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Chia Pets
Yes, chia seeds are in. No, Chia Pets will never be in… unless you’re eight. Instead, give a succulent glass terrarium. These plants are easy to care for and are beautiful to look at in any space.
Poo-Pourri
Despite the hilarious commercial and the fact that lots of people swear by this stuff, it’s still a gross gift. Buy it for yourself and give the Rainforest Collection soap set to your holiday hostess.
Shake Weight
Do not give this to your fitness-loving friend. She doesn’t want it. Instead, gift a classic duffle bag – perfect for the gym or anywhere else their fast feet may take them.
Novelty Shot Glasses
Want to be invited to grown-up parties? Give grown-up gifts, like the Kate Spade Two of a Kind Bar Set. These drinking accessories are fun without the college vibe.
A Pumpkin Pie Soda Pack
The PSL is not going away any time soon. That doesn’t mean pumpkin pie soda is an acceptable gift. Opt for the beautiful macarons in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Box.
A Self-Help Book
For shame! Unless you want to be known as the most offensive guest at the holiday get-together, give a colorful cookbook instead.
Homemade Soup Kit
Unless you want your gift to say “I was on Pinterest for a minute and this is all I could come up with,” just go for the Chevre Cheesemaking Kit. Creative, unusual, and tasty – wins all around.
Homemade Ash Tray
This needs no explanation. Instead, give a funky and chic jewelry dish, like this bear rug from imm Living.
Charm Bracelet
You don’t want your gift to involve extra work. Collecting charms hasn’t been fun since middle school. Give an Ellie Skinny Bangle Set and call it a day.
Fleece No-Sew Blanket
Great for soccer moms, terrible for gifts. Go for a stylish herringbone throw and never look back.
Socks
Socks are a classic bad gift. For a personal but practical touch, give a nice set of pajamas instead.
Silly Scarf
Being warm is important. Not looking goofy is just as important. If you know someone venturing out into the cold this year, give the Alpaca Travel Set.
Waxy Chocolates
If you know someone with a sweet tooth, give them the good sugar. Try an Artisan S’mores Kit or Whiskey Love Bomb Caramels. Or, just give them to us. Yum!
Gift Card
Nothing says “I don’t really know you” like a gift card. Unless you’re shopping for a moody teen, opt for something more personal. Give the One in a Million card holder from Kate Spade New York for a go-getter who needs to get organized.