For a gift to stand out nowadays, it has to have something extra. It has to have meaning. Whether that's initials stamped on a wallet or coordinates engraved on a bracelet, these special touches make the gift you're presenting that much more special. It's like the item was made specifically for the recipient (it kinda was).
Personalization has been named a key fashion industry theme for 2018, with many retailers offering some form of customization, whether that's on a denim jacket or gold signet ring. "[People] want to express themselves any way they can. They want to make their pieces theirs," Wes Ng, CEO of Casetify, a brand known for monogrammed iPhone cases, told Shopify when asked about the trend. Of course, customized pieces can easily veer into cheesy territory (the horror!). Blessedly, the 14 monogrammed gifts, ahead, all pass the elegance test.
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A Personalized Journal
For the writers, dreamers, and planners of the world, a journal is never a disappointing gift. Ensure they'll be even more excited by adding the recipient's name to the front cover or their favorite book quote. As for the inside, you can choose between line and unlined pages.
A Wallet
Replace his or her scuffed up wallet with this sleek black one. You can personalize it with the person's name or their most used emojis (yes, for real. Welcome to the Instagram Era). With a zip pocket and enough slots for all your cards, this minimalist accessory maximizes practicality. A must gift for the holidays.
A Fancy Kitchen Board
So your giftee loves to host wine night and dinner parties? Help her be the hostess with the mostess by gifting this marble cheese and fruit board engraved with her first initial. Every time she throws a party, her guests will gather round this expensive-looking statement piece—and not just because that's where the delicious food is.
A Sweet Diamond Ring
Celebrate the special relationship you have with your mom by gifting her this diamond bar ring made from 14k gold. The engraving is small and personal, simple enough for her to wear every day.
A One-of-a-Kind Baseball Cap
Ralph Lauren's create-your-own shop lets you add a unique touch to everything from button-down shirts to baseball caps this season. This hat comes in seven different colors and can be customized with any of RL's classic logos (the martini bear is speaking my language). Wear with a preppy cardigan and jeans.
A Leather Passport Case
In need of a last-minute stocking stuffer? J.Crew's passport holder saves the day. It's one of those items you never think to buy for yourself, but it sure does come in handy once someone gives it to you. The case opens up to reveal two big pockets and a place for your ID or credit cards. A button clasp protects all your documents.
A Chic Coin Pouch
I hate having a wallet bulging with coins, so I keep my change in a tiny leather pouch like this one. If you never carry cash, stash your earphones or adapters in it instead, so they don't get lost at the bottom of your bag or crushed under your laptop.
A Signature Bracelet
Rather than using ready-made fonts, Sincerely Jewelry allows you to upload your own John Hancock on its website and turn it into a bracelet or necklace. The signature—in more ways than one—piece is then crafted in solid gold or combined with precious stones. This nifty process takes personalization to a whole new level and pieces start at $500 and up.
A Monogram Candle
The candle collector in your life will appreciate this personalized Anthropologie piece. The rose gold initialing on the front is subtle and simple—ready for display on any coffee table or bookshelf.
A Tech Set
Cables and headphones are the first things to get tangled in those oversize tote bags. Help yourself or your BFF stay organized with a customized and durable deerskin leather plug and cable holder. No one will walk away with your charger again.
A Initial Charm Necklace
The Giving Keys is about more than just cute jewelry, it's about paying it forward. The brand encourages you to wear/embrace your accessory then pass it on to someone who needs it more. This 14k gold pendant can be worn without an engraving or personalized for someone special in your life. Every piece is hand-stamped and assembled in Downtown Los Angeles by people transitioning out of homelessness.
The Softest Travel Set
Plane rides aren't comfortable, so make their next flight a lot more cozy with this three-piece cashmere travel set, which includes a drawstring cashmere bag with silk lining, an eye mask, and a cozy throw blanket (so they don't have to use the scratchy ones on the plane). Personalize it by adding the gift recipient's name or initials.
A Coordinate Cuff Bracelet
Rather than names or initials, trying personalizing with the geographical coordinates of a place special to her (or both of you!), like where you had your first date or her hometown—she'll be throughly surprised.
A Crossbody Box Bag
The Daily Edited offers a bunch of bags for you to monogram, but my favorite is this crossbody trunk. It's sturdy, has lovely gold accents, and looks regal—it's something I can see Meghan Markle wearing. Gift this to her and she'll say "bye" to all her other black purses.
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