Stocking Stuffers

Legend has it that the holiday stocking originated long ago: When a nobleman squandered his fortune and couldn’t provide his three daughters with dowries, the philanthropic Saint Nicholas dropped gold coins down the family’s chimney. Serendipitously, the coins landed in the young ladies’ freshly washed stockings, which were hanging by the fireplace to dry.

Over the years, stocking stuffer gifts have evolved from gold coins to fresh fruit, and from simple treats to tchotchkes. However, the best stocking stuffer ideas include design objects that toe the line between form and function – items that balance whimsy and utility. This season, forgo useless knickknacks in favor of fun stocking stuffer ideas tailored to the recipient.

If you don’t have a fireplace or mantelpiece, fear not. There are ample places throughout the home to hang stockings. Place stocking hooks across a living room console table; or thread a piece of ribbon through the stockings’ loops and gently attach them to the hardware on a dining room buffet. Then, shop away for useful stocking stuffer gifts that will surprise and delight everyone on your list – from the design enthusiast to the foodie and the homebody to the friend who’s always on the go.

Stocking Stuffers for Everyone

Bring fresh perspective to your loved ones’ daily lives by filling their stockings with intuitively designed gifts. Looking for stocking stuffers for men? Upgrade their everyday carry items with a new key ring, stainless steel water bottle, and sleek pen. Or help them embrace luxurious comfort at home with a cashmere sofa throw and soft cotton slippers.

Shop stocking stuffers for women who enjoy entertaining. Fill their stockings with hostess essentials like reusable glass straws, glass spoons, and tea towels. Don’t forget to include decorative and pragmatic tabletop items, too, such as an architectural pillar candle, a set of colorful chopsticks, or a soft new potholder.

Stocking stuffers for college students are a no-brainer. Opt for gifts that will bring cheer – and good design – to their dorm rooms, including a scented candle and colorful desktop organizer. Consider stuffers that will streamline their new lives, such as a new travel cup, stainless steel water bottle, or zippered bag for toiletries.

Admittedly, it can be difficult to shop stocking stuffers for teens. Choose tech-focused and modern, design-forward gifts, like a beaded crossbody phone holder.

Stocking Stuffers Available at HAY

Danish design collective HAY offers a wide range of stocking stuffers that nod to modern design. HAY’s self-care gifts – everything from reusable grocery bags to plush slippers – will encourage your loved ones to carve out time for rest and relaxation. Tea and coffee gifts, including a thermal bottle and glass stirring spoons, are the perfect complement to a bag of beans or box of tea bags. Or shop unique home gifts and accessories for every room of the house, from a living room diffuser to a bathroom toothbrush holder.