It’s that time of year again: the season of giving, where gifting the perfect item to your friends and family, or yourself (no judgment), becomes the ultimate flex. But finding a gift that hits all the right notes can feel like navigating a Black Friday crowd—overwhelming, chaotic, and full of questionable decisions. That’s why we’re here to cut through the noise and put you on to the most fire gifts this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for the sneakerhead in your crew or the tech lover who’s always got the latest gadgets, we’ve got the picks that’ll keep your holiday game strong.
This year, we’re kicking things off with a relic from the ’90s, reimagined: the Vans Knu Skool sneaker. From its throwback aesthetic to its fresh colorways, this is a must-cop for anyone who values style and comfort in equal measure. And the best part? We’ve curated a list of top-trending products across streetwear, tech, lifestyle, and more to complement the shoe. With options ranging from $20 stocking stuffers to splurge-worthy statement pieces for those ready to go hard, there’s something for every budget that’ll have you winning the gift-giving season.
1. Vans Knu Skool
Price: $75
Where to Buy: www.vans.com
The Knu Skool takes everything you loved about ’90s skate style and upgrades it for the modern era. With its oversized, puffed-up tongue and 3D-molded Sidestripe logo, this reissued low-top—inspired by the iconic Old Skool—blends classic design with fresh details like chunky laces, sturdy suede uppers, and a puffy ankle collar for that throwback edge. It’s finished with Vans’ signature rubber waffle outsole and heel pulls for easy on-and-off. Debating which colorway to cop? Black and white is always clean, but if you’re looking for a pop of color, the navy and green colorways are also versatile.
2. Torras MiniMag Power Bank
Price: $40
Where to Buy: Amazon
Society has come a long way since the first rechargeable lithium-ion batteries were developed in the ‘90s. These days, our phones are the number one item we can’t live without, so it’s imperative that our battery power is always in the green. Using the same lithium-polymer battery of a Tesla, the MiniMag Power Bank is the ultimate blend of power and portability. At just 0.3 inches thin and ultra-lightweight, this magnetic charger attaches seamlessly to your phone, giving you up to 100% charge in just two hours—twice as fast as most portable chargers. With over 500 charges and built-in safety features like temperature control and overcharge protection, this compact powerhouse ensures your phone stays juiced without the hassle. Perfect for anyone on the go, it’s the fast, reliable, and easy solution to never running out of battery.
3. Nintendo Switch Lite
Price: $199.99
Where to Buy: www.nintendo.com
The Nintendo Switch Lite is the perfect gift for gamers who want to bring the fun on the go, and it’s got some serious ’90s nostalgia packed into it. Inspired by the original Nintendo Game Boy, which was the portable gaming device of the ’90s, the Switch Lite lets you play your favorite games anytime, anywhere—whether you’re traveling, at a coffee shop, or lounging at home. While there are higher-end models of the Switch, the Lite is the entry-level version, making it a more affordable option for those who want to jump into the action without breaking the bank. It’s compact, portable, and offers all the gaming goodness that made the Game Boy a must-have. If you’re looking to gift a piece of ’90s-inspired gaming magic without going overboard, the Switch Lite is a solid choice.
4. Takashi Murakami Flower Go-Walk
Price: $60
Where to Buy: MoMa Design Store
The Takashi Murakami Flower Go Walk Game is a playful blast from the past, drawing inspiration from the Tamagotchi phenomenon that took over the ’90s. Like the iconic virtual pets, this MoMA-exclusive game lets you care for and grow your own digital flower, taking it on daily adventures as you fight enemies and make new friends along the way. Designed by renowned artist Takashi Murakami, known for his signature smiling flower motif, the Flower Go Walk is an interactive experience where you can name your flower, collect special items, and even cross-pollinate to create rare blooms.
5. Eastpak x Telfar Small Shopper
Price: $140
Where to Buy: www.telfar.net
The Eastpak x Telfar Small Shopper is a fresh take on the iconic ’90s fanny pack, blending nostalgia with modern functionality. While fanny packs were all the rage in the ’90s, today’s version is reimagined as a versatile crossbody bag that can also be worn over the shoulder or around the waist. Crafted from tactical canvas, this collaboration features woven hand straps, a removable padded shoulder strap, and functional mesh side pockets. The interior includes Velcro compartments to keep your essentials organized. Finished with the embossed Telfar logo, it’s the perfect mix of practical and stylish—ideal for carrying your party essentials and looking fly while doing it. Whether you’re out for a night on the town or just running errands, this bag has you covered.
6. The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
Price: $330
Where to Buy: www.thenorthface.com
The ultimate winter staple and a true icon of the ’90s, this jacket was born in the mountains but found its swagger on city streets, earning its status as a global symbol of warmth and style. With its oversized baffles and ultra-warm 700-fill down insulation, it’s built to handle the harshest winter days while keeping your look effortless. Its relaxed fit and packable design make it as functional as it is fresh. Whether you’re braving the cold or just flexing a classic, the Nuptse brings confidence, grit, and unmistakable ’90s energy to every fit.
7. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Price: $349
Where to buy: bose.com
In the ’90s, everyone was plugged into their Walkmans, shutting out the world with the latest bangers. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are perfect for the audiophile or work-from-anywhere pro in your life. These headphones deliver best-in-class noise cancellation, crisp audio quality, and a sleek design that’s as stylish as it is functional. They’re a nostalgic nod to the days of portable music dominance but reimagined for today’s world. Luxe, lightweight, and a must-have for anyone who values quality sound, the QuietComfort Ultra is the ultimate gift for elevating anyone’s listening experience.
8. Apple AirTag
Price: Single for $29 or 4-Pack for $99
Where to Buy: Apple
Another popular ’90s trend was decking out backpacks and keys with Tamagotchis, LED keychains, and the flashiest accessories. Fast forward, and now Apple’s AirTag is the keychain we actually need. For anyone who constantly loses their stuff, these little trackers are the perfect stocking stuffers—and they pair seamlessly with iPhones. Using Apple’s Find My network, you can locate your AirTag with ease, and with the added bonus of a built-in speaker, it’ll even alert you when it’s nearby. Compact and efficient for anyone who needs a little extra help staying organized, the AirTag is perfect for tech-savvy gift recipients.
9. Smart Water Bottle
Price: $49
Where to Buy: Amazon
Sure, the viral Stanley Quencher might be the popular kid on TikTok, but while colorful and chunky water bottles might be the go-to accessory for some, the HidrateSpark Smart Water Bottle takes that vibe and launches it into the future. Equipped with LED lights that glow to remind you to hydrate, it’s the high-tech brother to those bright, oversized tumblers. Sync it to your phone, track your water intake, and stay on top of your wellness game.
10. ComplexCon x Hajime Sorayama Hoodie
Price: $130
Where to Buy: Complex Shop
What’s a ’90s and streetwear-inspired holiday gift guide without a winter wardrobe staple: a hoodie?
For art lovers and streetwear enthusiasts alike, this Complex-exclusive Hajime Sorayama zip-up hoodie blends fashion with cutting-edge art. Known for his iconic fusion of realism and science fiction, Sorayama lent his intricate illustration to grace the front, back, and sleeves of this versatile and comfortable hoodie. Made from 100%, 14 oz. heavyweight cotton, this zip-up not only showcases Sorayama’s signature blend of human beauty with futuristic machinery, but also offers unbeatable wearability and durability. This is a must-have for anyone who appreciates both art and the art of fashion.
And there you have it—the ultimate guide to holiday gifting that’s anything but basic. From the nostalgic vibes of the Vans Knu Skool to the cutting-edge practicality of the Hidrate Spark Smart Water Bottle, we’ve covered every base to make sure your presents stand out this season. Whether you’re spoiling a sneakerhead, a tech guru, or just someone who appreciates thoughtful design, these picks are guaranteed to impress. So, go ahead and make your holiday shopping list—just don’t forget to add something for yourself. After all, you deserve a gift as fresh as the ones you’re giving. Happy holidays and happy gifting!
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