super luxurious - which is what all the best presents are about. This is also a great Christmas gift for your wive, if you're still looking for inspiration there.

13. Le Creuset 5-piece Utensil set: View at Le Creuset

13. Le Creuset 5-piece Utensil set: View at Le Creuset

RRP: £65 | Delivery: 3-5 working days delivery available | Refundable? Until 31 January

While Le Creuset is perhaps best known for its iconic cookware, this utensil set in the brand's iconic orange and red hues makes for a great (and more affordable)  gift for any keen baker or chef. Available in the ubiquitous volcano or red colorway, this set comes with a range of rubber spatulas and pastry brushes all encased in the glazed stoneware holder. Even better, it's presented in a gift box, so you don't even need to worry about wrapping it.


13. Celtic & Co wool, cashmere and silk knee-high socks: View at John Lewis

13. Celtic & Co wool, cashmere and silk knee-high socks: View at John Lewis

RRP: £42 | Delivery: next-day delivery available | Refundable? Until 28 January

While there's a bit of stigma attached to gifting socks, we think it's fully unfounded. These beautifully soft knee-high socks from John Lewis mesh together luxury and practicality with their extra-long length and merino, silk and cashmere blend. She probably wouldn't spend that much on a pair of socks herself, but she'll definitely wear them - and often.


14. Soapsmith relaxing bath soaks gift set: View at Soapsmith

14. Soapsmith relaxing bath soaks gift set: View at Soapsmith

RRP: £35 | Delivery: Order dispatched next working day | Refundable? Within 14 days

These decadent bath salts from Soapsmith are handmade using natural materials such as dead sea salt, coconut milk powder and essential oils and smell every bit as good as they look.  Choose from three of the brand's signature London-inspired scents, Bloomsbury, Lavender Hill or Camden, or alternatively, opt for Bergenhus, the brand's limited edition Christmas fragrance. We love the beautiful packaging too, which will add a sophisticated touch to any bathroom.


15. Personalized chopping board: View at Amazon Handmade

15. Personalized chopping board: View at Amazon Handmade

RRP: £19.95 | Delivery: 5-day delivery | Refundable? No, due to personalization

A sweet gift for any keen cooks (or hostesses who are partial to a cheeseboard) this custom board is made from natural bamboo and comes with a cute graphic and personalized message. Gift her this with one of the best cookbooks for extra kudos.


16. Pott'd Home Air-Dry Pottery Kit: View at Amazon

16. Pott'd Home Air-Dry Pottery Kit: View at Amazon

RRP: £38 | Delivery: Next-day delivery available | Refundable? Until 9 December 2023

This air-dry clay kit from Pott'd would be a great gift for any craft lover and contains everything they need to make their own clay creations. Each kit comes with two kits of air-dry clay, a quick start guide, eight acrylic paints, two paint brushes, one pot of base coat, one pot of gloss varnish and a set of sculpting tools and a smoothing brush. The kit includes enough clay to create 6-8 mini-to-average-sized creations or a few bigger ones. Once they've created their own vase, bowl, trinket dish, or pot, they simply need to let it dry, before painting and sealing it. The end result? Some beautifully bespoke trinkets.


17. Chelsea daypack in mineral: View at Antler

17. Chelsea daypack in mineral: View at Antler

RRP: £99 | Delivery: Next-day delivery available | Refundable? Until 31 January 2023

For the mother-in-law who is always on the move, this streamlined backpack will fit all her daily essentials, including a laptop of up to 13".  It also comes with a special flap at the back that can be attached to suitcases  (Antler also stocks a range of matching suitcases if you're feeling really generous) which we love, making this the perfect travel companion. While we really like the mineral color, this backpack also comes in black, taupe, navy and blush. You really can't go wrong with such a streamline, well-designed bag. 


Where to find the best Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law in the US

Our pick of the best Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law in the US

1. Monogram crescent pouch: View at Anthropologie

1. Monogram crescent pouch: View at Anthropologie

RRP: $48 | Delivery: 7-10 day shipping (next-day instore pick up available) | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

This embellished pouch can be used as a purse or cute make-up bag and will inject a vibrant dose of color to any dresser (or outfit!). It's big enough to house her makeup essentials or her phone, wallet and keys. If you're still scratching your head wondering how to pick a unique Christmas gift for that fussy someone, you can't go wrong with a sweet personalized gift.


2. Vinglacé Wine & Champagne Chiller: View at Nordstrom

2. Vinglacé Wine & Champagne Chiller: View at Nordstrom

RRP: $89.99 | Delivery: 5-7 day shipping | Refundable?  Yes - see website for full details

An elegant gift for any wine aficionado, this stainless-steel wine and champagne chiller is vacuum-insulated, meaning it will keep her bottle perfectly chilled for hours. We really like the elegant design of this canister which is available in white, copper, stainless steel, black and a Tiffany-Esque sea glass shade. She'll be the hostess with the mostest.


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3. Augustinus Bader The Scalp Treatment: View at Augustinus Bader

RRP: $80 | Delivery: 3-10 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

The science-led skincare brand Augustinus Bader just launched a five-product hair collection, marking its foray into the hair care space. The introductory line comprises shampoo, conditioner, leave-in treatment, hair oil, and scalp serum—all priced under $100. 

For damaged hair, The Scalp Treatment calms scalp irritation, clears blocked follicles, and strengthens strands from the root.


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4. L.L. Bean Women's Wicked Plush Robe: View at L.L. Bean

RRP: $99 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable? 35-day return policy 

A cozy robe is the ultimate gift, and something she’s unlikely to buy for herself. This one from L.L. Bean is made from plush fleece and is long enough to make her feel extra comfy. You can also add monograms to it for a personal touch. Available in seven colors and sizes XS-XL.


5. Holly and Pear Pie Dish: View at Anthropologie

5. Holly and Pear Pie Dish: View at Anthropologie

RRP: $42 | Delivery: 7-10 day shipping (next-day instore pick up available) | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

We love this beautiful hand-painted pie dish from Anthropologie and would happily use it only for decorative purposes. But that would be a waste because there's genuine substance behind the style: it's oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher and microwave safe and big enough for a family-sized pie. She'll love using this at family gatherings and Thanksgiving dinners for years to come.


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6. Personalized Yankee Candle: View at Yankee Candle

RRP: $36 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy - see website for conditions

Home of some of the best scented candles, Yankee Candle also never fails to disappoint when it comes to their festive gift ideas either. Personalize Christmas gifts for your mother-in-law by choosing from a range of receptacles and fragrance options, then upload an image and add a personal message. It's that simple. 


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7. Gucci Interlocking G Sterling Silver Necklace: View at Gucci

RRP: $280 | Delivery: 2-3 day shipping | Refundable? 30 days - see website for more

You can't go wrong with timeless jewelry, especially with this sterling silver necklace with an interlocking G pendant and textured chain. It's a beautiful statement piece that can be dressed up or down, depending on the event. 


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8. Echo Show 15: View at Amazon

RRP: $249.99 | Delivery: 5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

The Echo Show does it all. This device displays TV shows, podcast episodes, step-by-step recipes, video calls, photographs and more. It's also capable of controlling lights, adjusting thermostats, and acting as a high-tech security system—just ask Alexa to get started. This is available in the UK, too. 


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9. Furbo 360° Dog Camera: View at Amazon

RRP: $210 | Delivery: 5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy 

This camera features a high-quality HD camera and night vision, along with live stream video with a360° view. She'll be able to monitor her adorable pet from the brand's mobile device app - a constant source of entertainment and security. 

You can also chat to your dog and even 'toss it a treat' by filling up the unit and controlling it remotely. Christmas gifts for dog lovers don't get much better than this.


10. Tour of Europe wine pack: View at Vinebox

10. Tour of Europe wine pack: View at Vinebox

RRP: $99 | Delivery: 2-3 day shipping | Refundable? No

If she can't escape on a European city break, this wine gift might be the next best thing. Comprised of nine specially selected wines from across Europe, along with tasting notes and pairing suggestions, this is a truly unique way to try new wines. Each bottle is a single glass of wine so she can enjoy this by herself, or share them with friends if she's feeling generous. This would also make for a lovely thank you gift if you're not able to buy the person a drink in person.


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11. American Heritage Textiles Chunky Knit Throw: View at Macy's

RRP: $190 | Delivery: 2-3 day shipping | Refundable? Yes - extended return policy. See website for more

One of the best blankets to wrap up in this winter, this divinely soft throw is the perfect gift for the woman who has everything. It's available in six colorways so can be matched to most rooms and is super cozy without compromising on style. Our favorite is the calming teal shade.


12. Dried flower bouquet: View at Amazon

12. Dried flower bouquet: View at Amazon

RRP: $190 | Delivery: 4-7 day shipping | Refundable? Until 31 January 2023

Nothing beats a beautiful fresh bouquet of flowers, but this chic and understated set of dried flowers would give any fresh blooms a run for their money. This set, containing dried pampas, leaves and a faux rose also includes several diffusers which radiate a beautiful scent. It comes with a glass vase but if you want to make the bouquet look a little more lux, we recommend buying another vase. While not necessary,  you could also beef up the bouquet with additional dried flowers and foliage for a truly unique gift. 

13.  Make your own candle kit: View at Etsy

13.  Make your own candle kit: View at Etsy

RRP: $36-42 | Delivery: 5-12 day shipping (see website for precise dates) | Refundable? Contact seller for information

If your mother in law has always wanted to make candles at home, this kit is the perfect way to get started. It contains everything she needs to make three, natural soy candles, including three tins Pick the fragrance or add your own.


14. Chanel Rouge Coco Bloom lipstick: View at Saks Fifth Avenue

14. Chanel Rouge Coco Bloom lipstick: View at Saks Fifth Avenue

RRP: $42 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable? Lipsticks aren't returnable if used, see website for more

We know that gifting a lipstick is a risk, but we'd be surprised if you couldn't find the perfect tone within Chanel's vast collection. Whether she's a fan of the best red lipsticks or would appreciate one of the best pink lipsticks, Chanel is a safe choice. We particularly like 'Radiant'  - a subtle pink tone that looks great on all skin types. 


15. Cashmere-lined leather touchscreen gloves: View at Nordstrom

15. Cashmere-lined leather touchscreen gloves: View at Nordstrom

RRP: $99 | Delivery: 5-7 day shipping or immediate in-store pick up | Refundable? Yes - see website for full details

Help her stay connected and cozy in the cold with these delightfully snug leather gloves. The cashmere lining gives them a really luxurious edge and their touchscreen compatibility means she won't have to continuously take them off. Available in a 'saddle' brown or black, this gift is a definite crowd-pleaser.


16. Bath caddy: View at Amazon

16. Bath caddy: View at Amazon

RRP: $35.99 | Delivery: 5-day shipping | Refundable? Until 31 January 2023

There's truly nothing more therapeutic than soaking in a bath with the best bubble bath or oil. For an extra luxurious touch, gift her this bath caddy which has enough space for a glass of wine, candles or book. Customers praise how sturdy the caddy is, securely holding a glass of wine, iPad and candles. We're not sure we'd risk putting all three on the tray at the same time, so we'd probably opt to perch one of the best flameless candles on it instead. It does come with a special slot for candles and iPads though, as well as a soap dish, so we're perhaps just being a little cautious.

Anna Paul
Freelance writer

Anna is an editor and journalist, specializing in SEO and digital content production. First carving her career in communications and advertising agencies in Berlin and Barcelona, Anna's former life saw her work for film studios and inside a fashion house, before she moved to Metro.co.uk where her career highlights include heading up the SEO desk during the Covid-19 pandemic. Anna's published work ranges from culture and films to human interest features and live news coverage.

In her spare time, she enjoys watching movies, discovering the next big thing in music, traveling, online shopping, and poring over poetry and magazines. When she's not consuming those things, she's probably writing about them.  Originally from Glasgow, Anna has lived in Berlin, Barcelona, and London, not to mention stints in Guernsey and Athens. When she's not struggling to navigate a new language, she's always chasing the next hot trend and perfect black dress (you can never have too many). 

With contributions from