gift guide
'Tis the season of gift giving and I can hardly believe we are at the end of 2020. Although the holidays are meant to be filled with joy, they can be a major headache when it comes to finding the perfect gifts for the most important people in my life. While I typically struggle with gift giving, I've always found it especially difficult selecting a practical yet clever gift particularly for the men in my life that fully expresses my love and admiration.
While men are known to be pretty straightforward when it comes to their needs, I turned to a close male friend for advice on the best gift ideas for men this year. As it goes, it's the thought that counts, however it's the obsessive control freak in me wanting to make sure no man is left behind during the holiday season. This list guarantees the men you love so dearly will be on the receiving end of a thoughtful gift they'll cherish from now through 2021.
The Forest Green Alias Sweatsuit By Daily Paper
For the majority of 2020, fashion has evolved into comfort and practicality. A matching sweatsuit is perfect for every man, young and old. Daily Paper is a black-owned fashion and lifestyle brand fueled by the rich heritage of African culture wrapped in contemporary designs perfect for the strong men in our lives.
Classic Sneakers By New Balance
Pro tip, sneakers are always a good idea! A clean active style perfectly paired with cool and casual looks for everyday wear I'm told is much appreciated. Budget-friendly, New Balance sneakers won't break the bank while a perfect fit for a cool classic look.
Backpack By Made Leather Co
Although we're not traveling or moving around town as much as we used to, you can't go wrong with gifting a quality backpack created with top notch materials and detailed designs. Stylish and sleek, a backpack of this nature has unlimited uses for the man on the go. Black-owned travel brand, Made Leather Co, offers a great selection of handcrafted leather goods for your holiday needs.
Puffer Coat By Cold Laundry
As we're heading into the winter season, a puffer coat is high on the list of essentials. Prepare your man to brace the cold in style with this coat by black-owned clothing brand, Cold Laundry. This particular coat is also unisex which is perfect for #couplegoals.
Natural Hair Care By Twist It Up
The hair care industry may not be as big for men as it is for women but there are tools that can make life a lot easier when it comes to taking care of Afro-centric hair for men. The Twist It Up Comb is a natural hair brand owned by famous millionaire shark Daymond John that's not only for the culture but has a heartfelt dedication to helping those in need by providing to the homeless using proceeds from every purchase. This company is dedicated to embracing the power within while standing together in unity wearing our natural hair proudly.
Shaving Kit By Bevel
A staple every man needs in their life, a shaving kit designed specifically for coarse and curly hair as well as sensitive skin is as thoughtful as it gets. Made to solve problems for men of color by men of color, Bevel is a top of the line grooming company with a product line made specifically with your man in mind. A holiday shaving kit is the perfect introduction to getting your man's skincare game right this holiday season.
Food Delivery By HelloFresh
They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, which is the perfect reason to buy him a subscription to a home delivery food service this holiday season. With the uncertainty we face with the on-going pandemic, this thoughtful gift helps keep him safe by making sure his food is delivered straight to his door.
Adding Books To The Collection
"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X
This year looks a lot different than what we're used to as we've been spending a lot more time indoors and finding creative ways to keep ourselves occupied. Books are a great alternative to Netflix while filling our minds with more information than we get from watching television. The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley, is a great read for men looking for inspiration from one of the greatest historical leaders and activists while going through the current challenges we're facing today.
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If there's anything we've learned from 2020, it's that self-care isn't just a buzz word; it's a necessary aspect of living for mental, physical, and emotional wellness, especially during tough times. This year also taught us the importance of having a self-care practice that doesn't require leaving home, as many of our go-to self-care activities, like massages, facials, and even going to the gym became inaccessible among COVID lockdowns and stay-at-home orders.
As we look to a new year which nobody knows what it will bring, it's important to make sure our self-care arsenal is strong. While some forms of self-care require nothing but a clear mind and deep, conscious breathing, for those who like their self-care with a strong side of pampering and introspection, we recommend these items.
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Angela Caglia Skincare Rose Quartz Self-Love Eye Mask
The name says it all when it comes to this eye mask made of rose quartz which promotes feelings of love and well-being. The multi-use mask can be used in meditation to promote relaxation while the coolness and heaviness of the crystal may also help relieve sinus issues, close pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness.
HUM Nutrition Big Chill Supplement
Reduce the signs of stress from the inside out with these "chill pills". Formulated with rhodiola root extract, these pills help calm your mind while reducing the physical signs of stress on your skin.
Ariana Ost Sound Crystal Kit
Tap into the power of sonic rituals with this kit featuring a BioSonics tuning fork and dish with a hand-wrapped crystal attached.
Sanitech Wand
The peace of mind that comes with having a clean home has taken on a whole new meaning since the onset of the pandemic. This wand eliminates the need for harsh chemical-containing sprays and cleansers by naturally eliminating germs that cause colds, infections, asthma and allergic reactions by simply holding the wand approximately 1-2 inches from the surface of the item you want to sanitize and gradually move it over the area.
Homedics Relax & Unwind Wellness Kit
Reap the benefits of sound and aroma therapy with this wellness kit. It features a SoundSpa® Mini to help you decompress to the sounds of white noise, a summer night, ocean waves, and rain along with a Travel Eye Mask with Vibration Massage and Built-in Headphones. Top off the experience with the Ellia Dream Away Essential Oil Roll-On for ultimate relaxation.
Mindfulness Card Packs
Mindful thinking takes practice and sometimes we need prompts. This pack of cards has more than 50 exercises to help users go deeper in five areas of mindfulness: Rest & Balance, Insight & Awareness, Curiosity & Joy, and Kindness.
Raw Crystal Ring + Earring Set
Many people who believe in the cleansing power of crystals like to wear their gems on their body. This earring and ring set from Pura Vida makes that easy to do. Raw Clear Quartz, aka the "Master Healer", which is known for its ability to balance and absorb energy, is the mineral used in this jewelry.
The Good Patch Hemp-Infused Hangover Patch
We've all made the mistake of having a few sips too many, but none of us has the luxury of losing a whole day behind it. Get on the mend sooner rather than later with this hemp-infused patch that helps replenish essential nutrients lost from a night of too much drinking.
Nighttime Self-Care Kit
Self-care is skincare and this set makes it easy to refresh skin overnight. The four-piece kit includes the Magic Gel-to-Milk Cleanser, 3-in-1 Detox Mud Mask, Deep Hydration Face Cream, and Beauty Sleep Resurfacing Serum.
Neo Tarot: A Fresh Approach to Self-Care, Healing & Empowerment
If you're into Tarot, take your practice to the next level with this guidebook that mixes explanations of the symbolism of the 78-card deck with practical wisdom and actionable exercises to increase self-love.
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CBD and hemp have been infused into just about every body product you can imagine in recent years and for good reason. Hemp provides strong anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits, thanks to its rich Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids profile. Similarly, CBD's properties makes it great for treating skin conditions like acne while also helping to relieve pain and reduce anxiety. Chances are, if there's an issue you're dealing with, be it as simple as dry, irritated skin, or as big as mental and physical stress, there's a CBD oil or hemp cream for it. Here are 13 hemp and CBD products that make great stocking stuffers this season.
*Some links are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, xoNecole may earn a small commission.
High Priority Cannabis Cleansing Foam
Macys
Cannabis sativa seed oil and bioflavonoids in this foam cleanser remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities, as they hydrate and refresh skin.
Brown Girl Jane Glow
Brown Girl Jane
The founders of Brown Girl Jane launched their plant-based wellness company specifically to make the benefits of CBD more accessible to Black women. Earlier this year, the brand expanded into beauty with glow, a facial serum made with organic cannabis sativa seed oil and broad spectrum hemp oil to bring natural illumination to your complexion.
Sagely Naturals Relief and Recovery CBD Roll-On
Neiman Marcus
Keep this roll-on in your purse for on-the-go pain relief and aromatherapy benefits thanks to its combo of CBD, cooling menthol, and an essential oil mix of peppermint, rosemary, and eucalyptus.
Foria Intimacy Natural Lubricant with CBD
Foria
Enhance your sexual experiences with this lubricant made from Organic MCT coconut oil and 200mg of broad-spectrum CBD. The oil can also be used to relieve painful pelvic conditions and issues related to menopause.
Kiehl’s Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate
Macys
Formulated specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin, cold-pressed hemp seeds and oregano oil in this concentrate help improve the skin's barrier, reduce redness, relieve problem skin, and calm and soothe.
VERTLY CBD-Infused Bath Salts
Macys
Take your soak to a new level with these salts formulated with CBD, healing salts, magnesium, MSM, and a blend of essential oils to completely relax a tired body.
e.l.f. Happy Hydration CreamÂ
e.l.f. Happy Hydration Cream + hemp-derived Cannabis Sativa Seed OilNourish dry skin with this lightweight creamy face cream that's packed with Vitamin B5, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) -- the standard skincare hydrators -- plus the added benefit of hemp-derived cannabis sativa seed oil.
KHUS + KHUSÂ Bleu Body Wax with CBD
Neiman Marcus
Ideal for those with eczema, sensitivity, and other skin issues, this anti-inflammatory wax helps reduce pain and inflammation in the body. In addition to cannabinoid hemp extract, this herbal fusion is formulated with Blue Tansy, Blue Yarrow, Baobab, Babassu, and Marula Oil to moisturize, protect skin from free radicals, and soothe irritation.
CBD Restoring Facial Oil
This oil was created specifically to restore stressed, dehydrated skin, which pretty much all of us have right now thanks to constantly wearing masks. With 99.9% ingredients of natural origin, including CBD and hemp seed oil, squalene and patchouli extract, this lightweight vegan oil soothes the discomfort of dry skin to leave your face smoother.
Cannuka CBD Calming Eye Balm
Cannuka
Beeswax, grapeseed oil, shea butter, hemp seed oil, orange peel butter, vitamin E, rose hip oil, coconut oil, grapefruit extract, and manuka honey are poured into this eye balm to help relieve dryness and bring a glow to the undereye area. The nourishing oils also soothe skin, combat free radicals, and regenerate new skin cells to keep your eyes looking refreshed.
Origins Hello, Calm Relaxing & Hydrating Face Mask With Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Macy's
Formulated with Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, which is rich in Omega-6 and Omega-3, this masks helps hydrate and calm skin. A blend of essential oils also helps calm the senses during its use, making this the perfect at-home spa treatment.
FLOWER Beauty Chill Out Skin Serum
Calm irritated, unbalanced skin with this Chill Out Skin Serum that's infused with hemp-derived CBD to "rebalance skin to a zen state." The infusion of hyaluronic acid ensures skin stays moisturized as well.
Hempz CBD Aromatherapy Rose Oil Herbal Body Moisturizer
Kohl's
100% pure hemp seed oil and coconut oil help to moisturize skin while rose extract and vitamins A, C, and E in this lotion protect against free radicals while putting the mind at ease.
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Fitness took on a new face once COVID-19 struck at the top of the year. With fitness facilities closed down for months, many had to resort to building their own home gyms, while others struggled to remain active and focused on self-care and building their immunity through healthy eating.
Now that many of us have adjusted to our ever-changing new normal, increasingly focus has centered back on physical fitness. And with the new year right around the corner, we know most of the women in our lives will be looking to recommit themselves to physical fitness. That's why we've put together this list of fresh finds to sneak under your mom and bestie's Christmas tree -- and maybe even your own closet.
*Some links are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, xoNecole may earn a small commission.
Women's UA Multi Hair Cap
Under Armor
How many times has your puff been ruined by a hat, or you couldn't even wear a cap because it wouldn't fit over your curls? Under Armor has solved that problem with its new multi-hair cap that has an open back panel so you can wear your hair up and out in a ponytail without issue. The fabric cap also has a satin lining to protect your strands while the Iso-Chill sweatband helps keep you cool. You might want to grab one for you and your homegirls.
Fitbit Sense
Fitbit Sense
You can monitor everything from your heart rate, calories burned, and sleep score with the newest Fitbit, Sense. The smart watch has built-in GPS, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. You can make calls, get texts and receive smartphone app notifications when your phone is nearby, plus make secure purchases.
Flurry Reflective Glove
Gap
Now that daylight saving's time has settled in, if you like running outdoors before or after work, chances are you're going to be doing so in the dark. These gloves from Athleta not only keep hands warm, they have reflective detailing to make sure runners are visible to passerby. They're also touchscreen compatible so you can change your songs with ease during your workout.
High-Waisted Elevate Powersoft Joggers
Old Navy
These pants are the perfect blend of lightweight compression and soft moisture-wicking fabric. Four-way super stretch makes them perfect for various types of workouts while the high waist and banded cuff allow you to keep it cute and casual as athletic wear.
Weighted Wrist Bangles
We're all a bit less active these days, so adding something as little as a 1-pound weight to your wrist or ankles can make a big difference as you take your dog on morning walks or even stretch and get your cardio in at home.
Lift and Lengthen Yoga Block
Lululemon
For those who are serious about their yoga practice but haven't quite felt comfortable enough to go back to a studio yet, a yoga block is a great gift. The three different heights of the block provide customized support while also allowing one to deepen their stretch and further develop their practice.
Reebok Professional Fitness Deck
Perfect for the woman who wants to step up the home gym she's been building over the past few months, this multi-use deck functions as a step for cardio and aerobic exercise as well as a bench for weight lifting. You can adjust the incline on the non-slip bobble surface to make workouts harder or easier and included clips allow you to attach resistance tubes.
Acupressure Mat Set
Harness the power of traditional Chinese medicine with this acupressure mat that massages various pressure points on the body and helps relieve stress and tension as you perform various stretches and breathing exercises.
UA Sportsmask
Under Armor
If you've been back to the gym since COVID restrictions let up, you know working out in a mask is far from easy. This Sportsmask from Under Armor makes it a bit easier because of its breathable spacer fabric and Polyurethane open-cell foam that lets air flow freely. Conversely, the material makes it hard for moisture and sweat to pass through, while the anti-microbial treatment on the inside layer of the mask helps keep it fresh.
Smoky Quartz Crystal-Infused Water Bottle
Hit your daily water quota while warding off negative vibes with this glass water bottle that's infused with Smoky Quartz. This crystal is known for anchoring the root chakra, amplifying good intentions, cultivating serenity, and protecting against bad vibes.
ProForm 3-Piece Kettlebell Kit
Kohl’sÂ
Kettlebells are one of the most versatile pieces of workout equipment around and this set, which comes with a 5-pound, 10-pound, and 15-pound bell, makes it easy to increase the weight for various moves and progress your workouts.
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Your dad is so much cooler than ties and "World's Best Dad" mugs—upgrade your Father's Day gift for your dad or the dad figure in your life to something that is equally as cool. Think, a succulent subscription service because #PlantDad is totally a thing right now.
For this Father's Day (June 21), we've rounded up the trendiest items to surprise your pops with, so have TikTok ready to capture his face the exact moment he realizes you truly get him.
For The Cool Dad Who Always Keeps It Holistic: CURATIO Full Spectrum CBD
Even cool dads get aches and pains. If your dad has replaced conventional medicine for CBD like the rest of the world did in 2019, then reload his stash with Curatio CBD— the THC-free medical grade cannabinoid products with higher absorption, bioavailability, onset and performance. For the cannabis experts out there, Curatio converts THC to CBN so it remains full spectrum. Curatio comes in a tincture, cream (pump), salve and roll-on starting at $40.
For The Cool Dad Who Doubles As A #PlantDad: SUCCULENT STUDIOS
Does your dad love his plants almost as much as you? Succulent Studios is a monthly subscription that delivers two unique succulents to your doorstep with specific care instructions for both. Keep your old man's greenery collection flourishing even in quarantine with this no-contact solution all for the low price of $10/month. Get ready to visit dad and your cacti siblings!
For The Cool Dad Who’s A Girl Dad: 'The Mamba Mentality: How I Play' by Kobe Bryant
The tragic death of Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gigi shed light on the impact of fathers like the legendary NBA baller—girl dads. Gift your #GirlDad with the secrets of Kobe's famed "Mamba mentality" written in the wake of his 2016 retirement. The read is available via Amazon on Kindle, hardcover or audiobook.
For The Cool Dad Who Still Trains Hard: THERAGUN Mini
Athletic dads will appreciate Theragun's new, compact-sized recovery device. Its deep tissue massage powers will melt away soreness and help soothe injuries. Bonus: It'll save you from having to knead out any of dad's knots when you come by for a visit. Trust us, that alone is worth the $199 price tag.
For The Cool Dad That Needs To Level Up His Dad Shoes: ADIDAS Stan Smith
Your dad is too cool for kicks from Walmart, so do him a favor a pick him up a pair of Adidas Stan Smith Shoes. The sneaks are classic enough to suit any father's style and trendy enough to get him photographed for the pages of GQ. Even sneakerhead fathers will love these!
For The Cool Dad Who’s A Know-It-All: MASTERCLASS All-Access Pass
If you have one of those fathers who thinks they know it all, well find the one subject he doesn't know it all in and get him a MasterClass annual membership to teach him. You name it, they got a class for it and A-list instructors—Steph Curry, Gordon Ramsay, Spike Lee and more. Bonus: For every purchase of a membership you get one free, so you can join dad and make it a father-daughter shared experience!
For The Cool Dad Who Likes To Tune Out: SONY Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Alexa Voice Control
Let dad listen to the next Verzuz battle in peace with these industry-leading soundproof headphones complete with a built-in mic for hands-free calls. Features include 30 hours of playtime with a single charge and smart listening which adjusts the ambient sound to your activity. Alexa, add to cart!
For The Cool Dad Who Has Impeccable Sock Game: BOMBAS Men's Muhammad Ali Ropes Sports Box
Sure, socks are right there next to ties on the list of predictable Father's Day gifts, but this Muhammad Ali-inspired sock box set makes it predictable and cool. This limited-edition box comes with four pairs of Muhammad Ali x Bombas socks and a sturdy collector's box that's embossed with 'Float' on one side and 'Sting' on the other. Bonus: Bombas donates a pair of socks to someone in need with each pair sold!
For A Cool Dad Who’s A Proud #BeardGang Member: SAFI MAN Face & Beard Care
Safi Man
Keep dad's beard thriving with this comprehensive beard system by entertainer Andra Fuller. The 4-step kit includes a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and conditioning oil. The products are free of sulfates, parabens and other clean beauty no-no's. Dad will especially love that the cleanser is formulated with activated charcoal to remove toxins, bacteria, tightens pores and balances oil production.
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The power of a mother's love builds the foundation of our lives so they deserve all the praise on their special day. They actually deserve more than 24 hours with all of the contractions and stretch marks and breastfeeding and puberty and IVF and adoption and all the things. We also have to factor in that this year's holiday will look different so we need to be extra intentional about our gifts. Million dollar idea: add a Zoom link to your gift message so you can see her open your gifts.
Normally, you could take mom out for a fabulous brunch or spoil her by preparing breakfast in bed but social distancing or safer-at-home rules may prevent that from happening. We thought it would be thoughtful and unique if you sent her something from these gifts we rounded up.
If we were you, we would add one or all of these items to your cart NOW and add expedited shipping just to be safe.
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