I'm a Senior Style Director — Here's What I'm Gifting My Family For the Holidays

If you saw my closet, you wouldn't be surprised to learn that I spend an inordinate amount of time shopping. Long before I became the senior style director at Popsugar, I considered myself somewhat of a retail expert because I really treat it like a sport. When I go shopping, it's not just that I'm looking for the perfect present for a loved one, I need to get it on major sale with store credit I've been saving and an extra gift with purchase added on top. That's the equivalent of a touchdown for me. My first love is fashion, and I have the aforementioned closet to show for it, but my shopping list has expanded to include everything from furniture to travel products to spa services. My mission? To find investment pieces and experiences that are truly worth the purchase — and even better if I can get them for half the price.

This holiday, I'm leaning into my shopping hobby like never before and saving time by waiting until near the end of the season to shop. What I mean is: yes, my gift ideas will be last minute, but they don't feel last minute. The way to get around the timing conundrum is by investing in gifts that feel personalized and special, even if they were quick purchases. Some examples? Gifts that speak to your loved one's personal interests and hobbies like a travel pillow for my sister's frequent work trips; yes, I got it last minute on Amazon, but it's a thoughtful gift so it feels considered and not rushed. My go-to candle from Harlem Candle Co. also applies here; it's a delectable amber scent with a special backstory that feels very intentional for lovers of the Harlem Renaissance like my mother. Likewise, if you don't have time for a personalized gift, get a present like the digital picture frame I gifted my father that you can add photos to regularly through the app.

Another hack for last-minute gifts? Splurge! As someone who has more Telfar bags than I can count, from the classic shopping bag to the UGG collab mini, I'm gifting Telfar's viral shopping bag to my cousin for a tote she can carry on days she has to commute to work. I was thrilled to learn some colors are available on Amazon, which means fast shipping. The Samsung Frame TV is another splurge: a last-minute gift that will look incredible in my brother's living room as it rotates between the basketball games he watches and gorgeous paintings in art mode. No one bats an eye if your last-minute gifts are investment pieces they'll always treasure.

Keep reading to shop the best gift last-minute ideas from retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom, and more.