7 Fashion Gifts For a Guy That Don't Involve Bonobos
Well-priced and not too far out of his comfort zone.
One of the biggest requests I get from friends and in my DMs alike is suggestions on what to get a guy. The funny thing is, I don’t normally buy gifts for milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, etc. since we both agreed that we’d rather take that money for travel. For example, in lieu of a present for Chris’ birthday this past Monday we’re going to allocate those funds to our Australia budget, mainly a scuba diving trip in the Great Barrier Reef. I gotta put this PADI certification to good use! Instead, I wind up getting him random things throughout the course of the year, mainly unique finds from my work trips or if I come across something I think he should have.
This guide is exactly that — little things I’ve seen along the way that I think would be a nice fit in Chris’ wardrobe. The vibe is what I guess I’d consider the male counterpart of my style, albeit toned down with a smidge more color in the form of soothing neutrals in shades of beige, gray, navy, and green. Naturally Japanese streetwear and outdoors brands play heavily into this aesthetic since he’s a fan of nice looking but functional pieces that can withstand his various hobbies. The upside to this curation: it’s not as expensive as my wardrobe! I consider this guy gifting guide more medium to low stakes gifts — no Rolexes here, at least until I’m able to get one for myself. It’s also way more approachable, for the guy who wants to look pulled together but not totally avant-garde.
So here are a few things I’ve bought or considered getting him in the past:
Non Hypebeast Sneakers
The second most common question, after “What jeans are cool now?”, is about what sneakers feel appropriate and current. It’s a tricky answer — you don’t want to go too young and hypebeast-y but you also don’t want to seem outdated either. My current favorite are the Nike Vomero 5s. They’re Dad Sneaker-lite, with a profile that’s slightly chunky but the overall look is sleek and neutral. They’re currently sold out on Nike but Stadium Goods via Farfetch has a bunch at a premium. I actually bought a pair for Chris back when the prices were closer to $175 and he’s a huge fan — they’re comfy and look great with all of his pants.
Looser Trousers, That Are Still Refined
One of our first stops in Tokyo is almost always Beams. The brand knows how to do classic menswear through an Americana lens that doesn’t feels stuffy or overly preppy. They’re now available at Mr. Porter and their price point is quite reasonable for the quality you get. These trousers are roomy and comfortable, creating a more updated silhouette. I suspect they’re a little too short for the model but they’ve made it work with the colorful socks. I’d prefer them to hit a little lower, so there’s more slouch and I like them worn with sneakers or boots instead of loafers. A more casual pair of shoes makes more sense for his lifestyle.
Everyday Shorts
Another must visit when we’re in Tokyo is to Nanamica and its counterpart North Face Purple Label. Mr. Porter calls it Nanamica a cult Japanese adventure brand, and that’s an apt description. Everyone who learns about these two labels winds up becoming absolutely obsessed, us included. The reason? Everything is so thoughtfully designed, well-fitting (at least for traditional East Asian body types), and stylish as all hell. You can technically buy it in the U.S. but the exchange rate makes purchasing pieces in Japan significantly cheaper. But being that not everyone can do that, it’s available at Mr. Porter as well as SSENSE and the price is quite reasonable. These shorts can literally be worn every day if you’re the type to pack lightly for travel since they’re quick drying. I love that they’re a classic silhouette that’ll look good even on the hottest summer days when it’s hard to feel pulled together.
A Sharp, Lightweight Jacket
Sorry, I’m going to include a bunch of Nanamica pieces in this guide because they’re all on sale and the prices are quite good. This jacket is under $200 which is comparable to what you’d pay at very bland mall stores and direct to consumer brands. Like the shorts, the fabric is made to be quick dry and lightweight so it’s a great topper for slightly chill fall or spring days. Sizing is limited but there are also similar pieces on sale at SSENSE with ample sizing, albeit more expensive. Before you say that you can find similar at Uniqlo, yes you can but the fabric at Nanamica is much better and the cuts feel a bit fresher, more stylish.
A Cozy Sweater
The last Nanamica piece on this list is this wool blend sweater, which also happens to be on sale for a great price. I love the way it’s styled on the model with sweatpants, Salomons, and a wool coat — it’s casual, easy, and great for the weekends. That said, I know most people aren’t going to head out like this so this sweater is equally as good with the Beams trousers from above or a pair of jeans.
Black Pants For Even the Most Fashion Adverse Guy
If Nanamica and Beams get a mention on this list, then I absolutely have to include the most aesthetic outdoors brand in the world: Snow Peak. They curate a vibe that centers around making everything about the camping experience as pleasant as possible, from the lightweight cutlery and cups to the fire pit to the clothes. These plain black trousers are universally pleasing — there’s really nothing much to fear about them with their classic cut and length. Made with a lightweight fabric, they’re another versatile piece that travels and breathes well.
A Graphic Tee That Benefits a Good Cause
Sky High Farm is a non-profit that grows and donates 100% of its food to local New York charities, helping fight food insecurity. They also happen to have great merch that’s carried everywhere from Dover Street Market to SSENSE to Mr. Porter. I love gifting interesting graphic tees that have a unique story whether it’s a psychedelic Nepenthes design or a cartoony line drawing from a local artist from Oaxaca. This one is super fun, on sale, and a good way to break up the never ending stream of basic black tees in his closet.
Hopefully this guide is of help to you! I already can hear Chris mentioning how much he wants all of the items on here once he reads this. Too bad, the budget is for Australia! On that note, until Sunday, which will be a pivot to some travel content.
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I have so much trouble wardrobing my husband - he hates shopping but will usually wear what I suggest. I just never know what to suggest. And he loves Tokyo and goes there for work sometimes, so thank you for this!
I have long been hunting a version of hiking pants I had as a teenager: green khaki, probably army surplus, inherited from an aunt. The Beams pants are it EXACTLY. Thank you!!!!!!