Valentines Gift Guide: The Boyfriend

As the final part of my Valentines Day series, it’s all about the men in our life for today’s post. From beard elixirs, new trainers, aftershaves to DVD box sets, I’ve compiled a little source of inspiration to get you thinking about what gifts you can give this Sunday. I hope this proves helpful for you and you like the products I’ve chosen or it suddenly springs an idea into your mind- caring is sharing! Let me know in the comments below if you buy anything I’ve chosen or what you’re getting the favourite boy in our life as a little present. 

The Music Lover

I think everyone in his or her own right is a music fan. Whether you’re into pop or heavy metal everyone has a song, genre or artist they have a connection to so its time to indulge in our favourite pastime: music. Pick up a vinyl for his record player or replace his headphones that he’s been moaning about to change. (Marvin Gaye Let’s Get It On in the background optional…)

 

1- Favourite Song Soundwaves Print: What’s his favourite song? Create an abstract piece of art by getting the soundwaves printed in a colour of your choice: ideal for the man den.

2- Marshall Acton Speaker: This is the kind of present that you also get use out of so hey, it’s a win win! Like all Marshall merch it comes in a retro-inspired design and includes a 3.5mm double-ended input cord to amp up instruments plus works with any Bluetooth device for sound quality. Any excuse to dance around the kitchen when making dinner, right?

3- iPod Shuffle: Does his battery always die on the commute to work? The iPod shuffle is the ideal MP3 for both getting to work, going to the gym plus it boasts 2GB memory, 15 hours battery life and won’t break the bank. The shuffles come in a variety of colours I love the masculine colour of the space grey.

4- Urbanears Headphones in Bonfire Orange: Having been given a pair of Urbanears last year, no headphones can match. The sound is perfect- none of that annoying crackling sound that some have- plus they come in a spectrum of colours. I love the pop of colour with these in Bonfire Orange.

5- Dr Dre Vinyl: Urban Outfitters is one of the biggest sellers of Vinyls in the world. They have an extensive collection of different records that will fit anyone’s taste from TayTay Swift to Nivana. Check them out and be inspired.

6- Spotify Gift Card: Still not sure what to get him? While its not the most inventive of presents, it won’t go a miss by getting him a Spotify Gift Card which gives him access to one of the biggest collections of music online. Alternatively if you’re an apple fan, buy a gift card for Apple Music.

7- Crosley Briefcase Portable Record Player: Not only do Crosley Vinyl Players sound great, they also look pretty awesome. With three speeds, dynamic full range and built in stereo speakers it’s a great source of all music that is completely portable.

8- Personalised Record Note Book: Music writer? Make sure he gets the dreamy lyrics on paper with a personalised note book.

9- You Make Me Drizzy Card: I think any music enthusiast respects Drake so give him a card that’ll make him weak at the knees when his face is surrounded by luuurve hearts.  

The New Age Gent

His spirit animal is Don Draper, he lives in smart attire, he's got the slick back hair nailed and takes a lot of pride in his appearance…. Introducing the New Age Gent. Taking inspiration from the Made Men generation of smart suits, smoking and bourbon I’ve put together some little gift ideas to help him maintain and be inspired by this refined and undeniably handsome look.

1- Shoe Shine Kit and Washbag: He pays particular attention to every detail that he wears; so don’t let his shoes let him down. Within this set includes two types of polishes and brushes plus comes in a leather look Ted Baker branded bag to ensure his shoes are as shiny and slick.

2- Daniel Wellington Watch: Daniel Wellington create beautiful watches- I know this because I’ve got one and I use it every single day. They’re that perfect in-between watch that is not too in your face but also doesn’t look like a cheap alternative you can sometimes pick up on the high street. My favourite by far is the Classic York that comes in a textured leather strap.

3- The Fantastic Man Book: If he is into influential male style he must have heard (if not, get him on this!) of the magazine Fantastic Man. This book includes pages of trendsetting males from David Beckham to Tom Ford featuring that slick signature aesthetic from the magazine.

4- Ray-Ban Round Metal Sunglasses: These are the new it sunglasses that have overtaken the Wayfarer and Clubmaster. Pick them up in the classic green lens and gold frame for a laid back cool look throughout summer.

5- Hipflask: A gentleman’s evening attire isn’t complete without a hipflask of his favourite boozy beverage.

6- House of Cards Box Set: Get the three-season box set of the award-winning political drama that follows the scheming and dissatisfied House Majority Whip Francis Underwood. Fuelled on by his wife Claire Underwood, Francis wants to become president and will stop at nothing to get exactly what he wants. Addictive, smart, full of incredible menswear suit inspiration and a storyline that keeps everyone on their toes, it’s a great box set to binge watch and will have him (and you!) hooked.

7- Coleman Loafers: Nothing screams new class gent more than an amazing quality pair of suede or leather loafers. The ‘Coleman’ from Kurt Geiger feature a suede finish and tassel for that elusive balance between relaxed and smart. Pick these up in Brown or Navy for a traditional look that never goes out of style.

8- Ralph Lauren Card Holder: Only 100% leather will do when he can’t be bothered to bring his entire wallet. This cardholder is ideal for everyday travel plus features the monogrammed Ralph Lauren logo on a textured matte finish.

9- Whiskey Rocks: Proper bourbon and whiskey isn’t supposed to have any ice so these whiskey rocks were too nifty to not share. Whack them in the freezer, throw them in your crystal glass (they’ve got less bacteria than real ice cubes) and let it cool the whiskey down without diluting the flavour.

Male Maintenance

Male grooming and maintenance is no longer a thing to be ashamed of. In 2013, Debenhams reported men spent 24% more on grooming products than the previous year, and the male market was estimated at £600m. From face creams, hair waxes to beard elixirs, men have become much more aware of their image, and I think its something to support! Women have always put a lot of effort into their skincare routine and general appearance, so why shouldn’t men look after themselves too? I’ve put together a few ideas of what to get the other half if you need some male grooming inspiration from shower gels and soaps to beard kits.

1- BeardShampoo: Has he got a beard going on? Mr Natty’s Face Forest Soap is the best possible treatment for it with soothing olive oil and moisturising shea butter.

2- Cut Above The Rest Manicure Set: It’s no longer a thing for men to be unashamed of beauty and body maintenance. I’m all for it! If he’s got all the lotions and potions going give him this set to ensure those nails aren’t bitten to bits or have flaky skin (you can also get some use out of it, bonus!)
3- Korres Basil Lemon Shower Gel: Is he apposed to posh new toiletries? Give him the Korres shower gel to have a go with. Wheat proteins within the shower gel hydrate the skin and the lemon and basil scent is incredible.

4- Dior Homme Intense Eau de Parfum: This is an amazing aftershave that features a sophisticated and sensual scent- it is easily my favourite male Eau de Parfum to date. It has subtle musky accents such as hibiscus seed, while Virginia cedar and vetiver form an accord of precious wood that is both masculine and refined.
5- Mr Natty’s Famous Beard Elixir: Odd question, but does he suffer from a prickly or flaky beard? The Mr Natty Elixir will become his new best friend if so. With a fresh, woodsy scent its ingredients include pine, grapeseed oils, peach kernel and juniper berry to naturally sooth and cleanse. It looks good in the bathroom and does wonderous things for his strong beard game.

6- Shave Cream: Admittedly this was primarily shown as I loved the packaging. This is, however, a refreshing shaving cream that leaves skin energised and most importantly, avoids irritation and shaving cream.

7- Black & White Pluko Hair Wax: This may be a bit biased because my boyfriend uses this and the main reason I chose it because I like the smell (haha!). Buuuut, he swears by this hair wax. In terms of price it is awesome, last what seems like forever, and as mentioned, smells amazing. It keeps his hair in place all day and is great value compared to other high priced items that don’t always do what they say on the tin.

8- Triumph & Disaster Soap: Has he got sensitive skin? Designed for daily use and for sensitive skin this soap recreates the scent of traditional shearing soap. I also love that outside of the packaging it slightly resembles/reminds me of a bourbon biscuit.

 9- Men’s Society Smooth Operator Shaving Set: This four piece set includes a cleansing facial wash, soothing shave oil, post-shave balm and hot cloth face towels to make sure he gets the best shave every single time. If he’s feeling overwhelmed with all the products inside and what they do, it also comes with a handy guide on how to use each product.

11- Herschel Supply Co Wash Bag: As much as a beautiful leather washbag would look great on the side of a bathroom, it probably won’t stand the test of time. With a durable canvas outer and mesh lining make it easy to wipe clean, plus the side pockets and general size make it perfect for travelling.  

Sports Luxe

He’s got more trainers, hats and slouchy tees than he knows what do to with- he is definitely all about sports influenced fashion. Sports Luxe as an aesthetic will never will go out of style, as a generation obsessed with staying in shape there will always be influences on our clothing that are inspired by sports and athletic wear. Adidas, Reebok, Ellesse and of course Nike, are all having a moment so I’ve picked out some items that will fit perfectly into his Yeezy style wardrobe.

1- Adidas Original Sweatshirt with Classic Trefoil: Admittedly I’m not a massive fan of some of the garish colours that Adidas occasionally put on some their pieces however this basics sweatshirt looks timeless and so easy to wear. Throw on with some jeans, trainers and oversized white t-shirt to nail that laid back Yeezy-esque style.

2- Levi’s Black Skinny Jeans: Going head to toe sweatpants, graphic tee, hoodies and trainers may be slightly overkill so get him the perfect pair of black jeans to give him the wardrobe staple he needs for the sports luxe vibe. Nothing can beat Levi jeans, they stand the test of time and the colour doesn’t fade as quickly as other alternatives.

3- Kanye West Card: As much as I hate to admit it, one thing that Kanye West has always done well is simplistic sport attire. Give him this card that salutes Yeezy while also taking the mick of his pretentious personality.

4- Fisherman Beanie: If he’s not a flat peak hat sort of guy try this fisherman beanie instead. Not only do they hide bad hair days but they also seem to work on any outfit especially in grey. ASOS also have an incredible coloured beanie in a burnt orange if he’s already got a solid grey hat collection.

5- Casio Casual Digital Watch in Blue: Add a pop of colour to his outfit with the wide range of watches available from Casio- I love the bright blue of this one and it wouldn’t look out of place in his holiday wardrobe.

6- Nike Air Max 90 Ultra: It seems as though the Nike Air Max vibe isn't ending anytime soon. Give his shoe collection a dose of orange with mesh overlays and the iconic Nike swoosh.

7- Nike Basics Socks in Black: What’s the sport luxe look completed without pulled up Nike socks? Stick to the black or white for the classic 90s cool. 
8- Rains Navy Messenger Backpack: Rains are a Danish company that have created some of the best street wear from backpacks to rain coats. These messenger backpacks have longevity and are completely waterproof, so they’re ideal in our typically horrendous British weather.

9- Ralph Lauren Boxers: As much as Topman, ASOS, Urban do their own boxers Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein reign supreme when it comes to boxers and briefs. Don’t mess with the classics and ensure he’s got the comfiest underwear in his top drawer.

Whether he’s into his sportswear or not, I hope I’ve given you some new ideas for presents, or even reminded you of something that he loves and forgot about it until you’ve read this post. Valentines isn’t all about the gifts and declarations of undying love on one particular day, call me a hopeless romantic but everyday should be the day you tell the ladies or gents in your lives just how wonderful they are and how happy they make you. Have a wonderful day with you loved ones and when you wake up, tell them you love them again, just because if you don’t tell them, who will ay? Happy Valentines Day wonderful readers and I hope it is filled with love and ridiculous amounts of sickly chocolates and roses with whoever you spend it with.

What are your plans for Valentines Day this year? Have you got a gift sorted that I haven’t mentioned?

A x