When Sherry created mood boards for gifts that kids and women might like, many readers asked for a version focused on gifts for men. I was surprised by the demand, but happy to oblige. After a bit of work I pulled together a selection of items that could make thoughtful, useful, or just plain fun presents for the men in your life. I won’t pretend every item will appeal to every guy, but here are a dozen gifts I wouldn’t mind finding under the tree myself.
1. This HOMAGE NYC tee. I actually bought one recently and wear it all the time. It was an affordable find and has the added bonus of being recognizable to my kid, who excitedly says “C for Clara!” whenever she sees it. A comfortable, casual tee is always a welcome addition to a guy’s wardrobe.
2. I’m a sucker for a good notebook, and guys appreciate a place to jot down ideas and lists too. This hand-stamped brown spiral notebook from Etsy is an inexpensive, charming option for capturing “nefarious ideas,” quick sketches, or daily notes. A simple, well-made notebook can be surprisingly satisfying to use.
3. The Black & Decker GYRO screwdriver caught my eye in stores. I haven’t used it extensively, but it’s an intriguing tool that interprets the twist of your wrist to determine the direction of the bit. It feels like a small innovation that makes routine tasks a bit more interesting — a practical yet clever gift for someone who likes gadgets or tinkering around the house.
4. Vintage travel posters are timeless, and I always have a soft spot for them. These prints make great wall art, especially for someone who loves travel or has a connection to a particular city. Even if your city isn’t represented, a striking vintage poster adds personality to an office, den, or living room.
5. Fist pump… in poster form. This playful print is a lighthearted way to decorate a space, and it comes from a local maker in Richmond. It’s affordable and full of character — the kind of small piece that sparks conversation and brings a smile.
6. A leather billfold wallet is a practical and classic gift. This handcrafted leather wallet from Etsy is durable, attractive, and can be personalized at no extra charge. Personalized touches make a practical item feel more special, and a quality wallet is something a guy will use every day.
7. These oversized army man bookends are perfect for a man cave or a playful bookshelf. The classic green finish is nostalgic, but they would also look great spray-painted in charcoal, navy, or a glossy white to suit different decor styles. They combine whimsy with functionality.
8. One of my go-to comfort pieces is a striped hoodie from American Apparel. It’s soft, warm, and has become a wardrobe staple. While it’s a bit pricier than a basic sweatshirt, the comfort and fit make it worth the investment for colder months.
9. Portable Bluetooth speakers make excellent gifts, and this compact WOW Bluetooth Speaker comes in several colors. The yellow version caught my eye, but there are plenty of options to match someone’s personality. Small speakers are great for travel, outdoor use, or adding music to a kitchen or workshop.
10. A rustic magazine rack made from reclaimed materials can be a thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys design, reading, or organization. It’s more of an investment than a single magazine subscription, so it could be a perfect group gift from multiple family members who want to pitch in.
11. Humor books can be a reliable hit, and The Oatmeal’s How To Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting To Kill You is a great example. It’s funny, illustrated, and an easy read that makes a great stocking stuffer or small gift for someone with a quirky sense of humor.
12. Scented candles typically skew feminine, but novelty “man candles” with scents like fresh-cut grass, campfire, or sawdust are surprisingly appealing. These candles offer familiar, earthy aromas that feel appropriate for a garage, workshop, or den — a playful yet usable present.
That’s my collection of a dozen gift ideas for guys. Some are practical, some are silly, and some are stylish — a mix to suit different personalities and budgets. Do any of these stand out to you? What are you planning to get the men in your life this season?
Update: You can also browse our favorite holiday decor finds for more gift inspiration and budget-friendly options this season.