Yesterday while Erika and I were having lunch, we started to talk about what we were buying our loved ones’ for the holidays. As usual, we began to list our accomplishments and oooed and awwwed at each other’s retail/creative prowess. Then we got to discussing gifts for men. I don’t think there is anything harder than to shop for a man, especially a man that has no clear direction in terms of what they like.
We decided to brainstorm ideas and decided that shopping for a man can be really tough. They’re not easily wooed by bags, don’t melt over fragrances, and probably don’t care if the jeans you buy them are “IN”. Men are pretty basic for the most part and don’t really focus on themselves the way women do. I think Christmas is a perfect time to introduce some luxury and style into your guys life without making him feel alienated.
Dear Chic Readers, here are some Xmas gift ideas as per Erika and I;
1) This is something that most men don’t even think twice about. A bathrobe. Seriously, a nice soft bathrobe can make such a difference… not only are they comfortable, but they can really keep a guy warm when getting out of the shower on those chilly mornings. I personally love a white cotton bathrobe. And if you want to make it extra special, go ahead and add his initials.

The men's line comes in blue
2) Skincare! I think this is crucial for men. Most men don’t even think twice about their skin; they shave with soap, they sweat, they don’t protect it from the sun. There are several products that I have personally used that honestly make a world of difference. I would say my favorite product line is Kielh’s for men. Their facial fuel (moisturizer) leaves the skin feeling super soft and their shaving cream is unparalleled. Every Christmas, Kielh’s puts out gift sets so it’s a great way to introduce the product line. I’ve also used (and really like) Baxter of California. Target even has the Jack Every Man collection which works nicely as well.
3) Can I just say that I love Jeans. I think every man in the world owns a pair of jeans and if they don’t they should. Jeans are a great gift for any guy, specifically Levi’s. Not only are they affordable, but they come in tons of fits, washes, and are forever fashionable. They can be dressed up, dressed down, torn, dragged, and they age amazingly. I personally like the 511 (skinny) but one model you can’t go wrong with is the classic 501. Better yet, you don’t have to deal with those sparkly-gross atrocities that Christian Audigier puts out. Barf.
4) Leather goods. You can never go wrong with anything leather. Anything as simple as a messenger bag gets an instant upgrade once it’s done in leather.
5) Fragrance. I know this is a tough one and I generally don’t like to buy fragrances for anyone. It’s such a personal thing that I’m always afraid of gifting it because they might hate it. I do, however, own a ton of cologne and these are just some of my personal favorites. You’re probably going to laugh, but Paris Hilton’s Paris for Men cologne honestly smells amazing. All these recommendations are nicely balanced so none of these colognes are too fruity or spicy. Here are others that I HIGHLY recommend; Calvin Klein Intense, Dolce & Gabbana The One, Banana Republic Black Walnut, Channel Homme Allure Sport.

Dolce & Gabbana's The One
The good thing about gifts like these is that you can go fancy or affordable. There is a ton of variation in between so choose accordingly. Hope you have fun shopping!!!