Holiday Gift Guide — 2024

24 gift ideas under $500

Welcome to the annual Holiday Gift Guide!

I’ve included a list of 24 gift ideas under $500 that I’d personally love to receive as gifts (or already have and highly recommend them!).

And, until Jan 1, 2025, I’m offering 20% off the annual Paid Subscriber plan.

If you know someone who would enjoy my newsletter (or you’re that special someone), consider treating them (or yourself) to a paid subscription.

Now that’s all out of the way, let’s dive into the gift guide!

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1. Makr Chromexcel Leather Card Holder – $160

A perfect option for someone who needs something slim and minimal. Also available in vegan leather.

2. HAY PC Table Lamp – $195

Beautiful and sleek design. The matte finish and texture look brilliant.

3. Danner Mountain Light Boots – $440

If you know someone who needs a solid winter boot that’ll hold up in the snow, this is the one for them. I sized down a whole size.

4. Fog Linen Full Apron – $62

I own one of these in gray, which tends to show stains. I want one in black. I use it every time I cook to keep my clothes protected.

5. The Daily Stoic Leather Book – $110

This book changed my life. If you know someone who could use some Stoicism in their life, this would be the best gift to get them started.

6. Aesop Aromatique Incense – $43

These’ll last a long time. They add good smells and good vibes to any space.

7. Rubato Ellington Belt – $275

I own one in brown suede, but desperately need a black leather belt. This one is perfect.

8. Apple TV 4K With USB-C Remote – $129

The best streaming device available. I own the previous gen and want the latest one with the USB-C remote.

9. 3sixteen Cargo Pant – $285

Cargos are secretly my favorite type of pants. I prefer the extra pockets and they just feel comfier to lounge around in.

10. Sun Buddies “Bibi” Sunglasses – $160

I’ve yet to pick up a pair. The price and design are very appealing.

11. AeroPress Coffee Maker – $40

I use this everyday to make my mushroom coffee. A must for the coffee-lover in your life.

12. Lady White Co. Quarter Zip Sweatshirt – $185

The cozyiness factor is major here. I love quarter zips with collars like this one.

13. Drake’s Ribbed Knit Cap – $95

I own too many similar beanies, but it couldn’t hurt to add one more, right?

14. mfpen Formal Tie – $100

I saw this in person on Phillip Kim (@fromnoon.photo) and it looked fantastic. If you’re going to gift a tie, might as well be this one.

15. BillyKirk Sunglasses Case – $95

One of my favorite and most used item on this list. Game changer for storing sunglasses.

16. Sunspel Merino Wool Socks – $35

These’ll knock their socks off. Literally. I’d put these on in a heartbeat after opening the gift box.

17. Hodinkee Magazine Vol. 13 – $38

For the watch nerd who enjoys vintage watches. S/o to Hodinkee’s Creative Director, Matt Thompson (@matteveryday), for sending me the latest issue!

18. Blackstock & Weber Ellis Penny Loafer – $475

Sizing is tricky. Go a full size down, but make sure to keep the receipt for exchanges.

19. Red Wing Lined Buckskin Leather Gloves – $95

I bought these for New York. I sized down as they run big. Great quality.

20. Rubato Standard Crew Neck – $300

I recommend sizing up. It’s slightly cropped and a little boxy, but boy, I love wearing it with high rise pants.

21. Hasami Porcelain Mug Cup – $16

Nothing beats a solid coffee cup. Made in Japan.

22. Sonos Era 300 – $449

I love the design and sound quality. A great option for audiophiles.

23. DSPTCH Slingpack – $298

One of my favorite bags I’ve ever owned. And a 14in MacBook Pro fits perfectly inside.

24. Endel Premium App Subscription – $90 per year

I use this app all the time. It’s my go-to when needing to focus on a project and don’t want to spend time picking out what to listen to.

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As always, thank you for reading and supporting my newsletter.

For questions, ideas, feedback, or just want to say hello, you can reply to this email.

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See you next week!

— Victor Kernes

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P.S. I’d love to know if you picked up any of the items above. Shoot me a DM, email, or leave a comment below!