By Ahlia Bethea ’13, Staff Writer

The holiday season is finally upon us, which means one thing is on everyone’s mind: gifts! The art of gift giving is a hard one for most to master, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest ways to relieve the pressure that comes with shopping is to shop all year long. Picking up a trinket that reminds you of your best friend, or

buying a shirt that you know would go perfectly with your mom’s favorite skirt is the best way to get presents that you know someone will love. Hold on to the gifts as they start to accumulate and by the time the holiday season arrives you’ll have more than enough presents for everyone!

If you aren’t such a savvy and proactive shopper, below are a few go-to gifts that will put a smile on anyone’s face this holiday season.

Graphic Pouch: A cute canvas or plastic pouch goes a long way. Women will always appreciate this gift because it’s so versatile. One day it’s a makeup bag, the next day its tucked away in her luggage, safely storing her toiletries. Just about every brand has its own line of totes and pouches, but this season I am recommending Kate Spade. The designer has released a new collection of “Gia pouches” that have laugh-out-loud quotes on them. When Kate Spade integrates Twitter hashtags into a design, you just know it’s good. To pick up one of these lovely pouches head over to Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, or Zappos.com. The latest design is about $78, but they are great quality and will last at least a year. This gift is good for: a girlfriend.

Cell Phone Accessories: It can be pretty difficult to find a cell phone case that someone likes, so portable chargers and car adapters are much better choices. My favorite tech-savvy gift on the market right now is the Blackberry Music Gateway. This device allows you to connect any Bluetooth device to your home or car speakers and it’s hands free. It’s currently around $50. This gift is great for: a boyfriend.

Pajamas: Everyone sleeps, so it’s only natural that everyone needs sleepwear! Unless you are playing a practical joke, always opt for a stylish two-piece set that has a bold print. Last Christmas my aunt sent my entire family matching snowman pajamas. Even though they are obnoxious, we wear them all the time. If you want to give the gift of comfortable sleeping, head over to Pajamagram.com. The green pair that my family owns is currently being advertised on the front page of the site! When using Pajamagram’s services, you can have a cool pair of PJs delivered with a customized note. This gift is good for: your parents.

Groupons: Groupons are a shoppers best friend. My family is absolutely obsessed with them and by the end of this holiday season, yours will be too. With this great service, you suddenly have the ability to give a gift that may have previously been out of your price range. Whether it be a discounted shopping experience, Broadway shows, massages or bungee jumping adventures, Groupon has it all. This gift is not limited to the fashionistas out there and will make a great impression. Other websites such as Homerun and Living Social also offer these discounted services all year round. This gift is great for: close friends and family.

Socks: If you’re down to Christmas Day and haven’t purchased gifts for anyone, socks are the way to go. Everybody gets cold feet sometimes and reaches for a pair of fuzzy toe warmers. With such a wide variety of styles, you’re bound to find a pair that suits any personality. If you’re shopping for a gentleman, Rob Kardashian recently debuted his own sock line, Arthur George, at Neiman Marcus. Each pair runs for about $30 and he’s designed some pretty eye catching prints. A lady, however, would appreciate a pair of Key Socks, which you can order online. Each pair costs less than $10, and they are a unique design of socks that won’t slide down or be visible when a girl is wearing a pair of cute flats. If you’re on a budget, Hot Sox is a great brand at around $6 for two pairs and can be found in every store from Macy’s to Lord and Taylor. This gift is good for: EVERYONE!

I hope you all enjoy your holidays and remember that when it comes to gift giving, it’s truly the thought that counts!