Gifts for the Minimalist Who Wants Nothing

The minimalist’s MO is to simplify, streamline, and get back to the basics. They’re one of the chosen few who can arrange swoon-worthy open shelving in the kitchen—probably because they only buy the essentials—and they’ve pared back their closet to an impeccable capsule wardrobe. They’re always Knolling. They actually go through the junk drawer to put things in their proper places or toss what they don’t need.

Shopping for the minimalist, then, is a highly refined art. This is not Aunt Gertrude, thrilled to unwrap another porcelain cat to add to her collection (no offense to Aunt Gertrude). From a luscious skin balm to an intoxicating linen spray, the gifts we present below are sensory and ephemeral, disappearing after use, or are so thoughtfully designed as to be indispensable.

Handmade in small batches in Portland, Oregon, this blend of natural oils is packed with antioxidants and comes in irresistibly peppy packaging. Lathering it on feels like a mini trip to the spa.

Toyo makes seamless steel organizers you actually want to show off. Rugged yet refined, they encourage thinking outside the (tool)box and can act as craft supply caddies, camping gear go packs, toiletry displays, and more.

In terms of technical wear that unites performance with minimalist, street-ready silhouettes, it doesn’t get much better than the Arc’teryx Veilance line. Crisp cuts and engineered fabric give this classic number a sexy supervillain vibe.

We’ve never met a Gestalten book we didn’t like, and this one on making the most of small spaces is no exception. If your beloved minimalist is short on square footage, they’ll relish the ingenious ideas and solutions captured here.

Great as a stocking stuffer or gift for the host, this vegan, gluten-free snack mix features pecans, superfood berries, and festive spices. (Pair it with the Moon Pop for a sweet and salty treat.) As a bonus, this planet-conscious, zero-waste brand uses fully compostable packaging.

Trust us, this stuff is basically heaven in a balm—and a must-have for dry winters. This ultra-hydrating and nourishing formula is free of essential oils, instead harnessing the power of hazelnut, rosehip seed, rare rose extracts, and jasmine sambac to plump and protect.

Upgrade your person’s Brita filter with this sleek number from LifeStraw, the only pitcher to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and other contaminants. Even better, it looks good enough to leave out on the counter.

At the risk of sounding dramatic, spritzing this blend of orange blossom, white musk, and neroli over our pillows and sheets has changed our lives. Sophisticated and uplifting, this linen spray will make their bedroom feel like a five-star hotel.

For the discerning techie, this unobtrusive wearable monitors sleep, activity, recovery, temperature, heart rate, stress, and more for a holistic portrait of wellness. If you really want to splurge, get them the limited-run Gucci collab. 

This new volume by Phaidon celebrates Japanese interior design with 28 enchanting homes that by turns soothe, delight, and surprise. From minimalist seaside escapes to radically inventive urban dwellings, these pages are full of inspiration.

Only a Scrooge would sneer at Christmas ornaments, especially when they’re as charming as these hand-dipped pieces by Maine artist Sarah Madeira Day. Available in a round, pear, onion, or carrot shape, these are bound to upgrade the ol’ tree.

A Seasonal Floral Arrangement  

It’s been proven time and again: there’s nothing like fresh flowers to brighten a space and lift the spirits. Look into local florists who can deliver your loved one an artisan wreath or bouquet—we particularly love Flamingo Estate’s Weekly Bloom Bundle in Los Angeles and Fox Fodder Farm’s Signature Arrangements in New York City. 

Looking for something else? Check out the rest of our holiday gift guides here.

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