When Sherry created mood boards for gifts that kids and women might like, many readers asked for a guy-focused version from me. I was surprised, but excited to put one together. After a bit of hunting and editing I came up with a dozen solid gift ideas that feel thoughtful, practical, and a little fun. They won’t suit every man, but they’re a good starting point for holiday shopping.
1. A HOMAGE NYC tee. I picked one up from Fab.com and it’s become a casual favorite—comfortable, inexpensive, and a simple, wearable gift. Little touches like a child recognizing the letter on the shirt make it more personal and charming.
2. A hand-stamped brown spiral notebook. Notebooks are timeless: useful for sketches, lists, and ideas. This durable, hand-stamped option from Etsy is affordable and has personality—perfect for someone who likes to jot down notes or schemes in a physical book.
3. The GYRO screwdriver from Black & Decker. I haven’t owned one, but it’s an intriguing tool that interprets wrist movement to drive the bit in different directions. It’s an inventive take on a basic household tool and makes small jobs more interesting.
4. Vintage travel posters. I have a soft spot for travel artwork, and vintage-style posters add color and nostalgia to a room. Even if a favorite city isn’t available, there are plenty of metropolitan options that look great framed and hung.
5. A fist-pump poster. For a bit of humor and local pride, this playful print is a fun decorative piece. It’s inexpensive, lighthearted, and made locally—great for a den, garage, or office wall.
6. A leather billfold wallet. A classic leather wallet, especially one that can be personalized, is a practical gift that still feels special. It’s the sort of durable, everyday item people use constantly, so a well-made wallet is appreciated.
7. Oversized army-man bookends. These novelty bookends are perfect for a man cave, home office, or any shelf that could use a bold accent. While the traditional green has character, a fresh coat of paint—charcoal, navy, or glossy white—can tailor them to a specific decor.
8. A striped hoodie from American Apparel. A high-quality, comfortable hoodie can become a wardrobe staple. Spending a bit more for a well-made sweatshirt pays off, especially during colder months when comfort matters most.
9. A compact Bluetooth speaker. Portable speakers come in many shapes and colors; picking a bright option can add personality to a workspace or kitchen. They’re handy for streaming music or podcasts and make a useful, modern gift.
10. A rustic magazine rack made from reclaimed materials. This makes a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates craftsmanship and reclaimed wood. It’s pricier than a single magazine subscription, but it’s a long-lasting piece that can be shared or gifted by a group.
11. The Oatmeal book How To Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting To Kill You. This humor book by The Oatmeal is a guaranteed laugh for fans of comics and witty observations. It’s a light, entertaining gift that works well as a stocking stuffer or casual present.
12. “Man candles” with rugged scents. Candles with masculine scents like fresh-cut grass, campfire smoke, or sawdust offer an approachable aromatic gift for men who don’t usually receive candles. They bring atmosphere to a space without feeling fussy.
That’s my dozen: a mix of practical, humorous, and stylish gifts that cover a range of tastes. If you have other favorites or go-to gifts for the men in your life, I’d love to hear what’s worked for you this season.
Update: You can also explore our favorite holiday decor picks on the site—there are many budget-friendly options under $15 that pair nicely with these gift ideas.