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The Unreturnables [aka Tried and True Gifts They’ll Love]

December 8, 2020

By:

Erin Schrader

Disclosure: Thank you to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for sponsoring today’s post.  All products were selected, purchased and worn by yours truly.

Have you ever given a gift to someone and wondered “will they actually use it?” Or maybe it’s the “but I don’t need anything” response you get when asking them what’s on their list this year. Year after year we get asked about the best tried and true gifts to give that are sure to excite. It just so happens, I’ve done my fair share of shopping for both him and her to understand what’s still being used year after year, and what is collecting dust in the closet. We’re deeming these the unreturnables – tried and true gifts that they’re sure to love.

All of the gifts included here happen to be from Nordstrom, which in case you forgot, has FREE shipping and returns [but you won’t have to worry about returns with these gifts!]. If you have a store close to you, be sure to take advantage of their buy online pickup in store option WITH free gift wrapping to take one more thing off your list! And don’t forget to check out Nordstrom’s own curated gift guides with ideas for anyone in your life, and at any price point.  Plus, Nordy Club members can earn rewards such as Nordstrom notes to use for future shopping trips, free basic alterations, early access to shopping events, and more! If you’re not already a member, signing up is easy and can be done here! Without further ado, I present to you the best tried & true gifts for him and her!

Slip Pillowcase


Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase

The “it” gift of the year — this Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase  is everywhere right now, and for good reason. From the pillowcase to the sleep maskhair scrunchies and more, silk is definitely taking over the nighttime game and I’m not mad about it. This pillowcase helps with anti-aging, bed head and is nice and cool which I love!

On Cloud Shoes

On Cloudswift Running Shoe

There is a good reason these shoes have the word cloud in their name, because there is no doubt about it- these are the closest you’re going to come to walking on clouds. Whether he’s active or actively wearing athleisure, these shoes will get lots of love once he slips them on.

Jo Malone Perfume

Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne

My go-to scent of choice!  I’ve been wearing this Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne for 2+ years now and the scent doesn’t get old to me. Who doesn’t love a little sea salt air combined with a slightly woody scent weaved in? It’s not overwhelming in the slightest but enough to make you feel put together for the day!

Porter Mug

W&P Design Porter Mug

Everyone loves a good cup or mug to add to their collection. And might I suggest this this c-u-t-e coffee mug to round things out? It’ll keep your hot drinks hot, and your cold drinks cold, because things taste better when they look cute, right?

Ugg Slippers

Ugg Ansley Water Resistant Slipper

The fact that literally the entire LIY Team has these slippers says something about how good they are. I’m all about a slipper that is more like a shoe, and these fit that bill. Combine the cozy soft insides that you’d expect from Ugg in colors to suit any style, and you’ve got the gift they’ll be living in year after year.

Patagonia Sweater

Patagonia Better Sweater Quarter Zip Pullover

This sweater has been a go-to gift for any guy on my list for the past two years and I promise it always quickly becomes one of the most worn items in any gents closet! Your dad, husband, brother — it doesn’t matter what age, they are bound to love it! It’s not bulky but provides great warmth and keeps ’em comfortable all day long!

Phone Sanitizer


Lexon Oblio Wireless Charger & UV Cleaner

My mom got me this phone charger / sanitizer last Christmas [who knew just how telling this gift was of what was to come this year ;)] but I absolutely love it! I love knowing every morning my phone is germ-free and fully charged! Give the gift of sanitized goods this year!

Barefoot Dreams Cardigan

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan

If you’ve ever owned anything by Barefoot Dreams, you know the fabric is out of this world cuddly soft. I own this cardigan in more colors than I should admit [oops], and throw it on for both lounging around the house and running errands! Your mother, sister, girlfriends, daughters, babysitters, and everyone in between will thank you for this!

Ugg Socks


Ugg Pompom Fleece Lined Socks

Words can’t explain just how cozy and warm these socks are thanks to the fleece that goes throughout. I wear these nightly in the winter to keep not just my feet but ankles and legs warm as well. Nobody’s feet will be sad inside of these, guaranteed.

The North Face Gloves


The North Face Etip Gloves

Whoever invented these gloves that are smart phone friendly – well, I love ya. And Shawn does too. Keep your hands toasty warm while still being able to use your device. Apparently I’ve now become a person who is particular about my gloves, and once you try these, you’ll be too 😉

Bliss Throw

Nordstrom at Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw

The amount of people in my life that I’ve bought this blanket for is absurd. But it is truly SO soft, available in a ton of colors, and for the price, I can’t help but stock up and gift, gift, gift! ! It’s a perfect item for a gift exchange as well! Gift it to yourself, your sister, neighbor, parent, teacher, bus driver, mail person – it’s truly the best!

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