If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it. Beth is our source for the answers. From opinions on men’s style to decoding the sometimes mysterious ways of women, she’ll take on a different question every Thursday. She also might provide an answer without waiting to be asked. That happens from time to time too. Click here to get to know Beth, then get in touch with her by sending your question to: askawoman@dappered.com .
Hi Beth,
I was wondering if you could do a slight tangent off your usual column. See, guys are always looking for gift ideas for their significant other. Birthday, Anniversary, I F#&-ed up, ect… What about recommending a handful of things for the significant others who are also women? Things that would really brighten their day if their guy bought it for them.
– Greg
Hi Greg,
Done and done! We’ll try this out quarterly, so that we can hit each season and provide some suggestions for holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries all year round.
In most parts of the U.S., summer to fall means packing away tank tops and sandals and pulling out cardigans and boots. In that vein, I’d recommend a light scarf (bonus–this is a way to buy her sort-of-an-article-of-clothing without having to deal with sizing) as a great gift. Not a big woolen number that she’ll need for subzero temperatures, but something light to keep the chill off her neck when the temps get down into the 60s and 50s. Because this is a simple gift, you want to go for luxury–beautiful patterns, great textures or incredible fabrics. For example…
This option from Michael Kors is the infinity style, which has been a trend for so many seasons, it’s now a classic. Great neutral color, and a subtle pointelle-knit pattern to give it some texture.
These are super simple, but it’s a silk-cashmere mix, which means it’s light as a feather, warm, and decadent on the skin. Available in black as well as an eye catching “brilliant flame”.
Finally, the Missoni. This is a big name in women’s fashion, and the zig-zag pattern is their calling card. This version comes in beautiful fall colors. Made in Italy as well.
If your lady is really into style, a handbag would be a good gift. A lot of women use their purses seasonally–more casual, lighter-colored bags for spring and summer, and more structured, darker-colored bags for fall and winter. Add to her collection by getting her something in the latter category. Perhaps one of these looks like something your better half would carry?
Dooney & Burke is a great brand. I own one of their bags myself and it’s beautiful and timeless. They’re also quite expensive, though this is definitely a case where you get what you pay for. This bag comes in neutral colors so it’s likely to match whatever your gal is wearing, plus it features the great croc-texture that D & B is known for.
If the Dooney & Burke price point is much too steep (and I don’t blame you at all), check out Melie Bianco bags. They make exceptional purses–high quality, attractive, classic with a modern twist–for very reasonable prices, mainly because they don’t use real leather. BUT, unlike other “plastic” purses, these bags will hold up through many years of wear (again, speaking from experience–I own one myself). Love the unique color combo of the bag on the left, and the very structured look. Sold through DSW so it ships free with the code SHIPR as long as you’ve joined their email list.
Finally, Foley & Corinna is a newer name in handbags, but they’re doing some really interesting work with the shapes of their bags. I love the caramel colors of this bag–perfect for fall. It’s also a nice option if your gal isn’t one to carry around a larger bag.
It wouldn’t be an AAW gift-giving guide if I didn’t recommend an experience! Yes, for those who just can’t predict what their lady might like in the way of material items, give an experience. There are so many dreamy, nostalgic connotations associated with fall–make a gift out of it!
How about a weekend getaway to the countryside? (Or at least a place that resembles the countryside). Someplace you can drive to, with lots of beautiful vistas, and not many distractions. If you’re in ski country, many rustic but fine hotels have discounted rates before the snow starts to fly. If you live near wineries, take her there. You can spend the weekend tasting wines and sitting by the fire at a B&B. Or apple-picking? Berry-picking? Yes, a little corny, but so fun, and totally out of the ordinary. Strong relationships are made through shared experiences, especially shared, unusual experiences. Pair a day of fruit-picking with an evening of fine food and a night at a nice hotel. If you prefer more activity, find some great hiking or biking trails nearby and pack a picnic. If money is tight and you want to skip the overnight at a hotel, make any of these activities into a day trip!
-Beth
Got a question for Beth? Send it to: askawoman@dappered.com
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