Gifts for Men by Age

The tips below are some general rules, determined after having talked with thousands of men, for buying gifts for men at different stages of their lives. These are, by no means, true of all men in each age range, nor are they forever set in stone. Take them for what they are: insights into how the modern gentleman's needs and interests mature as he ages.

For the man in his 20's
There are two common realities for the man in his 20's: (1) he's probably in the throws of developing his career, and (2) he's open to trying new things and developing his tastes. Gifts that allow him to look like he's "made it" while he's still trying to figure out what "it" is are always welcome, and particularly accessory items – as he will be able to persistently incorporate these pieces in his look or lifestyle even as he changes or develops them over time. A beautiful writing instrument, bespoke stationery, a leather bag, nice watch, or fancy lighter are all accessories that will make him look like a million bucks before he's earned his first million. Likewise, a good shaving set is a great gift for the young man getting accustomed to relentless ritual of having to shave every morn, instead of sporting the more laid-back and scruffy college look. A man in this stage of his life also probably hasn't fully explored the worlds of gourmet foods or cigars, so such gifts enable him to try something new and to "talk the talk" over drinks with his older colleagues.

For the man in his 30's
By now, he's moved into his own place and bought his own furniture. He may not have much left over to properly equip the place for the entertaining that he undoubtedly will engage in. Gifts that make him look like a sophisticate at home are perfect for guys in their 30's. Really nice stemware, bar supplies, a rabbit corkscrew, or a decanter are all great gifts, as are a small wine fridge, a cigar humidor, or a real poker table for having his buddies over. It is also likely that he will travel more for work in his 30's than at any other time in his life. Gifts that help him survive the rigors of the road will definitely come in handy, starting with a nice piece of luggage if he doesn't already own one or a passport wallet. In addition, the man in his 30's often finds that he has a lot more time for reading and now's a good time to start building his library if he hasn't already done so. In addition to books on his favorite topics, or by the world's best authors, a good reading lamp or even a quality bookmark make two other great gifts. Finally, after dressing his house and addressing his thoughts, another gift option for men in their 30's are custom dress shirts -- as a man in this age group has come to know the kind the cuff, collar, and fabric that best suits him and is ready to start investing more in these important wardrobe fixtures.

For the man in his 40's and 50's
By now, he owns much of what he needs to live. He's probably looking to get more involved with his passions. Those passions might include golf, wine collecting, sailing, hunting, traveling, gourmet cooking, or driving. Anything that enables him to more fully enjoy those passions is appreciated: a new golf bag, new luggage for leisure trips, quality BBQ or picnic accessories, or even books about his favorite activity. He probably owns a home (maybe two), and probably has at least one room that is his sanctuary (a study or game room for example). Think about gifts that enhance his private space - a writing desk, discerning desk accessories, a signed jersey of his favorite professional athlete, a desktop humidor or ashtray. Given a little more leisure time, a cigar smoker in his 40's might want to start exploring pipe smoking more seriously -- a quality pipe and an assortment of tobaccos would thus make a great gift for such men.

For the man in his 50's
The wise man in his 50's knows that there's more to life than fancy toys. Besides, he's probably lost enough sunglasses, watches, lighters, and pens to be satisfied with whatever he's got. He's probably also satisfied with his favorite Scotch or bourbon, pipe tobacco, and golf clubs. If he is a father, it's in his 50's or 60's that the children have probably moved out, which provides him with more time and space to indulge in himself and take some extra time (alone) with his partner. Gifts with the sole purpose to refine the fine art of relaxation are great for these men. A nice smoking jacket, luxury slippers, or a new library chair would all certainly be appreciated and much used.

For the man in his 60's and beyond
It's in his 60's that most men these days are considering (or entering) retirement. This is an exciting and fast-changing time and gifts that help this man transition into this phase of his life are best by far. Think about the hobbies he already has, but also deliberate on ones that he's never had a chance to try. Consider gifts that will help push his interests -- books on topics he's always wanted to learn more about, luggage that he'll have to break-in by traveling to new places, or a shirt that he would have never had the occasion to wear in the past. If his home office isn't fully outfitted by this point, consider ways of making it a more desirable and comfortable workspace so he can finally sit down and write the novel he's been talking about for the past 40 years.