Holiday Central

Hot holiday gifts for her 2014

Gifts she'll remember

altrendo images | Altrendo | Getty Images

Finding the perfect holiday gift for your significant other can be a struggle, particularly if she isn't the type to dog-ear catalog pages so you get her not-so-subtle hints.

But there's no need to panic. Plenty of gifting trends are already starting to emerge for this holiday season, offering the clueless a good place to start.

For one, warm-weather apparel and accessories are sure to be a hit this year, after last year's visits from the polar vortex caused many women to wear through what was in their closets.

Experience-based gifts are also expected to see a big surge, as consumers—particularly millennials—often value experiences over gifts, a trend that was spotted in a PwC survey.

And with much of this year's expected boost in spending coming from the higher-income shopper, jewelry sales are also expected to grow. According to Deloitte, 20 percent of shoppers plan to purchase jewelry this holiday, up from 18 percent in 2013.

Overall, the National Retail Federation predicts the average person will spend $596.53 on gifts this year, up from $558.18 in 2013.

"Retailers have plenty of reasons to be optimistic this holiday season," said Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation. "One of the most important pieces of evidence is the confidence holiday shoppers are exuding in their plans to spend on gifts for their loved ones."

For ideas on what to get for the woman in your life, click ahead.

—By Krystina Gustafson.
Posted 12 Nov. 2014

Staying warm in style

Target

Target women's faux fur collar coat
Price: $79.99

Fur is a perennial favorite for the winter months, but it comes at a high price. For women who want a dose of style at a reasonable cost, Target has this black jacquard Merona jacket, complete with a faux fur collar.

An added bonus: Since it isn't real fur, your wife or girlfriend doesn't have to feel guilty wearing it.

Tech with flair

ShopBop

Garance Doré Collection Bonjour iPhone Case
Price: $36 on Shopbop

The NPD Group predicts the new iPhone will spark sales in the booming smartphone segment, and with it, drive demand for cell phone accessories.

Here, a fashionista's take on the iPhone cover, which was created in collaboration with French fashion photographer Garance Doré.

'Athleisure' lives on

Nike Epic Lux Printed running pants
Nike

Nike Epic Lux Printed Women's Running Crops
Price: $110

Although Customer Growth Partners predicts apparel sales will lag this holiday, the red-hot athleisure trend shows no signs of slowing. Try a fresh take on the look with printed pants, like these from Nike.

A very blinged-out Christmas

Tiffany

Tiffany Enchant heart pendant in platinum with diamonds
Price: $4,000

Hoping to show your love with a big-ticket item? Splurge on this 0.33-karat heart-shaped diamond necklace from Tiffany.

If you don't have the cash to justify the $4,000 version, you can opt for a smaller, 0.06-karat version for $2,500.

Or if you're on an even tighter budget, the company sells a $125 sterling silver Elsa Peretti Open Heart Pendant.

Fashion meets function

Ugg

Ugg Scarlett Leather boot
Price: $250

The Ugg boot has topped Experian Marketing Services' hot product list for about a decade, and searches for the label are already heating up this season. The purveyor of sheepskin footwear has become so popular at the holidays that Bill Tancer, GM of global research at Experian, has dubbed it "the fruitcake of the new generation."

One thing that's changed, though, is that the brand is no longer just about the classic suede boot that made it a staple in many women's closets. Here, a more fashion-forward look from its lineup.

She'll really fall for you

Blend Images | John Lund/Drew Kelly | Getty Images

Trapeze lesson in East Meadow, New York, offered by Cloud 9 Living
Price: From $145

For the woman who would rather make a new memory than score the latest trend, surprise her with an day of flying through the air. Cloud 9 Living is a site that encourages shoppers to give the gift of experience, including this trapeze lesson, offered by professional trapeze and circus performers.

If she's up for adventure, but at a slower pace, the site also offers a package for a chocolate, dessert and wine tour.

Every step she takes

Tory Burch

Tory Burch for Fitbit Metal Hinged Bracelet in rose gold
Price: $195

Wearable technology is all the rage, a fact that hasn't escaped the attention of the fashion world. Designer Tory Burch created this metal bracelet exclusively for Fitbit, which houses the fitness tracker in a chic accessory. It's also available in silver and gold.

The object of your desire

Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret Dream Angels Demi Bra and High-Waist Tulle Thong Panty with Garters
Prices: $48 to $82; $32

Warm her up this winter with a new lingerie set, like this bra, panty and garter combo from Victoria's Secret. Intimates are another always-popular gift for the holidays, which is part of the reason analysts predict L Brands will outperform other mall-based stores.

Making it personal

PersonalizationMall.com

Personalized Holiday Scented Candle from PersonalizationMall.com
Price: $29.95

From personalized jewelry to robes, give her a gift that was made with only her in mind. PersonalizationMall.com's scented candle allows you to write a two-line message to your significant other, along with her name.

As the last leg of production is increasingly happening in stores, allowing shoppers to put their own special touch on an item, customization is a trend that isn't going away.

Keep the party going

Kate Spade

Kate Spade Evening Belles Feather Mini clutch
Price: $398

The holiday festivities don't have to end once the gifts are unwrapped. Help her ring in the new year with style by giving her this clutch bag from Kate Spade.

If she hates carrying her bag in her hands all night, no problem. It also comes with a hidden chain shoulder strap.