Whether buying gifts for countless family members, taking part in present exchanges with colleagues, attending festive season parties, or traveling for the holidays, December can be expensive. Whether you’re buying a bottle for your hosts or grabbing a gift for your cousin’s newborn, we have trawled the internet to find some more affordable options. Within our $25 and Under Gift Guide there are presents for all types—and for some ideas at various prices, our full BUY section is updated daily.
Exploring the strange, confusing and oftentimes distressing modern world, French artist Jean Jullien has created a thoughtful and thought-provoking book. While his keen observations on life in the current climate can be a little cheeky, they’re always tender. He’s an artist whose work shows—time and again—an innate sensitivity to his surroundings, but more importantly, the people who inhabit them. “Modern Life” reveals just how perplexed, entertained and saddened we all can be in the present day.
This set of 10 brightly colored pencils—all number two graphite—comes complete with compliments on them, for days when you’re feeling insecure, have a case of writers’ block or just need a little boost. Emblazoned with phrases like, “Yes You Totally Can” and “You’re a Total Champ,” the pencils also have erasers attached—but the positive vibes mean you won’t get too down on yourself if you make a mistake.
By Dave Ladd and Stephanie Anderson, “Animals Are Delicious” isn’t as brutal as one might think. In fact, the kids’ book explains three of the longest food chains within the animal kingdom—in a bright and playful way. Each food chain (terrestrial, avian and aquatic—our favorite is the underwater iteration) is given its own tactile foldout, so kids can exercise several senses at once.
Embrace the warmer months and your inner child at your next pool party or grilling session and make four popsicles at a time with Zoku’s round pop molds. Totally BPA- and phthalate-free, the silicon-made molds make it easy to peel away your popsicles once they’re frozen. The set comes with one mold; four removable, individual molds; and four sticks (complete with drip guards) to make all your summer parties a little sweeter.
With contributions from the likes of Tracey Emin, John Baldessari, Ryan McGinley and more, experimental book “Feelings: Soft Art” explores contemporary art with a focus on emotions and sensual, gut reactions. Via interviews, short essays and (of course) plenty of imagery, readers are reminded that art isn’t always purely intellectual—rather it’s meant to evoke very human, personal emotions.
The Desert Piñon’s needles boast a deliciously sweet but earthy and pine-y fragrance that conjures images of burnt orange from the Southwest—and it’s a scent that Juniper Ridge has recreated with their new campfire incense. Blending this with a smoky and spicy fragrance, the Desert Piñon campfire incense is made up of wildcrafted plants, tree sap, wood and bamboo stick—with no charcoal, perfume or hidden chemicals.
New Albion Sports has collaborated with NYC’s Prize Pins and Yimmy Yayo to create a pin to help you get with the winning team. Silver metal and black enamel are shaped into this playful pin that mimics the foam finger, with just as much team spirit—but a less cumbersome size.
Captivated by the vivacity of Neapolitan families frolicking in Italy’s warm summer waters, photographer Brett Lloyd began snapping images of them, hoping to capture the carefree scenes playing out in front of him. Dashwood Books took notice of Lloyd’s work and commissioned him to further document his experiences, resulting in Scugnizzi, a photobook dedicated to the playful children found throughout the streets of Naples.
