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While we’ve thankfully said goodbye to the era of girl bossing and giving into hustle culture, there’s still plenty to love about what you do. Maybe you’re passionate about the projects you lead or the vision you contribute to each day. Or perhaps the people you work with are the best. (Not to brag, but I’m lucky to have all three.) If you love the people you share your 9-5—or whenever to whenever—with, that’s something worth celebrating. To bring a little joy to your work wives this holiday season, we rounded up the best co-worker gift ideas that’ll make their EOY all the more special.
A gift can say so much. It can communicate your gratitude for the many hours your work bestie has listened to you vent. A gift can say how much you admire their organization (or that you were paying attention when your favorite co-worker said they wanted to “get it together” in the new year). It can solidify the more-than-a-work-thing bond you share—and remind them that you’re here to cheer them on, no matter what.
Featured image from our interview with Babba Rivera by Michelle Nash.
The Best Co-Worker Gift Ideas That Won’t Get Regifted
From accessories that’ll beautify their desk space to productivity boosters that’ll take their work ethic to the next level, we came up with the best co-worker gift ideas to show them your appreciation—and to confirm: there’s no one you’d rather spend your Monday through Friday with.
HAY Colorblock Chopsticks (Set of 6)
For the co-worker who takes her lunch break *seriously*—as we all should. These vibrant, colorblock chopsticks are sure to level up even the saddest desk lunch.
Bala 1 Pound Bangles
They’re passionate about their walking breaks—and even curate a queue of podcasts to fit the vibe. Bala’s forever-viral weighted bangles are the easiest way to win over your office’s ultimate multitasker.
Casa Zuma Solstice Mug
Mugs make the best gifts. They signify comfort and coziness. Plus, she’ll always think of you when she pours her first cup of coffee in the morning. (Arguably the best association you could want for yourself.) This no-handle, sweet stoneware mug is the perfect desk accessory, and one she’ll reach for again and again. Consider it an aesthetic step-up from a “Best Boss” mug—with all the same intentions, included.
Monogram Night Gardenia Candles
When it comes to co-worker gift ideas, candles are a no-brainer. But a monogrammed, hand-painted glass vessel? Y’all, this is a far cry from any Yankee Candle you might have otherwise considered. The scent is floral and fruity, making it the perfect burn for when they’ve had enough of the fir, vanilla, and oaky candles that dominate this time of year.
Baggu Reusable Bags (Set of 3)
Do you also find yourself balancing a million things—lunch, file folders, work bag, and coffee—on your way into the office? (Appropriately labeled #girlphysics.) Chances are, your co-worker is doing the same dance. Make life a little easier and things a little lighter by gifting them a trio of Baggu’s recycled, reusable bags. I guarantee, she’ll have at least one of these in hand (with another in her purse, the third in her desk) every day of the week.
Schoolhouse Skier Incense Smoker Set
While I often reach for candles in lieu of incense, I have this sweet little wooden skier smoking all throughout the holiday season. The pine-scented incense cones set the perfect cozy vibe. And don’t say that just looking at it doesn’t make you smile. (This cheaper option is a great alternative.)
Londontown Mauvelous Lakur Trio
A trio of polishes in wearable colors that work any time of year? It’s everything a manicure-obsessed co-worker could want. Shades of mauve, berry, and pearl strike the perfect balance of vibrant and classic. This gift is sure to save them a few trips to the salon while keeping their look perfectly polished.
Bistro Tile À La Mode Pie Dish
In her free time, your work wife is a regular Ina Garten. She invites you over for happy hour drinks with a full spread of stunning bites and knows no better way to spend a weekend than with a marathon baking sesh. Oh—and this year, she’s committed to perfecting her pies. This minimalist dish is full of personality with its Parisian-inspired design. It’s a go-to gift and one that makes polishing off a pie all the more tempting.
Snow Day Cutout Snowflake Christmas Tree Ornament
Ornaments just make sense this time of year, and gifting them is a thoughtful way to add to your co-worker’s collection. Given the low price point on these snowflakes, it’d be sweet to share a trio that highlights the intricate delicacy of one of our favorite elements of the season.
Casa Zuma Salt Cellar
Salt amplifies the flavor of everything you cook and bake. (Yes, your chocolate chip cookies need it!) Because everything functional deserves a beautiful home, this sweet little salt cellar is perfect placed next to the stove or brought to the dining table. To round out the gift, pair the salt cellar with a box of flaky Maldon sea salt.
J. Crew Cashmere-blend trouser socks
Coziness and warmth wrapped up in an ultra-soft and chic gift—these socks say it all. They pair perfectly with the ballet flats she unearthed from the back of her closet or the Uggs she wears every week without fail. Select from nine colors and expect to see these on repeat.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Wrap
It’s a given: no matter your office, it’s always bound to be freezing. This luxe cashmere wrap—available in 10 colors—will live draped over her chair. It’s an effortless and elegant addition to any outfit, for any occasion.
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
Named one of our favorite self-help books, The Creative Act is the ultimate guide to living an inspired life. The meditative passages read like poetry, and it’s a great book to reference whenever they’re craving a spark of creativity.
Oak Essentials Santo Wood Candle
Oak Essentials, Jenni Kayne’s skincare-centric brand, carries a tightly curated offering of self-care gifts. This earthy candle is perfect for the season without learning too holiday. (You know the ones.) Top notes of anise, eucalyptus, and bergamot blend with papyrus, white birch, and sandalwood. The scent is exactly what I want while curled up on the couch with a cup of tea.
CB2 Glass Cloche with Black Matches
Every desk—even if it’s the makeshift table in your work wife’s living room—deserves a sweet accessory or two. And because candles are the ultimate addition to a wellness-minded workspace, she’ll need a set of matches as well. This cloche adds a nice touch of visual interest to her otherwise minimalist desk.
Wilde House Paper Intentional Planner 2024
Google Calendar? I don’t know her. If your co-worker leans more analog, she’ll find nothing more satisfying than a fresh planner to fill with her dreams and accomplishments throughout the year. Complete with worksheets, journal prompts, reflection pages, and space for her goals and intentions, this is the ultimate gift for anyone who loves a good manifesting sesh.
Threshold™ Solid Chenille Knit Throw Blanket
Whether draped over her couch or keeping her warm at her desk, this knit throw epitomizes cozy elegance. It comes in a range of colors, ensuring you find the perfect comfy staple that she’ll pull out daily.
Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Bath Soak
Herbivore Botanicals is our go-to for all things topical self-care. This bath soak is as soothing to the skin as it is to her deadline-filled mind. It’s nourishing, decadent, and safe for even sensitive skin. Trust me: a little touch of luxury like this goes a long way. (Psst… this could be the sign she needs to use up that PTO!)
Avaline Pinot Noir
Co-worker gift ideas begin and end with Avaline’s Pinot Noir. For after-work happy hours, cozy homemade dinners, and everything in between, this organic Pinot Noir is always a perfect pairing. It’s light and fruity, featuring notes of wild raspberry and cherry that blend for an easy-drinking glass.
Good Memories Three Good Things Journal
I cannot stop talking about this journal. While other guided journals have helped me establish a strong practice in the past, this journal centered on the experience of gratitude is accessible and easy to commit to. Based on the research of Martin Seligman, Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, the Three Good Things journal is a 13-week practice designed to support you in building a more purpose-driven and gratitude-oriented life. Trust: it’s the perfect gift for anyone looking to start 2024 with a fresh perspective.
