Even if they’re extra cool, socks aren’t the best contender for that perfect gift. Go above and beyond with these gifts that will satisfy the biggest design nerds.
Harper + Oldham Triple Luck Shots Set of 2
$35 from Fishs Eddy
If you prefer a spirited time, then cheers! This little set is just for you. Fishs Eddy does a stellar job of collaborating with creatives like Alan Cumming and Amy Sedaris for fun lines. The Harper + Oldham line isn’t brand new to the purveyor of kitschy kitchenware, but it keeps impressing. The line is designed by Todd Oldham and features the illustrations of American Modernist Charley Harper. Here, Harper’s ladybug, horseshoe, and clover illustrations adorn a pair of shot glasses that trump your vacation souvenirs
Kanoko Shibori Medium Tone Pillow
$80 from Camper General Store
The person who obsesses over #shelfies and #floorcore will fall head over heels for this one-of-a-kind find. No assembly line here. LA-based Camper General Store specializes in repurposing vintage denim with sustainable processes. This pillow is made from vintage denim circa 1979 and distressed with a resist process and the sun. A zipper enclosure and down alternative insert make washing a snap.
DC Hunter Dopp Kit
$52 from Oxgut
The discerning guy with the high-maintenance beard will dig this dop kit for toting around his clippers, beard oil, and whatever else it takes to maintain that face mane. Oxgut Hose Co. transforms decommissioned fire hoses into handsome accessories and furniture. This one is made of white synthetic fire hose liner with a clear rubber interior lining that used to carry water, so if something spills inside, it’ll remain contained and cause no harm. The industrial trim and contrasting navy stitching makes this utilitarian accessory a looker.
Laser-Cut Walnut Teapot Trivet
$45 from Food52
The space-deprived tea lover will love this well-designed trivet that doubles as a piece of art. The sustainably sourced walnut piece is made by Frederick Arndt Artworks and sold exclusively by Food52. Use it to guard a tabletop from a hot plate or hang it on the wall for décor.
Round Screw Driver Kit Leather
$22 from Restoration Hardware
This handy kit will get a good reception from the minimalist DIYer who has neither the room nor the aesthetic for a workshop full of tools. The leather case contains seven types of screwdrivers, a base, and an extender so you can reach even farther to tackle simple jobs. It doesn’t look bad sitting on a shelf, either.
Glass Pot
$200 from MoMA Store
The methodical cook will treasure this pot that you can admire while pasta and more bubble within. Designed by Massimo Castagna, this borosilicate glass pot is flame-proof and can withstand high temperatures. Rest assured that each pot is unique, as only 10 a day are made in Italy. Once the magic is done, pop this cookware in the dishwasher and enjoy your feast you watched from start to finish.
Prism Magnifier
$27.95 from CB2
The bibliophile who’s always checking out the footnotes and detailed illustrations will treasure this helpful little sculpture. Daniel Martinez designed it for Small Things Matter, a collaboration between Parsons The New School For Design and Brooklyn-based design firm Areaware. It magnifies 1.5x and can double as a modern paperweight when you’re not hitting the books.
Pineapple Fruit Planter Silver
$54 from Need Supply Co.
The windowsill gardener will welcome this chic little planter with open gardening gloves. The Brooklyn-based design team of Chen Chen and Kai Williams can take credit for the picturesque design. The hand-cast cement container is as sturdy as it is pretty with its pineapple-like surface and metallic silver finish. Alas, there’s hope for plant-killers, too. The sturdy container can corral non-living stuff, as well.
Waxed Canvas Lunch Bag
$24 from Scoutmob?
The conscious cook will appreciate this attractive vehicle for transporting work lunches. The brown paper bag got a redux from Minneapolis-based Waam Industries. Its heavy cotton canvas and beeswax finish makes for a water-resistant carrier that will put your old plastic takeout containers to shame.
Fantastic Cities: A Coloring Book of Amazing Places Real and Imagined
$11 from Amazon
There’s an adult coloring book for every subject on earth, including the world’s greatest architecture. Artist Steve McDonald’s super-detailed drawings will keep your mind occupied and put at ease. There was a published study about that, right?
Cortado Coasters
$60 from Rablabs
The routine host or hostess will drool all over, (hopefully just metaphorically), this weighty coaster. Thick agate is hand-polished on the edges for a timeless look that will impress everyone. When you’re not entertaining, you can use it as a paperweight for all your important documents.