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While we often want to give our moms the world (as they deserve), our wallets don’t always comply. To help, we found chic Mother’s Day gifts that only look expensive. From gorgeous decor to elevated accessories, these gifts will always make her think of you and your excellent taste.
For more Mother's Day gifts, shop here.
A spa experience wrapped up in a two-piece kit…
Is there anything better than a few hours of R and R as a mom? We’d say no. Which is why this Cedar and Myrrh massage balm and aromatherapy roller makes a great under-$50 gift. The balm will help alleviate aches and pains, while the scented roller will help her unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
Embroidered linen napkins for pasta lovers…
We’re suckers for pasta-shaped anything, and these 100% linen napkins — packed in a gift-ready box, no less — are our latest obsession. We’re not sure if we love the ravioli or the farfalle shapes more, but we do know it’ll bring your giftee’s tablescape to the next level. Add this Italian-inspired puzzle to your cart for an after-meal activity that’s also on theme.
A casual, comfy tee that goes with absolutely everything…
Whether she’s a full-fledged fashionista or doesn’t like to think twice about what she’s wearing, she’ll love this loose-fitting crewneck top as much as we do. It comes in more colors than we can count (read: 15) and pairs well with jeans or leggings for a casual look, or linen pants or a maxi skirt for a chic, summery vibe.
A limited-edition skincare set from an editor-loved brand…
We’ve written about Dieux time and time again, so we pretty much guarantee it’s a foolproof brand to gift. This set comes with mini versions of their Air Angel Peptide Plumping Gel Cream and their Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Firming Moisturizer. It also comes with a nifty key to help gather the last of the cream in the tube.
A colorful pair of plush slippers…
Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to introduce brighter colors to her closet. The knit patchwork pattern on these fleece-lined, slip-resistant backless slippers is bright, unique, and eye-catching. They’re padded with foam for unmatched comfort and will keep her always-cold toes nice and toasty.
A ceramic candle so cute, she may not want to burn it…
One editor is a Paddywax fan (the Evil Eye candle is her personal favorite), not least for the brand's expensive-looking packaging. It’s hand-painted with bold illustrations that elevate this candle from a simple decor item to a keepsake. This one smells like wild fig and rose, but it comes in other combinations too. It’s a subtle scent that will spruce up any space.
A heavy-duty water bottle she’ll take everywhere…
For many moms, “drink enough water” isn’t always at the top of their to-do list. That’s where this high-quality water bottle (with a straw) comes in. It’s available in 30- and 40-ounce sizes and multiple colors. The handle makes it easy to tote around and the tight lid is 100% leakproof. It’s also insulated to keep drinks cold for over 24 hours. This is one gift she won’t return.
The under-$40 tote that looks designer…
It’s not every day we come across a genuinely good tote for less than $40. This one can be turned into a shoulder bag, top-handle purse, or a hands-free crossbody. The flat, studded bottom keeps it from toppling over, and it's spacious enough to hold everything she could ever need. We also give it bonus points for the side pocket that’s great for holding a phone, passport, or hand sanitizer.
Chic sunnies she’ll reach for again and again…
She doesn’t need to have a beach vacation on the horizon to appreciate these sophisticated sunglasses. They’re scratch-resistent and have adjustable nose pads for the perfect fit. The polarized lenses have UV400 protection and can block up to 99% of reflected light. Other versions can ring up as high as $200, but this $50-version checks all of our boxes.
A large, sculptural candle…
In case you didn’t know, Free People’s home decor items are just as unique and gorgeous as their clothes and accessories. This La Jolie Muse candle gives quiet luxury in the best way. It comes in several soothing scents, like vanilla and santal, and the vintage-inspired container pairs well with any decor style.
A couch caddy to hold all of her essentials…
Think of this caddy as a mini coffee table she can carry with her everywhere. It has designated pockets for her drinks (yes, plural), book, e-reader, TV remote, phone, and more. It can also be folded open to become a tablet or book display, or closed to create a small seat or neck cushion for added comfort.
A CBK-inspired cashmere sweater she’ll wear year-round…
Two words: Quince cashmere. Their signature cashmere crew sweater is lightweight, breathable, and only sets you back $50. It’s made of 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere that’s pill-resistant and sustainably sourced. Along with her new sweater, send her this Carolyn Bessette Kennedy outfit guide for some styling inspo.
A chain bracelet we still can’t believe is under $50…
Finding fine jewelry under a certain price point is no small feat — and that’s where BaubleBar comes in. We love their playful yet sophisticated designs and affordable price points. This chain link bracelet is accented with glass stones with gemstone levels of shine. Not sure on her size? No worries — this bracelet comes with a 1.25-inch extender.
A statement-style shoulder bag that screams “summer”...
Warm weather means it's time to break out accessories she can take from the office straight to outdoor drinks. This purse from Old Navy comes in three summer-ready colors that are surprisingly versatile.
A unique tray for breakfast in bed…
Give her the princess — nay, queen treatment — with breakfast in bed, presented in this genius puzzle holder tray. The inner frame is large enough to hold most completed 500- and 1000-piece puzzles. It also comes with a cover to protect puzzle pieces from food scraps or sweating beverages.
A beaded trinket dish she’ll want to start collecting…
Truthfully, we can’t decide which of these eight designs we like best (but it’s definitely between the “Mama” and “Aperol spritz” versions). The beads are all hand-strung, making each dish slightly unique. It’s a great way to zhuzh up her vanity or entry table.
Shower accessories to enhance her hair care routine…
We credit Kitsch with introducing us to the genius of heatless curlers, so you can imagine our excitement when we found this hair cap and wrap duo. The satin-lined shower cap’s snug fit will protect her blowout, while the microfiber towel will help tame frizz and reduce breakage. Kitsch, you’ve done it again.
A monthly subscription of fresh blooms…
Mother’s Day isn’t the only day flowers are appreciated. A monthly subscription to Bouqs will help you appreciate her year-round with fresh floral arrangements right at her doorstep. You can select your bouquet size and delivery frequency. You can either choose your own bouquet, or let their team of experts take out the guesswork for you. It’s also low-pressure, since you can skip or pause deliveries when needed.