Great Gift Ideas For $25 or Less Pt 2- Accessories

Presents don't have to cost a lot of money to be enjoyed or appreciated. What makes a good gift really is about the thought. Have you ever gotten a gift that made you wonder if the giver had any clue about who you and what you like? On the flip side, have you ever wanted to give someone a gift (just to show your appreciation or let them know you see them) but weren't sure what to get?

Here is part two of my series on great, thoughtful, gift ideas that won't break the bank (NOTE some of these items are from my boutique, and some I bought elsewhere and provide links where possible):

Fashion Accessories (Hats, Socks, Purse Straps, etc.)

What to buy the person who has everything…? Matching socks of course!

Last year, one in every five clothing items purchased was a pair of socks. 73% of men  wear socks every day (compared to 41% of women). Socks and other fashion accessories make great gifts for several reasons:

• One size fits most
• The large selection of styles and colors make it easy to find something for everyone
• You can find good quality at a good price

So, giving socks, hats, beanies, etc. makes good sense from a practical standpoint.  There is also a fun, playful side to this gift idea. Many people use their accessories as a form of self-expression.  Novelty socks are very popular for these reasons and tend to be very inexpensive. However, a funny pair of socks loses its sense of humor if they make your feet itch! So, when you shop for socks, beanies and any other knitwear take the time to look at the materials. A well-made pair of socks from a boutique collection average in price from $10.00 to $25.00.

When it comes to hats, check the fabric and the adjustability. Baseball caps (also known recently as “dad hats”) are good to give as gifts because of the adjustable closures. Along with being adjustable, some baseball hats offer features like UV protection, water resistance, etc.

Tip: Make the gift memorable by making it a matched set!

In 2023, crossbody purse straps emerged as a hot fashion statement. Online boutiques like Mark & Graham let shoppers “build a bag”; choosing a bag and then choosing from an assortment of approximately a dozen colors and patterns.

On Etsy there are sellers offering custom and personalized crossbody straps with and without the actual purse. In August, I purchased one as a gift for a friend and ended up buying two for myself from Branding House.

Again, as with drinkware, a little creative effort is what puts a personal touch to a universal gift item. Socks and hats in someone’s favorite color is a no brainer. Step it up by giving them socks that incorporate their favorite sports or hobbies. Many manufacturers and brands offer styles made with sustainability in mind; recycled materials, organic cotton, and eco friendly dyes making these gifts fashionable and conscious!