
The end of this academic year has looked very different than anyone could have predicted, but in spite of that, graduation season is still upon us — and this year, it’s more important than ever to celebrate our college graduates. The class of 2020 has already had quite the welcome to the “adult” world, and the right gift will not only let them know how proud you are of them, but might just help make the transition to their next phase a little easier.
We’ve rounded up 10 college graduation gifts that strike just the right balance of practical, whimsical, and meaningful. If you have someone special graduating from college this spring, one of these gifts is sure to be just right for them.
Keep scrolling to see our picks for the best college graduation gifts!
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Dagne Dover Signature Tote
Dagne Dover Dagne Dover Classic Signature Tote
Dagne Dover's classic totes fit everything a working professional could want or need: laptop, notebook, water bottle, pens, pencils, and other daily essentials. It also comes with a handy keychain that attaches to the inside of the bag, so your daughter won't have to unpack her bag in the middle of the street to find her keys. Choose from six eye-catching colors, including onyx, graphite, and ash blue.
Where to buy: $245, Dagne Dover
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Bellroy Backpack
Bellroy Bellroy Backpack
If your son is more of a backpack than a briefcase kind of guy, he'll love this one from Bellroy. With its mature design, this rucksack feels like an adult version of kid's college bag. Plus, it's roomy enough to fit a 15-inch laptop with space to spare.
Where to buy: $139, Bellroy
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Kate Spade Necklace
Kate Spade Kate Spade Initial Pendant
With this chic necklace from Kate Spade, your college graduate will love that you took the time to personalize your gift. "I bought two of these for my favorite college graduates. They are simple and sophisticated — the perfect everyday necklace for a new professional. I love the variable length as pendant necklaces are often too short for my taste. The clasp can be adjusted within several inches," one woman wrote on the Kate Spade website.
Where to buy: $58, Kate Spade
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Stitch Fix Subscription
Stitch Fix Stitch Fix Subscription
A subscription to Stitch Fix is an easy way to convince your kiddo it's time to toss out their raggedy college T-shirts in favor of more adult attire. With this service, each month your grad will receive clothing hand-picked by a personal stylist based on their taste. They can keep whatever they want and return the rest. You'll only be charged for the pieces your child holds onto — and shipping is free both ways!
Where to buy: From $20, Stitch Fix
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HelloFresh Subscription
HelloFresh HelloFresh Subscription
After years of dorm food and ramen, this may be the first time your son are daughter starts cooking their own meals. Make the transition painless with a HelloFresh subscription. Fresh, pre-portioned ingredients will arrive on their doorstep so they can whip up quick and easy weeknight dinners.
Where to buy: From $8/serving, HelloFresh
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Dinnerware Set for Four
Wayfair Colleen 16-Piece Dinnerware Set
This 16-piece dish set with service for four is safe for the dishwasher, microwave, and oven, and will add a hint of class to all the dinner parties in your son or daughter's future.
Where to buy: $52.99, Wayfair
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Business Cards from Moo
Moo Moo Business Cards
Business cards are always a good idea for college grads as they'll no doubt be attending a lot of networking events in the future. A classy, professional business card is a must when it comes to making a great first impression.
Where to buy: From $19.99, Moo
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Kate Spade Lunch Tote
Kate Spade Save Room for Dessert Lunch Tote
Packing a lunch is a great way to save money, but we bet your daughter isn't going to want to show up for her first day with a lunch box that has cartoons all over it. Upgrade her lunch bag with this cute lunch tote from Kate Spade. This roomy sack is big enough to hold all her snacks, plus it's insulated to keep everything cool.
Where to buy: $30, Kate Spade
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Nordstrom Moonlight Short Pajamas
Nordstrom Moonlight Short Pajamas
Sweatpants and oversized T-shirts were totally fine when your daughter was pulling all-nighters in the dorms. But now it's time to swap those out for some comfy adult pajamas, so she can drift off to dreamland in style and wake up rested for work the next day.
Where to buy: $49, Nordstrom
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Mini Tool Kit
Uncommon Goods Fix-It Kit
Your grad will be able to fix anything with this handy mini tool kit from Uncommon Goods. Whether it's a loose screw that needs tightening or a zipper that needs repairing, your kid will have it covered out there on their own.
Where to buy: $30, Uncommon Goods