Valentine’s Day poses a number of potential quandaries for the single twenty-something, but what about those of us who are in a relationship? Gift giving is always a nerve-wracking process, especially when you’re dating someone. Whether you’ve been together for two weeks or two years, it’s never a guarantee that your guy will love what you give him, because let’s face it – guys don’t know what they want half the time, so how are we supposed to figure it out? Lucky for you HCIU readers, we’ve compiled this handy Valentine’s Day gift guide to utilize in your quest for the perfect present for your boyfriend/fiancée/husband/frat daddy/ friend with benefits/whatever you’re calling it these days. And, since guys are all so different (ha…ha…ha), we’ve divided the best of the best stuff to buy into four categories based on what kind of guy you may or may not be seeing: the bro, the jock, the rugged outdoorsman, and the starving artist.
The Bro:
This one is tricky, because what are you supposed to get for the guy who already thinks he has everything? Trust us, there’s something out there for everyone.
1. Ray-Ban Original Way-Farers
Photo Courtesy of http://www.ray-ban.com/usa/sunglasses/rb2140/901.
We only advocate buying these if you are in a serious relationship (like, upwards of four years) and have some extra cash to spend. But, you’ve got to admit –these sunglasses will make your guy look so much cooler.
2. Ralph Lauren Rugby Shirt
In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with a nice shirt, and this one has suede elbow patches to make it a little more preppy. This also might deter your bro from reaching for pastel every time he looks through his closet.
3. Vineyard Vines Hat
Speaking of pastels, this hat from Vineyard Vines comes in a variety of colors to choose from, and retails for only $20. Bros seem to like hats, so you can’t really go wrong with this one.
4. A Frat-tastic Playlist
Make your boo a CD with songs only a bro could love. Need inspiration? Visit fratmusic.com.
The Jock:
For the sports-loving set, these ideas should do the trick.
1. Lacoste Essential Sport Set
It might be a little pricy, but this cologne set includes a deodorant stick, water bottle and towel.
2. Tickets to a basketball game
This one’s a no-brainer. Find the nearest city with a basketball team (in this case, Indianapolis) and purchase tickets for a home game. Bonus points if The Pacers are playing his hometown team.
3. Belkin Dual Fit Armband for 4G Ipods
If you’re not looking to spend a lot of money, this gift is inexpensive but still very useful.
4. Nike ONE Vapor Speed golf balls
These affordable golf balls made it onto Golf Digest’s Hot List for 2011.
The Rugged Outdoorsman
Does your guy love camping, fishing, hiking, or any other form of outdoor activity? Does he dress head to toe in The North Face and Patagonia? If so, this section is for you.
1. Into the Wild
This book will interest and inspire any wilderness loving boy.
2. Swiss Army Knife
Photo Courtesy of http://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/product_Swiss-Army-Classic-SD-Knife_10014592_10208_10000001_-1_.
Practically a necessity for any guy who loves the outdoors.
3. The North Face Men’s Pamir Windstopper Glove
These gloves will keep your boyfriend warm through any kind of weather!
4. Compass
For the directionally challenged boyfriend – now he’ll always know which way to go.
The Starving Artist:
You know the type – the scruffy, brooding, skinny-jean wearing hipster sitting in the back of a coffee shop scribbling on a notebook. If that sounds like your boyfriend, read on to find out what to give him.
1.Cheap Monday Vince Scarf
Staying artsy while staying warm is possible!
2. American Apparel Flex Fleece Zip Hoodie
These comfy sweatshirts come in a variety of colors and serve nicely as outerwear for those who are too cool for jackets.
3. Aviators
These glasses (similar ones can be seen on Ryan Gosling’s character in this month’s Blue Valentine) add the finishing touch to any outfit – no prescription necessary.
Photo Courtesy of http://www.fredflare.com/customer/product.php?productid=5586&cat=343.
4.UrbanEars Classic Cool Headphones
These headphones are so much cooler –and better sounding – than earbuds.