Finding a gift for a *tween* can be particularly tricky. They’re too old for your typical dolls and games but they’re also a little too young for mature gifts like high-end makeup or expensive jewelry. The best gifts for 13-year-old girls strike the perfect balance between and appropriate—and definitely something that they will brag to all their friends about (like those Ugg Minis).
44 Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls Their Friends Will Be *Totally* Jealous Of
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Published May 9, 2023
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Paula Boudes for PureWow
The Top 5 Gifts for 13-Year-Olds at a Glance
- For the Always On-the-Go Tween: Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
- For the Memory Maker: Canon PowerShot ELPH 360
- For the Plushie Lover: Squishmallow Legacy The Bunnycorn Plush
- For the Cozy One: Ugg Classic Ultra Mini
- For the One With Stars Aligned: Birthdate Candle
How We Chose the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls
To pick the best gifts for 13-year-old girls, we scoured the internet for popular items trending on TikTok (ahem, Stanley tumbler) and practical gifts that any tween would love (i.e. the classic Squishmallow). We also chose gifts from a wide range of prices and interests, from the girly girl to the athletic one. That way you can get the perfect thing for your sister/daughter/niece/cousin.
Where to Buy the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls
If you’re in a pinch for a last-minute gift, Amazon is a great place to shop for quick, two-day shipping. However, for more special gifts, we recommend brands such as Aerie, Lululemon and Uncommon Goods which is where many of the gifts on this list are from.
- Why We Love It: fun accessories, instant memories, cute design
- Return Policy: 90 days
While smartphones have the ability to snap a digital pic, there’s something special about getting an instant photo. Girls can use them to make mems at sleepover or sleepaway camp and can write down the date in Sharpie to preserve the memory. This Fujifilm Instax pack also comes with 40 film sheets, a carrying case and photo albums to make documenting good times even easier.
- Why We Love It: custom, different bristles, fun
- Return Policy: 30 days
Now this is a brush fit for Rapunzel herself. Your giftee will want to spend her entire day brushing her locks with a personalized hairbrush. Choose between various colors and font sizes that will make for a brush that is truly one-of-a-kind. Just note that it will take up to eight weeks for it to be made and delivered.
- Why We Love It: astrology themed, comfortable, high quality
- Return Policy: 30 days
Give your girl a lift and a homage to her sun sign with these cute slides from Reef. Coming in 12 different hues that correspond to astrology symbols, these vegan leather shoes will be the talk of the hallway. They have a 1.75-inch sole for some solid height but are still comfortable enough to wear throughout the school day.
- Why We Love It: vintage aesthetic, multiple colors, wheels
- Return Policy: 90 days
Yes, rollerskating is back, and it is better than ever with fun colors and cute names to complement them. Moxi skates are adjustable and built for a smooth and speedy roll with a snug fit, padded tongue, and extra padding at the ankle. You may want to supervise her first few rolls just to be safe.
- Why We Love It: holographic, clear, good size
- Return Policy: 90 days
She can add some flair to the clear bag she needs for school dances or concerts, thanks to this design’s holographic sheen. This PVC purse measures 8.6 by 6 inches and can fit her phone, lip gloss and house keys while still being able to double check that they’re still inside.
- Why We Love It: portable, fun colors, hours of use
- Return Policy: 90 days
Your gamer girl can easily take their favorite games to slumber parties or on long car rides with the more portable Nintendo Switch Lite. It offers all the games that the larger console offers, just with the inability to play on the big screen. The handheld console is still perfect for Animal Crossing and Pokemon Violet and is light enough (and small enough) to whip out at a moment's notice.
- Why We Love It: comfortable, cool, classic style
- Return Policy: 30 days
Whether she’s an actual athlete or not, she will feel cool in this varsity crewneck sweatshirt from Gap. Made of soft recycled polyester, all they will need to complete the athleisure look is a baseball cap and flared leggings (see below).
- Why We Love It: unique, scientific, syncs with app so you can use your phone as remote
- Return Policy: 90 days
The only thing better than a slumber party with besties is a slumber party under the stars. This unique projector makes it possible using a direct diode laser, precision glass optics and holographic technologies to create the illusion of a spacey sky. The included app allows them to swap light effects and adjust brightness for an out of this world experience.
- Why We Love It: Netflix series, age appropriate, sweet
- Return Policy: 90 days
Shecan really dive into the thoughts and feelings of Laura Jean in the best-selling three part series To All The Boys I Loved Before. The books are phenomenally written, and now she can finally say that the books are better than the Netflix series.
- Why We Love It: multiple colors, funky, inexpensive
- Return Policy: 90 days
Any Swiftie will need to calm down when they get a glimpse of these sunglasses. They’re the perfect thing to jazz up their Eras outfit or just wear out. Available in 31 different colors, they’re the ideal summer accessory that they’ll want to share with friends.
- Why We Love It: regulation, durable, easy-access front pouch
- Return Policy: 30 days
Concerts and stadiums have specific regulations when it comes to bags, but this fanny will work for your budding music fan. It fits right in with Gen Z style and is large enough to hold a phone, keys, wallet and more. Plus, it’s waterproof for a good beach, amusement park or pool bag, too.
- Why We Love It: colorful, comfortable, good lift
- Return Policy: case-by-case
She’ll be the belle of the middle school gymnasium with these adorable platforms. Age-appropriate, it provides a solid lift and has a cushioned footbed so she won’t be aching to take them off at the end of the night. The lavender and pink options definitely fit that ‘90s “vintage” aesthetic that tweens these days are looking for.
- Why We Love It: 40-ounce, trendy, multiple colors
- Return Policy: 90 days
She’s seen it on TikTok and she definitely wants a ginormous Stanley Quencher tumbler of her own. Holding a whopping 40 ounces of water, it will ensure that she’s hydrated while the stainless steel insulation will ensure her drink will be ice cold throughout the day. Available in a multitude of hues, these have sold out super fast—so she’ll be delighted to finally get one.
- Why We Love It: snaps easily, portable, unique
- Return Policy: 90 days
This device is all the rage among Instagrammers and TikTokers alike because it snaps right onto a smartphone for instant access to a small ring light. It quickly flips up for an illuminating glow, so she can immediately level up her selfies without bulky equipment. It also fits into a small travel pouch, so she can capture great creator content anywhere.
- Why We Love It: funny, useful, wireless
- Return Policy: 30 days
Celebs like Kirsten Bell are obsessed with this banana phone—and the 13-year-old in your life will be too. It may seem silly (and that’s the point), but this Bluetooth device connects to their smartphone as a wireless headset for very important calls. Here’s hoping she’ll finally give you a ring with it.
- Why We Love It: different, best friends, sweet
- Return Policy: Contact if damaged
This is a sweet take on traditional heart-shaped friendship necklaces. Instead, the two halves of a sun make up the sunrise and sunset for the days they’ll share to come. Available in gold, rose gold and silver options, the finishes are long lasting (just like their friendship).
- Why We Love It: useful, cheeky, easy read
- Return Policy: 90
Think of this as the modern-day American Girl Care and Keeping of You. Filled with helpful advice from study tips to navigating mean girls, the Teen Girl's Survival Guide is a great gift for a nervous middle school. It’s also a great read to go through together (and provides an opp to offer your own advice!).
- Why We Love It: comfortable, deflatable, fun look
- Return Policy: 15 days
Great for the pool or just lounging around, this floating chair will be fought over by friends. It has a mid-century modern tufted look to it, which also makes it stable and comfortable. Measuring 62 inches long and 48 inches wide, it can fit several tweens and is easy to inflate and deflate.
- Why We Love It: trendy, comfortable, durable
- Return Policy: 60 days
They may be considered a little “basic” but these white sneakers are popular for a reason, and have been worn by Kylie Jenner and Addison Rae. Nike Air Forces have a clean look to them and go with pretty much any outfit — dressy or otherwise. It’s the first step to an influencer-approved outfit.
- Why We Love It: high-waisted, flared, trendy
- Return Policy: No limit
With a high-waisted crossover top and a flared bottom, these leggings are the ultimate on trend. This take on the classic yoga pants feel a little more vintage to tweens, the material is buttery soft and perfect for gym class. She may never want to take them off.
- Why We Love It: “vintage” feel, zoom, digital
- Return Policy: 90 days
Despite having their own smartphones, teens are back to the basics of documenting everything on a digital camera. There’s something so old-school about it. The Canon PowerShot has been sold out for months because of this “new” style of photo taking, meaning you’ll be an unsung hero. It offers 12 times optical zoom, 1080p HD video and can connect to Wi-Fi for photo sharing.
- Why We Love It: quirky, easy to apply, fun patterns
- Return Policy: 30 days
Nail art is all the rage these days, but it can be extremely expensive and damaging on the nails. She can achieve the same effect with Chillhouse press-ons. They’re easy to apply and there are so many patterns to pick from.
- Why We Love It: chunky, affordable, gold finish
- Return Policy: 30 days
A solid pair of hoops are essential for any girl’s jewelry arsenal. These chunky hoops strike the perfect balance between affordable and fashionable until she gets old enough for solid gold ones.
- Why We Love It: multiple colors, trendy, hold a lot
- Return Policy: 30 days
Anyone who’s anyone has a Lululemon belt bag. They’re stylish, come in tons of colors and hold up to a liter of stuff (think phone, wallet, keys, even a Kindle). The additional small zipper pocket is perfect for stashing away lip gloss. Just note the trendy way to wear these is across the chest rather than around the waist.
- Why We Love It: complete kit, long lasting, fun
- Return Policy: case by case
Olive & June is known for their long-lasting nail hues and a great choice for a tween to mix up their polish. But you can go above and beyond by getting them the complete mani system. It comes with a mani box, cuticle system, clean up brush, polish remover, nail clipper, nail buffer, nail file and top coat — all of which are essential for the perfect nail painting party.
- Why We Love It: popular, powerful, easy to use
- Return Policy: 90 days
Doing your hair at 13 is a challenge. Throughout puberty, stands are acting wonky as hormones flush through her body. But with the cult-favorite hair dryer brush with more than 100,000 reviews you can take one stress of being a tween off her place. It has the power to give her a great blowout in 20 minutes, so she can have the perfect ‘do before it’s time to leave for school.
- Why We Love It: cute style, moisture-wicking, hidden shorts pocket for essentials
- Return Policy: 45 days
It’s a dress with built-in shorts. It’s ingenious. This dress has overtaken the internet because of its uber-comfortable, quick-drying fabric that’s made to move in. The patterns are super fun and the shorts even have a pocket to stash a phone in. The only qualm might be it can be a bit of a challenge to go to the bathroom.
- Why We Love It: glows, fun wall art, allows for personalization/self-expression
- Return Policy: 90 days
With all the Polaroids she’s taking (see No. 1), she’ll want a cool place to display them. These string lights measure 17 feet long and feature 50 fairy lights alongside clips to hold precious memories. It will be her new favorite piece of decor.
- Why We Love It: quirky, nice glow, eye-catching
- Return Policy: 30 days
All her friends will be asking “what’s that”? upon seeing this unique table lamp. Shaped like a mushroom, it offers a nice glow for nighttime reading or Facetiming her BFFs. The funky shape would blend into any boho bedroom and measure just 9 inches tall.
- Why We Love It: adorable, collectible, snuggly
- Return Policy: 90 days
The love for Squishmallows extends to all ages, which is why she’ll still adore getting this cult-favorite stuffed animal. They provide the perfect amount of softness and plushness for comforting and snuggles. Plus, who doesn’t want to say they have a Bunnycorn?
- Why We Love It: comfy, multiple colors, warm
- Return Policy: 90 days
This wearable blanket is the best thing for binge watching the next season of Wednesday or Outer Banks. Coming in the size of a men’s 5XL sweatshirt and made of soft sherpa, they’ll never complain of the A/C temperature again. Warning: You may have to ask them to take it off before running errands together.
- Why We Love It: trendy, comfortable, customizable
- Return Policy: 45 days
Crocs have superseded and maintained their popularity since the pandemic, and they will always make for a good gift. With dozens of colors to choose from and a solid no-slip sole they’re the perfect so-ugly-they’re-cute footwear. Add in a few jibbitz and you’re good to go.
- Why We Love It: cozy, popular, stylish
- Return Policy: 30 days
Ugg Ultra Minis were thee gift of the 2022 holiday season, and were nearly impossible to nab. But you can now make her dreams come true with a pair right now. Fitted with Uggs classes sherpa interior and non-slip sole, these shorter classics teeter between a slipper and boot. Get a pair before they sell out!
- Why We Love It: portable, good quality, easy to use
- Return Policy: 90 days
The only thing better than watching Stargirl is watching Stargirl on a projector. This one has 1080p full HD resolution for a clear picture and produces a screen up to 200 inches wide. Just hang up a bedsheet, throw in some bean bags and pop some popcorn for the ultimate sleepover. It’s portable, too, so she can easily bring it to her friends for a movie night.
- Why We Love It: stuffie, donation, educational
- Return Policy: Not available
The future zookeeper in your life will be obsessed with these animals. Not only does she get an adorable plushie, but she also gets a certificate of adoption for creatures like Harbor Seal or Common Loon. Plus, each purchase makes a direct donation to the corresponding rescue group, such as the Marine Mammal Center or International Bird Rescue. It’s truly a special gift.
36. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
amazon
- Why We Love It: fun, competitive, age appropriate
- Return Policy: 90 days
Forget Apples to Apples, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is the hottest card game on the market. Gameplay is simple: Be the first to slap the card that corresponds with the spoken word. The only challenge is a few mind games to trip you up. Fast-paced and hilarious, the whole family will love playing this.
- Why We Love It: personalized, good scent, long burn time
- Return Policy: 90 days
There might not be a more personalized gift than this. The Birthdate Candle pairs your recipient’s DOB with a delightful scent and insights into their star sign, like their ruling planets and personal strengths. Each of the 365 candles has a 60 to 80 hour burn time and makes for a truly special gift for any astrology lover.
- Why We Love It: multiple pockets, lightweight, stylish
- Return Policy: Case by case
If she seems to be at a different friend’s house each weekend, she needs a bag to tote all her stuff and slumber accessories. This 22-liter weekend bag has an impressive nine pockets and a shoe compartment. The material is both lightweight and scratch resistant, so she can stuff it full without it being too heavy.
- Why We Love It: packable, comfortable, practical
- Return Policy: 90 days
Forget sleeping bags, this floor lounger is next level for sleepovers or a comfortable place to work on crafts on the floor. It’s made of five super comfortable pillows, making it both comfortable and easy to fold up when not in use. It comes in 12 colors and can be easily pulled out for when friends come over.
- Why We Love It: cute, comforting, practical
- Return Policy: 90 days
Puberty can be a weird, confusing and crampy time. Luckily, these pillows provide some comfort during trying times. Double as a microwavable heating pad, they come in cute shapes, such as a llama, avocado, pizza and sloth, white relieving cramps during their period. When they aren’t using it as a heating pad, they can just display it on their bed like any other stuffed animal.
- Why We Love It: cute, easy to follow, fun
- Return Policy: 14 days
This could be the cutest way to learn a new craft skill. The Woobles crochet kit comes with everything she needs to make cute critters (like this narwhal) with all the yarn and tools, as well as easy-to-follow video tutorials. Once she’s done, she’ll have something she can proudly display and brag about.
- Why We Love It: cute shapes, good scents, relaxing
- Return Policy: 30
Bath time is better when bath balls are involved. These sweet ones are shaped like ice cream scoops that smell like their favorite flavors. The cherry on top? Each one can help relax them and moisturize their skin with ingredients like cocoa and shea butters.
- Why We Love It: crochet style, comfy, stylish
- Return Policy: No limit
These flowy shorts are peak comfort and style. Perfect for a beach trip or lounging around, the crochet bottoms feature pops of color along hems and have an elastic waistband for easy slip on. Pair with a matching sweatshirt for the ultimate summer set.
- Why We Love It: simple, easy to set up pretty
- Return Policy: 90 days
Nothing provides a magical room aesthetic quite like fairy lights. These ones are a whopping 164 feet long to cover her entire ceiling with 500 bright micro LEDs. Using the included remote, she can adjust 10 different brightness levels and three modes (flash, strobe and fade). She’ll be grateful for the immediate room transformation.
Why You Should Trust Us
Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.
PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
