There is nothing quite as festive than an oversized knitted sock (or sack, depending on your modern day stocking preferences) bursting at the seams with the finest stocking fillers on Christmas morning. And thankfully, we’re living in an age where stockings are no longer reserved for the children and teenagers in our lives, and it is now entirely socially acceptable for adults not just to give, but also receive these wonderful bundles of joy. And the small gifts available to shop are all the better for it.
The best stocking fillers, according to Vogue
My childhood stocking religiously consisted of a new pair of pyjamas, that could be slipped straight on and barely taken off for the rest of the festive period. A comically oversized chocolate coin, wrapped in gold foil. A pair of the plush slipper socks. A festive gingerbread treat. And a host of small gestures wrapped in tissue paper, whose themes and shapes changed over the years. Admittedly, the parameters of stocking fillers has changed a great deal over time. And where we once found bruised satsuma, one might be lucky enough to find a collection of minis from their favourite beauty brands, or even a tinned cocktail or two. But I still believe the core of a good stocking filler is practicality – the perfect balance of enjoyment and practicality, all bundled into one big sock.
For the fashion lovers hoping for seasonal top up of Fair Isle knits, to die-hard beauty fans who could only dream of the latest cult product in their festive sack this year. And a plethora of practical gifts for everyone in between. Scroll on for some stocking filler inspiration for everyone on your list this year.
Stocking fillers under-£20
Under-£30
Shiseido
Eyelash Curler
- Why we love it: “This tool was a revelation when it was launched,” explains Reiss-Andersen. “All customers with an almond-shaped eye or flatter eye felt they finally had a curler designed for them. It’s still a favourite.”
- Who it’s for: In their trials with Shiseido’s eyelash curler, Reiss-Andersen, pro make-up artists Dillon Peña and Allan Avendaño, feel this is best for flat or almond-shaped eyes.
- More to know: It uses an edge-free design to reach lashes from the inner to the outer corner, using silicone rubber pads to volumise without pinching.
- Material: Steel (plated with nickel and copper)
Under-£50
Gisou
Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask
- Why we love it: “Ceramides play a vital role in restoring the balance needed to maintain the hair’s structure, strength, and resilience,” says Ball. Gisou’s mask is full of biomimetic ceramides, and by helping replenish those lost during bleaching and styling, it restores both strength and shine. The brand’s homegrown Mirsalehi honey is a workhorse here – it acts as a humectant to attract moisture and reduce hair fall. And of course, we love the playful packaging that sits pretty on any bathroom shelf.
- Key ingredients: Mirsalehi honey, ceramides, multiweight hyaluronic acid, omegas 3, 6 & 9
- Sizes: 75ml, 230ml
