TOP 20 GEN Z GIFT-GIVING TRENDS 2025

When I think about Gen Z gift-giving trends, I can’t help but notice how they reveal so much more than shopping habits—they tell us about values, identity, and even the little joys that make life brighter. This generation isn’t just picking gifts at random; they’re making choices that reflect nostalgia, sustainability, and a flair for self-expression. From quirky plushies to eco-conscious jewelry, each trend shows how gifts can feel both personal and purposeful. Even something as simple as a pair of socks becomes meaningful when it aligns with style, comfort, and individuality. For me, exploring these trends feels like looking into the heart of a generation that cares about connection as much as it does about aesthetics.

Top 20 Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends 2025(Editor's Choice)

 

Top 20 Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends 2025

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #1 Stuffed Plushies & Collectibles

Stuffed plushies and collectibles like Squishmallows and Jellycat have become comfort-driven staples in Gen Z gifting. They bring a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of their childhood while also being trendy enough to flaunt on social media. These items offer emotional comfort, making them ideal for stress relief and self-expression. TikTok and Instagram have fueled their popularity, with viral videos turning certain plushies into must-have items. For Gen Z, gifting plushies is less about age and more about meaningful connections and fun aesthetics.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #2 Luxury (Pre-Owned) Watches

Pre-owned luxury watches are seen as both status symbols and sustainable investments among Gen Z gift-givers. Unlike older generations who leaned toward brand-new luxury, Gen Z prefers secondhand options for affordability and eco-friendliness. These watches also carry the appeal of timeless design, making them heirloom-worthy gifts. The rise of resale platforms has made authentic, pre-owned timepieces more accessible. Gifting a vintage luxury watch speaks to Gen Z’s values of individuality, sustainability, and financial consciousness.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #3 Personalized, Sustainable Jewelry

Jewelry that is eco-friendly and customizable ranks high in Gen Z gift choices. They value gifts that tell a personal story, whether through engraved initials, recycled materials, or unique designs. Sustainability adds an ethical layer that aligns with Gen Z’s environmentally aware mindset. Personalized jewelry allows both the giver and receiver to feel more emotionally connected. It represents not just a fashion statement but also a conscious lifestyle choice.

 

 

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #4 Quirky Bag Charms

Bag charms are making a comeback as fun, nostalgic accessories for Gen Z. They provide a low-cost way to personalize everyday bags and backpacks. Inspired by Y2K and early 2000s aesthetics, these charms tie into Gen Z’s love of retro vibes. Social media again plays a role, with influencers showing creative ways to style charms. For gifting, they’re playful, affordable, and filled with personality—making them a quick win for anyone wanting to surprise a Gen Z recipient.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #5 Personalized Tech Accessories

Gen Z blends utility with style, making personalized tech accessories a strong gifting option. From customized phone grips to aesthetic AirTag cases, these items reflect identity while staying practical. They enhance daily gadgets while allowing self-expression through design. Because they’re affordable and often small, they make great stocking stuffers or add-on gifts. Their popularity reflects Gen Z’s desire for functionality that also fits their curated personal style.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #6 TikTok Beauty & Skincare Favorites

Viral beauty products, such as the Laneige Lip Mask, dominate Gen Z wish lists. TikTok trends heavily influence what they perceive as must-have self-care items. These products often come with an element of “dopamine shopping,” offering instant joy and visual appeal. Gifting these items feels modern and trendy, as the receiver likely recognizes them from their For You Page. Beauty and skincare also tie into Gen Z’s emphasis on wellness and presentation.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #7 Fan Art Decor & Fandom Merchandise

Fandom-driven items like posters, merch, and collectibles resonate strongly with Gen Z. They allow people to express their passions, whether it’s a favorite anime, TV series, or video game. Fan art decor personalizes living spaces in a way that feels authentic. Gifting fandom-related items shows attentiveness and thoughtfulness, as it requires knowledge of the recipient’s interests. For Gen Z, fandom gifts represent identity, belonging, and creativity.

 

 

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #8 Experience Gifts & Creative Classes

Gen Z increasingly prefers experiences over material possessions. Gifting art classes, cooking workshops, or concert tickets fits their desire for memory-making. These experiences also allow for shared social connections, which Gen Z values highly. Instead of accumulating “stuff,” they prefer gifts that bring people together. This trend reflects their shift from consumerism toward lifestyle enrichment.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #9 Fashion Accessories (Nostalgic)

Y2K and retro fashion accessories are among the hottest gifting trends for Gen Z. Items like chunky jewelry, small retro handbags, or playful sunglasses tie into their love for bold self-expression. Nostalgic accessories tap into both style and cultural throwbacks. TikTok has amplified these items, showing creative styling hacks. Gifting such accessories feels trendy, fun, and reflective of Gen Z’s love for personal branding through fashion.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #10 Eco-Friendly & Second-Hand Gifts

Second-hand and sustainable gifts align with Gen Z’s ethical and financial values. Thrifted fashion, refurbished tech, or eco-conscious products carry both uniqueness and purpose. Gen Z sees second-hand items as more thoughtful than brand-new ones. They prefer gifts that don’t harm the planet and that stand out as one-of-a-kind. This shift shows how deeply sustainability is embedded in their consumer behavior.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #11 “Treatonomics” Little Luxuries

Small indulgences like luxury candles, trendy snacks, or beauty minis have become go-to Gen Z gifts. These items represent affordable splurges in uncertain financial times. They give the satisfaction of luxury without breaking the bank. Gifting little luxuries also taps into the idea of self-care and mood-boosting treats. For Gen Z, these gifts feel both practical and joyful, fitting seamlessly into daily life.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #12 Subscription Boxes (Self-Care)

Gen Z loves the surprise and personalization of subscription boxes. Monthly self-care kits, beauty boxes, or book clubs provide ongoing excitement beyond a single gift. They represent convenience, curation, and discovery. For givers, they’re easy to purchase but feel thoughtful due to their tailored nature. Subscription-based gifts align perfectly with Gen Z’s demand for personalization and continuous engagement.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #13 Gaming Tech (e.g. Backbone One)

Gaming culture is a huge part of Gen Z, and gaming tech gifts fit seamlessly into their interests. Items like the Backbone One enhance mobile gaming, merging convenience with nostalgia. Gaming gear also symbolizes belonging in online communities. Gifting gaming tech communicates recognition of the recipient’s passions. It’s both practical for everyday use and exciting for immersive play.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #14 Practical Yet Stylish Items

Gen Z appreciates gifts that balance function and aesthetic value. Stylish organizers, reusable bottles, or trendy planners are examples of this mix. These gifts feel useful while also being Instagram-worthy. They embody Gen Z’s preference for intentional, curated living. When gifting, practical yet stylish items show thoughtfulness in enhancing everyday routines.

 

 

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #15 Cozy & Self-Care Essentials

Comfort and wellness play a big role in Gen Z gift preferences. Items like silk pillowcases, spa kits, or cozy blankets emphasize self-care. They reflect a culture that prioritizes mental health and relaxation. Gifting these items shows care for someone’s personal comfort. These essentials are simple but align deeply with Gen Z’s lifestyle values.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #16 Minimalist “Quiet Luxury” Fashion

Quiet luxury gifts are about understated elegance and timeless design. Instead of flashy branding, Gen Z values clean cuts, quality fabrics, and versatile styles. These pieces carry subtle prestige while remaining practical. They align with Gen Z’s growing interest in slow fashion and long-term wardrobe staples. Gifting minimalist fashion reflects both sophistication and an awareness of sustainable trends.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #17 Nostalgia-Driven Style

Nostalgia remains a strong motivator in Gen Z gifting. Items inspired by the 80s, 90s, or 2000s evoke cultural memories while feeling stylishly vintage. Thrift shops and online resale platforms make these gifts widely available. Nostalgia helps Gen Z balance modern life with comforting reminders of the past. These gifts often carry emotional weight alongside aesthetic appeal.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #18 Novelty Ice & Home Goods

Novelty household goods, like shaped ice trays or unique kitchen gadgets, are surprisingly trendy gift choices. They bring fun to everyday routines and are highly shareable on social media. Gen Z values gifts that feel quirky yet functional. These items make home life more enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing. Gifting them shows attention to detail and creativity in everyday living.

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #19 Themed Book Series (Romantasy)

Book trends like “romantasy” series are major among Gen Z readers. These genres provide escapism, romance, and fandom culture in one package. Boxed sets or special editions make them even more giftable. Reading communities on TikTok (“BookTok”) drive much of this demand. Gifting themed books reflects awareness of current literary trends and community-driven culture.

 

 

Gen Z Gift-Giving Trends #20 Charitable / Donation-Based Gifts

Charitable gifts resonate with Gen Z’s values of social responsibility. Instead of physical products, they appreciate donations made in their name. This type of gift reflects care for both the individual and the broader community. Gen Z sees this as meaningful and impactful, aligning with their activism-driven outlook. For them, gifting with purpose carries more weight than luxury.

Wrapping Up The Gen Z Gift Story

At the end of the day, gifts are never just objects—they’re reflections of the relationships and values that shape us. For Gen Z, that means celebrating creativity, cherishing sustainability, and finding joy in little luxuries that feel both fun and intentional. Whether it’s a charm on a bag, a subscription box that keeps the surprises coming, or a nostalgic accessory that sparks a smile, these choices show how thoughtful gifting can be. What stands out most is how Gen Z redefines the act of giving into something that’s not only stylish but also deeply meaningful. And perhaps that’s the real gift: reminding us all that the best presents are the ones that connect us to each other and to what we believe in.

SOURCES

• https://nypost.com/2025/01/14/lifestyle/gen-z-dont-care-if-you-think-its-dumb-they-carry-stuffed-animals-around/

• https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/07/millennials-and-gen-z-are-falling-hard-for-stuffed-animals

• https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/gen-z-drives-stuffed-toy-boom-6317508/

• https://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/why-buy-gen-z-luxury-watch-graduation-gift

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• https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3208198/behind-second-hand-luxury-watch-boom-gen-z-buyers-who-shop-sustainability-scarcity-lure-vintage-and

• https://www.ft.com/content/a831b315-886f-4b59-91a5-96fe352289ad

• https://www.ft.com/content/41d0a77f-088a-4ef9-b4d0-ba813c6946bb

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020s_in_fashion

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• https://www.tiktok.com/discover/gen-z-gift-ideas-2025