Best Gifts For High Schoolers
The products listed here were selected by a member of the editorial staff. Should you choose to purchase a product through a link on this page, we may receive an affiliate commission.
Finding the best gift for a high schooler is always a gamble. Will they like what you get? Are you even on the same wavelength? Do you understand what it is to be Gen Z? Even if you don’t, there are still certain no-fail tactics for exciting the 14-to-18-year-old in your life. Here’s what we suggest.
The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops gift card.
Image: The Hyppo Gourment Ice Pops
Gift Card to The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops Local
$25-$100
Back Alley Treasures, 108 Historic Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, (224) 209-1480
While The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pop’s St. Armands location may have shuttered, you can still find these popular and whimsical popsicles at local Sarasota-Manatee area purveyors. With flavors like blood orange cheesecake ($5) and toasted buckeye ($6), your teenager will want seconds before they’ve finished their first. We suggest a gift card that can be used to ship pops to your door (a minimum of 12 is required) or at one of their St. Petersburg or Tampa locations.
T. Georgiano's Boutique Do All Things With Love Sweatshirt.
Image: T. Georgiano's Boutique
Love Sweatshirt from T. Georgiano's Boutique Local
$88
1409 B First St., Sarasota, (941) 870-3727
Your teenager can feel the love just by wearing it on their sweatshirt. Luxury sweat suits are still the trend of the season, and this pullover ($88) paired with some leggings are a great option for the high schooler who wants to wear something comfortable and cute while on the go. The sweatshirt's so soft it feels like butter.
Shore Short Sleeve Rashguard- Born By Water.
Image: Shore
Dress, Shirt and Board Short from Shore Local
$58-$160
465 John Ringling Blvd., #100, Sarasota, (941) 388-3535
Shore is the beachy, cool brand that your high schooler will love, no matter their style. Soft fabrics and simple silhouettes in muted colors will help your teenager be the best-dressed kid at school. Most importantly, they won’t say, “Mom, this is what you picked out?” when you present them with their gift. Instead, they’ll be blissfully pleased.
We recommend the Malibu skort dress for girls ($158) and the short-sleeve “Born by Water” shirt ($58) and Tidewater volley lounge board short ($120) for boys. In Florida, it’s important to dress for the weather it is, not the weather you want it to be. These picks will certainly keep your teenagers cool — in more ways than one.
Sparkle Diva Opulent Silk Scrunchies.
Image: Sparkle Diva
Scrunchies and Smiley Clip from Sparkle Diva Local
$18-$22
https://sparkledivatopia.com/, [email protected]
When your high schooler reaches for a hair tie or a clip to pin back their hair, why not give them something to smile about? These hair accessories made by local designer Carley Holtsinger will truly make your teen stand out. We love the XL Opulent Silk Scrunchies in Strawberry Pearl ($18) and the pale neon smiley clip ($22).
Dillard's Herschel Duffel Bag.
Image: Dillard's
Herschel Supply Co. Duffel at Dillard's Local
$89
200 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 527-4878
If your teenager finds themselves running between overnights with friends and basketball tournaments, then it may be the right time to give them a duffel bag to hold all that stuff. This Herschel Supply Co. duffel bag in ivy green ($89) is the perfect size to bring with them on those short trips that require just a little bit too much for a backpack. A removable shoulder strap makes carrying a bit easier.
