Fathers, brothers, husbands. Boyfriends and boy friends. I don't know about you, but I have way more fun shopping for the guys in my life than I do for myself. I'm utterly intrigued by what I think of as 'the gentlemanly arts', so it's a treat to delve deeper into that world with gift giving as my justification. Who doesn't love an excuse to shop for things they adore but would never buy for themselves?
The trick, of course, is to straddle that fine line between what he wants and what he needs—or rather, what you think he needs. Case in point: a rock and roll photo book that appeals to his inner music buff while planting the suggestion that his old fleece should make way for a trim blazer. A classic Timex watch with lo-fi good looks that will complement his New Year's resolution to rely less on his digital devices. Or in the case of one guy I know, a rugged duffel to replace the plastic garbage bag he's been using as luggage. (True story.)
You can't go wrong with hardy materials like leather, wood, and wool. After all, you want your gift still to be in great shape when you abscond with it in a few years (okay, weeks). Because when it comes to fathers, brothers, husbands, boyfriends and boy friends, I think we can all agree that their most important role is to use something just until it's perfectly worn-in for us.
Shopping Guide: 1. John Varvatos: Rock In Fashion 2. Timex Modern Originals Grande Classic 3. Wooden Bowling Set 4. Parker Premier Luxury Pen 5. Buffalo Check Duffel 6. Leather-Brimmed Cap 7. Beer Flight Set Images: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.