The Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls for All Occasions

Our favorite picks from Pleasing, Nintendo, Uncommon Goods, and more

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The Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls for All Occasions

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

If you are looking for the perfect gift to celebrate a 13-year-old girl, there are tons of options out there that'll suit her style.

We researched the best gift options, considering the recommended age and educational value of each. Our list includes personalized jewelry from Kendra Scott, classic sneakers from Vans, and a new polaroid camera from Fujifilm to capture all of her favorite memories.

Here, the best gifts for a 13-year-old girl.

Our Top Picks

Kendra Scott Elisa Birthstone Pendant Necklace

4.6
Kendra Scott Necklace

Nordstrom

Welcome your teenager to a new era of her life with a piece of jewelry she’ll treasure forever. The Elisa Birthstone Pendant Necklace is a delicate and beautiful birthstone necklace that strikes a balance between grown-up style and a youthful accessory. The actual necklace chain is made from 14k plated gold with a portrait-shaped pendant that holds the birthstone. The gold ensures the chain will keep its color and shine over time. It measures 15 ½ inches long and sits just at the collarbone. There are about two inches of slack for you to adjust the size so it sits perfectly on your chest.

Users love the quality of this pendant, making it Kendra Scott's number one best seller. It is important to note that the look of the stones may differ slightly than what appears on the website. Each stone is different and unique.

Price at time of publish: $55

Pleasing The Shroom Bloom Set

Pleasing The Shroom Bloom Set

Pleasing

Combine Harry Styles, nail polish, and adorable designs, and you get the perfect gift for any teen girl. The musician's new line features skincare products and fun nail polish colors that come in beautiful glass jars with dome-shaped caps. The new collection features four bright yet versatile colors perfect for manicures at home or for bringing to parties and sleepovers.

Price at time of publish: $65

Mixtiles Framed Moveable Wall Art

Mixtiles

Courtesy of Mixtile

Thirteen is the year of best friends, sleepovers, and memories that will last forever. But these days, every image lives only on a phone or a computer. Instead of worrying that your child’s favorite pictures will disappear during that next inevitable phone crash, surprise her with Mixtiles. These adorable prints allow you to turn any photo into affordable wall art that can be moved around at the drop of a hat. Each tile is 8 x 8 inches and sticks directly to your wall, so you don’t have to worry about nail damage. They can be moved around over and over, so they’re perfect for helping your indecisive 13-year-old decorate her room. 

Print out pictures of your teenager’s BFFs or her favorite pup...either way, she’ll love seeing her pictures the old-fashioned way: printed out. Help her create her very own gallery wall or print just a couple to place above a desk or vanity.

Brother P-Touch PTD215E Embellish

Brother P-Touch PTD215E Embellish

Courtesy of Walmart

Brother is a leading brand in crafting and sewing machines, but can often involve a big splurge. For teens that love crafting and embellishing, this Brother P-Touch machine is a perfect starting machine for her to use her creativity. She can easily personalize ribbon or washi tape for unique additions to gift wrapping, labels, or scrapbooking. Perfect for parties, she will love using her imagination and the compatible Bluetooth software to create her own designs for everything in her life.

Price at time of publish: $60

Fjällräven Kånken Mini Classic Backpack

 Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack

Courtesy of Amazon

If you happen to walk through a middle school hallway anytime soon, you’re likely to spot a handful of Fjällräven backpacks. These trendy backpacks are on the top of every teen’s gift list and they’re a great choice if your 13-year-old is in need of a new backpack.

We love the Fjällräven Kånken Mini because it’s compact, sturdy, and stylish. The backpack measures 11 x 8.25 inches wide and is small enough to go from the classroom to the mall without feeling cumbersome. It comes in a plethora of fun colors and features the brand’s trademark fox logo on the outside pocket. It has a side zipper for a water bottle and a front pocket for extra storage, and the adjustable padded shoulders ensure a comfortable fit. 

Price at time of publish: $70

shoeslocker Cozy Memory Foam Slippers

shoeslocker Cozy Memory Foam Slippers

shoeslocker

A pair of fluffy slippers is a must for lounging at home or even running errands. These from shoeslocker are a perfect pick with a memory foam lining that makes these super comfortable for hours on end. They come in four cute colors and have a rubber sole, so you can even wear them outside. The ultra-soft fleece lining ensures that your feet stay cozy and warm during the warmer months without getting too sweaty year round.

Vans Old Skool Core Classics

vans-old-skool

Courtesy of Zappos

The Vans Old Skool Core Classics are perfect for teenagers who want something cool and comfortable, and they're versatile enough to transition from the classroom to weekend excursions with friends. These canvas shoes feature a padded collar and footbed for superior comfort and shock absorption. They come in five different colors so you can let her choose her favorite color or surprise her with something new. They run true-to-size, but go up half a size for a looser fit. Keep in mind that they don’t provide as much arch support as a traditional athletic shoe, but they’re definitely comfortable enough to wear throughout the day.

Price at time of publish: $70

Etsy Angel Aura Crystal Sun Catcher

Etsy Angel Aura Crystal Sun Catcher

Etsy

A super cool and handmade piece of bedroom decor is always a great gift idea. This 20-inch sun catcher features a simple moon covered in beautiful crystals. When placed near a window, the gems reflect light and cast rainbows all around her room for a functional and beautiful gift that she will appreciate every day. Go a bit further and research the crystals included in this sun catcher to discover their meanings and healing properties.

PopSockets Collapsible Grip & Stand

PopSockets

Amazon

If your teenager doesn’t already own a PopSocket for her phone, now’s the time. It’s almost a teenage requirement to have an endless supply of fun PopSockets. This collapsible, circular phone accessory sticks to the back of a smartphone and allows for easy grip during those endless text sessions. It also acts as a stand, but most importantly helps to prevent accidental phone drops. The Blue Nebula design has a fun, galaxy-inspired print, but it comes in a wide variety of designs and colors. It weighs just about .5 ounces and collapses flat against any phone.

A PopSocket makes watching YouTube videos and texting friends a little easier and reduces hand strain. Whether you pair a PopSocket with a new phone or you gift it alone, your 13-year-old will love this handy cell phone accessory.

Price at time of publish: $10

Nintendo Switch

4.5
nintendo-switch

Walmart

The gamer in your life will love the Nintendo Switch (if they don't already have one). She can play thousands of games either solo with the handheld device or with friends on the television with extra controllers. With multiple ways to play, she will never get bored trying out new games and play modes. Consider getting her started with her first games, whether she prefers The Legend of Zelda or Animal Crossing.

Price at time of publish: $300

Carine Fabius Natural Henna Temporary Tattoo Freestyle Kit

Natural Henna Temporary Tattoo Freestyle Kit

Courtesy of Uncommon Goods

When you’re a teenager nothing is more fun than experimenting with beauty products with your best friends. We love this Natural Henna Temporary Tattoo Freestyle Kit because it’s a unique gift that lets your 13-year-old explore her creative side. This kit helps create temporary henna body art tattoos that last up to ten days. It comes with enough henna to create 20-30 designs, plus stencils and an applicator bottle to create endless looks. Mix one ounce of henna powder to create a paste, and apply all over for a temporary and fun activity that’s perfect for birthday parties and sleepovers.   

Reviewers say this henna is easy to apply and lasts about a week. It’s all natural and safe, and the included stencils are perfect if you don't want to freestyle it.

Price at time of publish: $25

Quay Australia High Key Sunglasses

Quay Australia High Key Sunglasses

Quay Australia

A fashionable pair of sunglasses is a must-have accessory for the summer, but they often get broken or lost after a few months. Quay Australia offers trendy and high-quality shades without the super high price tag, so your teen won't feel bad if they need a new pair every season. The High Key style mimics a classic aviator, but comes in 17 colors and three sizes to perfectly fit your teen's face and style. She can even get prescription sunglasses or blue-light glasses in the same style.

Price at time of publish: $75

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9

4.8
Fujifilm Instax

Walmart

Now that your 13-year-old is firmly a teenager, we’re sure there will be endless school dances, first dates, sleepovers, and mall outings that she’ll want to remember. Help her create lasting memories with a Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera. This compact camera instantly prints out Polaroid-style prints small enough to fit in your pocket. Each print measures 2.4 x 1.8 inches and is perfect for hanging on mirrors or inside lockers. Despite its small size this polaroid features an automatic exposure, a LED flash, and a close-up lens adapter. It comes in five bright colors and is small enough to toss in a backpack or purse.

Price at time of publish: $69

What Testers Say

"If you’re looking for a fun and portable camera that’s easy to use and takes great-quality instant photos, look no further than the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9. Even though its film is expensive, the camera itself is a good value and is the perfect way to capture memories from a party or event with family and friends."—Avery Stone, Product Tester

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

LAXIZAR 8 Pack Hair Claw Clips

LAXIZAR 8 Pack Hair Claw Clips

LAXIZAR

For the teen who is always trying new hairstyles, a pack of stylish claw clips will be a welcome present. This pack features eight clips that come in fun patterns and colors for coordinating with her outfits or adding a pop of color to a school uniform or sporty look. She will love experimenting with different styles and hair trends with this versatile accessory.

Price at time of publish: $10

Hippie Rose Juniors' Full-Zip Hoodie

Hippie Rose Juniors' Full-Zip Hoodie

Hippie Rose

No matter your teen girl's style, a classic zip-up hoodie is a staple in any closet. Whether lounging around her house, going to school, or heading to sport's practice, this lightweight hoodie adds a comfy layer to any outfit and cuts off right at the hips for a fashionable and flattering fit. It comes in four neutral colors to match multiple outfits or purchase the matching tank and leggings for a full sporty stress-free look.

Uncommon Goods Bubble Tea Kit

Uncommon Goods Bubble Tea Kit

Uncommon Goods

For a fun bonding activity you and your teen can complete together, look to a trendy and delicious cooking set like this Bubble Tea Kit from Uncommon Goods. This kit comes with two types of tea and tapioca pearls along with helpful instructions to create your own bubble tea right at home. Even better, two reusable stainless steel straws are included—a necessity for slurping boba at home or on-the-go.

Price at time of publish: $40

Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7)

Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7)

Courtesy of Amazon

Whether your 13-year-old is a big reader or loves the Harry Potter movie series, they will love owning all of the Harry Potter books in this stylish box set. She can read (and reread) the seven books as she dives into the magical world of Hogwarts with Harry, Hermione, and Ron. Introduce her to the wizarding world before watching the movies or gift her the full set for endless rereading. The set also makes a stylish bookshelf accessory.

Price at time of publish: $39

Pura Vida Bracelet Club

Pura Vida Bracelet Club

Pura Vida

If your teen loves jewelry, they will love this bracelet themed subscription box from Pura Vida. Every month, she will receive three exclusive bracelets and a cute sticker, as well as access to major sales and launches on the site. She can pick her bracelets every month or leave it to chance for a surprise set every single month. You can choose to pay monthly or purchase the subscription for six or twelve months for a further discount, so you can pick the plan that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

Price at time of publish: $11/month for 12 months

GerTong 6.3'' Ring Light for Computer

Ring light

Amazon

Perfect for online school, taking selfies, or filming videos, a ring light is a must-have for tech-obsessed teens. This pick comes with a clip for a laptop for tablet as well as a mini tripod for resting on tables or desks. This is a great pick for a budding photographer, a lover of TikTok dances, or the teen who wants to start their own YouTube channel.

Price at time of publish: $16

GameWright Splurt

4.5
GameWright Splurt

GameWright

Splurt! is a hilarious party games perfect for birthday parties, sleepovers, or family game night that your teen will love. To play, simply flip over a pink card with a category (such as a movie star) and a black card with a letter and its placement (beginning with J). Then, player race to shout out an answer that fits those categories (for example, Julia Roberts) and whoever shouts first, wins. Collect the most cards at the end to become the winner. Teens can play for hours and hours, picking new combinations of cards every time for infinite replayability.

Price at time of publish: $10

What to Look For in Gifts For 13-Year Old Girls

Recommended Age

Fashionista 13-year-old girls can be difficult to please, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Look at the latest trends and fashion statements to make sure that your clothing or accessory gift is age-appropriate. You can also incorporate your new teen in picking out the color or style.

While considering age appropriateness, also look beyond the expected makeup and fashion activities. Chuck English, Virginia STEM Coordinator at the Science Museum of Virginia, cautions that sticking only to these types of gifts may be limiting. “We need to open it up so that people don’t feel like this is for my gender only,” he says. Following your teen’s unique interests is the best way to go.

Safety

If you haven’t already talked about online safety with your 13-year-old girl, now is the time. Gifting her with a fun tech accessory is a great way to bring up the conversation and make sure that she knows what to do if she ever feels unsafe, either online or in person.

Educational Value

No matter what interests your 13-year-old girl has, there’s a gift to help her develop that talent. If she’s musical, consider a new instrument for her to learn. For the creative kids, decor or tech to allow her to express herself are perfect. Anything that helps her learn a new skill or further develop an interest she already has is perfect.

FAQ
  • What do you get a 13-year-old girl for Christmas?

    Some 13-year-old girls are into sports, others love ballet, reading, baking, science, photography, or music. Look for a gift that will validate her interests and help her enjoy her hobbies. When buying fashion or beauty-related gifts, keep in mind that the birthday girl’s taste and trends can change overnight, so when in doubt, don’t try to be a mind reader and ask her what she wants. 

  • What can you do for a 13-year-old girl’s birthday?

    Some 13-year-olds like to celebrate their big day with a party that includes the whole class, a theme, and lots of fanfare. Others might prefer a quiet dinner with the family or a few close friends. Becoming a teenager is an emotional process and birthdays can trigger a lot of feelings, so involving the birthday girl in planning the birthday celebration is a good way to make sure she’s celebrating the way that feels good to her.

  • What is an appropriate makeup gift for a 13-year-old girl?

    At age 13, some girls will begin experimenting with makeup, while others are already pros. The best makeup gifts for 13-year-old girls include current trends they’re following on TikTok or YouTube. Some makeup brands have starter kits with colorful palettes of eyeshadows and lip glosses that are perfect for teens. These sets are great because they keep everything organized for easy storage. For the best gifts, look for high quality products that are hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. 

Why Trust the Spruce?

This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She's also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product roundups, interviews with expert-focused articles, and more.

Additional reporting was done by Shanon Maglente who both has experience writing gift guides and best-of product roundups across categories like textiles, beauty, appliances, and home.

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