Em, it depends on who are giving it too la... the person before mention those brand names and they are great. It would be better if you can get them at outlet stores too.... (LA and in Las Vegas) half way to Las Vegas there is a great outlet and their Coach factory outlet has a lot of selection.
brands I would recommend: Coach, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Levis, Nike, Timberland, Ralph Lauren Polo etc....
Cosmetics: Kiehl's (this brand is great!!!!!! and you can get samples too) Clinque, and other american brands like Estee Lauder, Lancome... get these brands at the outlet too as they are 30-40% cheaper!
For food I recommend dried fruit preservatives....