What the Coolest Editors, Stylists, and Creatives of Gen Z Are Giving (and Receiving) This Holiday Season

      Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column that documents the latest trends in fashion and beauty as seen through the perspective of Who What Wear's Gen Z editors. Expect insights on upcoming tastemakers, emerging designers, and style choices directly from the generation that is setting trends. There's a unique charm when you ask Gen Z's most fashionable and in-the-know influencers what they truly desire for the holidays. They aren't looking for algorithm-approved best sellers or last-minute impulse buys. Instead, they seek items—whether they are beautiful, practical, whimsical, or simply fun—that genuinely bring joy to those who are influencing cultural trends today. This is the essence of this year’s Gen Z gift guide: a selection curated by editors, stylists, creatives, and digital innovators who represent our generation’s aesthetic, each offering their own unique vision and taste.

      From these discussions, a refreshingly thoughtful approach to gift-giving has surfaced. Our selections focus on meaningful gifts rather than excess just for the sake of it. They reflect care, enjoyment, and the small luxuries that enhance everyday experiences, whether it's a velvet eye mask for a friend dedicated to their sleep routine, a trending hairbrush for revitalizing post-commute hair, a gadget to reduce overwhelming screen time, or a compilation of charitable organizations that merit significant year-end donations. There are also indulgences, like an upgraded engagement ring, an ideal phone case associated with It-girl aesthetic, and a cult-favorite lip gloss that remains a shared obsession.

      As seasoned gift-givers, we've discovered that the most appreciated gifts are those chosen with thought rather than impulse. We hope these style-forward and personal suggestions will inspire your holiday gifting, whether you're buying for Gen Z friends, colleagues, family, or even indulging yourself (which you definitely deserve).

      **Ella Emhoff**

      Ella Emhoff is a multidisciplinary creative based in Brooklyn, recognized for her innovative knitwear, playful design style, and expanding influence in the fashion and art realms. As a model, designer, and visual artist, she offers a quirky, craft-focused viewpoint on contemporary fashion, influencing discussions around individuality and the future of independent fashion. Emhoff also founded Soft Hands Craft Club. She shares her thoughts on holiday gifting, expressing that she often feels pressured around gift-giving due to the need to surpass previous years and the anxiety of making the right choice. This year, she aims to focus on gifts that promote health and wellness alongside items from her favorite independent brands, as she wants to avoid gifting more unnecessary stuff. She emphasizes the importance of being intentional with purchases and assessing their positive impact on daily life. While she typically favors handmade gifts, she encourages enlisting the help of the creative individuals in your circle.

      Ella highlights her enthusiasm for Makena Andros' one-of-a-kind cotton sweater, which she is thrilled to see released, as she's always searching for cotton knitwear due to her warmth sensitivity.

      **Bailey Hikawa**

      Bailey Hikawa shares her experience with a vibrant phone case that she received years ago and found so comfortable that she kept it on her phone for three years, praising its durability when it survived a fall from a cliff. She also mentions an app blocker recommended by a friend that has helped them reconnect with reality by reducing screen time, describing it as an effective gift despite the initial existential dread it brought.

      **City Harvest**

      City Harvest emphasizes the significance of giving gifts that help others during the holidays, highlighting the issue of food insecurity faced by many. They commend organizations providing access to food and healthier living, particularly City Harvest and One Love Community Fridge, as worthwhile causes to support.

      **PJ Middleton**

      PJ Middleton, founder of Peej PR, expresses her gratitude this holiday season, focusing on gifts that enhance everyday life. She's attracted to meaningful upgrades and small luxuries that make daily activities enjoyable. At the forefront of her wish list are a timeless clutch, essential basics, and beauty products that are indispensable in her routine.

      She recommends Anifsa Skin's Ân-Gloss Ceramide Lip Tint, which she considers essential in her daily life. She also yearns for The Row's Peggy Leather Clutch, which she views as a versatile piece due to its two-in-one design. Her list includes luxurious staples that offer immediate quality upon wearing.

      Middleton loves personalized stationery, emphasizing the power of handwritten notes and how they feel more special when customized.

      **Stephanie Mazuera**

      Stephanie Mazuera, a fine jeweler from Miami, enjoys giving and receiving small luxuries that elevate the mundane. Acknowledging practicality among her family members, she aims to gift beautifully crafted essentials that make daily routines feel more special. Her wish list features items that people may not treat themselves to but would use frequently.

      She shares her fondness for Flamingo Estate's Prinsesstårta Candle, noting its nostalgic almond scent reminiscent of her childhood visits to Sweden. Additionally, she contemplates redesigning her engagement ring, inspired by the beautiful creations