Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but there’s no need to panic about gift ideas. We have you covered. There are lots of great ways to say “je t’aime,” whether you want to be sweet, sassy, artistic or whimsical. Here are our top picks for good gifting this February 14.
Urbanears Plattan II Headphones
Urbanears Plattan II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The Urbaneaters Plattan II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are a colorful spin on the company’s classic design, featuring an ergonomic fit, well-defined sound—and all without the cord problem. A powerful lithium ion battery provides up to 30 hours of wireless playtime, and a collapsible design means they can be tucked into a workbag, handbag or backpack. Choose from five colors, including bright valentine red or a romantic powder pink. It’s a gift that will be music to your Valentine’s ears.
Owen & Fred “Hey Handsome” Travel Kit
Owen & Fred “Hey Handsome” Shaving Kit Bag
Tell that guy of yours how handsome he is every time he opens his shaving kit bag. This New York-based Owen & Fred Shaving Kit Bag is the perfect combination of form and function. Canvas and nylon construction, major zipper power, and a water-repellent, 420-denier nylon lining make it leak-proof. which means your man can stay handsome and so can the rest of his gear in his gym bag or luggage. Layer your gifting by stuffing it full of his favorite products, and tuck it inside the uber uber cool hook + Albert Garment Weekend Bag. It is like the gift that keeps on giving.
Ink Drawing by Kevin Astle
Ink Drawings by Kevin Astle
Giving art is always an original way to say “I love you.” Local artist Kevin Astle shows his pieces in intimate shows at small locally owned businesses in Seattle. (Full disclosure: He’s also my brother, but I just love his work.) His beautiful black and white ink drawings are featured both at Queen Anne Dispatch on Queen Anne Hill and at Urban Family Brewing in Magnolia. This recent group of ink drawings contemplate elemental forces: wind, water, stone and the world of nature that he loves to spend time in. He hangs his work from scroll art frames, inspired by his time working in the Japanese Pavilion at the LA County Museum of Art. You can check out his work on Instagram here.
The Jacksons “Kiss Me Quick” Bag
The Jacksons “Kiss Me Quick” Jute Bag
I found these amazing bags from London-based company The Jacksons while traveling through Paris this past summer, and I was often stopped on the street and asked about my bag. These hand-crafted jute “word-bags” are a fabulous design collaboration between Louise Jackson and the skillful traditional handicraft workers of Southwest Bangladesh.
The 100% locally-grown jute bags are light, flexible and durable. The “Kiss Me Quick” bag has a big pucker on one side and wording on the opposite. It is a gift that speaks for itself.
India Hicks Black Matte Stud Earrings
India Hicks Stud Earrings
And speaking of kisses, these rock-and-roll Stud Earrings from India Hicks are like a double kiss greeting to each cheek: Gold-studded matte black X’s over O’s. The attention to detail and brilliant Brit design on these edgy little baubles the perfect gift for the cool chick in your life. The company makes great matching bangles and a stud ring if you want a whole set to enamor your love.
CB2 x Fred Segal Red Lips Beach Towel
CB2 x Fred Segal Red Lips Beach Towel
Even if you don’t have a current sunny vacation on the calendar—and lucky you, if you do—this cheeky collaboration between the iconic Fred Segal and CB2 will tickle the fancy of any sun-worshipper. The 100% cotton Red Lips Beach Towel is a roomy 40″Wx70″H and would be perfect rolled around a bottle of bubbly, like this Antech Emotion Sparkling Rosé, one of my favorite flavors. Or if you are really feeling loving, add some plane tickets to a warm beach destination and prepare to feel the love. Mmmmuah.
Valentine’s Day is Thursday, February 14.
