Cool Unconventional Gifts for Him

Soho in New York City is a treasure trove of awesome stores where you can find great gifts for him, if you know where to look. But there are equally as many online shops to find the goods as well. There are two types of men in the world; those who play video games and those who don’t. The same could be said for men who follow sports and those who don’t. Either way, it can be hard shopping for a man, especially a man with very specific taste when it comes to what he wears. I would never suggest buying anyone clothing unless you know specifically what they want and that goes for both men and women alike. I can’t tell you how many times friends or family members have gotten me clothes and I wished they hadn’t. They figure, I’m into fashion so I’ll like anything clothing wise. It’s the awesome thought that counts but that’s usually not the case. Christmas and New Year’s are right around the corner and my boyfriends birthday is right after, so it’s a fun time for finding thoughtful gifts for all the Him’s, that he won’t ever want to return.

[aesop_content color=”#FFFFFF” background=”auto” columns=”2″ position=”none” imgrepeat=”no-repeat” floaterposition=”left” floaterdirection=”up”]When shopping for men, I tend to go for electronics, art and accessories. These things are easy to navigate and hard to get wrong if you pay attention to the things he says and also take note of what kinds of things he likes. For electronics, Best Buy seems to be the best bet. Hell there is a vintage Coca-Cola Mini Vending Machine that I have my eye on for myself. Of course you can find deal’s anywhere online such as Amazon.com, but I like to put my hands on electronics before buying. I also like to hear all the information from a knowledgable sales person. Best Buy also has a great return policy which is what makes me choose them over most other stores, even if it’s a bit pricier. Whether it’s a fancy new iPad Pro, a tricked out Xbox game controller, or the latest in portable speaker units, Best Buy is a sure thing. Art, is another story. You really have to know someone to know their taste in arts and objects. Is he crazy about vintage switch blades, or collects colorful skateboards, or has a thing for leather encompassed decorative skulls? It’s all about knowing that thing he really likes or better yet loves. Something he can display or add to a collection that can be a conversation starter is the perfect gift. I would suggest checking out places like The Evolution Store on Spring Street in Soho. I decided to take a little trip there and they always have cool and interesting things. For cool art I also like to peruse The Real Real art section for great paintings, prints, sculptures and objects. They also have a pretty good gauge on accessories for men as well.

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Photography by Pete Monsanto

Peplum Top: Derek Lam | Denim: Monki | Shoes: Proenza Schouler Mules (get similar Mules HERE)

Accessories may be the easiest thing to buy for him. A great time piece, pair of riding gloves, a favorite signature scent or sick steel pen can make for great gifts or even a gift basket. No matter what you have learned, stay away from cliche ties, underwear and socks (they are so blasé and snoring boring). For eclectic scents and amazing knick knacks for Him check out MiN in Soho specifically The Edit for the coolest in stationary and objects. Shinola is great for leather goods, journals and classic watches. Recently I was sent an awesome men’s essential gift box from Tessuti with everything from shaving cream and brushes to a Hugo Boss Tee and a flask! Ben Sherman also has high quality and tailored accessories for the modern man.

If you are totally clueless about what to get the Him’s of your life here are a few websites to peruse for gift idea inspiration: Alter Brooklyn and Touch of Modern. J.Crew and UrbanOutfitters, both have amazing Gift Guides as well for cool gifts that are unconventional.

Happy Shopping for Him!

xx

Monroe