I’m Using Bowen Yang’s “S” Rule to Find the Best Holiday Gifts at Marshalls

Celebs feel the same pressure that you probably do when it comes to shopping for holiday gifts. Some of them just have a more can-do attitude about it than others, and no one brings more wit and humor to the gifting game than actors and podcasters Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, the comedic duo behind the Las Culturistas podcast.

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That’s exactly why Rogers and Yang were tapped by Marshalls to collaborate on “It’s Giving Gifts!” a Marshalls-branded holiday gift guide that’s thoughtful and thought-provoking – not just run-of-the-mill gifts that end up in the “regift ” or “donate” pile at the end of the season. The categories are clever and so descriptive for people you probably know and shop for (think: “the best gifts for the homebody who loves their sourdough starter more than you and you have accepted that” or “the best gifts for the host who insists you bring nothing, but nothing is code for “bring something good, or else …”).

I got a chance to interview Rogers and Yang about the project, and they shared some of their very best shopping tips. My favorite of their hacks? What we collectively decided should be called the “S” rule for holiday gifting (if you know me, you know I approach T.J. Maxx and Marshalls shopping like an Olympic sport and demand a solid strategy to score the best stuff). The “S” Rule, Yang says, is all about giving your people presents that are sensory experiences.

It could be a “pair of stilettos that go click click when you walk,” Yang says, or a candle that fills your home with an amazing scent. The “S” Rule includes anything that’s highly tactile, too, Rogers adds. So cozy sweaters and slippers are perfect.

I went ahead and scouted Marshalls for a few “S” rule picks that both Rogers and Yang would approve of. Shop them now and cross a few people off your holiday gift list.

Alicia Adams Alpaca Blend Wellington Luxury Throw
Marshalls
$80
“Don’t sleep on Marshalls’ home decor selection,” Rogers says. But your sister, brother, or cousin can sleep under this supersoft Alicia Adams alpaca blend throw. It’s the perfect piece for a weekend nap, and the scarlet plaid colorway feels festive without being an over-the-top holiday statement.
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Illume Candles Pine Sequoia Spruce Candle
Marshalls
$10
Yang says you can’t go wrong with gifting a candle to someone. This design will have a pretty luminary look as it burns, where the pine needle designs will glow as the wax recedes. It’ll throw notes of spruce and sequoia trees all around your space when it’s lit, which is perfect for the winter season.
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Minnetonka Suede Cafe Scuff Slippers
Marshalls
$25
Gifting shoes – and slippers, in particular – works well for the Las Culturistas hosts. That’s because once you know someone’s size, pairs will typically fit. These suede scuff slippers will make your bestie feel like she’s walking on a cloud.
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Bonnyhill Vitamin C Eye Patches, 60-Count
Marshalls
$8
Yang always hits the skincare section first at his local Marshalls, and items like masks, jade rollers, and peels are total “S” rule fodder. Just earlier this week, he told me he gave his nieces eye patches from the store when they all got ready for the Wicked: For Good premiere together.
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Lulla Collection Monochrome Striped Chunky Tassel Scarf
Marshalls
$15
The next best thing to a cozy blanket? A chunky scarf. Again, this cold-weather accessory can work for virtually anyone, and Marshalls stocks tons of sizes and colorways. So you’ll be able to find one that looks like your aunt or uncle … or whoever you want to give one to.
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