gift guide: tweens + teens
PEOPLE OFTEN feel really stumped trying to find gifts for teenagers and I totally understand why. They’re just at a funny crossroads between kiddo and adult that makes it challenging to peg them. And the range of their interests feels endless. Obvs that’s true at any age, but somehow with teens it’s really magnified. Some are super happy to build Legos at home while others are trying desperately to exercise some independence at the mall with friends and still others are focused entirely on their chosen sport. Some couldn’t care less what they wear and others wouldn’t go anywhere in anything that doesn’t have a brand name. Oh, plus ALL THE OTHER kids in between. Not to mention the fact that what’s cool one day is SO NOT the next. So it’s no wonder that people feel intimidated. What I think IS pretty universal about teens is that most of them are just trying to connect, to express themselves and to find their place in the world in their own unique way. And there are some really awesome ways to help them do it.
WHILE I CAN’T promise that I’ve hit every one of those diverse interests here, there should be something for just about everyone. I’ve chosen to stick with *mostly* analog gifts here that inspire teens to take a minute or to get outside or find creative ways to express themselves. I also LOVE the idea of gifting unique experiences [at any age], like concert tickets, trips, cooking classes and museum memberships that open your teen’s eyes to something new or create lasting memories. If you really don’t know your gift recipient well or they’re saving up for something big, a thoughtfully chosen gift card is a totally ok way to go, especially if you put in a little effort to make it feel extra special.
THERE IS SO much fun stuff in this category, I could go on and on and on… so if you don't see anything that strikes a chord for your teen, try the Gift Guide to Baking or Art Supplies or Self Care. I also have a whole varied collection for Tweens + Teens on ShopMy with ideas for more specific interests. As with all of my Gift Guides, check back often, I’ll add to this list as I find stuff that’s too cool to keep to myself. And enjoy every non-eye-rolling moment you get with those amazing + funny creatures. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo
Gifts for Tweens + Teens
> Lake makes supremely soft, very cute PJs for the whole family and lots of them are styled perfectly for teens. Most are made with gorgeous Pima Cotton for ultimate comfort and breathability and there are long and short sets to choose from depending on your weather. Check out my whole PJs + Loungewear Collection for more cozy ideas for teens. > prices vary
> If your teen wants to carry an ‘analog’ wallet, this Bellroy Slim Sleeve is the perfect choice. It’s a really handsome leather bi-fold with space for up to 11 cards and cash, but it’s super slender so it doesn’t bulk up their pockets. It comes in 10 really nice colors and Bellroy is a certified B Corp, so you can feel good about your purchase. They also make an awesome Mag Wallet if that’s more their style. Pop a gift card from their favorite restaurant in there for a really killer gift. > $85
> Gorjana is a Laguna Beach-based brand that makes super popular jewelry in silver and gold that’s both timeless and totally on-trend. In addition to the ‘usual’ bracelets, necklaces and earrings that teens love, they also have birthstone + zodiac jewelry and cute charms that can make for a really special, personal gift. > prices vary
> If your teen is itching to start spinning, check out a Pioneer DJ Controller designed for beginners. There are a few options to choose from and they’ll all have you mixing those beats for your buddies in no time. > from $279
> Have a teen who’s obsessed with their furry BFF? Get them a super cozy, fuzzy Custom Pet Art Blanket with their pet’s adorable portrait. They come in several sizes and colors and are so darn cute. Your teen can snuggle two versions of their favorite love at once. For sooo many more awesome personalized gifts, check out the Etsy Holiday Hub. .> from $28
> Alo Yoga has a giant collection of coveted, very hip sweatshirts, sweatpants and jackets that teens adore. They’re all super on-trend and designed to take you from school to your workout to going out and come in both Women’s and Men’s styles. This cropped Muse Hoodie is made with a soft, ribbed knit that’s pretty and cozy. Their Leggings and Sports Bras are also totally ‘on the list.’ > from $98
> Ok this is SO cool. The retro Audio-Technica Sound Burger is a fully portable USB turntable that plays vinyl with zero wires or big housing. It has incredible sound quality, can play records for up to 12 hours on one charge and comes in 3 colors, including a super rad yellow. Love this thing. It’s such a cool update on a classic.> $199
> Here to Slay is a strategic role-playing adventure game. It’s fast-paced and easy to learn, but takes time to win. It’s one of Kickstarter’s 50 most backed projects of all time and more than 9k 5-star reviews on Amazon and the cards are cute. But fearsome. But, like super cute. > $20
SHOP at BARNES & NOBLE or AMAZON
> UGG Tasman II’s are still on the list and I’m not a bit surprised. They’re super comfy, super cute, easy to slide into, look good with just about everything and are totally unisex. They’re great for indoors, outdoors and everywhere in between. My boys both love theirs and I love mine, too. They come sized for both women and men [and littles]. > $125
SHOP at UGG or NORDSTROM
> Cadence Capsules are pretty and popular for sure, but they also have 100% solved every issue I’ve ever had with junky travel containers. They’re leakproof, easy to clean, perfectly sized and pack well. I use them for cosmetics, supplements, jewelry + meds and they’re absolutely perfect. Teens [and my husband] love these things, too, and they make an awesome gift for travel, school bags, sleepovers or away games. Put together your own fun collection or try the Starter Set for easy peasy gifting. > from $14
> Blankets make such awesome gifts for just about anyone of any age. They’re cozy and comforting and grounding. I love this custom Down the Line Blanket with your teen’s name emblazoned on it. It comes in several different colors and sizes and is totally machine washable. The little extra personalization will add a whole other layer of warmth. > from $78
> Beanies are SO not just for keeping warm, they’re a fashion statement all their own. Tilly’s has a HUGE selection of Beanies in styles and colors to match just about any teens’ ‘fit. > prices vary
> They’ll def be able to dunk on a Pop-A-Shot Super Slam Over The Door Mini Basketball Hoop. It has the hyped up announcer, shatter-proof backboard, spring action hoop and LED scoreboard you love in the arcade version, but in your own room. SO fun for any age. > $45
> You’re never too old for Legos, especially when they come in super cool sets like the Speed Champions series of hot super cars. They may never have a real McLaren, but they can build one out of Legos and dream big. There are some very cool cars in the Technic series, too, if that’s more their jam. > from $19.99
> Stack52 Exercise Card Decks feature several disciplines, like Bodyweight, HIIT, Yoga, Dumbell… Just choose a few cards and you have an instant workout. Developed by a military fitness expert, you can scan each card to see a video of the exercise done properly so you can keep things safe. There’s no equipment necessary for most decks, so you can workout anywhere. > $19.99
> For 25 years Jellycat has made THE cutest, softest and most clever stuffed toys and they have made a serious splash with the teen crowd. From adorable bears to bok choy, they have a huge range of animals and ‘Amusables’ to choose from. The Bag Charms are a hit, too. Now that’s a trend I can get behind. And if you just want a big smile, check out their Insta, it’s SO clever. > from $22
> The North Face ThermoBall Slippers are so rad, they’re like a little sleeping bag hug for your feet. They’re fuzzy and squishy on the inside and have a fully-tractioned rubber sole so you can wear them indoors as house shoes or outside to walk the dog or to school. They come in fun colors, too, in both Men’s and Women’s sizes. > $59
> Get in on the hype with Stranger Things Upside Down Board Game. It’s a cooperative strategy game that incorporates the first two seasons and tasks you with saving Hawkins. See my whole geeked out Stranger Things Gift Collection for more fun ideas. > $49.99
SHOP at AMAZON or BARNES & NOBLE
> Love a teen who’s obsessed with ACOTAR? They can now color elaborately-illustrated scenes from the book with the A Court of Thorns and Roses or The Throne of Glass Coloring Books.Add on some Colored Pencils designed just for coloring books to make a really sweet gift. > $15.99
SHOP at AMAZON or BARNES & NOBLE
> Inspire your budding engineer or designer with very cool KiwiCo Crates. They have such cool options for teens, like building a Kinetic Light-Up Speaker or a Build & Play Chess Set. You can either buy individual projects or get them a subscription and keep the fun coming. The Eureka Crate is made for exploring engineering and the Maker Crate is for inspiring artists and designers. Such a cool analog gift. > from $24
> Help your jewelry lover take good care of their treasures with an elegant Quince Leather Jewelry Box. It really pretty in Nude or Black calfskin leather and has three inner trays and special compartments for max organization. They also have a super handy Jewelry Travel Case for smaller collections or on-the-go. > $79.90
> This Hydrenalite Down Hoodie is a super cute, slightly cropped bomber-style puffer. It has the updated styling teens want and ALL of the features you’d expect from The North Face, making it kind of a perfect combo of form and function. It comes in some cute colors, too, and in Men’s. > $220
> My son loves his The North Face Retro Denali Jacket. It’s super soft, cozy and warm, but you’ll look way cool. It comes in 5 rad colors, too. And there’s an equally squishy Women’s version for the gals. > $180
> This JBL Clip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is compact, waterproof, dust-proof, portable and has an integrated carabiner so you can clip it to your backpack or belt loop while on the move. You can even fire it up in the shower. It gets 12 hours of playtime on one charge and comes in 9 awesome colors OR you can design your own. If you’re not fussed about the carabiner and are willing to charge a bit more often, the JBL Go 3 and Go 4 are less expensive, still awesome options. > $79.95
SHOP AT JBL or AMAZON
> Have some good analog fun with this fast-paced Bungee Table game. It’s a puck-slinging game, sort of like wooden air hockey and is easy to learn. It might help with their coronation and relfexes, too and will def get them off their phones. It comes in 3 sizes based on your storage needs, though it sounds like the bigger the better. > from $15.99
> Protect that shiny tech with a case that looks cool AND does a serious solid for Mama Earth. Pela Cases are completely COMPOSTABLE and will return to the earth when your teen is done with it. They come in a zillion cute prints and solids to please just about anyone. And they can cover your tablet or AirTags, too. I LOVE the feel of mine. Find other great Earth-Friendly Swaps for eco-conscious teens here. > from $39.95
> Keep all of that bling organized with a DreamGenius Jewelry Stand. It has so many options for storing your treasures, including a velvet ring holder. It comes in 3 sizes and some cute colors to match your decor. > from $24.99
> Lead one of the great cities of Antiquity by developing your military, culture, science and economy all while building a wonder of the world in 7 Wonders. A super popular strategy game, it’s perfect for game nights with space for up to 7 players and it looks super fun. > $59.99
SHOP at BARNES & NOBLE orAMAZON
> There’s nothing more important to a teen than their friends. Honor that bond with a Custom Illustration of up to 7 of their besties. For so many more super meaningful gifts, check out the Etsy Holiday Hub.. > from $26
> There seems to be a new 'it’ water bottle every year and right now it’s the Owala FreeSip. They come in a bunch of super fun color combos, some bright and some neutral and 'aesthettic.’ But their shining feature is the combo built-in hidden straw and wide mouth opening in one AND it has a flip-top that keeps all of it clean and protected in between sips. Rad. > from $27.99
> The Good Karma Tarot Deck is geared toward beginners looking for guidance and personal development in an empowering, different way. The deck is inclusive and super positive [nothing creepy or dark here]. It includes a book to explain the meanings of the cards and how to use them, too. > $24.95
> Great Jones’ Bakeware is more than a SUPER pretty face for your baker. It’s scratch-resistant, dishwasher-friendly, PFOA-free and designed to release your goods with ease. They make bright, fun Cake Pans, Loaf Pans, Pie Dishes, Muffin Pans and more all in fabulous colors that would appeal to stylish tweens and teens. I love mine. See more ideas for the bakers you love in The Gift Guide to Baking Stuff for Kids + Teens .> from $35
> Celebrate special memories, trips, friends or family with custom Minted Heart Snapshot Mix Photo Art [it comes in a Circle, too]. You choose a handful of photos, the size you’d like and whether or not you want it framed and they’ll print you a really special keepsake. Allow extra time since it’s custom. > from $23
> If your teen loves perfume or cologne but you’d rather they didn’t walk around in a toxic cloud all day, check out the clean fragrances at Credo Beauty. They have an awesome selection of clean perfumes from brands like Henry Rose, Mason Louis Marie and DedCool that are just as gorgeous as mainstream brands. Discovery sets are a really great way to find your perfect scent [I use the rejected ones as room spray when traveling]. See the Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens for lots more fun clean beauty. > from $25
> Teens can express their creativity with a cool Society6 Collage Kit. There are several different themes and artists to choose from and then teens can make it all their own by placing the prints in a unique way in their space. Most come in a set of 10 colorful prints. > $20
> My guys are into sweaters this season and this Gap Classic Crewneck Sweater is a great option. Exactly like its name, it’s a classic, cotton crewneck that comes in 8 handsome colors. It’s a perfect basic staple [but not, like, ‘basic’ basic] that goes with pretty much everything they put on and is soft enough to rival a sweatshirt. Perfect. > $49.95
> Telestrations is SUPER fun to play in a group with friends or family. It’s kind of like a combination of classic telephone and Pictionary and it’s hilarious. We’ve had fun with this with a wide range of ages from 7-78. > $31.99
> Don’t you love it when something they want is also something you’re happy for them to have? That’s Saie for you.It’s super duper clean beauty that’s also super on-trend. Their Glowy Super Gel is in high demand, along with the Dew Blush and Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil [I love love it, too]. Their colors are playful and flatter a wide range of skin tones and they have some fun sets to make gifting easy. Plus they have an admirable climate initiative that makes you feel great about supporting them. Win-win-win. For lots more clean beauty, check out the Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens. > from $20
SHOP at SAIE or SEPHORA
> Help them reach their health goals with a rad Beast Blender Mighty 850 Plus in several really pretty colors. They can easily blend fruits, veggies and protein shakes and drink their creation right out of container or store it with the lid. > $149
SHOP AT CRATE & BARREL or AMAZON
> This is so fun. Universal Yums sends snack boxes with regional goodies and an interactive ‘guidebook’ from countries all over the world from Scandinavia to Pakistan to Colombia. You can gift one box [by basically choosing a 1-month subscription] or a full subscription that sends them a new box each month for your chosen duration or on a month-to-month basis. This is such a fun gift for foodies and adventures. > from $20
> This book is so cool. A History of Basketball in Fifteen Sneakers tells the story of this beloved game through the iconic sneakers that have defined each era. It’s such a great gift for basketball fans + sneaker heads alike. > $35
> The Love of Colour on Etsy has stunning beginner Natural Dye Kits that are perfect for crafty teens. There’s a Natural Dye version that includes various botanicals and an Indigo Kit. Both look incredible. They also have gorgeous Block Printing and Clay Resist Kits. So fun. > from $22.95
> Everyone needs a good dopp kit for travel, sleepovers or practice. This Lululemon Dual-Compartment Toiletry Bag is a cool option with some great features, including a wide top opening for easy access, water repellent fabric for easy cleaning and mesh pockets inside to keep organized. The bottom section zips open for easy access to the extras and it comes in two handsome colors. See my whole collection of Dopp Kits + Makeup Bags for lots more options. > $58
> Make their favorite drink or snack even more special with a fun Icon Juice Glass. They come in a zillion cute themes from hearts to fruit to tennis balls and they’re all just sunny. Fill one up with their favorite treat for a perfect little gift. They also have a few in a Tumbler style with a lid if that’s more their thing. > $16
> Blow some music-loving minds with a pair of Beats Studio Pro Headphones.They’re wireless, Bluetooth enabled, have 40 hours of life and can be set to noise canceling or transparency mode. Plus the music quality you’d expect from Beats, of course. And some rad colors.. If it’s better for your budget, there’s also the Beats Solo version that has fewer bells and whistles but doesn’t skimp a bit on the impeccable sound quality. > from $169.99
> Keep that precious tech protected in the cutest way with a super cool Baggu Puffy Sleeves. They come in some really awesome prints and are sized for both tablets and laptops ranging from 13'“-16”. They also have cases for your earbuds and glasses that are equally fun. > from $15
> Every adventurer needs a good knife and French brand Opinel has been making their No. 8 Stainless Steel Folding Knife since 1890. So… it’s fair to say it’s been field tested quite a bit and is awesome. There are a TON of knives to choose from depending on your adventurer’s [or chef or gardner] needs, but this Colorama version comes in 6 pretty colors and has a lanyard for attaching to a pack. Almost all of their knives can also have the handle engraved for a really special gift. > $23
> Don’t just scroll through all of those amazing photos on your phone, print them out with a li’l palm-sized Kodak Step Instant Printer. It spits out mini ZINC sticky-back paper pictures for your walls or journal or to share with friends. There’s no tonor or ink to replace and it’s Bluetooth enabled to connect to your phone or tablet with no tangled cords or cables. So fun. > $79.99
> I gifted these awesome handmade Ramen Bowls to my boys and they use them just about every day. There are a bunch of cool designs to choose from and they all come with a set of reusable chopsticks that slide through holes at the top of the bowl for easy storage and all are handcrafted with lead-free glaze. So cute. > $24
> Give your teen the snuggliest hug with a Sophie Faux Fur Throw. It’s THE softest blanket and so perfect for getting cozy [or hiding out] and it comes in 14 really pretty colors. You could also have a crazy soft Sophie Pillow to match. My whole family LOVES ours so much, there’s a reason it’s been on the list since day one. > $98
> F1 fans will love Grand Prix: An Illustrated History of Formula 1, written by the sport’s most prominent commentator.Part super cool illustrations and part past, present and future of this super popular sport. Your F1 lovers will be in heaven with this. > $29.99
SHOP at BARNES & NOBLE or AMAZON
> Camp Snap Cameras are at such a cool intersection of analog-feeling with legit technology. Designed to provide the same experience as a disposable camera where you can snap and move on, but it’s reusable, rechargeable and has the quality and functionality of a digital camera. There’s no screen, so you don’t get slowed down trying to look at what you snapped and you get 500 shots per charge. There are cool built-in filters and they come in a bunch of super fun colors, too. LOVE this thing. They also have a CS-8 Digital Video Camera, which is inspired by an old Super-8 if you have a budding filmmaker on your hands. > $69.95
Use code ALLAFLUTTER72 for 7.2% off
> Help them practice the art of slowing down with this Speckled Ceramic Matcha Bowl and Whisk Tea Gift Set. It comes with everything your matcha lover needs to make their favorite drinks at home [except the tea}. > $49.99
> Fans of Elphaba and Glinda might love The Wicked Years Box Set of all four of Gregory MacGuire’s OG novels to see how the story began and where it went. See the whole ShopMy Wicked Collection for more ideas for fans. > $60
SHOP at BARNES & NOBLE or AMAZON
> Add another level of challenge to a classic with a Rubik’s Phantom. The cube appears all black, but has thermoohromic technology that temporarily reveals each square’s color with the warm touch of your hands. Good luck! > $32
> Give them a reason to get outside all year long with a super fun Tosy LED Frisbee or Flying Ring. They’re both rechargeable, waterproof and awesome for just about any age. Perfect for the yard, beach, park, campground or base of the ski mountain. > from $24.99
> You’re never too old to eat your favorite ice cream, soup or snack from an MLB Sundae Slugger Ceramic Ice Cream Bowl. I mean, they’re so cute. They come in a set of 2 and there are 18 popular teams available. Hand washing is recommended so maybe they can also practice cleaning up after themselves. Win win. > $48
> Marvel by Design is a super in-depth look at the franchise’s distinct design process and iconic creative language. It features logos, fonts, color pallets and more throughout the 80+ year history. It’s an awesome gift for aspiring artists, designers, comic book lovers and serious fans of Marvel. > $69
SHOP at BARNES & NOBLE or AMAZON
> Society6 is an awesome resource for affordable room decor, bedding, phone cases, wall art and SO much more that reps your teen’s interests and style. Just type in ‘skateboarding’ or ‘cats’ and discover a treasure trove of unique designs that will speak your kid’s language. Once you find an artist you like, you can have their work printed on just about anything from posters to pillows to yoga mats, all while supporting artists. > prices vary
> Give your teen the moon and stars with a telescope to explore the night sky. Celestron has a wide variety of models + price ranges, including one designed for travel so you can bring it adventuring. We love staring at the moon with ours. > $54.95
> These special handmade Embossed Leather Keychains are perfect for new drivers, house keys or just a little bag charm. There are 6 pretty leather colors to choose from and you can add up to 3 monogram letters for personalization. > $24.99
> There’s no greater gift than the gift of travel. Make it easier and more stylish with an Away Carry-On. This is the super durable hard shell version, designed to fit in any overhead bin, but they have many different models to choose from depending on your needs, including a similar Softside version. See my whole collection of carry-on luggage for LOTS more options. > $275
> Help relieve tension and tightness and foster muscle recovery with a Theragun Mini. It’s quiet and powerful and super portable for on-the-road games, matches or races. It comes in a few pretty colors. > $219.99
> Do some serious multitasking with a 3-in-1 Mag-Safe Charging Station that’ll power up your iPhone, AppleWatch and AirPods all at once. It eliminates a whole tangle of cords, too, and comes in a few pretty colors. > $49
> There is nothing more important for teens than good sleep, so up their comfy game with Quince Bamboo Bedding. Their organic bamboo Sheets, Duvets and Comforters have a luxe-feeling, silky smooth sateen weave that’ll have them racing to get into bed. They come in lots of colors and are made from the most resource-efficient material around. And if bamboo isn’t your thing, they also have linen, organic cotton silk and gauze options, too. You really can’t go wrong.. > from $89.90
> Crafty teens can create their own ‘aesthetic’ room decor with a pretty Punch Needle Kit. It’s designed for beginners and comes with everything you need to complete the project. It’s such a nice analog way to chill. See the Gift Guide to Art Supplies for Kids + Teens for TONS more creative gift ideas. > from $29.99
> Gift unlimited access to millions of books with a Kindle Paperwhite.It’s waterproof and has adjustable warm light. It comes available with our without Kindle Unlimited loaded. There’s no greater gift than the whole library. > $159.99
> Caitlyn Minimalist has a TON of simple, pretty, totally on-trend jewelry pieces that are perfect for teens. This dainty Zodiac Necklace combines a little cosmic love, style and bling all in one and makes a really sweet and personalized gift. > $37
> Global Grub makes awesome DIY Kits for making all kinds of super yummy, popular treats like this Churro Kit. It comes with [almost] everything you need to make 40 churros at home. My son and I have done the Mochi Ice Cream Kit and it was awesome. A fun analog activity + a super yummy treat; that’s a serious win to me. They have several options to choose from. > $41.99
SHOP ON ETSY or AMAZON
> What happens when a rocket scientist, an alternative energy expert and a New York Times bestselling cartoonist get together to create a game? Valence, that’s what. It’s a game where you build new molecules out of elements to earn points. There’s also Valence Plus, which includes additional elements, molecules and reactions to play with. > from $24.99
> How stinking cute is this big Kawaii Sherpa Volleyball? It’s roughly the same size as an indoor volleyball, but is pure handmade squishable adorableness for your fan of the sport. You can even get one with a li’l graduation cap if your athlete is moving on. Because it’s handmade, the lead time may be a bit longer, so plan ahead. > $32
> If you have a golfer that cares about both performance and style, they’ll love a box of Vice Golf Balls, like this rad Drip Version. They’re the same high quality as standard Vice Pro Balls, but with a seriously awesome looking upgrade. The Ice Blue and Shade versions are also way cool. > $37.99
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