No doubt you’ve been bombarded with countless Valentine’s Day ads featuring stuffed animals holding hearts, heart-shaped chocolates in heart-shaped boxes, and of course, lots of red roses. Valentine’s Day gift ideas for that special someone in your life – yes. Incredibly original ones – no.
To spice things up a little this Valentine’s, skip the roses and chocolates and instead consider these options.
FOR HER
Intimate Apparel
Sexy, stylish and romantic, lingerie is a gift that will put smiles on both your faces. With the hottest bras and panties elegantly adorned and created with soft, durable fabrics, {intimacy} bra boutiques promise to fit each woman with the perfect bra, nightie or bathing suit for her. According to {intimacy} co-founder Susan Nethero, aka “The Bra Whisperer,” this year’s hot lingerie colors are shades of purple, red, fuchsia, electric blue, and turquoise. Select styles that suit her and don’t be afraid to ask the {intimacy} staff for help.
{intimacy}/South Coast Plaza :: myintimacy.com
Sephora by OPI Urban Ballerina Set
This mini collection of pretty pink hues and subtle purples is enough to make any girl’s heart flutter. Chic and versatile and just $18, the colors in this collection were created to combine the soft and elegant side of the traditional ballerina with a hard-rock urban side. The four shades come in miniature bottles, giving your girl a chance to test different looks and combine the shades to make intricate designs. Guaranteed to pair well with a wide range of outfits and styles, these polishes will make the usual bright red and pink hues associated with Valentine’s Day look extremely garish. Set contains four .5 oz nail colors in Leotard-Optional, The Way Tutu His Heart, Who’s Spinning Tonight?, and Break a Leg-Warmer!
Sephora/South Coast Plaza :: sephora.com
FujiFilm Instax Mini 7s Camera
Small, cute and reminiscent of the old-school Polaroid camera, the Instax prints credit card-sized photos instantly. This user-friendly camera isn’t as bulky as its predecessors and can be easily tossed in tote bags and purses. While the photos aren’t large, their dimensions make them easy to store in your wallet and work great for scrapbooks, birthday cards and refrigerators. Camera, $130; film two-pack, $30
Urban Outfitters/Brea Mall and Irvine Spectrum :: urbanoutfitters.com
Tiffany Bead Bracelet
Simple and lightweight, the contemporary design of this Tiffany & Co. bracelet is uniquely flattering and amps up the elegance of any outfit. Constructed of silver, the beaded design is sophisticated without being too overstated. Classier than the usual necklace-with-heart pendant, this gift is sure to keep her smiling for days. Bracelet, $185
Tiffany/South Coast Plaza :: tiffany.com
Ruby Diamond Ring
Shaped like a Tiffany engagement ring, the Ruby Diamond Ring is a laser-cut acrylic ring that is cute, functional and at $12, won’t break the bank. Because of the thin design, this ring is meant for stacking, so add two or three to your lady’s ring finger to make her feel extra special.
:: poketo.com
FOR HIM
PlayStation 3
Not only does it play PlayStation 3 games and DVD/Blu-ray discs, but it runs Netflix on Demand. The sleek system is small enough to fit virtually anywhere near your television set and the wireless rechargeable controllers eliminate clutter. Games can either be purchased at local retailers or downloaded online via the PlayStation Store. Short on cash? There is a ton of free downloadable content on the online store, including playable demos and much more. The love of your life will love you even more when you give him the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. PS3, $299.99
Best Buy/Orange :: bestbuy.com
Pandora One
Whether he likes rock, hip-hop or country, Pandora One has got you covered. The popular live streaming music website offers a one-year subscription for avid music lovers, featuring unlimited listening, high-quality audio and a desktop application that allows for easy listening without the fuss of opening a Web browser. To purchase Pandora One ($36), simply go to pandora.com/gifting and choose whether you would like to send it to your love via e-mail or opt to have an elegant notice printed out.
:: pandora.com/gifting
Icon Watch
This watch puts a modern twist on the nostalgic eight-bit graphics of yesteryear. The modern design of this watch is uniquely stylish and pairs well with every outfit from casual to eveningwear. Watch, $75
:: poketo.com
Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani
Nothing says romance like amazing masculine cologne. Made to emulate the sea, the sun, the earth, and the breeze of a Mediterranean island, Acqua di Gio is a fresh, clean scent that will uplift you and your man. A 1.7 oz bottle is enough to last for months, as it only takes a spritz or two for a long-lasting scent. It smells so good that you may even want to steal a spritz for yourself. Cologne, $57
Sephora/South Coast Plaza :: sephora.com
Sport It Up
Treat him to a special sports event of his choice. With tickets ranging from $15 to $25, you’ll be able to help him cheer on his favorite team at a live game. Lakers and Ducks tickets can be purchased online, so visit the Ticketmaster website to nab inexpensive seats.
:: ticketmaster.com
