Best Overall White Elephant Gifts Under $25

As long as you know where to look, you can find name-brand items that will warrant a double take once they’ve been unwrapped. And yes, for under $25. I’m obsessed with the Library of Play: Sorry!, and the full collection offers nine other board games to choose from. And whoever unwraps these cozy Ugg socks will surely try to hide them so they won’t get stolen as you continue to go around the room. 

Speaking of cozy, I know I’m biased, but there’s nothing comfier than the Better Homes & Gardens Velvet Plush Throw—and for $18, it’s quite the bargain. My other favorite picks include a Lululemon baseball hat that’s perfect for workouts and casual outfits, as well as this super pretty planter that’s perfect for the gardening guru in your friend group.

Home Gifts Under $25

Target

Board games are one of my favorite white elephant gifts to give, and Just One is the perfect party game. In fact, you’ll probably end up playing it as soon as it’s unwrapped. Gifts like an Apple AirTag or a Festive Icon Juice Glass from Anthropologie will also impress partygoers, and I have a feeling they’ll be stolen more than once. 

My favorite functional gift to give is the $10 Hanycony Flat Plug Extension Cord; it may not be a thrilling gift, but it makes up for it in convenience and functionality. A delicious-smelling candle is always a crowd-pleaser, and I’ve even included the best white elephant gift that I’ve ever been given: Runamok Sparkle Maple Syrup. The fun and festive edible glitter gives Sunday morning pancakes just a little something extra.

Fashion Gifts Under $25

Old Navy

It can be tricky to pick the “right” fashion gift for white elephant because everyone has different tastes and preferences. But it’s hard to go wrong with popular brands like Lululemon, Ugg, Vera Bradley, and Barefoot Dreams. 

The handmade Elizabeth Gillett Floral Gauze Bandana—from Terrain, the sister site of Anthropologie—is a beautiful accessory that I’d love to get myself. It’s perfect for tying in your hair, on your bag, or around your neck. (And it looks cute on dogs, too!) When in doubt, go the super cozy winter beanie route with this $5 option from Old Navy. It’s a sure thing, especially if your gift exchange is happening on a cold winter day. The gift-getter will definitely appreciate the thought behind it.

Gardening Gifts Under $25

Target

The gardener in your life will be happy to receive this five-piece gardening tool set, a sunflower planter kit for their windowsill, or a glass terrarium for leaf cuttings. This disco ball planter—which I actually have at home—and this large plant pot from Rifle Paper Co. are choice picks for any plant parents who are just starting out. 

Houseplant amateurs will also appreciate this plant mister, which should remind them to water their plants. And for gardening experts who take care of large houseplants and outdoor gardens, the Etarewilt Watering Can has an ergonomic handle and a long spout for easily watering plants that green-thumbed people will love.