10 Awesome Gifts That Look Expensive (But Cost Less Than $50!)

Win big by spending small(er). Get shopping details below!

The ultimate holiday dilemma (other than ‘Can I regift this?’ Find that answer here) is how to look like you spent a lot of money without actually breaking the bank. If your budget falls in that under-$50 sweet spot, you’re in luck: I’ve found 10 great gift options that only look expensive, including one I give to my closest friends. Here are 10 great options for men and women that ring in below that magic number. Bonus: Most are available at local shops so you don’t have to pay extra for shipping. Now go get your gifting on, you savvy shopper. 

Here’s your guide to all those nifty-looking gifts above!

[1] Art in the Age’s  ‘Holiday Tote’ comes stuffed with a mug, pennant and super-soft graphic tee. And, yep, it’s only $50. Art in the Age, Old City.

[2] Elbow patches make everything look fancier. (But, shh! It’s on mega-sale.) Merino wool elbow-patch sweater, originally $89.50, now $34.99 with code GETGIFTS, at J.Crew.com.

[3] Pendleton texting gloves are cozy and functional. $29.50 at Ps & Qs, South Street.

[4] For the coffee snob in your life, this gooseneck kettle makes to-die-for pour-over cups. Bonavita Kettle, $48 at United by Blue, Old City and University City.

[5] The owners of this gift haven tell me these cheeky desk accessories are store favorites. Office name plate, $28 at Open House, Midtown Village.

When in doubt, go for gilt.

[1] This fuzzy deep olive-green scarf looks great over a coat or a simple sweater. Faux fur Snood, $41.30 at Club Monaco, Rittenhouse and King of Prussia.

[2] The round frames by L.A. streetwear brand YHF are perfection without Persol price tags. Fresco sunglasses, $30 at Fab.com.

[3] It only looks flashy. (And Jonathan Adler packaging is a gift in itself.) Gold Carnaby zebra stacking dish, $32 at Jonathanadler.com.

[4] This has become my go-to gift for culinary-minded pals. Recipe book, $22.95 at Paper Source, Rittenhouse.

[5] You think they’re Alexander Wang or Phillip Lim. They’re not. Antik penny loafers, $49.99 at Zara, Rittenhouse.