There is nothing more challenging than shopping for the woman who “does it all”: take care of her family, work, exercise. If you ask him what he wants for the holidays, the answer is probably “nothing,” even if he thinks “10 minutes to myself.” This gift guide for the active middle-aged woman has some perfect gifts that are the equivalent of a wellness retreat—a treat she probably wouldn’t allow herself.
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Crushing the casual look
Instead of throwing on a well-loved hoodie for the 10th Zoom of the day or rushing out the door to pick it up, thanks to you she can wear the perfect mix of comfort and luxury in lululemon Oversized half-zip with velvet scuba funnel neck ($148). Super soft velvet in on-trend colors will make you feel like a queen and look like a million dollars.
Get Away Essential, even if you’re just going to the gym
Luka handbag
Buying your best friend a travel trip may not be in the budget this year, but a Calpak bag like the versatile Luka handbag ($128) could be. Multiple interior pockets and luggage trolley cover make it the perfect on-the-go option. But the exterior shoe compartment and sleek puffy design will let you use this bag for running at the gym, too.
Cozy Corner Getaway
Even if taking time to sit and read a book may seem aspirational, get yourself a Book of the month ($59.99 for 3 months) subscription and could commit to spending time reading. Each month, you’ll choose from a curated selection of 5-7 new books in a variety of genres. From romance to true crime, historical fiction and everything in between, there’s something to please every reader and a chance to explore a new genre you’re covering.
put a ring on it
Caring for family, parents, and career: Remind her that she also needs to take care of herself with a Oura Ring (from $249). More than an Apple Watch and easier to wear regularly, an Oura ring reads and tracks your health data to provide insight into your body’s health. The information it provides could be the reminder you need to get more sleep, take some time to meditate, and maybe even just take a break. Sometimes it doesn’t matter how much we make those suggestions out of love: receiving them from an impartial “observer” could help them stick.
I love layering
The temperature is dropping, but as an active middle-aged woman, your temperature is all over the place as you go for a walk, power walk around the neighborhood, head to the studio for a power yoga session, and run errands. The best and most modern way to stay comfortable is a padded vest like the streams Hybrid Shield 3.0 ($120). Lined with Thermolite insulation to help keep you warm (but with “breathable zones” to let excess heat out), the vest is water-repellent and wind-resistant to take on weather as unpredictable as your day.
A diary, but make it modern
We may be a few years past the “Dear Diary” stage, but we could all use some space to write down and organize our thoughts, action plans, and intentions. With The paper store Journal and pen set. ($21.99) she can do just that while following the bun trend. I mean who doesn’t want to capture and wrap their thoughts in a sequin bow, and with the attached gold pen you’ll always be ready to write them down.
What lifestyle items are you considering this year? —Tam
