Gifts for the Minimalist Who Wants Nothing

Even someone who eschews most material possessions will appreciate these thoughtful items.

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.


OLIO E OSSO Bel Corpo Body Oil

An antioxidant-rich blend of nourishing natural oils for deep daily hydration, 4 oz.

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 Camber-top Toolbox Y-350 R (Red)

-Prize at "Good Design Award 2009" -Pressed from a single steel plate and seamless -Round handle with no sharp edges -Durable and functional -Attachable with cylinder lock φ4mm -Camber-top cover allows more capacity


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.

Arcteryx CALEA INSULATED TRENCH COAT WOMEN'S

The essential city silhouette. Modern design. Advanced materials. Storm protection and warmth. Breathable 2L GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ blocks wind, repels water. Coreloft™ insulates without bulk, is made with 80% recycled content. Double-breasted front with hidden snap closures, wide waist belt. Fit is comfortable, structured, allows room for layers. Articulation removes restriction.

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.


Gestalten Pretty Small Grand Living With Limited Space

Smart interior design makes the most of your home. This book reveals how design can deliver big comforts even in smaller spaces.

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.


West Bourne Spiced Goji Berry Crunch

This sweet holiday twist on our beloved Togarashi Crunch is back. Made with pecans, superfood berries, and warming amber spices, this crunchy, vegan, and gluten free snack mix hits just right and satisfies our craving for sweet and salty.

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.


Monastery ATTAR

This essential-oil free nourishing balm is full of precious ingredients that protect skin and boost its glow. Hazelnut, rosehip seed, rare rose extracts and jasmine sambac fortify skin with essential fatty acids and vitamins A, B, C, and E, which stimulate regeneration, repair UV damage, and soften fine lines.

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.

LIFESTRAW HOME 7-CUP GLASS

The only water filter pitcher that removes bacteria and parasites, in addition to microplastics. Reduces lead, mercury, and chemicals including PFAS ("forever chemicals"), chlorine, herbicides, pesticides, dirt, sand, and cloudiness. Retains essential minerals like magnesium and potassium that are good for your health. 

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.

Frédéric Malle Dans Ton Lit Linen Spray

Frédéric Malle brings us Dans Ton Lit, based around the enchanting, clean fragrance of orange blossom. For this composition, Dominique Ropion added notes of petitgrain, lemon and bergamot, along with a dose of white musk to reinforce the magnetism of the orange blossom.

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.

Oura Ring Gen3

Sleep, Readiness & Activity scores are just the beginning.

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

Japanese Interiors by Mihoko Iida

An insider's look at the myriad styles of private homes of Japan, showing how Japanese interior design continues to evolve in a new era.


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.

Sarah Madeiraday Original Hand Dipped Ceramic Ornament | Round

Hand dipped heavy ceramic ornament strung with colorful velvet ribbon for hanging.


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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