Last-Minute Christmas Shopping Guide: Gifts That Look Thoughtful Without the Wait

‘Twas the day before Christmas, and panic sets in – no gifts bought for your spouse or anyone else on your list. Take a deep breath; there’s no need for alarm. This guide features coveted presents still available in central Manhattan stores that will make your recipients think you’ve been planning their gifts for months. With most stores closing by 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, you have a 12-hour window to transform from procrastinator to gift-giving hero. Forget impersonal gift cards or cash envelopes that might be forgotten; instead, select something thoughtful from this comprehensive guide that will convince your loved ones you put genuine care into your selections. The clock is ticking, so let’s begin your last-minute shopping adventure with confidence.

For the beauty enthusiasts in your life, Sephora on Broadway (open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve) offers perfect solutions for multiple people on your list. Your Gen Alpha niece will be thrilled with trendy options like Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm ($24), which transforms teen pouts into smiles with its shea butter-infused formula, or Haus Labs Glow Multi-Use Balm Highlighter ($34) from Lady Gaga’s line that provides a dewy glow. The wildly popular Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Crush Cheirosa Hair & Body Mist ($38) is practically guaranteed to make any tween or teen smile. For grandmothers who deserve a fragrance update, consider Viktor&Rolf’s Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid Eau de Parfum ($90) with its modern strawberry and vanilla notes, the elegant Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Gift Set ($144), or Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum ($108) with its sophisticated vanilla and woody tones housed in a stunning gold bottle – all choices that say you understand her refined taste.

Macy’s Herald Square (open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) provides excellent options for those hard-to-shop-for parents. For dads who have enough leather goods and ties, consider The North Face Half-Quarter Zip Fleece Jacket ($99) that keeps him on-trend, or a Michael Kors Men’s Nylon Bracelet ($125) that adds subtle sophistication with its black diamonds. The Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum ($128) offers a fresh, woodsy scent that appeals to nearly every man. For the mom who deserves pampering after the holiday rush, a Lauren Ralph Lauren Cotton Sateen Pajama Set ($79) provides comfort in elegant style, while a NEST New York Holiday Three-Wick Candle ($73) fills her home with festive pomegranate and pine aromas. The NutriBullet Personal Blender ($150) supports her health goals with its powerful yet quiet motor and sleek design that won’t clutter her countertop.

Nordstrom on West 57th Street (open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) offers sophisticated options for stylish relatives. For your jet-setting aunt, the Beis 21-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On ($198) features 360-degree wheels and a weight indicator handle to make her travels smoother, while a compact Coach Leather Card Case ($95) adds luxury to her minimalist packing style. The Vintage List Set of Crystal Martini Glasses ($150) makes a perfect gift for the sophisticated singleton who appreciates entertaining with elegance. Your husband who “doesn’t need anything” might actually appreciate a waterproof Rains Weekend Bag ($130) for his adventures, the soothing Dior Sauvage After-Shave Balm ($52) for his grooming routine, or a classic Carhartt Watch Hat Beanie ($20) to keep him warm during winter outings – practical gifts that show you’ve been paying attention to his needs.

For the fitness enthusiasts in your life, JD Sports on Broadway (open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) has you covered. Your uncle who’s newly passionate about running will appreciate a Sonneti London Essential Hoodie ($35) for those chilly morning jogs, Nike Air VaporMax ZPlus Running Shoes ($210) for ultimate performance, or even practical Sonneti Crew Socks ($12) that provide essential comfort. Your Pilates-loving friend will be delighted with an Owala FreeSip Water Bottle ($28) that keeps her hydrated in style, Under Armour Embossed Leggings ($70) for comfortable workouts, or a cozy oversized Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Crewneck ($70) for post-workout relaxation. Meanwhile, Gap on Broadway (open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.) offers perfect options for your seasonal situationship (a stylish Flannel Shirt, $45) or perpetually cold sister (a Classic Crewneck Sweater, $50, or trendy Leopard Faux Fur Coat, $158).

When shopping for those who seem to have everything, Target on 3rd Avenue (open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.) provides unexpected delights. Tech-savvy cousins will appreciate gaming additions like Kirby Air Riders ($60) for the Nintendo Switch, a Beats Pill Wireless Bluetooth Speaker ($150) to enhance their entertainment setup, or the immersive Rise of the Ronin game ($70) for PS5 enthusiasts. For children with overflowing toy boxes, consider unique options that stand out: a LEGO Botanical Collection Succulents Building Set ($50) that doubles as room decor, a Play Shopping Cart set ($30) for imaginative play, or the Ravensburger Disney Villainous board game ($36) that puts a twist on beloved characters. These thoughtful selections from accessible stores will help you complete your Christmas shopping with gifts that feel personal and considered, even when chosen at the last minute. With this guide in hand, you’ll transform from holiday procrastinator to gift-giving champion before the Christmas bells ring.