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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wisconsin chapter.

For every type of friend

It’s almost that time of year! I am definitely a Christmas-before-Thanksgiving type of person, so I’m already brainstorming what gifts to buy for all my favorite people this season. But since I’m a broke college student, I need to hunt for wallet-friendly presents. This is why Secret Santa with your friends is the best – you only have to buy one gift. I decided to research Santa gifts based on what kind of friend you’re shopping for, from gifts for fitness girlies to amateur chefs.

I’m so excited for the holidays and to shop for my Secret Santa. Hopefully this guide helps you out!

for your fitness friend

The first type of person I decided I’d shop for is a fitness friend. Most of us have people in our life who love going to the gym, working out etc., so here’s a few gift ideas for them. 

FOR THE BOOKWORM

If someone knows my taste in books well enough, I love when they get me an actual book. But, if you’re unsure about your friend’s book taste and don’t want to get them something they’ll never read, here are some non-book bookworm gifts! 

  • If you know your friend likes audiobooks, consider getting them a subscription to audible. 
  • Homesick candles smell the best– here’s one specifically for your bookish friend: book club candle. 
  • This reading journal allows your friend to track their reading progress and journal about their favorite books!  
FOR YOUR FASHION-FORWARD FRIEND

Buying actual clothes for a friend can be difficult, unless you know their style in and out, so here are some fun accessories your stylish friend would definitely appreciate. 

  • Shoulder bags are having their moment, so if your friend doesn’t already own a basic one, here’s a super cute cheap bag from H&M: shoulder bag. I know that ThredUp has a bunch of designer shoulder bags at discounted prices too, if you want to go a more sustainable route!  
  • Scarves are also very trendy right now; this colorful one from Princess Polly will match any outfit: scarf.  
FOR THE CHEF OF THE FRIEND GROUP

I found so many fun gifts on uncommon goods for a cook; here’s a few of them! 

  • If your friend likes to make their own dressings, get them this salad dressing spice kit so they can mix and match spices and create different combinations!
  • This cookbook for movie lovers is DEFINITELY going on my wishlist– it has recipes from all sorts of movies that can be brought to life!  
  • If your friend is a vegetarian like me, you should definitely get them this make your own plant based protein kit! 
  • When I saw this waffle maker + panini press duo, I had to put it on here– this combination is so fun for anyone.
  • Lastly, if your chef friend doesn’t already have one, they definitely need an air fryer. This one on Amazon is only $40!      
for your self-care friend

We all should be practicing self-care, but here are some gifts for that friend who’s actually good at it and who will definitely appreciate these items.

  • This tea sampler pack will allow your friend to try out all sorts of teas and see which ones are their favorites.   
  • Any self-care girl is always on top of their skincare; here’s a set to elevate their routine: face/body mask skincare set. 
  • We all know that feeling of water dripping down our arms when washing our faces. While this may seem like overkill, it definitely romanticizes a skincare routine: scrunchie and headband towel set.  
  • If you know your friend likes mediation, consider getting them a subscription to a mediation app, like Calm or Headspace. 

 

Lily Wood

Wisconsin '26

Hi! My name is Lily, and I'm a junior at UW Madison studying psychology. I love to travel, read, listen to music, go on walks and hang out with my friends and little sister. I'm so happy to be a part of Her Campus!