Women can be so complicated! Consequently, buying them gifts can be difficult. Before you get discouraged, know that there are a myriad of ways to choose the perfect gift for your mother, daughter, sister, girlfriend, wife or friend, and remember that it’s her interests that count most. Whether you need something last minute, an inexpensive token of appreciation, or a luxurious and unique gift for those special occasions, this guide will help you find the right choice. To narrow down your search and show her that you really have been paying attention, consider her likes and dislikes. Check out the below to determine which category best fits the woman in your life.
Fashionista
Whether she is a discriminating lover of haute couture or a shopaholic with an affinity for the latest fashion trends, there are a number of ways to satisfy the girl who can’t get enough fashion. From fashion books to fashion mags, designer duds and diva-inspired dresses, there is no end to gifts that will please the girl who loves to play dress up. You might even consider giving her a shopping gift certificate if you are overcome with doubt as to what she would like — especially if you yourself aren’t the most savvy dresser.
Jewelry
A large number of women would enjoy a beautiful bauble or two (or three). Whether you are looking to buy a necklace, earrings or a ring, make sure you find out your recipient’s style first. Do they like to wear lots of large jewelry pieces or just a few understated items? After determining this, check out the recommendations below.
The Pink Ring
Pear Shaped Earrings
The Woven Mesh Ring
Square Stud Earrings
The Bubbles Ring
Accessories
What’s a woman without her accessories? Make sure she has these key items to store makeup or jewelry and go anywhere in style.
Fashion Watch
Perfume
Makeup Case
Handbag
Jewelry Box
Animal Lover
She loves animals and her pets are number one on her priority list. Check out some of these fun pet-oriented gifts that will make her happy and treat Fido or Fluffy as well.
Pet Carrier
Pet Sofa
Collar Charms
Personalized Pet Bowl
Pet Paw Print Frame
The Artist
For creative and artistic tastes, there are many beautiful gifts that can quench a woman’s love for aesthetics. Whether she thirsts for finding the perfect work of art or she is intent on creating a contemporary masterpiece with her own hands, there are a wide variety of gift options that fall within the artistic domain.If your recipient is an art collector, she will inevitably have favorites, so it’s best to know something about her favorite artist or specific pieces that she likes. If she is an artist herself, then pick up a few items that will help her practice the craft.
Framed Posters
Calendars
Coffee Table Books
Sketch Books
Camera
Beauty and Spa
Ladies love to be pampered. From makeup to body care to spa treatments, there is something to soothe and relax every woman so that she feels more beautiful. Here are a few items that make good gifts. You should also see the guides about Gifts for Makeup Lovers and Bath and Body Gifts. Our guide to Mother’s Day Gifts also has some good relaxing ideas that you might consider.
Fragrance Gift Sets
Massage Chair
Silk Robe
Relaxation Sound Machine
Aromatherapy Candles
Japanese Tea Set
Organic Sheets
Reflexology Kit
Hammock
Yoga Kit
College Student
She’s in college or on her way. Arm her with essentials to confront dorm life! Anything that will help make her 10×10 cement box feel more like home is a great idea. These gifts can be very practical, such as colorful sheets, fluffy towels, funky shower curtains, gigantic coffee mugs,bean bags, or even a fish tank (see below). More decorative options are good if you know that she has the basics covered. Candles (if allowed) and candle holders are a very pretty and inexpensive way to dress up a room. Safe, non-flammable options include picture frames,throws,pillows,posters, and vases (preferably those that pack light and that won’t break in a suitcase).
Dorm Furnishings
Personal Organizers
Shower Flip Flops
No Fuss Fish Tank
Tool Set
Fine Food and Wine
If the woman you know is a gourmet aficionado (or wishes she were), there are plenty of items to buy her, including fine wine. However, instead of giving her a gift basket or gift certificate (to wine.com for example) which is slightly impersonal, give her something that allows her to enhance her collection. You might even consider a dinner cruise for two, if she enjoys that sort of thing.
Sushi Set
Unbreakable Barware
Cheese Plates
Modern Cocktail Shakers
Wine Decanter
Fit and Healthy
If the woman you know cares about her body, goes to the gym, or simply likes to keep fit, then sporty gifts that help keep her motivated are a great inspiration. If you know that there is a very particular sport that she enjoys, it would be best to get her something to complement what equipment she already owns. Of course, don’t forget to see the Gifts for Sports Fanatics guide as well.
Heart Rate Monitor
Workout Videos
Sporty Watch
Workout Apparel
Sports Equipment
Folding Bike
Sailing Lessons
Hand Crank Emergency Radio
Waterproof iPod Case
Scuba Diving Lessons
Gadget Lover
You thought that Mr. Gadget was bad? Well, here comes Mrs. Gadget! She lusts for all the new toys and trinkets that beep, flash, and perform other important functions, such as slicing, dicing, and vacuuming. Yes there are gadgets and gizmos for just about everything these days, but there are certainly a few that stand out amongst them. Here are some cool toys designed with the gadget lover in mind.
Camcorder
Fan Pal
Ultrasonic Washer
Shower Clock/Radio with TV Audio
Radio Toaster
History Buffs and Word Lovers
Do you know a woman who always has her head in a book? Do you find yourself impressed when she starts citing interesting historical facts in the middle of a conversation? Does she recite Shakespeare or speak another language? If so, then you have officially come in contact with a genuine word lover or history buff. Either way, these intellectual ladies have an affinity for fine literary works and culture. Whether she loves reading or learning, there are lots of possibilities — thousands if you count all the books you could buy her. But for simplicity’s sake, here a just some of the most basic options.
Collector’s Edition Book
Leather-bound Journal
Pocket Translator
Barnes and Noble Gift Certificate
Word Games
Pen Scanner
Bookends
Reader’s Bed Pillow
National Geographic Atlas
Book Light
Nature Lover and Gardener
Maybe your recipient loves the outdoors–why not give some gifts that she can use while tending to her garden or yard? See some ideas below.
Picture Taking Binoculars
Field Guide to Flowers
Wide Brim Sun Hat
Weather Station
Picnic Set