Every few months I curate a collection of the best gifts for the women in your life. All of these gifts are great for a romantic partner, but many of them also work for sisters, mothers, and friends. The May 2016 episode is geared towards gifts that your loved ones can enjoy while out in the great outdoors. As always, there are a range of prices and styles. Happy shopping!
Tans look great on people, yes, but they don’t look as great as age spots look bad. Since I came to this realization in my twenties, I have diligently applied sunscreen, worn silly, floppy hats, and occasionally indulged in sunless tanner. Encourage your other half to steer clear of the sun’s harmful rays by gifting her with some great self-tanning products. St. Tropez is a big name in sunless tanners. They’ve been around forever and have sort of perfected the look. Above, from left: Gradual Tan Classic Everyday Body Lotion – $25, Self Tan Luxe Dry Oil – $40, Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse – $42.
I cannot in good conscience advise anyone to buy their significant other a swimsuit. Even Gisele Bundchen goes shopping for bikinis, tries one on and says, “Ugh, this looks terrible on me.” Don’t nobody think they look good in a swimsuit. So the odds that you will pick that one perfect swimsuit for your lady love is, like, not possible. But if you really want to get her a beach accessory, might I suggest a bathing suit cover-up? Easy to size because most aren’t meant to be snug-fitting, and a truly welcome gift for the modest gal. The one above is sexy as hell, but still has enough coverage for those lumps and bumps. If your sweetie is a plus-size gal, I love this beautiful cover-up that features fun bell sleeves.
Look at this box of brightly colored paper flowers–they’re actually made from biodegradable paper that has been laced with seeds. Stick those suckers in the ground, water, eh voila–real flowers! One of the most unique and beautiful gifts I’ve seen in a long time, this box of assorted flower seeds would make an ideal present for anyone who loves to garden, especially someone who is just starting out and may be overwhelmed by choosing what to plant.
Another gift suggestion for the gardener in your life. This planter is meant to be hung on a wall to maximize space for someone who doesn’t have much of it. If you know someone who loves to get their hands in the dirt, but they have a super small yard, or they live in a condo (with access to a deck or patio), this would be perfect. Made of eco friendly material, you simply place dirt in the pockets and garden as normal. Genius.
Designer sunglasses are so ultimately indulgent. The right pair is beautiful, sleek, and resistant to destruction (like being thrown haphazardly into one’s purse). Tory Burch makes great, hardy sunglasses. Spending this kind of cash on shades is not for everyone, but if your sweetheart loves luxury and wears sunglasses often, these are a nice a gift. I also love this pair of round shades, and these fun shades with chevron detail along the arm.
Athletic gear used to come in two colors: neon and black. Thankfully, designers are now making clothing that can transition from gym to street and vice versa. The workout shirt above is made from that marvelous wicking material to help athletes stay dry, but it’s still a really attractive top, easily wearable for errands or hanging out. If you want a top that is strictly for workouts, this tank has some fun detailing across the back. A nice gift for the athletic gal in your life.
This boho chic beach towel is great for the beach bum. Fun print, soft cotton material, and at 59 inches in diameter, it can fit several people and a picnic basket (or a cooler of beer).
Spring and summer are the house selling and buying seasons. Extra touches are what make a house a home–planters on the front step, a bedroom painted a favorite color, photos of family on the fridge. A great housewarming gift that your loved one can enjoy while outdoors is a set of wind chimes. I was gifted the set above and they’re beautiful–the sleek silver chimes are super modern, and the stones add a bit of color. They sound great, too.
There are a lot of women who HATE shopping. I know, it’s hard for me to imagine, too. But if someone in your life would rather get a root canal than hit the mall, help her out. I recently purchased these sandals and they’re great. Really attractive, easy to match with almost anything, simple, and summery. Size up, they run a tad small.
Here’s my wild card pick. For the woman who is a child at heart, perhaps a bit whimsical and silly, how about a kite? Think about it, when was the last time you–or she–flew a kite? 20 years ago? More? Forget that you’re a serious adult with responsibilities and take your gal kite flying as a gift. From left: Rainbow Diamond Kite – $19.97; Prism Flip Kite – $34.95.
About the Author: 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 .
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