Guys, I know buying for the fairer sex can sometimes feel like splitting the atom so I thought I would put together this handy guide of can’t-miss gift items most woman would love to open… And bookmark this list…these are ideas you can come back to time and again. I’ve also noted some suggested occasions, this is only a suggestion, you’re free to go your own way as it were. But just a helpful hint: for an anniversary, always go with jewelry.

You’re welcome 🙂

1. A pair of diamond studs. The size is up to you and will drive your budget. Also note the color isn’t as critical in studs as it is in say, a ring where it makes a BIG difference. The shape of the stone and metal color/type is really where you need to be observant about her taste. Ask, observe or probe on the following–Does she have any other diamond jewelry that indicates taste or would be good to match? For example a princess cut engagement ring or a round cut pendant. Also what kind of metal is it set in–yellow, white rose gold or platinum for example?
What occasions: birthday, anniversary, holidays, push present, Valentines Day.

2. A diamond pendant. Yes, I know, more diamonds. But they are timeless and women go crazy for them. As with studs, selecting the right pendant requires being observant about shape (oval, round, square, cushion, emerald, etc…). But also pendant style: solitaire, heart, initial, past-present-future (aka three-stone pendant), bezel or prong set. She likely knows what she likes, even if she doesn’t know what it’s called. Look at what she has already, take out your smartphone and snap a picture for reference.
Or better yet…
If you’re planning to start or add to her jewelry collection–especially the first time you buy expensive jewelry– maybe go to brunch one afternoon and take a detour to her favorite shopping spot and magically end up near a jewelry store (you can even say its for mom, sister, aunt) where you can “window shop.” DO NOT BUY. Observe her browsing, ask her what she likes, or be bold and let the salesperson take over. Take lots of mental notes.
What occasions: birthday, anniversary, holidays, push present, Valentines Day.

3. Black Quilted Handbag. The iconic embodiment is certainly Chanel, but Marc Jacobs makes a fantastic (high) mid-tier option and places like Urban Outfitters make nice looking lower priced versions that can work and give a similar effect. You know your lady love and what her expectation will be. If she’s a true fashionista stay away from anything but Marc and Coco.
What occasions: birthday, holidays.

4. A good wallet. Nothing says “grown up” like breaking out a credit card with your very own name from a fabulous wallet. Maybe it’s made in Italy or Paris. It likely will have that hypnotic new leather smell for at least 4-6 months. Oh, er… Is that only a girl thing??? Ok, I can promise she will keep the authenticity card and think of you every time she reaches for her wallet. Think Hermes, Chanel (yes, again), Prada or Gucci. Hey, it’s less expensive than a handbag.
What occasions: birthday, holidays, promotion.

5. A cashmere sweater. In tan or black, crew neck or cardigan. If she’s in NYC, I would say go black crew neck. If someone tries to sell you a twinset… Run.
What occasions: birthday, holidays, promotion.

6. Nude pumps. They are everywhere right now and nothing is more lengthening and flattering to her legs than some nude pumps. But if you’re buying her shoes, you should know her size and max heel height (don’t guess). Platforms are easiest to walk in and make every woman look smashing. For a real splurge Louboutins or Jimmy Choos are where it’s at.
What occasions: birthday, holidays, promotion.

7. Black pumps. Ok, so lengthening and slimming is fantastic, but your first pair of really good expensive shoes (what your mom would call “investment pieces”) is usually black heels. Think Manalo or Loubitons. If not, get something else because she likely has a million pairs of less-special black pumps already.
What occasions: birthday, holidays.

8. Initial medallion. It’s all about the engraving. Tiffany’s version is iconic but not the only option. Rose gold is a nice way to mix it up with a romantic metal.
What occasions: birthday, anniversary, holidays, push present, Valentines Day.

9. Carry-all /tote. Here you have some hi/lo choices and knowing her style is key. There are lots of choices: bucket, shopper, structured. Both Coach and Beirn makes chic totes in a variety of textures and shapes. Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull tote is a classic and practical as is the Goyard tote which can be monogrammed (I’m obsessed with monogramming)–and if the event you are celebrating involves a change in initials, this can be especially sweet.
What occasions: birthday, holidays.

10. A good watch. Yes Rolex, Hermes and Cartier are the elite choices here, but fret not, there are plenty others. If you can do, if you can’t check out Coach, Movado and David Yurman‘s watch collections. All are pretty different and have an array of choices. Michael Kors, Armani and Gucci also have chronograph lines. It’s important to know what she likes: chain links, white or black face and does she want gemstones? Refer back to my tip in #2. Not comfortable with that approach? Here’s another tip, ask her bestie, mom or sister for help. They will probably love to be included.
What occasions: anniversary, push present, Valentines Day.

10b. Diamond ring. ❤ Need I say more? Get help here. Call in reinforcements. Mom, closest friend, sister (and I mean HERS).
What occasions: the big one.

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Pregnancy Gifts (No, Not For The Shower)

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