Christmas Wishlist Ideas: What to Ask for This Christmas

Things You'll Never Buy Yourself

There are always some things that you can never quite bear to spend money on — these are the aspirational, slightly-too-indulgent things that you can include in your Christmas wishlist so a generous gifter may get them for you. Typically, these items are aesthetically pleasing but not particularly useful things, such as a trendy statement bag or an extravagant piece of jewelry. To check if you really want an item in this category — and not just covet it as an out-of-reach forbidden fruit — ask yourself if you would buy it if money weren't a concern. Answering this question honestly would let you know your true feelings about it.

Upgrades of Things You Already Own

Upgrades of Things You Already Own

An upgraded version of something you already own is a great gift because it would slot right into your lifestyle and be useful to you. The items in this category are typically functional things that are used frequently, or even daily — they are meant to be practical replacements that enhance your life and not indulgent treats. Review the items that you use often and pick out those that show visible signs of wear and tear, no longer suit your current lifestyle or are already past their natural lifespans. For instance, heavy-use everyday items, such as bags, wallets and card holders, would likely need replacing on a regular basis — so take the opportunity to get an upgrade by putting them on your Christmas wishlist.

Things That Suit a Range of Budgets

Things That Suit a Range of Budgets

Different people in your life would have different budgets for your Christmas gift, depending on their relationship with you. For instance, a life partner would likely spend much more on your gift than a colleague would. Therefore, it would make sense to include items of various price points — from the affordable to the luxurious — in your Christmas wishlist. This will not only ensure that every gifter in your circle would be able to find a suitably priced item to buy but also increase the odds of you receiving all or most of the items on your list. A clear budget range takes the guesswork out of gift shopping and makes it easier for the gift-giver to pick good gifts that you will enjoy.

Make sure to include a few items in each of the following price ranges:

• Under $50: a small, affordable and commonly used item (e.g. a card holder)
• $50-100: a relatively elevated, practical item (e.g. a full-size wallet)
• $100-300: a considered, higher quality item (e.g. a versatile leather everyday bag)
• Above $300: a splurge-worthy luxury (e.g. a coveted statement bag)

Bags

Everyday Bags

This category covers replacements for a bag that is showing visible signs of wear or no longer suits your current lifestyle needs. Due to frequent use, an everyday bag is likely to get worn out relatively quickly and need replacing more often. We recommend that you focus on versatility when asking for an everyday bag — the design you put on your wishlist should match well with a range of looks and be suitable for various occasions. Neutral-toned options (e.g. black or beige bags) are good choices for those who want a bag that will complement most outfits effortlessly. If you are looking for a bag that can transition easily across work and leisure, pick a structured tote or crossbody bag.

Statement Bags

A statement bag makes for a fabulous gift as their striking appearances set them apart and make them feel like special treats. This category covers bold, outstanding carriers that are chosen for visual impact rather than practicality, regardless of their prices. We recommend that you pick bags with eye-catching details, such as an animal print (e.g. cow print, croc-effect finish), or bows for a distinctive feminine touch. Alternatively, you may want to go for a bag in a captivating color — an eye-catching hue (e.g. bold red, soft pink), even on a classic design, can make a stylish statement and brighten up your outfit instantly.

Party & Occasion Bags

This category covers bags that are suitable for festive events, such as New Year's Eve parties, and are not meant for everyday use. A party or special-occasion bag is one of those things that you may not feel inclined to buy for yourself because they are not considered necessities — this may be especially true if you are running on a smaller budget. Therefore, asking for one of these bags for Christmas would make sense. We suggest that you pick a metallic or elaborately embellished design like a sequined clutch that will stand out in dressy settings. For a more understated look, ask for sleek mini bags or classic top handle styles, which can be elevated further by an eye-catching satin or quilted finish.

Wallets & Card Holders

This category covers practical small leather goods, which can serve as stylish upgrades to replace an outdated or worn-out wallet or card holder. If you are asking for such gifts, focus on functionality and include a description of your desired design (e.g. material, size, number of card slots) in your wishlist to help your gifter find the right piece. Consider your needs and preferences when making your choice. For instance, a long wallet would suit someone who carries around a lot of cards and cash while a compact card holder is preferable to a person who likes to travel light. Go for an animal-print piece to add a small statement-making element to your daily routine.

Jewelry & Small Accessories

Jewelry

Jewelry — which includes both simple everyday pieces and expensive luxury buys — belongs to the aspirational category of gifts. For easy styling, we recommend picking pieces that can be worn together with jewelry you already own, so you can layer necklaces effortlessly and create statement ring stacks. For those who prefer more elaborate and outstanding jewelry, ask for impossible-to-miss earrings or an embellished bracelet that can anchor an entire look.

Bag Charms & Small Accessories

This is an accessible category of gifts that will work for any budget. A keychain is a useful accessory that will always come in handy while a bag charm is an easy way to personalize and refresh an existing bag without having to buy a new one. To add a playful detail to your everyday life, pick a bag charm in the shape of a cute animal or brightly colored fruit.

Beauty & Self-Care

This category covers fragrance, makeup, and skincare, which are pampering treats that are always welcome but often fall low on the list of things one would buy for themselves. A good fragrance feels luxurious and is a small pleasure that can significantly boost your mood. For your Christmas wishlist, you can either ask for a scent that you already love and use or a new seasonal scent that you are dying to try. If you prefer a treat with more visible results, choose a lipstick or a complexion product. A popular serum or effective facial tool are gifts that keep giving, while a spa day is great for anyone who prefers an experience over a product.

Tech and Travel Accessories

This category is particularly well-suited to frequent travelers and includes practical items that will come in handy when one is overseas. These small utilitarian accessories are very giftable — most people who travel often would appreciate a protective phone case, AirTag holders and high-quality packing cubes.

Experiences

Not everything on your Christmas wishlist needs to be a physical item — event tickets, a class, or a dining experience are valid gifts that you can ask for. If you are someone who values memories more than objects, a ticket to a favorite band's concert would be a fantastic ask. Those who are always excited to learn something new can also get their gifters to sign them up for a course or workshop.