College students can sometimes be tough to shop for. Whether you need a Christmas present or a birthday gift, this list is filled with great options that answer college students’ needs. Here are useful and thoughtful gift ideas that any college woman will love.
Note: We are a reader-supported site and receive compensation from purchases made through these links.
Best gifts for college women
1. Faux Fur Blanket
These faux fur blankets from Viscosoft are adorable, washable, and affordable. Plus, they are soft, stretchy, and lightweight, come in three classic colors (tan, gray and dark brown), and have four sizes. #holidaymagic, #giftingwin, #oneforherandoneforme
2. She’s Birdie Personal Alarm
This compact alarm can affix to a keychain. When activated, it emits a loud noise and flashing strobe to create a diversion. The siren can be activated several times, and batteries are replaceable. Available in more than ten pretty colors. Practical and popular personal safety alarm for her on the college campus.
3. Lighted Vanity Makeup Mirror
University bathrooms in the dorms or apartments don’t typically have the best lighting for getting ready, which is why a vanity mirror is a gift they will use regularly if they like doing makeup.
4. Notes to Self Socks
We can’t always be there in person to tell her she is brave, beautiful, kind, and crushing it, which is why we think Notes to Self socks are a gift that keeps on giving all year long. Besides their thoughtful words of encouragement and wisdom, we love them for their durability and comfort. Be warned, though, one pair is not enough.
5. Little Words Project Bracelets
An inspirational, stylish bracelet stack made by a brand that believes one kind word can change things for the better? Don’t worry if it sounds too good to be true. It’s not, thanks to Little Words Project. They offer dozens of words and designs, multiple sizes, and customization options. We’ll take a stack and longer arms, please.
6. Photo Pillow
We know how much your college daughter misses her best bud, and this classic pillow with their image on it will make a wonderful reminder for her.
7. All About Vibe Custom Pillow
Even the stingiest of huggers is no match for All About Vibe’s one-of-a-kind pillows (of ANYTHING!) that are customizable, memorable, loveable, huggable, washable, and giftable! Plus, they are made in the USA. But wait, there’s more!
8. Kyle Cavan Collegiate Jewelry
We think these beautiful jewelry pieces for college women would make a memorable Christmas gift. Introducing Kyle Cavan, a female-owned business that thoughtfully offers several lines of elegant and affordable necklaces and bracelets (and cufflinks for guys) to celebrate the friends and accomplishments that make the college years so special.
- In-stock gifts ship the next day
- Free shipping on orders over $250
- Save 10% at checkout when you sign up for their emails
9. Home Lap Desk
This lap desk is so much more comfortable and functional than the lap desks you might have used in the past. With a built-in mouse pad and phone slot, there is ventilation for a laptop which makes this an ideal gift for anyone on your list.
10. Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Quince makes luxury goods affordable, and its cashmere crew is a shining example. This classic sweater is timeless, lightweight, soft, cozy, and perfect for any time of year and occasion. And it is ONLY $50.00. They are sustainably sourced, and there are fourteen colors to choose from.
11. Glossier Essential Mini Skincare Set
Here are six bestselling skincare products from the uber-popular Glossier skincare brand. The Milky Jelly Cleanser, Super Bounce serum, Priming Moisturizer Rich, soothing Balm Dotcom (in Original and Rose), Futuredew oil-serum hybrid plus a pink nylon-spandex headband, perfect to use when she papers herself with Glossier.
12. Start More Than You Can Finish: A Creative Permission Slip to Unleash Your Best Ideas
We love Becky Blades, author and artist behind one of our favorite books, Do Your Laundry or You’ll Die Alone, and she has just published her second book, Start More Thank You Can Finish. This might be just the inspiration your daughter could use as she imagines and plans her best life in college and beyond.
13. Umbra Jewelry Stand
This delicate jewelry stand is a place for your daughter to keep all her favorite pieces in one spot where necklaces remain untangled on three holders of graduated heights. Available in copper, smoke, or terrazzo, this 16″ high stand is anchored at the base, so it stays upright.
14. Heatless Curling Set
Why stress your hair to get wavy curls when you can use these soft satin ties overnight and wake up with perfect bouncy hair?
15. Eye Mask Set
This might be just what your daughter needs to get a better night’s sleep in a noisy dorm or apartment. This set includes a silk eye pillow filled with lavender buds and flax seeds for a weighted sensation that blocks light. Also, a cooling gel eye mask can relieve tired eyes. Look for the video on the Amazon page of Venus Williams showing how much she loves this product- WOW. One of Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2022!
16. Levoit Mini Air Purifier
Levoit is a highly-rated brand of air purifier, and now they have the mini model with a HEPA filter, which your daughter can use in her dorm room or college apartment to filter smoke, allergens, pet dander, odor, and dust. Add a few drops of essential oils to create a pleasing scent. Weighs just 1.3 pounds.
17. Keratin Hair Mask
A hair mask is great for repairing dry or damaged hair and deep conditioning. This keratin hair mask includes Omega 3 and Vitamin E.
18. Celavi Skincare Face Masks
These are the best face masks and are only one dollar each if you buy a 12-pack. They are made with antioxidants and natural, cruelty-free ingredients. This is a thoughtful gift to encourage your daughter to take time for self-care.
19. Taylor Tote in Faux Suede
We are so excited to have this great tote on our list. It is available in 10 beautiful colors and WAS JUST NAMED ONE OF OPRAH’S FAVORITE THINGS FOR 2022!
For G&F readers — take 20% off with code GandF20 at checkout.
20. Smiley/Happy Face Slippers
These have been super popular this year because what’s better than your feet being comfy, warm, and happy.
21. Lululemon
If you’re looking for a buttery-soft, crazy comfortable legging-look no further. Honestly-Lulu leggings are the softest things I’ve ever felt. There is a reason these are wildly popular; they look good, and they feel heavenly. This could be the #1 gift on many young women’s Christmas lists this year.
22. AirPod Pros(2nd Gen)
AirPods can also help with noise and are amazing for listening to music, podcasts, or conversation. If your daughter doesn’t have a set or has an older generation, these make a great gift, especially because they have active noise cancellation, and college living can be very noisy!
23. Zodiac Ring
If your daughter appreciates her zodiac sign, this is a great ring. They are made with sterling silver, gold, or rose gold and subtly features the zodiac sign in the center.
24. Crossbody Bag
A crossbody is the best for leaving the house with a smaller bag but not a huge backpack. We love the K. Carroll crossbody bags, which come in many beautiful colors.
25. Bearaby Weighted Blanket
This weighted blanket is on everyone’s list this year. It’s made from organic cotton, it feels delicious and can help you get a deep, restful sleep.
26. Blissey Pillowcase
Who hasn’t heard that silk pillowcases are the way to go? Blissey pillowcases are handmade from high-quality silk; Blissey says their pillowcase “does wonders for your hair, skin and overall health while you sleep.” Available in 10 beautiful colors.
27. Large Hair Clips
These types of large hair clips are the new trend that many teens and college women are using.
28. Alo Workout Gear
College women can always wear more workout clothing, and Alo is a super-popular brand. Their yoga pants are incredibly comfortable, and so many other cute things are on their site.
29. Ring Light
If she likes making TikToks or enjoys making videos for social media, a Ring light is a perfect gift. It comes with different settings to choose the type of lighting.
30. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Tribit XSound Go provides up to 24 hours of continuous play with impressive audio. This compact, waterproof Bluetooth speaker is a top pick at a very affordable price.
31. Target Designer Collection
Shopping at Target is a must-do during the holidays. Here is where you can find great styles at a great price. We love these designers and think your daughter will, too.
32. Tripp Sweater Coat
This sweater coat gets great reviews. It’s warm, comfy, elegant, and sold out three times, so grab one. (Psst…We love the dark olive)
Ready for your college student to have their own Amazon Prime Account? Special Prime deal for students — learn more here.
More Great Reading:
Stocking Stuffers for Teens and College Kids
