Skip to content

Top Navigation

Southern Living Southern Living
  • Food and Recipes
  • Culture and Lifestyle
  • Style
  • Holidays & Occasions
  • Home
  • Gardening Ideas
  • News
  • Video

Profile Menu

Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Southern Living

Southern Living Southern Living
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Best New Haircuts to Try in 2022

      The Best New Haircuts to Try in 2022

      Here are the haircuts you'll be seeing everywhere this year. Read More
    • How To Season a Cast-Iron Skillet

      How To Season a Cast-Iron Skillet

      Learn how to season this Southern kitchen staple. Read More
    • 50 Thoughtful Messages for a Meaningful Thank You Note

      50 Thoughtful Messages for a Meaningful Thank You Note

      Not sure what to write in a thank you card? Here's how to show your gratitude with a handwritten note. Read More
  • Food and Recipes

    Food and Recipes

    See All Food and Recipes
    4 Easy Ways to Tell if an Egg Has Gone Bad

    4 Easy Ways to Tell if an Egg Has Gone Bad

    It’s not all in the senses, but they sure can help.
    • Recipes
    • Quick and Easy Dinner
    • Kitchen Assistant
    • Casserole
    • Holiday and Occasion Food
    • Slow Cooker Recipes
    • Desserts
    • Healthy and Light
    • Side Dishes
    • Party Food and Drink
    • Appetizers
    • Meat
    • Breakfast
    • BBQ
    • Drinks
    • What's Cooking
  • Culture and Lifestyle

    Culture and Lifestyle

    See All Culture and Lifestyle
    70 Cute and Funny Nicknames For Your Best Friends

    70 Cute and Funny Nicknames For Your Best Friends

    Let your besties know how much they mean to you with one of these unique nicknames.
    • Quotes and Sayings
    • Biscuits and Jam Podcast
    • Travel
    • Pets
    • Healthy Living
    • Coastal Living
  • Style

    Style

    See All Style
    The Coziest Winter Nail Colors for January 2022

    The Coziest Winter Nail Colors for January 2022

    The beginning of a new year often has us all feeling like starting off fresh by taking on better habits, getting rid of old ones, and—most commonly—changing up our look. While others are hitting the squats and going into the salon for a pixie cut, why not start slow and steady with a cozy winter manicure in a color that feels new to you? It takes only a little courage to step outside your usual OPI Lincoln Park After Dark or Essie Bordeaux, which is all you need to kick 2022 off on a fanciful foot.  From new wintry takes on classic dark nail colors to unique pops of color that'll have you feeling the opposite of boring, these are the best nail colors to try this January and tick off all the way into spring. 
    • Beauty
    • Hair
    • Fashion
    • Short Hairstyles
    • Nails
    • Medium Hairstyles
    • Skincare
    • Long Hairstyles
  • Holidays & Occasions

    Holidays & Occasions

    See All Holidays & Occasions
    • Thanksgiving
    • Gifts
    • Christmas
    • Mother's Day
    • Hanukkah
    • New Year's
    • Easter
    • Mardi Gras
    • 4th of July
    • Weddings
  • Home

    Home

    See All Home
    16 Kitchen Design Trends Southern Designers Predict Will Be Everywhere in 2022

    16 Kitchen Design Trends Southern Designers Predict Will Be Everywhere in 2022

    There's no denying how the pandemic fundamentally changed the world—including how we live (and work) inside our homes. An overall trend toward celebrating the history and originality of our homes is displacing ultramodern aesthetics and sharp lines as we all look to create cozier, colorful, more personalized spaces that better suit our lifestyles. We're turning away from big-box stores and toward vintage items—first, out of necessity due to supply-chain issues, and now, for design reasons—to add charm and character to every room in the house, including the kitchen. Here, interior designers from around the South share their predictions for what's trending in kitchen design for 2022 and beyond.
    • Home Decor Ideas
    • Idea Houses
    • Kitchen Design
    • Before & After Photos
    • Bathroom Design
    • Curb Appeal
    • Bedroom Design
    • DIY Home Decor
    • Color Palettes & Paint
    • House Plans & Builders
    • Inspired Communities
  • Gardening Ideas

    Gardening Ideas

    See All Gardening Ideas
    If You Keep Finding Ladybugs in Your House, Here's What You Need to Know

    If You Keep Finding Ladybugs in Your House, Here's What You Need to Know

    Plus a few strategies for keeping them out-of-doors
    • Container Gardening
    • Gardening Flowers
    • Fruit, Vegetable & Herb Gardens
    • Garden Pests
    • Plant Guides A-Z
    • Indoor Plants
    • Fall Plants
    • Landscaping Ideas
    • The Grumpy Gardener
  • News

    News

    See All News
    • Celebrities
    • Local News
  • Video

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Southern Living
  2. Home
  3. Graduation Gifts They'll Love (And Actually Use!)

Graduation Gifts They'll Love (And Actually Use!)

Southern Living May 2021 Cover
By Southern Living Editors
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
FB
Strong Initial Personalized Stationery
Credit: Minted

Graduation season is upon us, and you're sure to have at least one grad gift on your list. Whether they are graduating from high school, college, or graduate school, congratulate them with the perfect gift for their next phase of life. We've got plenty of great graduation gift ideas for guys and girls, and tons of gender-neutral options you can gift all the grads you love. Whether you're looking to spend $15 or $50, these are the best graduation gifts that they'll actually appreciate. Practical but fun gifts like a Bluetooth speaker, new stationery, a Dutch oven, or a gold bangle surely won't go unused. From the practical (device charging station) to the playful (iPhone photo printer), your graduates will love these gift ideas. Bonus: Many of these grad gifts can be monogrammed for a personal touch. You'll be the favorite parent, aunt, grandparent, or friend when your grad opens these amazing gifts up.

Start Slideshow

1 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Get Your Grad a Gift They'll Use for Years

1 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet

Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet
Credit: Nordstrom

BUY IT: $48; nordstrom.com

Whether they are continuing their education, traveling the world, or hitting the office, this reversible tote is the perfect carry-all bag for a new graduate. The attached wrislet will keep valuables safe and organized.

2 of 39

3 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

The Kaufmann Mercantile Guide

The Kaufmann Mercantile Guide
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $18; amazon.com

The ultimate DIY guide for every aspect of life from caring for a cast iron skillet to folding a pocket square. The book is divided divided into five categories: kitchen, outdoors, home, gardening, and grooming.

3 of 39

Advertisement

4 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Birchbox Subscription

Birchbox
Credit: Birchbox

BUY IT: $10/month; birchbox.com

The perfect monthly treat for any new graduate. A curated selection of beauty products will arrive at their door each month. You can choose 3, 6, or 12 month subscriptions, making it a perfect fit for any budget.

4 of 39

5 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Celestial Coaster Set

Celestial Coaster Set
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $40; anthropologie.com

Coasters are a must-have for any home or apartment. This beautiful set will instanlty upgrade any coffee table.

5 of 39

6 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

I'm Outta Here Passport Cover

ban.do I'm Outta Here Passport Cover
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $24; amazon.com

Her post-graduation trip won't be complete without this passport cover.

6 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Crock-Pot 7 qt. Slow Cooker

Crock-Pot® 7 qt. Slow Cooker
Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond

BUY IT: $54.99; bedbathandbeyond.com

Any young professional will learn to love their slow-cooker, just like their mom and grandmother.

7 of 39

8 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

The 52 Lists Project

The 52 Lists Project
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $9; amazon.com

The 52 Lists Project is a collection of lists, one for each week of the year, that will help a recent grad find beauty, creativity, and joy to help make their dreams become a reality. 

8 of 39

9 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Adventure Enamel Mug

Adventure Enamel Mug
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $9; amazon.com

Let the adventure begin! This sturdy Gentlemen's Hardware enamel mug will be a reliable companion during all of life's adventures.
 

9 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Leather Passport Case

Fossil Leather Passport Case
Credit: Fossil

BUY IT: $58; fossil.com

A slim design and interior organization make this leather passport case from Fossil the perfect gift for any frequent traveler.

10 of 39

11 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Kate Spade Polka Dot Ballpoint Pen

Kate Spade Polka Dot Ballpoint Pen
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $36; amazon.com

A Kate Spade pen is a stylish and practical gift for the note-takers and list-makers. 

11 of 39

12 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Rifle Paper Co. Notebook Set

Rifle Paper Co. Notebook Set
Credit: Amazon

BUY IT: $15; amazon.com

This patterend trio will make sure she is never without a proper place to take notes. They are perfect to slip into a backpack, a purse, or keep handy on a desktop. 

12 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Voluspa Japonica Santiago Huckleberry Candle

Voluspa 'Japonica - Santiago Huckleberry' Large Embossed Jar Candle
Credit: Bloomingdales

BUY IT: $28; bloomingdales.com

This decorative candle will be the perfect addition to a side table, but will be ever better when it burns and fills the room with a sweet, warm scent. 

13 of 39

14 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

TOMY KiiPix Smartphone Photo Printer

TOMY KiiPix Smartphone Photo Printer
Credit: Urban Outfitters

BUY IT: $50; urbanoutfitters.com

How cool is this? Now, your grads will actually be able to hold onto those memories they're always taking pictures of on their phones.

14 of 39

15 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Strong Initial Personalized Stationery

Strong Initial Personalized Stationery
Credit: Minted

BUY IT: $55 for a set of 25; minted.com

This timeless, gender-neutral stationery is a useful and thoughtful gift for any grad on your list. There are six color options to match your grad's personality and style.

15 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

New Kitchen Basics

New Kitchen Basics
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $35; anthropologie.com

Every young grad needs to start somewhere when it comes to cooking, and this cookbook is the perfect place to start. Plus, it'll look pretty on their kitchen counter.

16 of 39

17 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Mark & Graham Leather Phone Sticker Card Case

Mark & Graham Leather Phone Sticker Card Case
Credit: Mark & Graham

BUY IT: $29; markandgraham.com

With this stylish card case, debit cards and licenses will always be safe and on their person. Plus, it comes in five color options with endless monogram possibilities.

17 of 39

18 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Gold Mirrored Tabletop Tray

Gold Mirrored Tabletop Tray
Credit: World Market

BUY IT: $29.99; worldmarket.com

This tray will be the first and prettiest item on their new coffee table.

18 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

The White Company Fine Silver Plated Picture Frame

The White Company Fine Silver Plated Picture Frame
Credit: Nordstrom

BUY IT: from $36; nordstrom.com

Buy one or a set of these timeless picture frames and add a personal touch by gifting it with a picture of you and the grad inside.

19 of 39

20 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Kate Spade New York Crystal Hinge Bangle

Kate Spade New York Crystal Hinge Bangle
Credit: Nordstrom

BUY IT: $48; nordstrom.com

If you know your grad's jewelry preferences, this sweet bangle comes in gold, rose gold, and silver. This is truly an everyday piece she can wear for years.

20 of 39

21 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Simple Stack Hanging Bar Calendar

Simple Stack Hanging Bar Calendar
Credit: Minted

BUY IT: $22; minted.com

They won't miss an appointment with this sweet calendar hanging on their wall. Customize it with a family picture to remind them Mama is always watching (just kidding—kind of).

21 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

June & May Portable Speaker

June & May Portable Speaker
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $88; anthropologie.com

Any grad will be thrilled to receive this sleek speaker they can take on the go. The modern design won't stick out like clunky electronics tend to, and they'll use it all the time.

22 of 39

23 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Lodge 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven

Lodge 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven
Credit: World Market

BUY IT: $54.99; worldmarket.com

Every Southern cook knows that a Dutch oven is the start to dozens of delicious recipes, so this gift will mean the world to your grad, who will use it for a long time.

23 of 39

24 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Gentlemen's Hardware Survival Kit

Gentlemen’s Hardware Survival Kit
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $18; anthropologie.com

With a compass, fire starter, 6-in-1 penknife, tweezers, 210cm rope, wire saw, and 10 safety pins, this kitschy survival kit will actually come in handy in the real world.

24 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Custom Filled Map Art

Custom Filled Map Art
Credit: Minted

BUY IT: from $36; minted.com

This is such a neat gift that's totally unique for your grad. Pick a place that means a lot to them, whether it's their house, their alma mater, or even their favorite restaurant at home.

25 of 39

26 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Alexandria Linen Flower Bath Towel

Alexandria Linen Flower Bath Towel
Credit: World Market

BUY IT: $14.99; worldmarket.com

A set of new, fluffy bath towels is always a welcome gift, especially if you add the personal touch of a monogram.

26 of 39

27 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Cathy's Concepts Monogram Oval Cuff Links

Cathy’s Concepts Monogram Oval Cuff Links
Credit: Nordstrom

BUY IT: $30; nordstrom.com

Every young gentleman needs a set of cuff links, and a monogram makes us love this classic pair even more.

27 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

28 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Tile Mate Tracker, 4-Pack

Tile Mate Tracker, 4-Pack
Credit: Bloomingdale's

BUY IT: $59.99; bloomingdales.com

With four Tiles in their possession, there won't be a set of keys, phone, wallet, or laptop to ever go missing! This is a gift the grads and their parents will appreciate big time.

28 of 39

29 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Rifle Paper Co. Recipe Tin

Rifle Paper Co. Recipe Tin
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $38; anthropologie.com

Although physically small, this gift has monumental meeting. They can potentially keep it forever and build on recipes from the time they graduate. Bonus personalization points if you include some of your own recipes to get them started.

29 of 39

30 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Nordstrom At Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw

Nordstrom At Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw
Credit: Nordstrom

BUY IT: $39.50; nordstrom.com

This so-soft throw comes in 21 color options, so there's bound to be one that matches your grad's room. And you know what we're going to say next: You can always add a monogram. 

30 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

31 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Crosley Tourmaline Cruiser Bluetooth Record Player

Crosley Tourmaline Cruiser Bluetooth Record Player
Credit: Urban Outfitters

BUY IT: $69; urbanoutfitters.com

Add a little antique flair to your grad's room with this vintage-inspired record player that also has Bluetooth capability.

31 of 39

32 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Sunnylife Azule Cooler Bag

Sunnylife Azule Cooler Bag
Credit: Bloomingdale's

BUY IT: $35; bloomingdales.com

After graduation comes summer, so send them off on vacation with this adorable cooler that can go from beach to picnic to backyard football.

32 of 39

33 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

elago Charging Hub

elago Charging Hub
Credit: Urban Outfitters

BUY IT: $25; urbanoutfitters.com

If you're worried about getting them something that will end up gathering dust, any grad, any age will absolutely use this gift.

33 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

34 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Assorted Mini Latte Bowls

Assorted Mini Latte Bowls
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $18 per set of six; anthropologie.com

If you're gifting for a high school grad, we all know many of their meals will be out of the microwave, so these bowls will come in handy. If you're gifting for a college grad, these cute bowls will look picture-perfect in their first kitchen.

34 of 39

35 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

The Tie Bar x Mark and Graham Gift Set

The Tie Bar x Mark and Graham Gift Set
Credit: Mark & Graham

BUY IT: $49; markandgraham.com

Whether they're getting dressed up for job interviews or cocktail parties, every guy could use a tie update. This cute gift set comes with a tie, a pocket square, and a pair of socks to keep him styling from head to toe. There are six color/pattern options, so even if you have multiple grads to buy for, there won't be duplicates.

35 of 39

36 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Black GreenPan Rio Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pans 2 Pack

Black GreenPan Rio Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pans 2 Pack
Credit: World Market

BUY IT: $39.99; worldmarket.com

When you're a broke college kid or recent college grad, you eat a lot of budget-friendly staples like eggs. With these sleek pans, those eggs will actually be cooked very well.

36 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

37 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Ursula Serving Bowl

Ursula Serving Bowl
Credit: Anthropologie

BUY IT: $68; anthropologie.com

This stunning serving bowl is a piece they'll cherish for a long time. It can be used as a centerpiece or beautiful serving piece.

37 of 39

38 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Mark & Graham Linen Jewelry Pouch

Mark & Graham Linen Jewelry Pouch
Credit: Mark & Graham

BUY IT: $59; markandgraham.com

This timeless jewelry pouch is a gift she'll actually use, and the soft colors will blend with whatever luggage she already has.

38 of 39

39 of 39

FB
Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Custom House Portrait Art

Custom House Portrait Art
Credit: Minted

BUY IT: from $32; minted.com

How sweet is this? If your grad is going off to college, they'll love this little reminder of home. If they're graduating college, you can get the print made of their college house. If they're leaving graduate school, you can get them a print of their future home. Regardless, this gift will mean a lot.

39 of 39

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Southern Living Editors

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 39 Get Your Grad a Gift They'll Use for Years
    2 of 39 Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet
    3 of 39 The Kaufmann Mercantile Guide
    4 of 39 Birchbox Subscription
    5 of 39 Celestial Coaster Set
    6 of 39 I'm Outta Here Passport Cover
    7 of 39 Crock-Pot 7 qt. Slow Cooker
    8 of 39 The 52 Lists Project
    9 of 39 Adventure Enamel Mug
    10 of 39 Leather Passport Case
    11 of 39 Kate Spade Polka Dot Ballpoint Pen
    12 of 39 Rifle Paper Co. Notebook Set
    13 of 39 Voluspa Japonica Santiago Huckleberry Candle
    14 of 39 TOMY KiiPix Smartphone Photo Printer
    15 of 39 Strong Initial Personalized Stationery
    16 of 39 New Kitchen Basics
    17 of 39 Mark & Graham Leather Phone Sticker Card Case
    18 of 39 Gold Mirrored Tabletop Tray
    19 of 39 The White Company Fine Silver Plated Picture Frame
    20 of 39 Kate Spade New York Crystal Hinge Bangle
    21 of 39 Simple Stack Hanging Bar Calendar
    22 of 39 June & May Portable Speaker
    23 of 39 Lodge 5-Quart Double Dutch Oven
    24 of 39 Gentlemen's Hardware Survival Kit
    25 of 39 Custom Filled Map Art
    26 of 39 Alexandria Linen Flower Bath Towel
    27 of 39 Cathy's Concepts Monogram Oval Cuff Links
    28 of 39 Tile Mate Tracker, 4-Pack
    29 of 39 Rifle Paper Co. Recipe Tin
    30 of 39 Nordstrom At Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw
    31 of 39 Crosley Tourmaline Cruiser Bluetooth Record Player
    32 of 39 Sunnylife Azule Cooler Bag
    33 of 39 elago Charging Hub
    34 of 39 Assorted Mini Latte Bowls
    35 of 39 The Tie Bar x Mark and Graham Gift Set
    36 of 39 Black GreenPan Rio Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pans 2 Pack
    37 of 39 Ursula Serving Bowl
    38 of 39 Mark & Graham Linen Jewelry Pouch
    39 of 39 Custom House Portrait Art

    Share & More

    Tweet Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print
    Southern Living

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Southern Living
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing this link opens in a new tab
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    MeredithSouthern Living is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. Southern Living is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporationthis link opens in a new tab All Rights Reserved. Southern Living may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Southern Living. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.southernliving.com

    Sign in

    View image

    Graduation Gifts They'll Love (And Actually Use!)
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.