My husband, Chris, is one of those people who knows what he likes: cars and car racing, bikes and bike racing, off-roading, skiing, coffee, mixology, timepieces. Unfortunately, all of these things are so personal and well-researched on his part, I dare not touch them.
He also knows, with a great deal of certainty, what he doesn’t prefer or need: he’s not into sports teams; he’s anti-gadgets (no matter how much you think they’d appeal to his engineer brain); he’s not much of a reader; he’s already nailed his grilling setup; his minimalist closet is the stuff of capsule wardrobe legend…and personalized items? Well, just no…
The Guys Gift Guide For The Man Who Already Bought Himself Everything He Wants — 15 New Gift Ideas
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In short, if there’s something my husband wants or needs, he researches the hell out of it, and then he buys it for himself. And while he’s not shy in the least about graciously accepting a gift (and this part is genuine, he really is so appreciative of the effort), he’s also not shy about placing it straight into our little ever-present donation pile, sometimes fully unopened. (I mean, points for efficiency. I typically wait at least a year or two to come to such conclusions, but I like to think I’m really giving the item time to speak to me. These things don’t happen overnight…)
The obvious solution to this gift-giving dilemma is either 1) gift cards or 2) experiences. And while we have migrated more toward experiences for almost every gift-giving occasion, I still love the idea of presenting something he can unwrap on Christmas morning that I know he’ll cherish and put to good use.
This year, here are 15 gifts I can firmly recommend (many of which are Chris-endorsed, even) if you happen to have an equally-minded, super-selective guy on your giving list.
Godspeed, friends.
1. RRL Wool Blend Jacquard Overshirt
Stunningly made, aaaaand priced accordingly. Sigh. But if you’re sweet on the idea of a splurge-y number, this RRL Jacquard Overshirt is a good one. A super wearable piece for everyday, but still really special.
2. Levi’s Made In Japan 511 Slim Fit Jeans
I know men’s jeans are also trending baggier, but Chris hasn’t embraced it yet, and honestly, as a grown man I think this style suits him very well, thank you very much. He’s collected almost every wash in the 511 style, some stretch, some not, but the dark rinse and elevated texture of this Japanese selvedge denim makes this pair feel really special, and it’s perfect for everyday wear or dressing up a bit for the office or an evening out.
3. Jack Black Defensive Line Anti-Aging Set
Chris has a pretty simple skincare routine, but he’s been using sunscreen and some sort of eye cream since we before met in college, so I know there’s a skincare junkie in there just waiting to be released. While my side of the counter is an apothecary of K-beauty serums and potions, this three-piece Jack Black Defensive Line Anti-Aging Set will keep his side looking tidy and minimalist while providing the perfect gateway to the next level of care.
4. Viski Paragon Insulated Cocktail Tumbler
So good it also made my Gifts I’m Ridiculously Excited To Give list this year. This Viski Paragon Insulated Cocktail Tumbler is so cool (ha). I love the faceted exterior, the really elevated, slightly retro colors, and the thoughtful design — like the thinner rim to deliver a glass-like drinking experience. Perfect for fire pit hangs, beach picnics, hot tub happy hour, camping, etc.
5. Old Navy 3-Pack Marled Boot Socks
A stunning deal for a perfect stocking stuffer. I know one can, technically, have too many socks, but these Marled Boot Socks are so classic and cool in their elevated, muted tones (there are other colorways, too) — and an absolute steal. Way to go, Old Navy.
6. J. Crew MacAlister Boots
Bookish girlies — think of your favorite main male characters, romantic or not. Got it? He’d wear these boots. The do-gooder neighbor, the Oxford professor, the up-and-coming-chef, the charmingly gruff father-in-law, the gay best friend, the platonic friend from law school (he’ll get with your bestie in the sequel), the moody musician, the bartending rancher….the Alpha were. The only reason not to get these for one of the men in your life would be that they already own them. Excellent reviews, too.
7. Lego Land Rover Classic Defender
I’ve put a LEGO build on every men’s gift guide I’ve ever compiled, so of course this year is no different. And you guys, this one is so. effing. cool. We do a fair amount of off-roading, so clearly the Land Rover is right in Chris’ wheelhouse, but there’s also a working retro-style vending machine that would be a fun family build, too.
8. Why Don’t We Laugh Together? Couples Game
When I tell you I went down the rabbit hole looking for conversation-starter-y types of games for couples (or not) that don’t suck — especially with a partner in mind who is, admittedly, not into games — phew. But this one looks really fun and promising, and if there’s one thing that always brings us back to ourselves after long weeks of adulting, it’s losing our shit laughing. It says it’s for couples but could be fun with friends, too. If you’re looking for something for a romantic partner, this one’s a little, uh, spicier…
9. 3×3 Magnetic Speed Cube
Grown-ups need fidgets, too, and if your guy is anything like mine, his 40s are apparently the perfect time to finally master the Rubik’s Cube. This speed cube is so satisfying to manipulate, even if you have zero intention of solving it. Our girls love it, too.
10. Charbonnel Et Walker Eggnog Truffles:
An indulgent, consumable gift is always a pretty safe bet in this house. Quick to enjoy and then it’s done, nothing to add to the inevitable post-holiday clutter. These eggnog truffles are the perfect holiday treat: infused with brandy, made in London and presented in a pretty, timeless candy box. They’d be great for a host/ess gift, too. We’re not even white chocolate people and they’re a delight.
11. Nike Men’s Club Open Hem Fleece Pants
That whole dudes in gray sweatpants thing? Yeah. It holds up. These are the ideal pair to test the theory. Perfect medium gray, light heathering, drawstring, pockets, open cuff, not overly slim profile. Absolutely classic.
12. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
We’ve had this espresso maker (or rather the older iteration of it) for years now, and I just learned how to use it…last week. But guys…it’s easy. I was so intimidated, but it’s barely more effort than my previously beloved Nespresso, and so much better. The perfect upgrade if you’re used to something that involves pods and you want something next-level without spending thousands. It’s still somewhat compact, too. And I love the built-in grinder. Makes the whole process so simple.
13. Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm
Chris has and loves Aesop’s hand soaps, shampoos and body scrubs, and this Resurrection scent, in particular, is a fave. Citrusy and herbal and fresh and spicy and clean. This hand balm will be perfect for combatting wintry skin this ski season. I might even pick up an extra for the glove compartment.
14. Salt & Stone Deodorant Gel
For the guy who’s been decades-loyal to a certain blue gel deodorant stick in red twist-up packaging, this. We’ve loved Salt & Stone’s original deodorant for a couple of years now (the scents are gender neutral and so good), but I know Chris would be even more stoked on their newer gel version.
15. Zermatt Genuine Shearling Lined Slipper
Chris is pretty particular about, ohhh, well, everything (did I mention?), and he pored over countless slippers before landing on these. I love the classic shape, the cork footbed, and the real shearling lining, which is becoming harder to find (especially for under $100). He’s even requesting a second pair for the cabin this winter.
Good luck out there, gift-givers!
xo,
Em
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