Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers
Mother’s Day is right around the corner, on this Sunday, May 11. It’s my belief that a thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be an expensive one, so I’ve done some digging in the internet’s sales bins and found a few dozen tasteful options that only look like you spent a lot, including a Kate Spade tote, gold hoops, and AirPods. I’ve also double-checked that everything will arrive by Mother’s Day. And for even more, you can find all of our Mother’s Day gift ideas here.
Updated on May 5, 2025
Checked stock: Removed several items that were no longer on sale and added notes to all gifts that require faster shipping to arrive by Mother’s Day.
Other changes: Added a slew of new picks, including a $54 Barefoot Dreams sweatshirt, BaubleBar hoops, and Lancôme lipstick.
Flowers are a classic. The Bouqs Co. is offering 25 percent off sitewide with the code STRAT through Mother’s Day.
If she prefers faux flowers, here are some blooms that won’t wilt (and can be built together, if you please).
The cherry blossom stems are also quite chic.
If she’s always cold — or just a fan of anything cozy — get her this blanketlike sweater.
This one’s a bit more expensive, but it’s dressier so she can be cozy out of the house, too.
Jewelry is also a Mother’s Day staple. If you don’t want to break the bank, Madewell has some actually nice demi-fine pieces on sale, like these double-hoop huggies for $46. Note that you may have to pay extra for expedited shipping at this point.
As does BaubleBar — these slim hoops are only $24!
The cheapest Marc Jacobs I ever did see. Bonus points if your mom loves to sew.
A petite necklace to pair with said earrings.
A delightfully chunky gemstone bracelet — featuring kyanite and labradorite — for the electric dresser. At this point, you’ll need to pay for expedited shipping for this to arrive on time.
A classic lipstick for the mom who’s always put together.
And a set of Burt’s Bees tinted lip balms if she’s into “clean” beauty.
If she’s into all the latest beauty gadgetsget her the TheraFace Pro. “It offers so many different therapies, such as LED light, hot and cold rings, various face massagers, and, of course, a microcurrent attachment,” says one aesthetician we spoke to.
She might also like the Strategist-tested HigherDose mask, which uses red and near-infrared LEDs to target fine lines and wrinkles, plus stimulate collagen production. It’s made of high-quality silicone and features a cordless design that makes it great for multitasking or travel.
Even longer cotton socks with subtle glitter threading from Ganni, for the mom who loves a good designer item.
There are some truly great deals at the Kate Spade Outlet, like this $109 tote in an of-the-moment butter-yellow hue. (Though it also comes in black and light brown if you want to keep it classic.) You may need express shipping for this to arrive before Mother’s Day.
For the mom who’s trying to curb her spending on cafés: Now she can make delicious lattes at the push of a button.
And for sipping said coffee on her morning walks.
Moms love Marimekko! (Source: my mom.)
A good deal on a personal blender from Nutribullet, a brand we recommend in our blender guidefor the mom who lives off smoothies during the summertime. (I know mine does!)
Outdoorsy moms will love this tiny dust- and sandproof portable Bluetooth speaker. Its battery lasts up to ten hours, and it comes in a variety of colors.
If you’re totally stumped, new AirPods are always a nice gift.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remediesand bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
