Shopping·20 min read

35 Thoughtful Gifts for the Sister-in-Law Who Has Everything

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Design: theSkimm | Photos: Mejuri, Bare Hands, and Vuori
October 24, 2024

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My sister-in-law lives 3,200 miles away in Scotland (hi, Jen!). As a result, we don’t see each other that often—that means when I’m holiday shopping for her, I feel a little extra pressure for it to be *good.* Luckily, she and I are pretty similar, so hunting for that special something is a challenge I enjoy. If that’s not true for you, fear not: we found plenty of awesome gifts for your SIL, no matter how close you are. Read on for over 30 sister-in-law gifts (for all types of budgets) that are sure to make her smile.

Best sister-in-law gifts, at a glance:

Brümate Era 30 Tumbler, $40, Glerups Wool Slippers, $115 Element Brooklyn Tea In the Sahara Candle, $28 Sunday Riley Pro Vitamins Kit, $75 Frigidaire Touchscreen Nugget Ice Maker, $174 Turbie Cotton Hair Bands, $20

What to look for in a sister-in-law gift

Regardless of what kind of relationship you have with your SIL, there are so many routes you can go when searching for the perfect holiday or birthday gift. Maybe your SIL is a working mom who fantasizes about the second she gets home and can throw on some slippers and uncork the bottle of wine. Maybe she’s a foodie who’s texting you the address to the trendiest new restaurant she must drag you to this weekend (she already made reservations!). She could be a skin-care aficionado, homebody, home decor queen—maybe she’s all the things.

Wherever her interests lie, we’re here to help you find the perfect, foolproof present—one that she wouldn’t dare regift. Make her feel loved, pampered, and seen with these thoughtful sister-in-law gifts. Because she deserves it this holiday season and beyond.

Best beauty sister-in-law gifts

manicure kit
Amazon

This manicure kit that saves them a trip to the salon...

If your SIL is over the nail salon she’ll dig this Bare Hands Dry Gloss Kit. The kit includes a glass buffer that polishes natural nails to a shine, and an oil pen to soften and moisturize cuticles. I’ve used this kit myself over the past few weeks and, while it does take a while to get the hang of, it’s made my paint-free nails much happier (and prettier). You do need to be careful of over-polishing, though, so tell her to follow the instructions!

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skincare gift set
Amazon

This set that will make their skin glow...

I love a lot of Sunday Riley skin-care products (lookin’ at you, Ceramic Slip Cleanser!), but my favorite is probably the brand’s C.E.O. vitamin C line. The serum in particular has really made a glowy difference in my skin—I ran out recently and absolutely noticed a difference. Complete with a serum, face oil, eye cream, and hydration cream, this kit has everything your SIL needs to experience the brightening effects of vitamin C, by way of Sunday Riley.

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cotton headbands
QVC

A set of headbands she'll get so much use out of...

If your SIL is a beauty queen, these cotton headbands from Turbie will be super helpful for keeping her hair out of the way while she works through her skin-care routine. They’re made with 100% cotton and are machine washable for easy maintenance. Plus, each pack of five comes in a variety of colors.

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skincare set
Korres

A skincare set for an at-home facial feel...

If you’re looking to impress your skincare-loving sister-in-law, Korres’ new Black Pine Needle-Free Face Lift Day Routine has you covered. Powered by firming black pine extract and a blend of peptides, this set is all about achieving a lifted, youthful look without a trip to the med spa. Black pine is rich in antioxidants to protect the skin, while peptides work to support firmness and smooth fine lines. Ideal for adding a little luxury to her daily routine, this set will make her glow—and maybe even feel like she’s getting a mini-facial every morning.

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eyeshadow kit
Chanel

A versatile eyeshadow set with a luxe feel...

This one is for the SIL who loves her Urban Decay palette “just fine, thanks,” even though there’s, like, a single crumb of her go-to shimmery bronze shade left. This limited-edition palette from Chanel is decadent as heck—the packaging itself is gift-worthy (it comes with a cute tweed “jacket”!). It’s just one of those things she likely won’t buy herself, so you can’t go wrong.

The bronze-gold shades are universally gorgeous. Plus, the formula is easy to apply, since it’s extra silky (tip: use the chocolate shade for an everyday look, and the gold and bronze add shimmer to the corners of the eyes).

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press-on nails
Olive & June

These press-on nails perfect for every special occasion...

I used to think press-on nails weren’t worth the effort, but Olive & June changed that. They come in so many pretty colors and shapes (I love this sleek almond shape), and each pack has an extensive size range (42 nails per pack to be exact). Plus, they cut and file almost like a natural nail, so it’s not a chore if she wants to adjust the shape and length a bit. Each kit comes with non-toxic nails, a small file, a cuticle pusher, glue, and a prep pad to ensure they last as long as possible.

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lash serum
Sephora

This serum that'll make their lashes longer...

Yes, $150 is a lot for a tube no larger than a roll-on essential oil, but if there’s one thing almost every person on Planet Earth wants, it’s longer eyelashes and thicker (or at least less patchy) eyebrows. This is the first formula that our senior beauty editor says *actually* works, and that’s thanks to its trial-tested formula consisting of roselle and safflower extracts which support regrowth and prevent more hair loss, and biotin, which can encourage new hair growth as well as strengthen follicles.

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Best jewelry sister-in-law gifts

gold ring
Mejuri

This head-turning gold ring for a great price...

Chunky jewelry has won over our hearts and wallets, and not just because it looks like bling in pastry-shaped form. Chic, simple, yet eye-catching this best-selling Mejuri ring will universally go with everything (it comes in silver, too) yet also serve as a statement piece. This ring is made with thick and durable 18k gold on sterling silver.

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gold bracelet
Tiny Tags

A cute bracelet they'll want to wear everyday...

Did you recently become a new aunt, or is she a new mama? Give her a gift she’ll never want to take off. Mom-founded jewelry brand, Tiny Tags, makes fine, personalized jewelry specifically for mothers that’s so chic. This simple mini initial bracelet will allow her to carry her little one wherever she goes, no matter how big they grow. Its minimalist design makes it a heartfelt accessory that looks great with everything.

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silver earrings
Bibi & Kim

These hypoallergenic silver hoops...

Want to gift her the earrings she’ll wear every damn day? Bibi & Kim makes affordable jewelry pieces that are modern, yet timeless—like these hypoallergenic steel hoops, or this cute pair of chain and pearl danglers I have. Each piece is delivered in adorable monochromatic packaging, making it extra giftable.

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gold earrings
Cuyana

These eye-catching gold earrings...

Each earring is a three-piece system that comes together and looks like modern art that belongs at MOMA. If your SIL is the type who goes for jewelry that’s a bit outside the box (yet still matches everything she has because she’s practical like that), these earrings from Cuyana will serve that need—and fetch her endless compliments. The earrings are made from sterling silver and coated in 14k gold (the plates are made from recycled brass, which is pretty cool).

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Apparel and accessory gifts

joggers
Vuori

These joggers with a super-soft feel...

If your sis hasn’t tried these joggers, then she’s missing out, big time. Vuori’s athleisure line has been one of my favorite under-the-radar brands thanks to its mega-soft, stretchy fabric (the brand’s proprietary DreamKnit material, a mix of recycled polyester and elastane that feels more like pajamas than workout-wear, but delivers the form and construction you need for any kind of activity, as long as you don’t require much compression). Plus, they’ve got side pockets (score).

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clutch
Minor History

This chic handbag with a structural look...

How stinking cute is this clutch from the leather goods brand Minor History? While it comes in several solid hues, this “Carmen” red is perfect for the holidays. Plus, it features an interior slip pocket and has a magnetic snap closure to keep your items secure. I own two MH bags myself and get no less than three compliments every time I wear them out. The full-grain leather is so soft, beautifully crafted, and designed to stand the test of time.

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striped socks
Verloop

These bright socks that add a pop of color...

Socks are never a bad gift idea, especially when they’re grippy on the soles and lined with super soft Sherpa fleece. Verloop’s bold and bubbly colors make these socks an extra fun gift for the SIL who likes a loud print. They’re also machine washable—if she can bring herself to take them off.

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sweatpant overalls
Amazon

These comfy overalls they'll never want to take off...

This is what happens when a sweater and overalls have a baby: Swoveralls! They’re like the closest thing you’ll get to an adult onesie that still has structure, and you can wear it out and about without feeling like you belong in daycare. Crafted from 100 percent cotton, the material is oh-so-soft. Whether you’re wearing them to walk the dog or catch up on your favorite shows, the Swoveralls will absolutely become your new favorite hibernating ensemble (plus, they feature adjustable straps and six convenient pockets).

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Home gifts

green candle
Element Brooklyn

This chic candle they can refill...

What’s better than gifting a candle? Gifting a candle she can refill. Element Brooklyn candles are affordable dupes of bougie fragrances (this particular scent is reminiscent of a Cire Trudon favorite). When the soy-based wax finally burns out (55 hours later), you can pop one of the brand’s refill candles into the same vessel. It’s not only a sustainability win, but a money-saver too—a refill costs almost half the price of a new candle!

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throw blanket
Amazon

This cozy blanket for chilly days...

After hearing rave reviews about this throw blanket from two different girlfriends, I finally ordered one for myself—and I’m so glad I did. It’s so soft and snuggly (a solid Barefoot Dreams dupe) and is the perfect weight for cuddling on the couch or layering on top of a duvet. Plus, it comes in 25 colors and several sizes, so you’re bound to find the right one for your SIL.

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diffuser
Amazon

This design-forward diffuser with a great scent...

This ceramic diffuser from Blueme is beautiful inside and out. The neutral vessel matches pretty much any decor, and the included reeds throw fragrance with gusto (like, so much so that I took a few reeds out of my vessel). Choose from a variety of scent duos, such as eucalyptus & lime, oakmoss & sandalwood, or yuzu & ginger.

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steam mop
Walmart

This steam mop to clean up even the toughest of messes...

The ultimate home gift for the fur ma whose home is covered in pet hair (along with all the dirt and grime her hounds bring back from outside) is this Hoover Pet Steam Mop, which I’ve been testing on my hard floors (background: I have two 90-pound all-black dogs who shed like it’s a competitive sport.) With an ultra-long cord, plus 10 detachable cleaning tools to get in all those hard-to-reach places (behind the couch, under the fridge, around the toilet), the Hoover is a total workhorse that leaves surfaces sparkling and smelling fresh. It’s safe to use on all hard floors (tile, wood, vinyl, etc.)

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ceramic vase
Amazon

This ceramic vase with a striking design...

If her coffee or dining table could use a statement piece, get her this pretty ceramic vase that totally looks like a rare flea market find. Top it off with some fresh flowers (we personally love Bouqs’ selection of in-season and beautifully curated flower and plant delivery service). Or, for something more low-maintenance, get her some pampas grass.

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soap dish
Walmart

This cute soap dish in the shape of a tub...

To add some whimsy to any bathroom, this functional, yet oh-so-cute clawfoot tub soap holder beats the traditional tray. I mean, how adorable? Choose from four different colors—it’s an easy way to elevate her guest bathroom.

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picture frame
Amazon

This digital picture frame that they can control via their phone...

For the sentimental SIL who keeps her memories on display: This Skylight digital frame allows you to upload all her favorite photos in 60 seconds or less (you can even email the photo directly to the frame). With the highest-quality resolution, it’s an easy way to display family photos—and she can swap them out whenever she feels like. As a sweet and thoughtful touch, you can even pre-load a photo of the two of you to set her up.

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Self-care gifts

insulated tumbler
Amazon

This tumbler that provides all-day insulation for hot and cold drinks...

I know it’s weird to be so excited about an insulated cup, but I’m obsessed with the elevated design of Brümate’s Era 30 tumbler. The straw system is so cool and easy to clean (it’s also completely spillproof!) and the matte exterior looks really sleek. It keeps drinks cold (or hot) all day and, best of all, is totally top-rack dishwasher safe. Even the color options are more classy than your average tumbler—I like mocha or rose taupe, personally, but there are plenty of options to fit your SIL’s style.

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wool slippers
Amazon

These slippers for both indoors and outdoors...

My husband calls these my “woodland creature shoes” but the joke’s on him because my Glerups are the best slippers I’ve ever owned. They’re made from 100 percent natural wool, but they’re never too hot, especially with the open heel. The natural rubber sole also makes them great for indoor-outdoor use, so whether your sister-in-law is WFH or taking the dog out, they won’t let her down.

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gift box
Here I Am Box

This gift box that will transform their bathroom into a spa...

Whether she spends all day wrangling kiddos or squinting at her computer screen, a relaxing bath can help your SIL take the edge off. This kit from Here I Am is a curation of small-batch products made by women-owned small businesses. It includes a rosehip-scented bath soak, a clay skin mask, a soothing lemongrass candle, a rose blossom lotion, and two packs of hot cocoa to sip on while she soaks.

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running headphones
Walmart

These headphones that don't fall out during runs...

If she’s a runner or a cyclist, these bone conduction headphones from Shokz are one of the best gifts you can give. While the open-ear design means her music might not be as bass-rocking as in-ear headphones, the OpenRun Pro still provides premium sound and allows her to take phone calls with ease. More importantly, they’ll help keep her safe on the road or trail—the bone conduction design means they don’t block out environmental noise like approaching cars, bikes, or other runners.

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back massager
Amazon

This back massager that has a heating feature...

Why give her a spa gift card when you can bring the spa to her so she can use it whenever she wants, wherever she wants? $200 is an investment, but if you were already planning on gifting her a massage day (which can cost upwards of $75 an hour), consider this Shiatsu Neck and Back Massage that comes with a heating feature. It strategically kneads all those tight knots in her shoulders, mid- and lower back in the comfort of her own home (I tried this myself and am never going back to the spa—seriously—this gets the job done, and then some, and I can watch Better Call Saul while my back is getting the VIP treatment). Plus, with adjustable pressure, she can really focus on those areas with the most aches and pains.

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Kitchen and food gifts

ice maker
Walmart

This touchscreen ice maker that will come in handy...

There’s no debate: when it comes to ice cubes, nuggets reign supreme. If your sis is always filling up her water bottle (or whipping up a cocktail or mocktail), this touchscreen countertop ice maker will definitely take her bevvies up a notch. It comes in two sleek colors (black and navy) and produces up to 33 pounds of crunchy, chewable nugget ice a day—just don’t tell her dentist.

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chocolate box
Compartes

These luxe chocolates with a fun celestial theme...

Doesn’t matter what her sun sign is—she *will* see stars when she opens this zodiac-themed chocolate box. Underneath the stunning, celestial lid are 12 delicious chocolates thoughtfully curated to represent each zodiac sign. So whether she’s a fiery Aries, a nurturing Cancer, or an adventurous Sag, there’s something to satiate her sweet tooth.

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drink mixer
Amazon

These non-alcoholic mixers with gorgeous packaging...

Is she sober, but still wants to feel included in boozy celebrations? We love the Blake Lively-founded non-alcoholic mixer brand, Betty Buzz, which features sparkling flavors like ginger beer, grapefruit, Meyer lemon, and more. The packaging alone is swoon-worthy, but it doesn’t hurt that the concoctions are made with real fruit juice, vegan, kosher, and free from artificial sweeteners and flavors, as well as GMOs. Chin chin!

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frozen meals
Mila

These frozen meals that save so much time...

As someone who’s been working from home for the past few years, lunches can get…same-y. If your SIL has been reheating leftovers or settling for a PB&J (no shame in that), treat her to easy-to-make frozen, authentic Asian meals from Mila, like these Sichuan Dan Dan noodles, which taste like takeout (but way cheaper and healthier). If noodles aren’t her thing, try the dumpling subscription ($40 per bag, and you can choose from Classic Pork, Savory Chicken, and Shrimp & Pork).

Buy it
coffee maker
Amazon

This cute coffee maker with a fun design...

I think it’s safe to say we’ve all drooled over Smeg’s retro-inspired appliances at some point or another. They’re just… so freakin’ classic. And colorful! And we want to outfit in our kitchen in all-things Smeg.

While you probably can’t renovate her kitchen for the holidays, you can treat her to this Smeg Drip Coffee Maker that’ll elevate her coffee routine with the press of a button. It’s got the signature Smeg look, all clean lines and vintage branding, in a small-space coffee maker she can tuck neatly on her beverage cart or counter. And yes, they come in a spectrum of candy hues, so you can add a pop of color to her space or match her aesthetic seamlessly.

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cast iron pot
Great Jones

This versatile pot that adds a pop of color to any table...

Treat her to a gorgeous Dutch oven that also makes for an impressive centerpiece for every single family meal. Great Jones’ Dutch oven is a sturdy, 6.75-quart enameled cast-iron that’s safe to use in the oven (safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit) and on the stove. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe too, for easy cleaning. We love this particular Dutch oven for its unique oval shape (it can easily fit a roast chicken). Plus, those colors?! We love. Choose from six other eye-catching colors Great Jones is known for.

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stand mixer
Walmart

This cute stand mixer with six different speeds...

Whether she’s just getting into baking or has already tried her hand at every cookie in the Pioneer Woman’s arsenal, this beautiful five-quart stand mixer is sure to be a hit. It’s actually a TPW-branded Faberware mixer, so it features a reliable 600-watt, six-speed motor to tackle a wide range of jobs. We love the beautiful speck and faux wood design, but there’s also a floral option available if that’s more her speed. The mixer also comes with a paddle, whisk, and hook attachment, all of which are dishwasher safe.

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kitchen gadget
Amazon

This handy kitchen appliance oven that does it all...

This 10-in-1 Ninja Foodi may as well replace her oven, microwave, toaster, and air-fryer—and it truly delivers even better results. With its 90-second preheat feature, it bakes, roasts, and broils 30 percent faster than a tradition oven would. When you want to toast your bagel, choose from settings that allow you to select just how golden and crunchy you want it to be. And with it’s extra-large size, you can squeeze in a 5-pound chicken along with a tray of veggies and get dinner ready in a jiffy—without having to rotate or switch racks. My favorite feature is the digital display, which tells you everything from the temp and time to which rack is optimal to use.

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