A Texas Guide to Holiday Gifting

Texas means a lot of things to a lot of people, but for us, the Lone Star State is home to some of the country’s most popular makers and beloved boutiques. So for this year’s holiday gift guide, we’ve done our best to highlight them. We sourced giftable items from talented designers and iconic or up-and-coming brands. We scoured the inventory of sleek stores along Austin’s popular South Congress Avenue, visited cozy shops in Fort Worth, and — of course — we looked to the fantasy fulfillers at Neiman Marcus. We fell in love with dog-themed tea towels in Houston and studied Vogue articles to decide whether or not an acupuncture mat from a Bishop Arts District boutique is a must-have (we included it, so the answer is yes).

This was all done virtually, of course. The internet makes it blessedly easy to shop local from the comfort of anywhere. But should you need a break from your screen, we’ve included a selection of chic analog games — from cocktail-themed puzzles to almost-too-pretty-to-play Mahjong — that will engage the whole family. We’re even considering swapping our sweats for the more glamorous and elevated alternatives Texas designers have been creating.

The next 10 slides include splurges along with great finds for under $100. We have gifts for guys and little ones, as well as the friend who’s been thoughtfully relaying what you need to know from your monthly horoscope. The hosts of your inner circle received their own section, which they’ve rightfully earned in the year of at-home entertainment. We hope you’ll find something for a friend (or for yourself, no judgment here), and feel good knowing that you’re supporting local makers and businesses who help make Texas one of the best places to call home — and one of the absolute greatest destinations to shop.