The Ultimate List for Cool People (Like You)
Let’s be real. Gift-giving can be stressful. You want something cool, something thoughtful, and—most importantly—something that says, “I’m not like a regular gifter, I’m a cool gifter.” The good news? You don’t need a million dollars to nail it. In fact, I’ve pulled together 20 iconic design gifts under $100 that scream taste, style, and a touch of whimsy (because boring gifts are so last season). From quirky vases to chic coffee table books, these picks will make you the MVP of holiday gifting. Let’s dive in!
1 – Lucie Kaas – Audrey Kokeshi Doll
2 – Kay Bojsen – Monkey Figurine
3- MoMA – Mondri Vase
4 – Jonathan Adler – Gilded Muse I-Scream Vase
5 – Hay – W&S Chubby Vase
6 – Tom Dixon – Bump Vase
7 – Phaidon – Atlas of Interior Design
8 – Lego – Wooden Book Rack
9 – Phaidon – Bertoia – The Metalwork
10 – Polspotten – Teddy Porcelain Moneybox
11 – Ichendorf Milano – Vegetables Glass Bottle
12 – 101 Copenhagen – Sphere Vase
13 – Areaware – Hand Hook
14 – Raawii – Raawii Strøm Jug
15 – Hay – PC Portable Lamp
16 – Seletti – Lipstick Mat
17 – Hay – Recycled Crate
18 – Phaidon – Destination Art Book
19 – Sin Ceramics – Double Loop Knot
20 – Phaidon – Art Equals
1. Audrey Kokeshi Doll by Lucie Kaas
Who doesn’t love Audrey Hepburn? This wooden doll by Lucie Kaas is inspired by the icon herself, and it’s the perfect blend of chic and charming. It’s great for a desk, shelf, or anywhere that needs a little extra flair.
2. Monkey Figurine by Kay Bojesen
Okay, picture this: a wooden monkey hanging out on your bookshelf. It’s cute, it’s timeless, and it’s a total conversation starter. Designed by Kay Bojesen, this little guy adds a playful vibe to any space. Whether it’s for your artsy best friend or your cousin who just moved into a new apartment, this monkey is the ultimate “I have great taste
3. Mondri Vase by MoMA
You know those vases that make flowers look like a piece of art? The Mondri Vase is that vase. Inspired by the bold colors and geometric shapes of Piet Mondrian, this is a gift for anyone who appreciates design that’s both modern and functional. Bonus: Even if they’re bad at keeping flowers alive (hi, me), it still looks amazing empty.
4. Gilded Muse I-Scream Vase by Jonathan Adler
If your giftee has a sense of humor (and a love for ice cream), this vase is everything. Shaped like a melting ice cream cone, it’s fun, quirky, and totally Jonathan Adler. Use it for flowers, pencils, or just as a standalone statement piece.
5. W&S Chubby Vase by Hay
The name says it all—this vase is chubby, cute, and ridiculously cool. It’s perfect for a single flower or just as a standalone piece of decor. Gift it to someone who loves bold, fun design.
7. Atlas of Interior Design by Phaidon
This book is a chef’s kiss for anyone obsessed with interiors. It’s like taking a tour of the most stunning homes around the world—all without leaving your couch. The Atlas of Interior Design dives into iconic spaces and the stories behind them, making it perfect for design lovers, architecture nerds, or anyone who just loves a good coffee table book. Plus, it’s so gorgeous that it doubles as decor. Gift it to the friend who’s always rearranging their furniture—or keep it for yourself (no judgment).
6. Bump Vase by Tom Dixon
Tom Dixon is basically a rockstar in the design world, and the Bump Vase proves it. It’s got this cool, laboratory-meets-luxury vibe that makes it perfect for minimalist decor. It’s sleek, it’s chic, and honestly, it might just steal the show at their next dinner party.
8. Wooden Book Rack by Lego
Yes, that Lego. This wooden book rack is a more grown-up version of everyone’s favorite childhood toy. It’s sleek, functional, and a subtle nod to their inner kid. Perfect for bookworms and design lovers alike.
9. Bertoia the Metalwork by Phaidon
If they love iconic furniture (or just cool coffee table books), this one’s a winner. It’s all about the legendary designer Harry Bertoia and his incredible work with metal. Even if they’ve never heard of him, they’ll appreciate how chic this book looks on their shelf.
10. Teddy Porcelain Moneybox by Pols Potten
Saving money just got a lot cuter. This teddy-shaped porcelain piggy bank is equal parts adorable and stylish. Whether it’s for a kid or an adult who’s a kid at heart, this gift is a total crowd-pleaser.
11. Vegetables Glass Bottle by Ichendorf Milano
This glass bottle has vegetables inside the glass. Like, how cool is that? It’s artsy, functional, and guaranteed to make your giftee smile. Bonus points if you pair it with some fancy sparkling water or juice.
12. Sphere Vase by 101 Copenhagen
The Sphere Vase is giving sculptural masterpiece. With its matte finish and organic shape, it’s one of those pieces that looks like it belongs in a fancy gallery, but nope—you snagged it for under $100. Ideal for the friend who’s all about neutral tones and modern aesthetics.
13. Hand Hook by Areaware
Is it a hook? Is it a sculpture? It’s both, and it’s awesome. This hand-shaped hook is perfect for hanging keys, jewelry, or just letting it be a cool piece of wall art. It’s quirky, functional, and guaranteed to get compliments.
14. Raawii Strøm Jug by Raawii
This bright, bold jug is the pop of color every kitchen needs. Designed by Raawii, it’s both functional and sculptural. Use it for water, flowers, or just as a statement piece on the dining table.
15. PC Portable Lamp by Hay
A portable lamp might not sound exciting, but trust me, this one is cool. Designed by Hay, it’s got a sleek, Scandinavian look and it’s battery-powered, so they can use it literally anywhere. It’s perfect for late-night reading sessions, outdoor hangouts, or just looking stylish on a shelf.
16. Lipstick Mat by Seletti
This is not your average doormat. The Lipstick Mat by Seletti is bold, playful, and perfect for someone with a great sense of humor. It’s the kind of gift that makes you smile every time you walk through the door.
17. Recycled Crate by Hay
Okay, hear me out: a crate might not sound glamorous, but this one is designer. It’s colorful, stackable, and made from recycled materials, which makes it both stylish and eco-friendly. Use it for storage, decor, or just to add a pop of color to any room.
18. Destination Art by Phaidon
Books are the ultimate cheat code for gifting. They’re personal, but not too personal, you know? This one is all about incredible art destinations around the world, so it’s perfect for that friend who’s always planning their next trip—or at least dreaming about it.
19. Double Loop Knot by Sin Ceramics
The Double Loop Knot is what happens when decor meets modern art. It’s a ceramic sculpture that’s equal parts trendy and timeless. Perfect for a coffee table, desk, or anywhere that could use a little extra flair.
20. Art Equals by Phaidon
Another coffee table book, because you can never have too many. “Art Equals” is all about celebrating creativity in all its forms, so it’s a great gift for the artist or art-lover in your life. It’s also just really pretty to look at.
Final Thoughts: Gifting Just Got Easier
See? Gift-giving doesn’t have to be hard—or expensive. These 20 iconic design gifts under $100 are perfect for anyone who loves stylish, thoughtful, and slightly quirky pieces. Whether you’re shopping for a design enthusiast, a minimalist, or someone who just loves cool stuff, you can’t go wrong with anything on this list.
So go ahead—pin this post, make your list, and get shopping. Your friends and family are going to love their gifts (and you). Happy gifting!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love and think you’ll love too. Your support helps keep this blog running—thank you!