Kicking this years Gift Guides off with the most requested – gift for him (they always seem to be the most difficult to shop for!). In addition to a round up of pieces that are sure to make him smile, I’ve also provide a little insight into how I approach gifts for hard-to-shop-for fellows.
Obviously gift giving is personal and will always vary based on hobbies, interests and budget, but over the years, I’ve developed a few fail-safe gifting strategies that work particularly well when it comes to shopping. It might seem over-simplified, but it always seems to work!
Skincare – I know this sounds weird because, societally, most men aren’t as interested in skincare as women, but sometimes all it takes a little nudge. I think sometimes men don’t know where to start when it comes to skincare because, again, societally, most men aren’t taught how to take care of their skin at a young age. And honestly, the skincare market can be overwhelming! Keep it simple, 2-3 steps max, and a lower price point.
Gifts Around A Beverage – Typically coffee, beer, wine, and liquor are sure to drum up some interest with the men in your life, and if not, then skip over this. Within each of those categories are tons of tools, glassware (swoon), and useful gifts that are sure to make his cup or glass of whatever more enjoyable.
Quality Basics – Clothes can be tricky for men, but sticking to timeless classics and essentials like t-shirts, loungewear, pajamas (I’ve been contemplating trying Lahgo for Chris), hoodies, socks, and boxers in neutrals and earth tones is always safe. The key is keeping in mind his lifestyle. Lot’s of options below!
Things He Already Loves – Seems obvious, but often overlooked. If you know his favorite cologne and he’s running low give him another bottle, or a travel size. If he wears the same sweatshirt and joggers 24/7, get him another set in a different color.
Leather Accessories – Belts and wallets – two things he probably uses on a daily basis. This is another one that can be tricky, but easier when sticking to the basics. Stick to shades of brown and black in smooth or pebbled leather and suede with either silver or gold hardware.
Outside of that, below you’ll find a smattering of more lovely gifts, both small and large, across a range of price points, a few Chris-approved retailers and brands that he loves to peruse, and a handful of items that Chris owns and loves from smaller brands and boutiques. Happy gifting!
xo – S & C
Favorite Retailers and Brands
Mr. Porter, Todd Snyder, Octobre, Faherty, Buck Mason, Private White, The Armoury, A.P.C., Officine General, Mack Weldon, Outerknown, AMI Paris, Hartford, Asket, ShopBop, Sid Mashburn, MatchesFashion
A few other items that Chris loves from smaller brands and boutiques.
This merino turtleneck and long-sleeved polo from Asket.
The bi-fold and zip wallet from Il Busseto. (We paid a visit to their studio when we were in Florence a few years back where got a monogrammed “taco” and I got a monogrammed case for my glasses. The brand holds a little spot in our heart!)
According to Chris, this Sid Mashburn polo (he has in several colors) “doesn’t have the tennis sleeves, so it’s a cleaner look on the arm, and has a reinforced collar so it doesn’t get bacon collar”. Well I learned a new fashion term today…
This suede jacket from Octobre is a fantastic investment and great value given what I’ve seen elsewhere online. Chris wears it all the time (of course when it’s not raining…). He also picked up this chunky white sweater earlier this year which I have already stollen and worn twice. If you ask me, Octobre is a great value when it comes to price point, quality and eco-friendly initiatives.
Industry of All Nations sweats. They’re not only super cozy, but beautiful pieces that can easily be worn out of the house and look put together. Overall IOAN is a great brand with a solid supply chain and environmentally conscious production practices.
Happy Holidays!
