Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us. Don’t overthink it. Buying presents has gotten way too complicated. Maybe we're to blame. We've done huge lists of luxury gifts, tech gifts, literary gifts, and more. That's not to mention our guides for men, husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, and more. We're the ones who told you to seek out award-winning gadgets, home products, and grooming goods. We've said weird gifts are cool, and we've encouraged our readers to think outside the box occasionally. Honestly, though, when it comes down to it, the classics are classics for a reason. Let's not forget that. Sweaters, jewelry, and socks will always be easy gifts, because people always need sweaters and socks, and they always want jewelry. There's nothing wrong with leaning into an old holiday cliché. In fact, now that gift giving is so complex, it can be refreshing. You just need to do it with taste. Don't buy any cheap pair of socks but the best pair of socks. Don't stress trying to pick out the perfect robot vacuum. Instead, here are 12 elevated versions of classic gifts to put on your shopping list—or maybe in your own cart. Equal parts high-tech and high design, the Bluetooth speaker is also simple enough to gift to the least tech-savvy person on your list. Juniper is the prevailing botanical in Caledonia Spirits' Barr Hill Tom Cat. The rest of the unique flavors come from raw Vermont wildflower honey, plus six months of aging in American oak barrels. Sabah's handmade slip-ons make wonderful airport shoes. With shearling, they make the world's best slippers. Is there anything more luxurious than cashmere socks? We advise one pair for everyone on your list. Cowboy boots used to be a classic part of the American man's wardrobe, and they're trending upward. We like a Lucchese roper as a more modern, in-town, and versatile option. The most pleasing fall/winter candle we've ever sniffed. Bonus points for the reusable ceramic container. Jewelry gifts should be tasteful and timeless. Hermès does that to perfection. You decide how big to splurge. Bring back gifting ties. Dad still wears them, and everyone else should follow his lead. Vintage Ralph Lauren is our favorite play here. We have to note that the tie pictured isn't available. If you don't want to wait for a Ralph Lauren vintage restock, do your own hunting on eBay. Load up the best, most efficient version of that steel-belted cooler your parents had way back when. When we talk the most iconic, recognizable, and giftable products of all time, a Zippo is right up at the top. This one from One of These Days is pre-engraved for a vintage touch. Not a bathrobe, not a cheap last-minute robe. This is the most luxurious thing they can wrap up in while lounging at home. It’s time to rebrand the sweater as a premium present. This English knit-cotton top from Ghiaia Cashmere is worthy of your closest loved ones.
Esquire’s 12 Classic Gifts for Keeping It Simple This Holiday Season
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
$1,549 at AmazonBarr Hill Tom Cat Barrel-Aged Gin
$50 at Total WineSabah Meteor Shearling Baba
$245 at sabah.amPantherella Waddington Cashmere Men's Socks
$75 at pantherella.comLucchese Sunset Roper Boots
$645 at lucchese.comLoewe Medium Roasted Hazelnut Candle
$245 at LoeweHermès Roulis Double Tour Bracelet
$395 at HermesRalph Lauren Vintage Tie
$175 at Ralph LaurenYeti Series V Stainless Steel Cooler
$800 at YetiRunning Horse Zippo
$50 at oneofthesedays.comSferra Uomo Cashmere Robe
$785 at sferra.comGhiaia Cashmere Marinaio Cotton Crewneck
$685 at ghiaiacashmere.com
