We’ve all been there. The calendar flips to mid-December, and suddenly you realize there are still gifts to buy and time is running out. But here’s the thing: last-minute doesn’t have to mean last-resort. With the right retailers and a little strategic shopping, you can still find thoughtful, beautiful gifts that will arrive well before Christmas morning.
I’ve pulled together my favorite gift ideas from three of my go-to retailers—Nordstrom, Talbots, and Lands’ End—along with the shipping deadlines you need to know. Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your best friend, your sister, or treating yourself (because you deserve it), these picks are stylish, practical, and still shippable. 🎁
✨ What You’ll Find in This Post
- 📦 Shipping Deadlines — Exactly when to order from each retailer
- 🎁 Gift Ideas by Retailer — Curated picks from Nordstrom, Talbots & Lands’ End
- ✨ Beth’s Style Tips — How to choose gifts she’ll actually love
- 💰 Options at Every Price Point — From stocking stuffers to splurge-worthy
⏰ Shipping Deadlines at a Glance
Before we dive into the gifts, let’s talk timing. Here’s exactly when you need to order to guarantee Christmas delivery:
Nordstrom
- Thursday, December 18 — Free standard shipping (most locations)
- December 21-22 — Select cities (NYC, Boston, Dallas, LA) with free expedited shipping
- Expedited options: $12 for 2-day, $20 for next-day
- Pro tip: Look for the “Arrives Before Christmas” tag on items!
Talbots
- Thursday, December 18 — Standard shipping ($8.95)
- Saturday, December 20 — Holiday Express ($18.95)
- Pro tip: Buy online, pick up in store is available for last-minute needs!
Lands’ End
- Monday, December 22 — Expedited shipping ($15 upgrade)
- Pro tip: Monogrammed items add 2-3 days, so order those by December 18!
Nordstrom: A Little Bit of Everything She Wants
Nordstrom is my go-to for last-minute gifting because they carry everything—from affordable stocking stuffers to investment-worthy splurges—and their shipping is incredibly reliable. Plus, their return policy makes gift-giving stress-free.
Shop Beth’s Picks:
Classic Cotton Pajamas | Tory Burch Mini Perry Tote | Créme de la Créme Mini Caviar Eyeshadow Stick Set | Leopard Crewneck Lounge Set
Nécessaire Body Wash Collection | Mac Totally Teddy Lip Set | Dyson Special Edition Airwrap Set | Cozy Chic Robe
Scallop Beanie, Gloves, and Scarf Set | Jo Malone Holiday Favorites Gift Set | Elemis Frangipani Gift Set
✨ Beth’s Style Tip: Nordstrom’s beauty gift sets are exceptional value this time of year. You’re essentially getting multiple products for the price of one—perfect for the beauty lover on your list.
Talbots: Timeless Gifts for the Classic Dresser
Talbots understands the stylish woman over 50 better than almost any brand. Their pieces are classic, well-made, and always appropriate—which makes them perfect for gifting. From cozy cashmere to elegant accessories, you really can’t go wrong here.
Shop Beth’s Picks:
Crewneck Sweater – Persian Fair Isle | Berkshire Wool Jacket | Open Front Cardigan – Marl Stripe
Textured Metallic Crewneck Cardigan | Katelyn Bow Metallic Nappa Loafers | Christmas Tree Brooch | Harper Kellynch Plaid Tote
Metallic Ruffle Popover – Heartwarming Plaid | Poinsettia Standard Brooch | Faux Shearling Bucket Bag | Sincere Shimmer Necklace | Modern Fair Isle Beanie | Modern Fair Isle Gloves
✨ Beth’s Style Tip: When in doubt, accessories are always a safe bet. A beautiful scarf, leather gloves, or a classic jewelry piece doesn’t require knowing someone’s exact size—and Talbots does these exceptionally well.
Lands’ End: Practical Gifts She’ll Actually Use
Lands’ End is where I go for cozy, practical gifts that people actually use. Their quality is excellent, the prices are reasonable, and right now they’re running up to 60% off holiday styles. Think plush robes, flannel pajamas, cozy slippers, and classic outerwear. Order by December 22 with expedited shipping ($15) and you’re still golden.
Shop Beth’s Picks:
Brushed Waffle Jersey 3-Piece Pajama Set | Large Canvas Pocket Tote | Cozy Full-Zip Fleece Jacket
Needlepoint Personalized Stocking | CashTouch Fair Isle Scarf | Knee-High Riding Boots | Corded Heart Bag Charm | Cozy Plush Long Wrap Robe
CashTouch Travel Wrap | Water-Resistant Letter Charm | Suede Foldover Moccasins
✨ Beth’s Style Tip: Lands’ End offers free hemming on all pants and affordable monogramming—small touches that make a gift feel extra special and personalized. Just remember monogrammed items need a few extra days!
Gift Ideas by Category
For the Cashmere Lover:
- Talbots’ Cashmere Shop features sweaters, wraps, and accessories.
- Nordstrom Cashmere Accessories
- Lands’ End Cashmere-Lined Gloves
The Accessory Obsessed:
The Cozy Homebody:
For the Beauty Enthusiast:
For the Classic Dresser:
Frequently Asked Questions
Last-Minute Gifts for Women Over 50
Q: What’s the safest last-minute gift if I don’t know her size? A: Accessories are always a safe bet—think scarves, jewelry, gloves, or handbags. Beauty gift sets and cozy items like cashmere wraps or robes also work beautifully and don’t require exact sizing.
Q: Is it too late to order cashmere for Christmas? A: Not yet! Nordstrom and Talbots both have cashmere options available with shipping through December 18-20, depending on the service you choose.
Q: What if I miss the shipping deadline? A: Most of these retailers offer buy online, pick up in store options. You can also opt for e-gift cards, which deliver instantly—and let her pick exactly what she wants.
Q: What’s a good gift under $50 for a stylish woman? A: Talbots silk scarves, Lands’ End cozy slippers, or Nordstrom beauty minis all make lovely gifts under $50.
Q: How do I make a last-minute gift feel more thoughtful? A: Presentation matters! Add a handwritten note, choose gift wrapping if available, or pair a smaller gift with something personal like her favorite chocolates or a beautiful candle.
You Might Also Enjoy
- Holiday Gift Guide Roundup 2025
- Last-Minute Gift Guide: Gift Ideas Under $150
- Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers Under $25
- Holiday Outfits for Women Over 50
Closing Thoughts
Last-Minute Gifts for Women
The clock is ticking, but there’s absolutely still time to find something wonderful. The key is knowing your deadlines and shopping smart. And remember—a thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the most appreciated presents are the ones that are classic, well-made, and show you really know the person.
Now stop reading and start shopping—those deadlines aren’t going to wait! 🎄
🎁 Time is Running Out for My Holiday Gift Card Raffle
Win a $100 Amazon Gift Card
To celebrate the season — and to thank you for being here — I’m hosting a Holiday Gift Card Raffle!
December’s prize:
✨ A $100 Amazon Gift Card ✨
How to enter:
Just leave a comment on today’s post and share what you loved about this post or what you love about SaaCA. Boom — you’re entered!
Winner announced:
📅 January 1
I can’t wait to read your comments!
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