Here’s How to Choose a Holiday Gift for Your Boss

Did I hear someone say, “Employee of the Year?”

A collage of the best gifts for boss.
(Image credit: Future)

Whether your team hosts a version of Secret Santa or you want to buy something small to celebrate a year of working together, this is the time when you probably have to decide on a gift for your boss, which can either be a walk in the park or a huge pain, depending on how well you know them. We made it easier by talking to our own bosses here at Marie Claire to break down a few chic and upper-management-approved options you can shop now, stress-free.

There’s no hard and fast rulebook on how much to spend or what’s deemed “office-appropriate,” which can make it even trickier, so we tapped Kate Bellman, the head of editorial and content at Nordstrom, for insight on navigating holiday gifting for your work superior. Her first note? "A gift for a boss is a nice gesture, but it's not an obligation." But, by clicking on this story, you've probably already decided to buy something, and in doing so, you're already in good standing for that promotion you've been working towards.

With Bellman's road map, we scoured the internet to find the best holiday gifts for your boss, from a luxury candle to a lavish hand cream (which would also make an excellent gift for your coworkers). Not only did we ensure that the appropriate gift for every kind of boss was included, but every budget was covered. Even if you have a general idea of your boss' taste or, at the bare minimum, a working relationship with her, it's hard to go wrong with one of the vetted gift ideas on this list. As soon as your boss unwraps one of the items below, you’ll stand out from the rest of the office.

Best Gifts For Your Boss At a Glance:

Marie Claire's Top Gifts For Your Boss

Best Gifts For Your Boss Under $50

Best Gifts For Your Boss Under $100

Best Gifts For Your Boss Under $200

Best Gifts For Your Boss Over $200

What to Keep in Mind

  • Consider Your Budget: "First off, start with a gift that works within your budget," advises Bellman. "Never underestimate the sentiment of a genuine, hand-written card if that’s what the budget allows!"
  • Remember the Office Culture: "It’s also a great idea to recognize the office culture," says the Nordstrom expert. Some have a no-gift policy, while others celebrate together through office parties or contribute to a singular team gift."
  • Pay Attention to the Little Details: "When it comes to picking a gift for your boss, it’s best not to go too intimate or personal but to pick up on some details of their personality or interests. If they’re never without a cup of coffee, a nice mug and a Holiday java blend tap into recognizing their day-to-day. If they like to travel, a travel-based coffee table book would make a thoughtful gesture. Cozy categories such as candles and throws are always a fail-safe or a classic desk accessory to give their office a timeless touch," Bellman offers. "When it comes to picking a gift for your boss, it’s best not to go too intimate or personal but to pick up on some details of their personality or interests. If they’re never without a cup of coffee, a nice mug and a Holiday java blend tap into recognizing their day-to-day. If they like to travel, a travel-based coffee table book would make a thoughtful gesture. Cozy categories such as candles and throws are always a fail-safe or a classic desk accessory to give their office a timeless touch," Bellman offers.

Meet the Expert

Kate Bellman
Kate Bellman

Kate Bellman is the Head of Editorial and Content at Nordstrom.

She is a fashion industry executive with 20+ years of multi-faceted management experience acquired in top brands such as Nordstrom, Anthropologie, and Kate Spade.

Brooke Knappenberger
Associate Commerce Editor

Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she specializes in crafting shopping stories—from sales content to buying guides that span every vertical on the site. She also oversees holiday coverage with an emphasis on gifting guides as well as Power Pick, our monthly column on the items that power the lives of MC’s editors. She also tackled shopping content as Marie Claire's Editorial Fellow prior to her role as Associate Commerce Editor.

She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.