I don’t know about the men in your life, but the ones in mine are nearly impossible to shop for. Because I’ve never gotten anything other than “nothing” as an answer when asking “what do you want for Christmas this year?” I’m always left to get a little creative. If he can’t give you any ideas, maybe I can…
I have my go-to gifts every year — cigars and something golf or wine related for my dad, golf and coffee for the bf…but you can’t give the same gifts over and over again, right? So if you’re like me and a little stumped for what to get the man / men in your life, here’s quite a few options in a range of budgets, tastes and styles.
Let me start off by saying many of these gifts can go for the ladies too. Of course it’s not just the men who like to grill BUT if you know one that does, the Grill Master Complete Grilling Collection is pretty awesome. Four unique, bold spice blends PLUS it comes from Chicago…who doesn’t love something local AND delicious?!
Speaking of local (and moving in the complete opposite end of grilling), if you’re looking for the guy who loves fashion and accessories…a Just Don hat is the ultimate way to show you care 🙂 Especially obsessed with this exclusive style at Barneys right now.
What should have probably been included in last week’s Least Budget-Friendly Gifts is this badass customizable indoor putting green. If I had a little bit more space (and a lot more money) I’d get this for my boyfriend in a heartbeat (and maybe in return, I’d get to watch less of the Golf Channel).
For the guy who travels a lot (or you’re hinting at a vacation), a suitcase is the way to go. I was pretty set on fabric travel bags in the past but lately I’m all about the hard suitcase…and no one does it better than Rimowa.
If they prefer counting their steps rather than their airline miles, you can’t go wrong with a Fitbit. Just make sure it’s for him and not for you…you don’t want to send the wrong message (like accompanying this gift with a juice cleanse and gym membership…ouch).
Some men just prefer to keep it simple and practical (like the ones in my life). And for those guys, they can always use things like clothes. Although not super exciting, they’re the ones who appreciate a practical gift. And what’s more practical than a sweatshirt?
If you’re feeling a bit indecisive, a set basically makes the decision for you. One of my favorites this year is from The Tie Bar — this one at Nordstrom includes ties, socks and pocket squares — so then you can just pass the indecisiveness off to him next time he needs a stylish accessory. There’s also a ton more style box options on The Tie Bar website (you can even customize your own!)
Regardless of the gender you’re shopping for, winter accessories always make a great gift. Especially living in Chicago, we can sure use them! Sometimes less is more and when something is as easy as a cashmere beanie, what MORE do you need?
Backpacks seem to be the new briefcase, and if your guy agrees then this one by Herschel Supply Co is the way to do it — it’s minimal, it’s durable AND at only $55, you really can’t lose.
If your guy loves beauty products more than you do (or you’re trying to convince him to) this Kiehl’s x Costello Tagliapietra collab is super cool. It comes with six different Kiehl’s products (which is my favorite skincare brand for guys — it’s approachable, it works and they seem to enjoy it) in limited edition packaging by designers Jeffrey Costello and Robert Tagliapietra. Although he probably has no idea who they are, at least you won’t have to wrap this one!
Like the suitcase is a great hint for a vacation or for the guy who’s always traveling, the Tumi travel adapter gives the same vibe…but at a fraction of the price. Also a great stocking stuffer!
Socks are one of those things everyone needs but no one buys for themselves. I get my boyfriend socks all the time as my dogs love to steal his, and by the time Christmas rolls around, they have destroyed most of his sock collection. BUT even if you don’t have furry rascals who chew your things, fun socks are the ideal no-fail, affordable gift.
Also in the travel category, or just for the guy who enjoys drinking well on-the-go, I love this Carry on Cocktail kit. Everything you need for the perfect drink (minus the booze) and all so…mini!
If the guy you’re shopping for seems to always be losing his keys, the KeySmart 2.0 is a foolproof solution. It looks like a pocket knife, except it carries all your keys! It’s so smart that I actually think everyone should have this (boys and girls!!)
If you ever watched The Fashion Fund, you might remember leather-goods brand, Parabellum. They’re now on Mr. Porter (which is really exciting) and their leather card-holder is the perfect minimal and practical style that any guy would like.
And like I said about those winter accessories, if your guy isn’t so much a hat guy but more of a scarf dude then get yourself to East Dane right now because they have a ton of awesome scarves — including this Begg & Co style that’s cute, warm and under $100!
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You can shop all these gifts by clicking the image above or below. I’d love to hear what you’re giving the men in your life this year. Who knows? I might just steal one of your ideas 😉
And just a few other options if those aren’t striking your fancy. Like the guys in my life, they don’t want anything. They love what we get them but they’re never asking for much. And for those guys, an experiential gift is something they’ll truly appreciate. Whether it’s tickets to a sports game or a concert, a special tasting menu at their favorite restaurant or a weekend getaway…these are some solid options to consider (plus you might just benefit from them too).
If your guy loves coffee as much as mine does, Mistobox is an amazing coffee subscription company that delivers delicious grounds straight to your doorstep. We’re constantly finding ourselves fresh out of coffee so this is a great way to eliminate that fear of NOT waking up to the smell of your morning brew.
When it comes to style, men are all about comfort and sometimes they don’t get that you can be stylish AND comfortable. And Public Rec is making both happen with one pair of pants — chic and tailored sweatpants that come in different waist sizes and lengths (so no more pants dragging on the floor!) and that can be worn for a variety of occasions (outside the house). It’s a girlfriend’s dream come true.
Lastly, for the foodie fellow there’s Mantry…which is quite the hilarious name I realize, but the concept is fun. It’s a foodie subscription tailored towards men, with a different theme every month (think: tailgate, pizza and BBQ) and although I think I would enjoy most of these food items as well, it’s one of those gifts that you and your man can both enjoy.
Image via J. Crew
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