10 Budget-Friendly Gifts That Cost Less Than $50 (But Look Expensive)

They’ll thank you – and so will your wallet

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Contrary to what most would think, Christmas gifting does not have to be an expensive affair. All it takes is a little retail hunting while making sure your gift is still a thoughtful one. In the spirit of cautionary spending, we’ve curated some Christmas gift ideas that are $50 or less but which don't skimp on the luxe factor (yes it's possible).

Gabine Chain-Link Cardholder - Mint Green, $39.90, Charles & Keith

Credit: Charles & Keith
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This cute item could be a cardholder or a mini bag. Bonus: the bag comes with a strap you can easily attach for easier use.

Buy it here.




Wool beret, $45, & Other Stories

Credit: & Other Stories
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Perhaps your friend is really into Emily In Paris, or you and your family are set for France. Either way, a cosy, vibrant beret is a charming accessory to complement any ensemble.

Buy it here.




Stussy cotton socks, $23, Dover Street Market Singapore

Credit: Dover Street Market Singapore
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Whoever said you can’t ever have too many socks is absolutely right. A snug pair is a must to avoid blisters of any kind when going about your Christmas shopping.





Buy them here.

Fellow Carter Everywhere stainless steel mug, $49, The Editors Market

Credit: The Editors Market
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Hydration, hydration, hydration. We can’t stress the importance of H20 enough – and this vacuum-insulated mug is perfect for hot drinks or your extremely water-deprived pal.

Buy it here.




Clinique Pop lip balm set, $45, Clinique

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If you can’t decide what to get for the makeup chameleon, this lip balm quartet is great for them to try out every shade of the American brand’s weightless lip balm/primer.





Buy it here.

18K rose gold-plated brass initial earrings with cubic zirconia, $42, By Invite Only

Credit: By Invite Only
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Nothing says love like a personalised pair of earrings, especially one wrapped in shimmering cubic zirconia.





Buy them here.

Pouffy Pouch, $49, Beyond The Vines

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Made from water-resistant nylon, this puffy pouch from the local brand is great as both an accessory and emergency kit in anyone’s bag.





Buy it here.

Summer linen bucket hat, $49, Graye

Credit: Graye
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With seemingly hotter, brighter days ahead, a bucket hat seems to be the way to go to block out harmful sun rays.





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Gingerbread candle 240ml, $35, Hush Candle

Credit: Hush Candle
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Made with spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom and nutmeg, this soy-based candle by the homegrown fragrance studio is bound to fill any room with its sweet aroma and festive spirit.





Buy it here.

Marjolein Delhaas planner, $44, Nana and Bird

Credit: Studio Yono
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Google Calendar’s great but for something more nostalgic and quaint, there is always the option of a daily planner like this calendarium, which contains a 128 pages for your weekly entries and 56 blank note pages.

Buy it here.

Text: Khong Yawen/Female










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