You know what to give the discriminating design junkie in your life, and you have a plenty of ideas for when you’ve blown your holiday budget and only have $50 to spend on a gift. But what about a gift for your dad, brother, boyfriend, best friend, or other very important guy? Before you cop out and get a gift card (again), take a look at our roundup of 15 no-brainer ideas that will look like you put a lot of thought into the perfect present.
Tired of the dingy coat he’s always wearing? Buy him a nice peacoat that’s 100 percent wool and fully lined, and will go with everything he already has in his closet. It’s a gift that’ll make both of you happy.
For the man who appreciates nice kitchen accessories, try this Tom Dixon hand-blown glass decanter that’s finished with a weighty copper-painted base and lid. It’s a practical gift that looks luxurious.
Jason Markk’s shoe-cleaning kit is an easy no-brainer gift for any guy in your life since the cleaning kit can be used on leather shoes, sneakers, loafers, boots, and anything in between. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to making shoes look like new, and it’s only $60.
One of the pricier things on this list but trust us, they’re worth it. Red Wing boots are known for their long-lasting quality and craftsmanship, and if the lucky recipient lives in a colder climate, these boots will get worn every day through June.
If he’s decided to grow out his hair, get him a high-quality comb that he’d never buy for himself. This one’s made in Switzerland, polished by hand, comes with a pouch for storage, and has specially positioned wide-set teeth and notches to avoid damaging his hair.
Swap out his ratty sweats for this teddy-bear-soft robe made by Derek Rose. It has that old-school grandpa feel with a younger, modern fit that’s a perfect gift for the guy who has everything except attractive loungewear.
Nice, understated leather gloves are hard to come by. These gloves (which happened to be used in all the James Bond movies) are thick enough to keep his hands warm, while thin enough to allow him to still use his phone.
If he commutes to work on a daily basis, but isn’t a briefcase kind of guy, this Cole Haan leather backpack is a cool alternative. It’s roomy enough for a 17-inch laptop, tablet, his gym clothes, and anything else he wants to stuff in it.
A simple chambray shirt is a closet staple for any man because it’s less stuffy and traditional than a classic white shirt, but can still be dressed up if need be. This one from Filson has been prewashed for soft comfort and that worn-in vintage look.
Inis Meain makes small-batch wool and cashmere pieces out of Ireland that will last for many winters to come. This cap is spun from a thick, insulating wool and cashmere that any man will appreciate.
A cozy tan zip-up sweater is a nice alternative to all of the standard black and gray styles. He can layer it over thermals when the polar vortex hits, both at work and on weekends.
Instead of using ice cubes that water down your drinks, put these granite chillers in the freezer and he’ll be serving guests the most Instagram-friendly cocktail they’ve had in a while. Keep them in the freezer so they’re ready to use whenever.
A practical gift under $50 that he’ll use all winter, these quality wool ragg socks can be thrown in the washer and dryer without the risk of shrinking.
Does he envy those people gliding through airport terminals with their nice luggage? More often than not, they’re carrying a piece by Tumi. This brand is more expensive than than average suitcase, but they’re durable, lightweight, and the most efficient carry-on you’ll ever buy.
If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.
