21 Unique Holiday Gifts that Are “Basic,” But Better

Who can remember how many times you’ve unwrapped a pair of pajamas on Christmas morning? Nothing against pajamas, but there are some gifts that you’re practically guaranteed to see year after year. Whether it be socks, candles, holiday sweaters, or dare we say board games, sometimes you find yourself giving (and oftentimes receiving) a, well, “basic” and far from unique gift.

Maybe it’s for the relative you don’t keep in touch with, which would make picking something more personal a challenge. Or maybe you didn’t leave yourself enough time to think outside the box. Fortunately, we have you covered in any case. Why settle on a clichéd festive-print PJ set when you could give Sleeper’s jet black set complete with a marabou feather trim? It looks just as chic on Christmas morning as it does at a New Year’s Eve fête. La Ligne’s cheerful Fair Isle knit is an upgrade on any ugly Christmas sweater, while Tibi’s shearling slip-on mules are the perfect alternative to fuzzy slippers, considering you can cozy up in them both in and out of the house.

For the less sartorially inclined, Off-White put a clever touch on a typical keychain stocking stuffer. Todd Selby, meanwhile, has created a colorful and playful version of the classic coffee mug. Pampshade’s baguette-shaped lamp might make your friends and family wonder whether they’ve just been gifted a loaf of bread (instead of a lighting fixture). Great fun.

Below, surprise your loved ones with 21 unique gifts that each offer a twist on a holiday classic.