weird things we love

Things That Look a Lot Like Other Things (That Make Great Gifts)

So realistic. So bizarre. So wonderful.

Things that look a lot like other things will never cease to make us extremely happy. They also, in a pinch, make a wonderful gift when you are totally stumped as to what to get someone. Your co-worker Jimmy one time mentioned while waiting in line at Chipotle that he wished they served shrimp? Get him a shrimp-shaped neck pillow! Your niece Jane just got into photography and you can’t afford to get her a fancy camera? Get her a camera-lens-shaped travel mug! You literally don’t know anything about your mother-in-law? She will surely be delighted by a blueberry-muffin-shaped candle. Below, the best, most realistic trompe l’oeil–esque items (many of which are from Japan) that you can buy on Amazon.

Looks like: A hotdog.
Is actually: A coin purse.

Looks like: a slice of bacon
Is actually: a Band-aid.

Looks like: a cocktail
Is actually: a tape dispenser

Looks like: a baguette.
Is actually: a keyboard cushion.

Looks like: a peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich.
Is actually: a pouch for toting around school supplies, makeup, or phone and computer chargers.

Looks like: a pineapple.
Is actually: a doorstop.

Looks like: a poached egg atop several slabs of bacon.
Is actually: a phone case.

Looks like: a Sprite bottle cap.
Is actually: lip balm.

Looks like: cabbage.
Is actually: a pencil case — that would make an amazing clutch.

$16

Looks like: a shrimp.
Is actually: a travel pillow.

Looks like: a bar of chocolate.
Is actually: a flash memory stick.

Looks like: a slice of toast.
Is actually: a cat bed.

Looks like: a sushi sampler.
Is actually: a set of erasers.

Looks like: a blueberry crumble muffin.
Is actually: a candle.

Looks like: a tree ring.
Is actually: an area rug.

Looks like: a classic New York slice.
Is actually: a nightlight.

Looks like: some Brie.
Is actually: a stress-reliever toy.

Looks like: a burrito.
Is actually: a “digital wrap” meant to keep your cords organized.

Looks like: a potato.
Is actually: a (plastic) potato. Would make a nice desk accessory, or pet potato.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans, rolling luggage, bed sheets, coffee makers, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Things That Look Like Other Things That Make Great Gifts