Conventional wisdom says that men are harder to shop for than women.  Look around a department store at holiday time, and it seems true  — the women’s section overflows with glittery, jewel-toned, and sumptuously soft offerings, while in the men’s there’s just bathrobes, slippers, and of course, neckties.  Well, we’re pretty sure men get just as much of a thrill from receiving a thoughtful gift as women do, so it should be just as easy to find that perfect present.  We hereby offer this assortment of guaranteed-to-please gifts for the men in your life, from your stylish sweetie to your … less-fashion-conscious dad.

First, socks from B.ella.  Now, we know what you’re thinking — aren’t socks just as bad as ties when it comes to uninspired men’s gifts?  All we can say is…have you worn these socks? B.ella makes cashmere-blend socks that are reasonably priced, warm, and stylish!  Plus they’re long enough to prevent the dreaded cold strip of calf between sock and pant leg…guys know what we’re talking about.

Second, leather gloves from iLi.  These hit the sweet spot of men’s gifts, blending rugged practicality and sophistication.  We also love their wallets and passport covers, for your man-on-the-go.  And if the buttery softness of iLi’s leather tempts you to be your own Santa, we carry their women’s gloves too.

Third, every man needs at least one pair of cufflinks (if he’s an old-fashioned type or goes to lots of Great Gatsby parties, he may need more than one).  And we guarantee he won’t have cufflinks like these—our co-owner Justin makes them from old typewriter keys!  At $18 a pair, they’d make a great centerpiece for a letter-themed gift for the writer or typography nerd in your life.

Fourth, what about an album by your guy’s favorite defunct band?  We do have a healthy assortment of both classic and eccentric titles, from David Bowie to Rick James.  Old records will never break the bank , so even if he doesn’t have a record player, your guy will appreciate a beautiful album as a piece of art…or laugh so loud at a tacky one that you’ll know you won Christmas.

Fifth, bow ties! We are now carrying these whimsical  bow ties from Cotton Bow Tie Co. They are handmade locally from an array of patterned vintage cottons. With such beautiful packaging as well…. Who could say no?!

Finally, what kind of vintage store would we be if we didn’t remind you that vintage clothes make the easiest one-of-a-kind gifts of all?  We have classic menswear, from Italian loafers to cowboy boots, from Pendleton button-ups to cashmere overcoats to goofy t-shirts.  Stop by the store or check out our online store, and remember that at the holidays, it’s better to give than to receive…but it’s ok to do both.