Adulting Gifts

I know this seems like such a boring gift guide… but I know a lot of you are in the same boat that I am. My sister, who turns 27 (how?!?!) next month, and I were just talking about how we’re officially old because our idea of perfect gifts are useful things like vacuum cleaners.

Today I put together a list of practical gifts that, while not necessarily “fun,” might be necessary and can make life a little easier.

Vacuum Cleaner // If there’s a #1 “you’re officially old when you ask for a ____” gift, it’s a vacuum cleaner. When my ex-boyfriend and I broke up, the vacuum we had was “his” and overnight I was without a vacuum. I went straight to Target and bought a vacuum that had decent reviews, only for it to break down within two months. (I have a LOT of hair…. 😂) I went straight to Amazon this time around ready to read every page of reviews. I settled on this vacuum based on the reviews. I was nervous because it was one of the more affordable ones (it’s under $70) and I worried that affordable meant “cheap” in this case, but OMG it is the BEST VACUUM EVER. I will tell anyone who will listen how much I love my vacuum. The only downside is that it’s a little heavy, but I promise it’s not overly bulky.

Le Creuset Cast-Iron Dutch Oven // This is the crème de la crème of cookware. I am also so blown away by how versatile a dutch oven is and with this one, you can’t go wrong. Whether you’re building out your first real kitchen or a seasoned pro looking for a great gift idea, this is a no-brainer.

The Defining Decade // I’m a little too old for this, as my “defining decade” is coming to an end soon. But this book is a great guide for navigating your twenties. I gave this to my sister about a year ago and she whipped through it, loving every page.

Monogrammed Luggage // Luggage is a great and practical gift. Maybe in the past, you’ve been able to get away with luggage pieced together or passed down from other people, but I can’t recommend getting a fresh matching set enough. Especially if you travel for work, professional looking luggage is a must. I love this monogrammed set from Mark & Graham (I have the cream), but you may also consider Away luggage, which I’ve heard amazing things about.

Kitchenaid Mixer // Any Kitchenaid mixer makes for a great gift, but how stunning is this anniversary edition?! I already have one of the standard ones, but gosh, is this one drool-worthy!

Electric Toothbrush // I warned you that this wasn’t the most “fun” gift guide!! Nothing says adulthood like a great electric toothbrush in your stocking, am I right?

Monogrammed Bedding // Because I have dogs, I like having multiple sets of duvet covers + sheets so I can alternate through everything while things are cleaned. It also helps them last longer knowing they’re only in rotation half the time.

Fluffy Robe // I bought myself this robe at the very end of last year. No joke, it is one of my favorite things in the world. I love it so much, that I’ve considered packing it in my suitcase so I can have it when I travel. There is no better feeling than getting out of the shower and slipping into one of these robes or throwing it on over pajamas for a cozy movie night on the couch.

Wallet // A basic and simple idea, but one you can’t go wrong with.

Wood and Marble Cloche // This wood and marble cloche is a gorgeous piece for a budding hostess. You don’t need a ton of things to entertain guests, a few simple pieces can elevate your hosting game.

Phillips Hue Lighting Starter Set // I want to switch out all my light bulbs in my office for these Phillips Hue ones. My office has no overhead lights so right now I have four different lamps (and none of the outlets hook up to the switch). I would love to be able to control the lamps/light through smart technology!

Nespresso Maker // This little Nespresso maker would be perfect for any coffee lover! I bought this for my dad one year and he LOVES it…

Pot Sets // Everyone who cooks should have a great set of pots (or at least two amazing and versatile ones). Pots were one of the first things I bought for myself when I moved out of NYC and finally had kitchen storage! Changes your cooking game for sure!!

Block of Knives // Similar to the pots, every kitchen needs a good set of knives. When you have the right knives, cooking gets so much easier.

Organized Tote // A tote that organizes everything (everything) is a must-have for all kinds of professions. From teachers to accountants, this tote has a spot for water bottles, laptops, keys, cell phones, wallets, lipstick… you carry it? There’s a space for it.

Label Maker // I think I’ve wanted a label maker for as long as I’ve known what they are. I mean. Label. Maker. I am actually surprised I don’t have one yet… but I imagine I’d go into a full-blown organizational frenzy.

Winter Coat // A winter coat is probably the most practical gift, especially if you’re moving to a new part of the country or just find that what you have hasn’t been cutting it!