Scrambling for a box of chocolates and a bouquet on the way home from work on Valentine’s Day, though totally cliche, has never been a good look. The act of gift-giving has consistently served as a measurement of one’s devotion to a relationship. And by no means is it through the expenses invested into a gift or a night out, but rather a measurement of sentimentality. So, finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your girlfriend can require a little more effort than usual.
A bouquet could mean nothing to one person, but mean everything to another. Getting your girlfriend a gift is representative of how much you understand her. Whether it’s through her need for practicality or her love for glitz and glamor, only you know her enough to know which line you have to tow.
Even then, finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is hard. The challenge lies in surprising your partner year after year, avoiding predictability, and striking the right chord with a gift that resonates. A piece of advice from me: if she has a Pinterest, stalk it. It’s a great way to have somewhat of an understanding of the aesthetics and brands she’s recently been into. If that’s not enough to spark inspiration, I’ve found 12 gift ideas that span different interests and different price points just for you!
Custom crochet cardigan ($56)
If you’ve made crocheting your entire personality for the past year, Valentine’s Day is your time to shine! If you have the time to create a garment for your girlfriend then you better get started now before it’s too late. Lion Brand Yarn has a slew of different kits and crochet patterns that might spark inspiration. Nothing beats something cute and handmade!
Commissioned Couples Portrait ($25)
This is personally one of my favorites! If your girlfriend is really into art and animation, I’d recommend looking into getting commissioned art. Find an artist who could replicate an art style that she loves and provide either a couple’s photo or anything significant to her that she’d want to be hung up. Not only would this be incredibly thoughtful as it feeds into a hobby, but it helps local artists.
REPLICA BY THE FIREPLACE SCENTED CANDLE ($70)
If your girlfriend’s go-to scent is from Replica’s perfume collection, well getting her a candle will never be a risky commitment. If she’s unfortunately bounded by a small rented apartment without the luxuries of an open fireplace, maybe this scent will satisfy those needs.
Lovebox ($140)
If you’re in a long-distance relationship, it’s hard to stay creative when spoiling your significant other. The Lovebox is a cute way to keep in touch outside of the confines of your phone. It’s a cute way to tell your partner that you’re thinking of them, even if they’re an ocean away.
Martha Stewart Heart-Shaped Dutch Oven ($70)
If your girlfriend loves cooking but hasn’t bought herself a Dutch oven, this is a charming gift to pander to her hobbies. Not only does it provide the versatility that Dutch ovens have, but comes in a shape that’s hard to beat in the cuteness department.
Mini Zodiac Charm ($60)
This one’s for the astrology girlies! Jewelry, though simple, is a good old reliable. Sometimes it’s okay to play it safe, but when you do, you have to go through the extra effort it make sure that the gift is catered to your partner. It’s hard to complain when receiving a necklace charm especially if you’re the type of couple to read your daily horoscopes together. They are cliches for a reason!
Lego Icons Succulents Plant Set ($40)
If you know your partner loves a good creative communal project, getting them any LEGO set should be a given. I’d usually say to pick whichever set best fits your partner, but a bouquet set, or in this case succulents, is a safe option for the romantic season. It can lead to a nice activity you can do together and on top of that, becomes a decorative piece with a story.
ROYCE’ Nama Chocolate “Au Lait” ($20)
This one takes inspiration from a couple I was friends with in high school. Around Valentine’s Day and birthdays, my friend’s boyfriend would always get these for her and it was always a surefire way to get her to swoon. And I don’t blame her! I’ve had these myself and these decadent chocolates aren’t like any other. The only problem with them is that once you’ve eaten an entire box, there’s no going back.
Koss Porta Pro Headphones ($40)
If your girlfriend loves the vintage aesthetic and has been meaning to get some new headphones the Koss Porta Pros would be the perfect gift. Though incomparable to the sound quality of the Sony XM4s (you know, the one everyone has these days), these are built more for looks than anything. So, if she loves the 90s and listens to The Smiths on her commute to class, this would be the one to get.
The Glow Set From Merit Beauty ($96)
Buying makeup for your girlfriend can often be daunting. They’re often selective with which shades they like or the way a product sits on their skin. Merit Beauty dubs themselves as a minimalist beauty brand. Their Glow Set provides a set of lip products that aren’t too bold and would be the perfect staple colors that every girl needs!
Sterling Silver ‘Emerald Heart’ Claddagh Ring ($60)
If you don’t know what a Claddagh ring is, it’s almost like a traditional Irish promise ring. But don’t worry! You don’t have to be Irish to wear it. The Claddagh symbolizes friendship, love, and loyalty, all to hope for the happiness and joy of whoever is the recipient of this ring. While this ring is suitable for anyone, regardless of relationship status, there are specific guidelines for wearing it based on one’s romantic situation. When presenting this ring to your significant other, ensure they wear it on their right hand with the heart facing inward, symbolizing their commitment to a relationship.
CD Mixtape ($25)
This one is for those who have an obsession with Perks of Being a Wallflower or sapphics who obsess over making hyperspecific Spotify playlists for their girlfriends. It’s like all that mixed into a hobby but elevated into tangible media! With the rise of CD and vinyl sales, thanks to Taylor Swift herself, this is a great way to revive the musical love letter.
Now go head out and get your girlfriend a present with your chocolates and rose bouquets, before you run into the Valentine’s Day rush!