Shopping for women is easy but shopping for men is often hard. It seems men don’t talk about things they want or “must have” nearly as much as girls. And if they don’t talk about it then you have to ask them. And they always tell you something they need. But why would you want to get someone something they need as a gift? In hopes to avoid that issue this year, here is my attempt to better guide your gift giving to the men in your life.
What to get for…
The Outdoorsy One
Since this guy will undoubtedly break out the Chacos-and-hiking-socks combo at some point this winter, hiking socks are always a good idea for him. Also, flannel shirts and sweaters will be good for hiking and sleeping in the snow and such. L.L. Bean has a good selection of sweaters while flannel is always best when found at a thrift store.
The Hipster
Hipsters are, as always, difficult but try getting him something kind of odd that he might find funny or different. This mug that looks like a camera lens, from none other than Urban Outfitters, could be good. Also, funny t-shirts and weird baseball hats or really anything odd. These are interesting; not your typical gift but think in that vein and you’ll think of that gift.
The Well-Dressed One
If a guy is well-dressed, it is nearly impossible to go wrong with J. Crew. They have nice sweaters, well-made leather shoes and everything in between. But, as we are all college students and that J. Crew student discount doesn’t always cut it, try a nice wallet or maybe even a pocket-square. Also, another idea could be a subscription to GQ because who does men’s fashion better than GQ?
The Music-Lover
Concert tickets are a good idea for music lovers if one of his favorite bands is coming to town. If he’s old school and has a record player, try buying him a record (CD Alley on Franklin Street has them). No one burns CDs anymore but a CD can do wonders as a gift because they’re unique and there is a slight chance you might introduce him to something new.
The Drinker
Some men like alcohol more than others. I don’t mean they like to drink all the time but rather they have a genuine interest in alcohol. This guy would never be caught with Bud Light; this guy chooses IPA or Guinness or some local brew you’ve never heard of. Get him a flask, an awesome koozie or possibly a Beer of the Month Club membership. If you’re feeling really generous this holiday season, buy him a nice bottle of liquor.
The One Who Likes the Finer Things in Life
This guy possibly hangs out at the Daily Grind casually reading Hemingway or Vonnegut enjoying, as previously mentioned, the finer things in life. Get him an early edition of one of his favorite books, if you can find it. Or, a Moleskine is always good because that is what all the great writers used. Good coffee or fancy tea will also be good for getting his creative juices flowing.
Your Dad
Dads are probably the worst to shop for. They always tell you something they need like gym shorts or new headphones for that iPod that they don’t know how to use. Last year, someone gave my dad a new toiletry case which was practical but he also really liked it. Or, buy him take him to one of his favorite restaurants. If all else fails, buy him a tie because dads always need new ties.