If the movies are anything to go by, Valentine’s Day comes with a standard set of gifts: armfuls of deep scarlet roses, obscenely large teddy bears, the obligatory box of heart-shaped chocolates... you know the drill. But in a world in which love rarely involves someone picking you up at your front door for a date, or standing in your garden with a boombox, what kind of gift can you give for Valentine’s Day that won’t give someone the ick? Admittedly, it’s personal. Though we will say that anything with a little thought behind it will generally go a long way.
Here, we’ve pulled together a list of alternative Valentine’s Day gifts, from jewellery you don’t need to save for a special occasion to products that allow your loved one a rare moment of self-care – thoughtful, cute and actually useful treats to present to your beau on the 14th. Likewise, if you want to drop a hint, send them this link...
For the person who loves updating their interiors, this vase will brighten up any living room or dining table. A daily reminder to never leave without kissing goodbye. £42, L&Clay at Anthropologie
It’s exactly as it says. A sexy, musky, cherry-laced fragrance that’s genuinely wearable – with an added surprise, should things get a little amorous. A gift for them, and for you. £69, Amorecco
Sitre’s candles were made for date night: simply set the mood with a flickering glow and warming tonka bean scent, then the melted wax turns into a silky massage oil. Plus, this new silver design by Danish artist Esben Weile Kjær will look great on their shelves. Win, win, win. 650,00 DKK, Sitre
Say you care by giving them an excuse for some self-care: this silky body cream from Salt & Stone feels like pure luxury to apply, leaves skin next-level soft and has a moreish saffron and cedar fragrance that lasts throughout the day for a constant mood boost. £42, Salt & Stone
When it comes to Valentine’s gifts, chocolate is practically mandatory. Spice things up a little with these mushroom chocs (no, not that kind) – featuring a blend of cordyceps, ashwaganda, cinnamon and more to support “drive, satisfaction and stamina”. How many you take, is up to you... $59, Alice Mushrooms
Lingerie for Valentine’s could err on the cringe side. Unless it’s a 100% silk slip that, when worn, makes you feel like a mature, wordly person whose life is completely together. Give someone the gift of that feeling and you’ll be forever in their good books. £175, If Only If
Is there a better way to celebrate love than with a margarita? Well, it depends on your tastes, but they certainly bring the party. Plus, this one by north London snack institution FINK’S is a blushing pink cherry take on a classic Tommy’s – very fitting for the occasion. £36, FINKS at Delli
If you’re after something a little more practical, Birkenstock’s Valentine’s collection sees their wear-everywhere sandals reimagined in pink and red. An ideal way to nod to the day without going OTT on the florals. £90, Birkenstock
For the one who’s always the host, get them a gift that serves all their needs: this gingham jug is just as handy for holding bouquets as it is for serving drinks at dinner parties. Plus, it’s just cute. £45, Casa Cubista at Lamp LDN
Looking for something special? Say it with jewellery. These heart earrings from Tilly Sveaas are a playful nod to the Day of Love that they can happily wear all year round. Plus, the gold-silver mix means they can be worn with anything. £170, Tilly Sveaas
