The festive season is upon us – and with it, the delights and terrors of finding the perfect presents for your loved ones, liked ones and contractually obliged ones.

There’s no need to spend December tearing around the shops in a panic, though. These apps make shopping seamless, simple and fun – as it’s surely supposed to be.

Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts, stocking up on seasonal essentials or splurging on a well-earned treat for yourself, the right app can turn holiday shopping into a moment of joy.

Online shopping has evolved far beyond having hundreds of tabs open in your browser. The best retail and resale apps make shopping seamless, simple and fun – as it’s surely supposed to be.

Whether you’re hunting down vintage gems, managing your weekly grocery shop or jumping on that trend everyone’s talking about, the App Store has every kind of shopping experience you could possibly want.

Looking for something unique, creative or perfectly tailored to you? Social platforms have become the places to find inspiration and then act on it with a few swipes.

Find the latest must-haves, curate your own mood boards or even try on products virtually using AR – it’s all possible in the social marketplace.

If your wish list includes anything and everything, make these all-in-one shopping destinations your next stop. From everyday essentials to the hilarious gift you had no idea existed, hard-to-find household items to unique handmade pieces, you’ll find it all with the right search term.

There’s always something special about a present with a history – especially when you’ve nabbed it for a price you’re happy with. Resale apps offer a wonderfully sustainable way of shopping, too.

From designer handbags to retro streetwear, barely-worn children’s clothing and rare collectibles, you can find almost anything you can think of. If you want to make a little cash, too, you can always use the platforms to give your own pre-loved items a new lease of life.

There’s no need to traipse down to town only to find the thing you wanted isn’t available in your size. Shop the biggest names on the high street via their apps, which connect the digital and in-store experience seamlessly.

Browse the full collections, check which items are in stock, save your favourites – and earn loyalty rewards while you shop. You don’t even need to carry the bags home.

Sometimes retail therapy deserves a little couture. If you’re looking for timeless luxury, statement style or a plum seat on the digital front row, these curated platforms can elevate the experience.

Shop trusted sellers and the chicest global boutiques in elegant spaces that feature the latest runway collections, limited-edition collections, pre-owned pieces from coveted brands – and the occasional designer steal, too.