Drawn an anime fan or a BookTok reader in Secret Santa? Or shopping for a friend whose personality is 50% manga, 50% romantasy? This list is full of Christmas gifts under $50 that feel personal — not like something grabbed at the checkout.
Christmas gifts for anime fans under $50
1. Anime-inspired press-on nails
Our top pick because it's something she'll actually wear — to holiday parties, New Year's Eve and her next con. Every set in our Anime Edit is handmade and under $50:
- For One Piece fans: Nakama or Devil Fruit
- For Jujutsu Kaisen fans: King of Curses or Cursed Energy
- For Attack on Titan fans: Wings of Freedom or Scarlet Scarf
- For Naruto fans: Kitsune – Nine Tails or Triple Tomoe
Not sure which? Browse our anime nail designs guide.
2. A manga volume (or two)
Check which volumes they're missing, or pick up volume 1 of a series they've watched but never read.
3. A Japanese snack box
A fun, shareable gift that fits almost any Secret Santa budget.
4. An acrylic stand or keychain
Small, affordable and perfect for a desk or bag. Buy from independent fan artists where you can.
5. A cozy anime watch-night bundle
Fluffy socks, instant ramen upgrades and a mug in their favorite character's colors.
Christmas gifts for BookTok readers under $50
6. Romantasy press-on nails
Bookish nails are made for reading photos, and with ACOTAR books 6 and 7 landing in October and January, the timing couldn't be better. Our BookTok collection:
- Thorns & Roses — dark romance in burgundy and black
- Sun or Stars? — celestial gold vs. midnight silver
- The Bond — a subtle, romantic chain motif
More ideas in our bookish nail ideas post.
7. An annotation kit
Sticky tabs, highlighters and transparent notes — a BookTok essential for rereads.
8. A book sleeve
Protects paperbacks in a tote bag and looks adorable in photos.
9. A bookish candle
Look for small-batch candles with scents inspired by fantasy worlds, libraries or starry nights.
10. A reading light
A clip-on or neck light for "just one more chapter" nights.
Secret Santa tips
- Personal beats expensive: something tied to their favorite series always wins.
- Wearable gifts get used: nails, socks and accessories don't end up in a drawer.
- Check their nail shape: if you're buying press-ons, see how to measure nails for press-ons. Because our nails are handmade, we can't offer size exchanges, so a quick check is worth it.
When to order for Christmas
Every set is handmade, so please allow 48–72 hours of processing plus shipping time (standard shipping is 5–10 days). We recommend ordering by early December to be safe. We currently ship within the US, with free shipping on orders over $85 — easy to reach if you're buying for a few friends.
FAQs
What's a good Secret Santa gift for an anime fan?
Anime-inspired press-on nails, a manga volume, a Japanese snack box or an acrylic stand — all under $50.
What do you buy a BookTok girl for Christmas?
Bookish press-on nails, an annotation kit, a book sleeve, a bookish candle or a reading light.
Are press-on nails a good gift?
Yes — they're personal, wearable and reusable. Just check the recipient's nail shape and size before ordering.
Shopping for a partner? See our anime gift guide and ACOTAR gift guide.
I'm Obsessed designs are original, fan-inspired artwork. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the creators, authors, publishers or studios of any series mentioned.