The 50 Best Friend Gifts of 2023

With picks from Theragun, Glossier, ThirdLove, and more

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Best friend gifts

Design by Tiana Crispino

The writer Octavia Butler has said of friendship, “Sometimes being a friend means mastering the art of timing.”  We couldn’t agree more. Knowing when to speak up and when to keep silent are two hallmarks of a good friend. And while a solid friendship is a far better gift than any kind of material object, it’s still nice to treat your BFFs to a fabulous present (or two) on occasion. A perfectly timed BFF gift is not only thoughtfully curated, but also meant to show appreciation and adoration. No matter whether your friends are foodies or fashionistas, or love to travel or prefer to lounge at home, we compiled a curated list of perfect presents—at all price points.

Theragun PRO 4th Generation

4.6
Theragun PRO 4th Generation

Amazon

Giving someone a gift certificate for a massage is great, but if you give them this tool, they can give themselves a DIY massage whenever they’d like. Four different attachments let you easily reach all those tight spots, allowing the percussive therapy to relieve achy muscles. (It delivers up to 40 pounds of force.) It’s also totally cordless, with a battery life of up to 60 minutes.

Price at time of Publish: $499

What Our Testers Say

“With the shoulders, the relief is somewhat immediate. But this is definitely a tool that I’ve benefited from using consistently over time. I also use it to target my IT bands, quads, and sometimes even the sore balls of my feet!”—Sophie Moore, Brides Editor

TATCHA Pure One Step Camellia Oil Cleanser

4.7
Tatcha Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

Giving someone a gift certificate for a massage is great. But if you give them this tool they can give themselves a DIY massage whenever they’d like. Four different attachments let you easily reach all those tight spots, allowing the percussive therapy to relieve achy muscles (it delivers up to 40 pounds of force). It’s also totally cordless, with a battery life of up to 60 minutes.

Price at time of Publish: $50

What Our Testers Say

“With the shoulders, the relief is somewhat immediate. But this is definitely a tool that I’ve benefited from using consistently over time. I also use it to target my IT bands, quads, and sometimes even the sore balls of my feet!”—Sophie Moore, Brides Editor

Glossier Ultralip

Glossier Ultralip

Glossier

Combining the best attributes of a balm, lip tint, and gloss, this multi-tasking product is ideal for everyday use. Four types of hyaluronic acid and several different oils create a base that envelops lips in cushiony moisture, while the color is easily buildable. Apply one coat for a sheer wash; several for full-on pigment.

Price at time of Publish: $18

What Our Testers Say

“As soon as I swiped it on, I was immediately impressed—it looked exactly like what I think my natural lip color should be in my head (spoiler: it’s not). I love how Ultralip makes my lips look extra-glossy, but stays way longer than any traditional gloss I’ve tried.”—Karli Bendlin, Byrdie Senior Editor

Volo Hero Microfiber Hair Towel

4.5
Volo Hero Quick Dry Towel

Amazon

This microfiber towel offers a serious upgrade to anyone’s at-home hair-washing game. (It’s so good that we deemed it the best hair towel out there.) It’s thick and plush, so much so that the material can absorb 10 times its weight in water, helping your hair dry more quickly, without roughing it up and potentially causing breakage or frizz.

Price at time of Publish: $39

Paper Culture Pet Calendars With Stand

Paper Culture Pet Calendar With Stand

Paper Culture

If you have friends who can’t get enough of their dog or cat, this is a must. Personalize each of the 12 months with a photo of their furry BFF; the calendar comes complete with a bamboo stand so that they can proudly display it on their desk.

Price at time of Publish: $19.99

ThirdLove WonderKnit Pajama Jogger

ThirdLove WonderKnit Pajama Jogger

ThirdLove

Are these PJ pants or joggers? Answer: Both. Made from a buttery cotton jersey, they’re both drapey and slouchy, yet still fitted enough that they don’t look sloppy. You can 100% wear them out of the house, and no one will ever know you didn’t get dressed. The fabric actually gets softer the more you wash it, and we also appreciate that they come in a wide array of sizes, ranging from XS to 3X.

Price at time of Publish: $54

Maptote Grocery Tote

Maptote Grocery Tote

Maptote

These adorable cotton totes are all made in Brooklyn by a husband-and-wife team. They feature over 70 different geographic locations, ranging from international cities to U.S. states, and they make for a fun, personalized, (and very wallet-friendly) gift.

Price at time of Publish: $20

Bolden Glow Hydrating Mask

Bolden Glow Hydrating Mask

Bolden

We have yet to meet someone who doesn’t appreciate a good face mask, and this one (from one of our favorite BIPOC-owned beauty brands) checks all of the boxes. It hydrates, plumps, and soothes, and it's safe and effective for all skin types. Even better: It works in just 10 minutes.

Price at time of Publish: $19.50

‘47 Vintage Tubular Tee

OHIO STATE BUCKEYES 2002 NATIONAL CHAMPS ROCKER '47 VINTAGE TUBULAR TEE

'47

Pick up one of these tees for any sports-loving friend in your life. Showcasing teams from the NCAA, MLB, NFL, NHL, and NBA, there’s an option for every type of fan out there. The tees themselves feature a 20-year-wash and retro designs, so that they look and feel super-lived-in and, well, actually vintage.

Price at time of Publish: $45

Astrid & Miyu Zodiac Pendant Necklace

Astrid & Miyu Zodiac Pendant Necklace

Astrid & Miyu

Giving a gift with an astrological sign is a fun way to give something personalized when you don’t want to go with the standard initials or monogram. This pendant necklace features the different zodiac signs in crystals, set on gold, silver, or rose gold. And if you do want to take the personalization even further, you can even engrave the back (for free).

Price at time of Publish: $159

State Cashmere The Cable Knit Unisex Gloves

State Cashmere The Cable Knit Unisex Gloves

State Cashmere

Cashmere anything always makes for a good gift. Case in point: these unisex gloves, made from 100% mongolian cashmere for the ultimate in softness, warmth, and chic style. We also like that they come in one universal size, always a boon when it comes to gifting.

Price at time of Publish: $40

Lindye Galloway Yosemite Coasters

Lindye Galloway Yosemite Coasters

Lindye Galloway

Ideal for your friend who loves to host, this set of four coasters come in a sophisticated pairing of wood and marble. They strike the perfect balance between modern and rustic, and they ring it at an affordable price point.

Price at time of Publish: $38

ILola Tea Disc Essentials Set

ILola Tea Disc Essentials Set

ILola

Hardcore tea lovers are sure to swoon over this set. We’ve never seen tea quite like it. There are no bags and no loose leaves involved, instead, the tea comes in tiny discs that are simple and easy to steep. Here, you get your choice of two different flavors, an infuser, and a travel mug.

Price at time of Publish: $97

Boredwalk

Boredwalk Grievance Journal

Boredwalk

There’s nothing quite like a good vent session with your BFF, but this is the next best thing. Think of it as like a grown-up Burn Book, a la Mean Girls. The journal lets you dump out all your complaints about annoyances big and small, no matter whether you’re just sick of your in-laws or are having an existential crisis. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who’s always bemoaning toxic positivity.

Price at time of Publish: $28

These are, hands down, the cutest—and most versatile—weights we’ve seen. Pop them on your wrists or ankles to amp up any workout, from a daily walk to yoga to a HIIT class. An adjustable fit and soft silicone make them very comfortable to wear, and we love that they come in different colors, too.

Price at time of Publish: $39.99

Cuzen Matcha Matcha Maker Starter Kit

Cuzen Matcha Matcha Maker Starter Kit

Amazon

Coffee machines are a dime a dozen, but matcha machines? Not so much. That’s what makes this appliance (adored by celebs such as Cindy Crawford and Carey Mulligan) so special. It stores, grinds, and whisks organic matcha leaves and is made to mimic the end result achieved via the traditional stone mill and bamboo whisk method. It’s a little bit pricey, but for someone who drinks matcha on the regular, it truly makes a special gift.

Price at time of Publish: $299

LOCI Nine Sneaker

LOCI Nine Sneaker

LOCI

Celebs like Mila Kunis, Ben Affleck, and Kristen Bell have all been spotted sporting these kicks. They’re a choice sustainable option, totally vegan, and made from recycled ocean plastic. The brand also gives back 10% of profits from each pair sold to help protect wildlife. And yes, they’re stylish, too, available in over 20 different color ways.

Price at time of Publish: $170

Jiggy Puzzles

 Jiggy Juneteenth, Halimah Smith Puzzle

Jiggy

We don’t know about you, but we absolutely have at least several puzzle-obsessed pals in our lives. Enter these gorgeous puzzles that truly are art-worthy. Each design is created by a female artist, and the pieces come in a reusable glass jar, along with puzzle glue so that you can, in fact, turn your finished product into a piece of art.

Price at time of Publish: $49 

BruMate MultiShaker

BruMate MultiShaker

BruMate

No matter whether it’s for protein, collagen, or greens, powder, this bottle makes it easy to get your sips in. The built-in infuser and agitator quickly shake things up; it’s also insulated to keep your newly mixed bevvy nice and cold. Per the gifting part of things, it comes in over 20 colors and patterns and can be personalized, too.

Price at time of Publish: $34.99

Admiral Row Gold Double Knot Ring

Admiral Row Gold Double Knot Ring

Admiral Row

It’s hard to believe that this statement-making ring costs less than $30 dollars, but it’s true. The double knot design is simple yet sophisticated, and at this price you can consider getting one of you and your bestie. Friendship rings are a thing, right?

Price at time of Publish: $27

Avec Mixers The Sampler

Avec Mixers The Sampler

Avec Drinks

This brand (owned by two friends, how fitting) set out to totally change up the drink mixers space, and they did exactly that. All of their recipes use real juice, botanicals, and spices for a delicious, low-sugar option that’s great mixed with your booze of choice, or just plain seltzer. This comes with three cans of each of their five flavors. Think yummy options such as jalapeno and blood orange and grapefruit and pomelo.

Price at time of Publish: $40.50

Venus Et Fleur The Letter Collection

Venus Et Fleur The Letter Collection

Venus Et Fleur

We were already big fans of these eternity roses (that last for at least a year!), and now they come in fun letter arrangements. Get your friends’ initials, spell out their nickname, or go for BFF; there are also both mini and large sizes available, not to mention over 15 colors to choose from.

Price at time of Publish: $82 to $389

Casper Snoozewear Blanket Robe

Casper Snoozewear Blanket Robe

Casper

Truly one of the coziest robes we’ve ever worn, this is essentially like a wearable duvet. It has the same quilted feel as your favorite comforter, just with sleeves and pockets. We strongly recommend picking one up for yourself, too, so that you and your BFF can wear them together the the next time you Netflix and chill.

Price at time of Publish: $169

Worthwhile Paper Inquire Within Oracle Deck

Worthwhile Paper Inquire Within Oracle Deck

Worthwhile Paper

Pick this up for any friend who might need a little extra boost or mental motivation. Each of the 53 hand-illustrated cards features a meaningful phrase or thought prompt to inspire self-connection and more mindful living.

Price at time of Publish: $48

The Chef’s Garden Regenerative Farm Experience Box

The Chef’s Garden Regenerative Farm Experience Box

The Chef’s Garden

The perfect gift for all of your foodie friends, this box is curated by Farmer Lee Jones, a farmer well known as the produce provider for big-name celeb chefs such as Wolfgang Puck and José Andres. It comes with pretty much everything you need to create a farm-to-table meal, with no trip to the farm required. There’s a box full of fresh veggies (seasonal, of course), along with fun pantry staples such as marmalade, creamed honey, tea, and more.

Price at time of Publish: $250

CTOAN Co. Kris 3D Candle

CTOAN Co. Kris 3D Candle

CTOAN Co.

This black- and queer-owned brand is all about celebrating a gender-free, human-form. More sculpture than candle, it really is meant to be displayed rather than lit, but, if you do want to light it, it comes in four scents, as well as an unscented variant. 

Price at time of publish: $29

The Potion Studio Potion Pack Discovery Set

The Potion Studio Potion Pack Discovery Set

The Potion Studio

This brand is reimagining the options in the natural hair care space, offering formulas that work for all genders, mixed ethnicities, and hair types.  This set comes with one of each of their products: a shampoo, conditioner, leave-in cream, and (hair moisturizer). All are Byrdie clean and come in minimalistic packaging that we love.

Price at time of Publish: $46

Vaan & Co. Hardy Duffle

Vaan & Co. Hardy Duffle

Vaan & Co.

A weekender bag makes a great gift—even those who don’t necessarily travel regularly are bound to get good use out of it. This one is the perfect size for quick trips, made with upcycled leather and featuring cool hardware accents. We’re partial to this tan hue, but it also comes in black and brown.

Price at time of Publish: $179

Ostrichpillow Original Napping Pillow

Ostrichpillow Original Napping Pillow

Ostrichpillow

We know, this may look kind of ridiculous, but take our word for it, it’s pretty ingenious. It’s basically a little pod for your head. Pop it on, and you’re in a little cozy cocoon that blocks out light and offers a soft surface to lay on. Perfect for frequent flyers, it also is amazing for anyone who likes to take a quick cat nap in the car (or at their desk—we won’t tell).

Price at time of Publish: $99

Osmo Rechargeable Salt & Pepper Grinder

Osmo Rechargeable Salt & Pepper Grinder

Osmo

This set comes with two rechargeable grinders (along with the salt and peppercorns to put in them). They work seamlessly with just a push of a button and are easily recharged via a USB cable. Bonus points for the simple and sleek design.

Price at time of Publish: $80

Nest New York Crystallized Ginger & Vanilla Bean 3-Wick Candle

Nest New York Crystallized Ginger & Vanilla Bean 3-Wick Candle

Nest New York

There are a few things you can count on in life, and one of those things it that no one will ever be disappointed to receive a Nest candle. The brand’s newest scent—Crystalized Ginger & Vanilla Bean—is an elevated gourmand that you can smell before you even open the box.

Price at time of publish: $78

Pandora Sparkling Tennis Bracelet

Pandora Sparkling Tennis Bracelet

Pandora

For the BFF who’s always on trend, this sparkling Pandora tennis bracelet is guaranteed to please. (And, as always, comes in a super giftable Pandora box.)

Price at time of publish: $115

Little Words Project Custom Smiley Face Crystal Bracelet

Little Words Project Custom Smiley Face Crystal Bracelet

Little Words Project

The beaded bracelets you probably made at camp growing up are making a comeback in a big way. This option from Little Words Project makes the perfect friendship bracelet (get two!) and is completely customizable—from the color of the crystals to the nostalgic block letter charms.

Price at time of publish: $30

Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler 40 oz

Stanley Adventure Quencher

Stanley

If you’ve been on TikTok for even just a few minutes, you’ve definitely seen this tumbler. It’s viral for good reason—it keeps beverages cold (or hot) for a full day, fits in your car’s cupholder, and features a modern, minimalistic design.

Price at time of publish: $40

Gilded Body Nero Marquina Body Brush

Gilded Body Nero Marquina Body Brush

Gilded Body

Gifting a luxe body brush is the perfect way to nudge your BFF to take a little more time for themself. This one from Gilded Body features a paddle design with gentle bristles, and an opulent marble base in your choice of colorway.

Price at time of publish: $129

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Beautifying Lip Kit

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Beautifying Lip Kit

Sephora

Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk is one of those shades with iconic staying power. So if your bestie is a beauty person, they’ll definitely appreciate the value of this lip kit complete with the original Pillow Talk lipstick, lip liner, lip gloss, and balm-lipstick hybrid.

Price at time of publish: $49

Ouai Hand Wash & Lotion Set

Ouai Hand Wash & Lotion Set

Amazon

For the homebody, you can never go wrong with an elevated hand soap moment, and Ouai formulates one of our favorites. With this combo, you get the best-selling Dean Street scent in the Hand Wash and Hand Lotion for a self-care moment with every stop by the sink.

Price at time of publish: $64

BaubleBar The Alpha Blanket

BaubleBar The Alpha Blanket

BaubleBar

Anything monogrammed always creates the illusion that you put a ton of effort into a gift well in advance of the holidays. But these smiley BaubleBar blankets actually ship super quick, and make for a modern way to approach the monogram trend.

Price at time of publish: $88

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Squad Lip Set

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Squad Lip Set

Ulta

Tarte’s Maracuja Juicy Lips are one of the best lip launches of the year. They go on like your favorite lip balm, but create the rich pigment of a lipstick and the shine of a lip gloss all in one swipe.

Price at time of publish: $39

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Socks

Barefoot Dreams
CozyChic Socks .

Nordstrom

Any true Kardashians fan will recognize the famous Barefoot Dreams fabric. While the brand is best known for its luxurious blankets (truly the softest thing I’ve ever felt), they also make socks that are equally soft and much more affordable.

Price at time of publish: $18

Brandon Blackwood Syl Rhinestone Top Handle Bag

Brandon Blackwood Syl Rhinestone Top Handle Bag

Saks Fifth Avenue

For the trendiest bestie on the block, consider a bag by one of the buzziest designers on the scene in one of the hottest silhouettes of the season. This chic little rhinestoned shoulder bag is an elevated take on the Y2K trend.

Price at time of publish: $350

Mooncat Best Sellers Set

Mooncat Best Sellers Set

Wolf and Badger

If your friend never misses a #manimonday, they’ll appreciate this multi-finish kit. The set features magnetic, shimmer, linear holographic, flakie, and glitter polishes in a range of dreamy, unique hues.

Price at time of publish: $88

Amika Smooth Talker Double Agent Straightening Blow Dry Brush Hair Set

Amika Smooth Talker Double Agent Straightening Blow Dry Brush Hair Set

Sephora

Whether they’re looking to save a little cash or simply prefer to take their strands into their own hands, a gorgeous at-home blowout is completely within reach thanks to this set. It includes not only the brand’s beloved blow dry and straightening brush, but also the necessary prep items (shampoo, conditioner, and detangling primer), but also a dry shampoo to help them extend the look.

Price at time of publish: $150

Bando Take Care Unplug Kit

Bando Take Care Unplug Kit

Bando

If your friend is serious about their daily breaks (or perhaps needs a nudge to log off more frequently), this set is for them. Complete with an eye mask, phone pouch, and journal cards, they’ll have everything they need for a little afternoon reflecting.

Price at time of publish: $27

Away The Packable Sling Bag

Away The Packable Sling Bag

Away

Whether they’re jet set, always on a hike, or simply like to have their hands free, they’ll appreciate this roomy, sling bag. We’re particularly enamored with the limited edition print, ‘90s retro swirls.

Price at time of publish: $55

MoMa Design Store Kit-Cat Clock

MoMa Design Store Kit-Cat Clock

Nordstrom

For the friend that appreciates a healthy dose of kitsch, this clock is sure be well received. Having reached its peak popularity in the 1950s, this design will evoke pleasant feelings of nostalgia in any vintage cartoon lovers.

Price at time of publish: $60

Smudge Wellness Star Spinner Tarot Set

Smudge Wellness Star Spinner Tarot Set

Smudge Wellness

If your bestie is mystical (or mystical-curious), give them the gift of self-readings and manifestation. Included in this set are a tarot deck designed by Vietnamese-American illustrator Trungles, a small crystal point for manifestation, and seven small tumbled stones.

Price at time of publish: $58

Criterion Channel Subscription

The Criterion Channel home page

Criterion Channel

The cinephile in your life will be able to dig deeply into history of film with a subscription to the Criterion Channel. The streamer offers art films and golden age classics from around the world.

Price at time of publish: $11-$100

Sculpd Pottery Kit

Sculpd Pottery Kit

Sculpd

With air-dry clay, a beginner’s pottery guide, and all the painting tools they’ll need for decor, this kit makes pottery a cinch. They’ll be able to make everything from holders for their plants to jewelry dishes.

Price at time of publish: $65

54 Thrones African Beauty Butter Collection Deluxe Tin

54 Thrones African Beauty Butter Collection Deluxe Tin

Sephora

Do you have a few besties? Pop one of each of these rich and moisturizing body butters into their stockings. You’ll be the softest (and best smelling) group at your next brunch.

Price at time of publish: $80

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