Holiday Gift Guide for the Boyfriend 2011

MEN. As we all know, they are the most difficult people to buy for when it comes to gifts. If you are in the dark like I am this year, I thought I would share a few presents either myself or friends have put under the tree in the past. Hopefully they help you too!

1. For the Socializer
If your man is always up for a celebratory cocktail or the first to RSVP to a party, this monogrammed cigar flask and cigar cutter from Pottery Barn is the perfect accessory. Great for weddings, bachelor parties and any other special occasions, wrap one of these up (or both!) with a few nice cigars and he will love you forever.

Pottery Barn Cigar Flask – $29.50

Pottery Barn Silver-Plated Cigar Cutter – $19.50

2. For the Old Man
A nice bottle of liquor is something any man would love and use. My beau and his friends are obsessed with the new local whiskey, Templeton Rye, that recently hit the shelves of some of the hottest restaurants and clubs of Chicago. Classy and smooth, your man cannot go wrong offering a glass of this on the rocks or nice and neat. Sometimes difficult to find, call ahead before heading to your local liquor store.

Templeton Rye Whiskey – $40-$45

3. For the Business Man
Tumi for men is the equivalent to Louis Vuitton for women. Walk downtown Chicago and you will see this label on the shoulders of any man in a power suit. If your significant other is in the business to “dress to impress”, surprise him with the Tumi Single Handle Portfolio. Ideal for meetings and organizing, this is a classic piece that will last him a life time. Take advantage of the free monogramming too!

Tumi Alpha Single Handle Portfolio – $175

4. For the Casual Cutie
I bought this for my man’s birthday this September and it has not come off since he took it out of the box. The Burberry Half Zip Top is extremely comfortable and the perfect chameleon. It can be worn to parties, a football game, work or on the couch. Literally everywhere! I got it in black from but it comes in a variety of other colors. Can be purchased at any major Chicago department store.

Burberry Half Zip Up – $175

5. For the Fashionista
Ties are a classic but I just love these two pieces that make a bit of a statement.  I find the deer heads so playful and the classic plaid would pack a punch to any suit.

“Deer Head” Silk Tie by Public Opinion – $25
Burberry Woven Silk Tie – $145

6. For the Home Body
My friend recently purchased these Lululemon lounge pants as a birthday gift for her fiance and he cannot get enough of them.  He has worn them so much she is buying him another pair for Christmas! Comfy and durable, these guys are bound to get some good use.

Lululemon Mens Formula Pant – $84

7. For the Top Chef
I love this for the man that likes to cook (or thinks he can!). Surprise your chef with some spice rubs to accompany his favorite meat and a cooking lesson. These spice gift boxes from The Spice House in Old Town are absolutely incredible. I can’t decide between The Beef and Steak Lovers or The Poultry Pleasers.

The Beef and Steak Lovers Gift Box – $20.95
Poultry Pleasers Gift Box – $20.95

Throw in a pair of tickets to a cooking lesson from Chicago’s local Chopping Block and you have a recipe for success! There are several types of classes but I hear the “Knife Skills” is a must. I love the review given here, which perfectly illustrates a mans experience learning how to chop, slice and dice. Bon Appetit!

The Chopping Block Knife Skills Lesson – $40 per person
Sow what are you getting your hunny bunny? I would love to hear!