88 Holiday Gift Ideas That Declare Living Large the New Normal

In a year like 2020, maximizing someone’s comfort is the best present of all.

By Kristen Shirley
Photographs by Justin J. Wee for Bloomberg Businessweek

November 19, 2020, 5:30 AM

Of all the things we have learned about ourselves during this year of disruption, one stands out: A pandemic is no time to be adventurous. Whenever routines change—and simply leaving the house requires an anxiety-provoking negotiation of risk tolerance—people will retreat as quickly as possible to the most convenient, relaxing option available. Comfort food is all the rage. Athleisure is doing better than ever. Hygge is huge. So, in honor of this most un-chill year, here’s a holiday gift guide that highlights 88 of the most over-the-top ways to maximize the cozy zone of everyone on your list.

For An Occasion to Celebrate ...

A Tale of Cake Scotch

The latest from Highlands whisky staple Glenmorangie is initially matured in bourbon casks, and then finished inTokaji dessert wine barrels, which layers sweet, honeyed notes over the brand’s smooth, fruity character. It’s an ideal treat after (or during) the last course. $102

Galerie des Rois Tumblers

They’ll sip spirits like a royal highness with one of these crystal tumblers, whose name translates as “Kings’ Hall.” The design is taken from the Palace of Versailles, where Saint-Louis started providing glassware in 1767. $130 each

Vegan Chocolate Cherry Cake

Inventive bakery Ovenly has a dedicated following for its salty-meets-sweet confections. This two-layered cake is vegan, though they wouldn’t know it from the brown sugar-caramel filling and decadent buttercream. $85

La Grande Dame 2012 Champagne

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, the princess of polka dots, mimics the look of bubbles in the package’s gorgeous, collectible design. Inside is the first new vintage of Veuve Clicquot’s tête de cuvée—the best of the best—since 2008. $195

Chocolate Panettone

The polarizing holiday treat gets first-class treatment from a master's touch. Houston baker Roy Shvartzapel was mentored by the world’s panettone master, Iginio Massari, and also studied under Thomas Keller and Ferran Adria. $68

Wabi Sabi Cake Stand

Ceramicist Julie Hadley creates tableware for some of the world’s most discerning restaurants. Her perfectly imperfect cake stands—roughly 4 inches tall and 8 inches across—are made by hand, so none are exactly alike. $90

Calla Lily Cake Server

Give their dessert table a romantic air with a cake server inspired by a flower that’s ubiquitous at weddings. (Remember those?) A delicate brass handle that looks like intertwining twigs completes the effect. $65

Ganache Blue Box

Made from complexly flavored Criollo cacao beans, each piece of this rich chocolate ganache is topped with whimsical designs. Its holiday vibe extends to a gift-ready package wrapped in brown ribbon. $72 for 25 pieces

Helena Embroidered Textile

Freshen up that tablecloth they've been putting through its paces—since March. $175

Yellow Stripe Oven Mitt

Likewise, those oven mitts have been on home-cooking overdrive. Swap them for something that'll brighten up the kitchen, even if they become covered in grease. $24

CBD Chocolate Truffle Box

Each of these dainty confections contains cacao from Ecuador and Ghana, plus 20mg of organic CBD hemp oil grown in the U.S. Northeast. $25

Mac Bread Knife

Yes, everyone’s making sourdough bread. But how are they cutting it? $90

... Or the Morning After

Crimson Chai Tea

This relaxing, caffeine-free blend uses South African rooibos and cardamom with cinnamon and other spices. It’s naturally sweet—milk and sugar are optional. $53.50 per lb

Belgrano Tea Strainer

A comfy brew will look better than ever with an angular brass utensil that can either strain loose leaves or steep directly in a cup. $36

1948 Teacup and Saucer

Help them avoid early morning spills with a generously sized vessel, even though brilliant splatters—in real gold, no less— make it look otherwise. $46

Watch Me Clock

Gaetano Pesce’s surreal design is emblematic of 2020 time. Handmade from resin in red and orange, it’s overlaid with fanciful numbers. $300

Red Clay Cereal Bowl

They'll eat a cheerier breakfast of Cheerios when it's from one of these bowls made by a cooperative of women in San Marcos Tlapazola, Oaxaca, Mexico. $32

Coltrane Blend

This medium roast from Oakland’s Red Bay Coffee is Colombian single origin with notes of black grape and dark chocolate. $19 for 12 oz.

Glass French Press

More laboratory device than prelude to a cuppa joe, this 850ml press would be nearly invisible if not for the copper pull on the top. It's from Yield, an independent manufacturer of "New American Standards" in St. Augustine, Fla. $85

Ring Rubber Coaster Set

Saucers are optional when there's a handsome set of four rubber coasters—with polished brass edging, no less. $78

Smile Cup

Turn their Monday morning frowns upside down with this handpainted mug from Austin ceramicist Sequoyah Johnson. $60

Do Good Mug

At present, 50% of sales of this stoneware mug benenfit Green Worker Cooperatives, which offers sustainable business training in New York's South Bronx. $62

Royal Oak Offshore Watch

A sportier version of the classic is also available in a standard or green dial. $45,900

Dibbern Golden Pearls Teacup and Saucer

Rendered in 24 carat gold leaf, a more delicate take on the teacup above. £60 ($79)

During a Day Off at Home ...

Pink Marble Silk Eye Mask

The sleep aid that started the mask-as-beauty-accessory craze uses the highest grade mulberry silk blend and comes in a range of lively colors and prints. $50

Slow Burn Candle

A collaboration between on-trend Boy Smells brand and country star Kacey Musgraves, this scent elicits a warm amber and incense aroma accented with raspberry. $39

Ornellaia 2017

This latest vintage of one of Italy’s legendary wines has been wowing critics. Big and rich and hailing from the Bolgheri region in Tuscany, it has ripe red fruit aromas with notes of sweet tobacco and vanilla. $260

Polpo Wine Glass

Italian artist Simone Crestani creates intricate glasses that often use animals in the design. This one features an octopus climbing the stem with its tentacles, as if reaching for a sip. €185 ($220)

Like Butter Hydrating Mask

Ingredients like turmeric, ginseng, rhubarb root, and green tea extract make this a stocking stuffer rescue for chapped, dry winter skin. $32

Over the Moon Gua Sha Set

Give the gift of self-care that’s based on a 4,000-year-old Chinese practice. The set includes a “Lunar Drops” formula, made from a base of sunflower and moringa, and a rose quartz tool that has a cooling effect. Together they’ll help release facial tension in case 2021 turns out to be more of the same. $75

Nano Gold Repair Lip Mask

This collagen-based application locks in moisture and heals fine lines around the mouth with tiny particles of colloidal gold. Think of it as a down payment on a kiss for weather-beaten lips. $18

Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask

One of the highest-rated masks to leave on while they sleep for overnight firming and hydrating. $390

Cashmere Throw

At 50 by 70 inches, this luxurious blanket is large enough for someone to curl up in, yet also compact enough to fold on the end of a king-size bed. It’s made from 555-gram-weight Mongolian cashmere, which is as cozy as it is durable. $399

New England Winter Adventure Candle Set

A more traditional scent journey of Apple Pie and Cinnamon, Winter Pines, and Roaring Fireplace. $165

... Or Out Braving the Cold

Wool Turtleneck

Dior’s new ski collection for men is an elegant way to channel the slopes. This white pullover features “CD” embroidery—for Christian Dior—in a purple and gray Fair Isle-inspired motif. $2,200; (877) 903-4671

Chesterfield Cardigan

Or give a knit made from double baby cashmere, which comes solely from the underfleece of Hircus goats less than a year old. So, yes, it’s the softest thing ever. Unlike Granddad’s sweaters, the clean silhouette bestows warmth without the bulk. Similar styles at $2,050

Carol Boots

Hiking meets high fashion in these stylish shoes, which sport graphic colors, a padded collar, and a lace-up closure with a strap over the top. A 5cm rubber block heel on the boot rises above almost any level of snow or slush. $715

Cashmere Hoodie

Don't overthink it. One of Naadam's tops will stay at the ready all winter. $175

Rafa Jumpsuit

For those who like to look put together (without looking like they’re trying too hard), this jumpsuit for either men or women zips up the front for easy stepping in and out. Made in Los Angeles from cotton twill and corduroy, it has deep front pockets and is also available in saffron and moss colors. $325

Fjord Flannel Jacket

Patagonia's 100% organic cotton yarn-dyed flannel is insulated by the brand's proprietary Thermogreen lining on the inside. $179

Kalvin Men's Parka

Somehow Nobis figured out how to get windproof, waterproof, breathable, and good-looking all into one winter necessity. $1,150

Wool Knit Sweater

Bottega Veneta's platonic ideal of the understated men's sweater. $890

Sommers Gilet

Up until now, Orlebar Brown has been known primarily for swimming trunks. This duck-down-filled vest can replace their old fleece one that they used to wear to the office. $525

Cable Boyfriend Cardigan

The ever-popular winter knit gets retooled with Celtic & Co's version for women, but all the things that made it a classic remain: 100% wool, leather football buttons, and deep front pockets. $205

Wigman Turtleneck

This staple of the Gabriela Hearst collection is made from 100% recycled cashmere and has a relaxed blouson shape and drop shoulder. $850

Bengal Stripe Cotton Boxers

No one's seeing anyone's legs during Zoom calls anyway, so make the most of it with Turnbull & Asser's high-end underpants. $115

To Dress Up ...

High Jewelry Secret Watch

Give gems that will match wrists with fingers. Cartier's Secret watch in white gold hides the dial under a hinged 21.64-carat sapphire and fills in the rest with 941 brilliant-cut diamonds. $885,000, subject to change; (800) CARTIER

High Jewelry Ring

A matching ring surrounds a 10.37-carat sapphire with curved waves of diamonds—208 of them, in fact, totaling 4.27 carats. $515,000, subject to change; (800) CARTIER

Sparkling Cluster Necklace

The cluster motif has been an icon since the 1940s, when Harry Winston devised a setting to show as little metal as possible. This necklace highlights a total of 25 sapphires, 23 aquamarines, and 130 diamonds. Price on request

Sparkling Cluster Ring

This dainty ring from the same collection places the deep blue sapphires, pale blue aquamarines, and brilliant-cut diamonds at different heights, so they catch more light to catch more eyes. Price on request

Beatrix Potter Ring

Daniela Villegas often uses crustaceans in her designs with tiny claws holding up the jewel as if on display. Here, the chameleon shape holds more than 3 carats of opal and a 1.52-carat sapphire. $22,000

Marilyn Black Ceramic Link Bracelet

Although known for her 21st-century take on lockets, this ceramic and 18-karat rose gold bracelet is equally as chic, working as a stack or standalone. $7,750

Magnitude Bracelet

Pairing precious diamonds with rock crystal is a unique combination in this strata of bling. Cartier’s peridot suite features a bracelet with 38 cushion-shaped peridots in enviously green hues against 15.39 carats of diamonds. Price on request; (800) CARTIER

Magnitude Earrings

The matching earrings contain six cushion-shaped peridots, two half-moon-shaped diamonds, and 8 rose-cut diamonds. Price on request; (800) CARTIER

High Jewelry Earrings

If red is their color, these fan-shaped earrings from Bulgari hold 9 carats of rubies. Price on request

High Jewelry Ring

Likewise, Bulagri's pink gold ring is set with a 3.8-carat pink sapphire and, of course, more diamonds. Price on request

... Or Keep Casual

Saddle Bag

Rothy’s new handbag uses 100% recycled materials, including marine-bound plastic, and is just big enough for a wallet, keys, sunglasses, and hand sanitizer. A slim interior pocket can fit a new phone, too. $175

Satin Lipstick

Leave it to Hermès to create the perfect makeup accessory. The limited-edition Rose Ombré has long-lasting color and comes in a refillable color-blocked case. $72

Replica By the Fireplace Fragrance

If the scent of holiday cheer were bottled, it would be the aptly named By the Fireplace. It channels a crackling hearth with notes of chestnut and balsam mixed with vanilla and red berries. $130 for 3.4 oz

Tiger-Print Scarf

At almost 4 feet long and made of wool and mohair jacquard, this Saint Laurent stole is an indulgently soft option for those who want to stay warm with a bit of Parisian cool. $445

Eco Ear Muffs

Even if their ears are the size of Yoda's, they'll fit comfortably in these Gucci warmers made of an eco-fur that uses the brand's rhombi pattern from the 1930s. $490

Sunglass and Face Mask Chain

This 26-inch chain from Lele Sadoughi has a gold hook fit for the brand's sunglasses and a clear rubber loop that can fit any pair. But what makes it so 2020 is a lobster clasp that attaches to a face mask, keeping it at the ready, even when it's off. $45

Rolex Submariner

Even if there's not a beach in their future, they can dream of it with the most classic of Rolexes in a variety of new colors—including flashy two-tone metal. From $8,100

Tote Bag

The fourth season of the Eye/Loewe/Nature collection has a special focus on upcycled items, including this tote made from vintage fleece jackets. $1,300

Flying "Black Cat" Daddy Shoes

Anta has quickly become the go-to for up-and-coming basketball stars, but this low-top version is a chunky sneaker that can go with any outfit. $105

Benton Duffle Bag

The primary material in Graf Lantz's understated duffle bag is Merino wool felt, which is soft like cashmere and alpaca but with unequaled fiber strength. Meaning: it can withstand daily use without pilling. $540

Near the Front Door ...

Origami Flowers

Order a bouquet that won’t fade by January with a few stems made from leather. Designed by Atelier Oï as part of Louis Vuitton’s Petits Nomades collection, this poetic take on paper folding stands 20 inches tall and bears metal rivets to hold it all together. $375 per flower

Monthly Bouquet Subscription

If you insist on real stems, then insist on McQueens, the in-house florist for the Peninsula Hotel and the supplier for the Vanity Fair Oscar party. Contactless delivery is available daily in New York City, Westchester, and the Hamptons. From $525 for 3 months

Swirl Vase

The psychedelic patterns catch eyes even when this vase is holding an arrangement. Created from a new material made of powdered marble, the 11-inch vessel stands on a heavy base that can support even the largest floral creations. £550 ($725)

Geometric Abstract Bowl No. 2

If the pandemic has encouraged a latent gardening habit, the sculptor Jonathan Cross makes rugged vases for bonsai trees out of his studio in Joshua Tree, Calif. $1,000

Flower Drawings

And if there's not a green thumb on your list, artist Cynthia Rojas makes bright drawings of flowers that'll fade only if the paper is left out in the sun. $100

Loving Butterfly Automaton

Swiss watchmaker Jaquet Droz has created a little bit of spring inside this exquisite timepiece, thanks to the butterfly wings that flutter as the seconds pass. $126,000

Artist Wooden Dolls

These modern takes on Japanese Kokeshi dolls are nearly 6 inches tall and come in colors named "Basquiat," "Frida," and "O'Keeffe." $53

Green Cardamom Candle Trio

Orveda has made its name in skin care, but its candles are equally luxurious—especially these three which use green cardamom and petitgrain bigarade, an essential oil. $295

Shearling Lined Gloves

The difference between toasty hands and overheated ones lies in the tiny perforations in the suede. Made by Brunello Cucinelli, the master of laid-back luxury, they’re lined with ultrasoft shearling and have elastic cuffs and snap fasteners to stay snug. $1,195

Ana Sunglasses

The Brazilian brand Lapima is known for vibrant colors and bold styles. This retro cat-eye shape in a tropical red hue will grab attention, even if their only outdoor time is running to get the mail. $485

... Or In a Quiet Reading Nook

Rex Pillow and Blanket

Give them a touch of the louche attitude that interiors studio Roman and Williams brought to the Boom Boom Room. This fur pillow and blanket set is shed-proof and seen here in a shade of buff. $250 (pillow), $2,400 (blanket)

Meisterstück <em>Le Petit Prince</em> Solitaire Le Grand Fountain Pen — ▲ Meisterstück *Le Petit Prince* Solitaire Le Grand Fountain Pen

Meisterstück Le Petit Prince Solitaire Le Grand Fountain Pen

Named for Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved children’s story, this pen has a burgundy wood cap with a star motif that references the book and a gold-coated nib that bears the titular prince’s rose drawing. $2,165

Bookscape Bookmark

Not only will it hold their page, the 14-inch-tall sculpture also makes a handsome freestanding piece of decor. $380

Eyewear Stand

One place to keep glasses safe from scratches is this brass pedestal that fits a wide range of frames. When in use it looks like a nose, giving home desks a playful persona. $48

The Gucci Mane Guide to Greatness

The Atlanta hip-hop star follows his 2017 autobiography with a self-help book about his rules for success, including: “Nobody cares, work harder,” “Avoid lazy and miserable people,” and “If you keep looking back, you’ll trip going forward.” $28

Marian Glasses

Offset screen fatigue with blue light-filtering lenses. Garrett Leight can fit any optical frame, including the brand’s classic Marian style. $410 (with lenses)

Starling Slippers

These hunter green women’s flats marry a plush velvet with a seven-layer quilted satin insole to provide arch and heel support. An exterior rubber layer gives additional protection if they venture outdoors. $95

Ocean Glass Check Socks

Knitwear maven Degen has sewed this checkered pair to reference the look of an old-school taxi, but they're still chic enough to show off with new slippers. $40

Borneo Bed Linens

Because when they just want to read in bed, they can do it between the sheets of D. Porthault, one the best around. From $295

Signed Copy of <em>The Old Curiosity Shop</em> — ▲ Signed Copy of *The Old Curiosity Shop*

Signed Copy of The Old Curiosity Shop

Charles Dickens practically invented Christmas. He gave this signed copy of his novel to family friend, illustrator Daniel Maclise, and now you can bid on it and do the same. From $30,000 (est)

Ristretto Glasses

If their reading habits swerve more toward Jeff Benedict's The Dynasty, savor the end of the Patriots' run with this pair of glasses designed by Tom Brady in collaboration with Christopher Cloos. $179

Abd El Kader Candle

Adorned with the gold seal of Trudon, a king in wax since 1643, the candle is scented with Moroccan mint tea and ginger. It can burn for 60 hours. $105 for 9.5 oz