We get it, we get it! Chinese New Year literally just ended, and Valentine’s Day is already just around the corner. We’re not judging, we understand how busy you’ve been. That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to help you out of this last-minute pickle you’re in. Here are some gift ideas that you can get on the way home from work that’ll definitely make it in time for this Sunday:
FOR HER
1. Maison Martin Margiela Replica Lipstick On
We’ve hit the jackpot. Maison Martin Margiela’ Lipstick On EDT is the ultimate beauty package in one: Makeup-inspired perfume. It’s luxurious and will leave your girl feeling confident. Here’s what our Her World colleague Jaclyn wrote in her review of this scent: “Notes of galbanum, vanilla and iris give it a powdery, slightly waxy quality that makes it smell like a cross between a luxurious lipstick and a powder blusher. It is sultry, feminine and glamorous – the essence of old-school beauty captured in a bottle.” Need we say more?
2. Mango suede cross-body bag
This yellow bag is definitely on the bold side. If you think about it though, it’s the perfect message to send to the person who catches your eye and brightens up your life. (The perfect tagline for a homemade card!) Plus it looks totally cute, which is always a huge bonus.
For more homemade gift ideas that you can pair with this bag, click here.
3. Rouge Pur Couture by Yves Saint Laurent
YouTube beauty vloggers swear by this and, apparently, so does the world: Rouge Pur Couture’s No. 52 was at one point sold out internationally. Now, since everyone has different skin tones and lip colour preferences, we won’t recommend a specific shade. However, if you’re stuck and need some suggestions, here are the cult favourites: No. 1, No. 19 and of course, No. 52. They’re a little pricey for just a lipstick, but trust us when we say it’s worth it. After all, nothing says “I love you” quite like the YSL insignia.
FOR HIM
4. Dior Sauvage Bath and Body Line
A well-groomed man is a manly man. Hewing to a grooming regimen hones discipline and shows off his organisational skills – traits that make your #bae a worthy bearer of the Y chromosome. Want him to man up? Get him sorted with Dior’s dangerously sexy Sauvage suite for men. Distinctively masculine without being overtly aggressive, I’m obsessed with just about everything from the range: Think shower gel, deodorant, after-shave balm, lotion … the works. What’s in the scent? Clear citrus segues into animalistic ambergris before making way for voluptuous vetiver notes that recall the clinking of whisky glasses in old-school saloons. I’ll toast to that! – Eugene Quek, associate editor
5. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energising Face Wash
A full day of work or school is draining enough, but when you factor in the harsh UV rays our skin gets exposed to, it’s easy to see why we sometimes look and feel so lacklustre. The solution? Pamper your man with this energising facial wash from Kiehl’s men’s line. It’s formulated with vitamins, citrus extracts and most importantly, caffeine, to truly bring life back to your man’s skin. And you know what they say, the first step to feeling good is looking good. If that doesn’t completely lift his spirits, well, we’re sure your companionship will.
6. Hair pomade
The hair pomade is an underappreciated product that’s coming back into our lives. From the old days of “Grease” where men rocked that slicked-back look, hair pomade is an essential for nailing a great hairstyle. It maintains the “soft” look while keeping that fabulous maine intact with its stronghold grip. Opt for a water-soluble product like Suavecito and We Need A Hero Hero Matte so that it washes off with little residue, even though we both know you’re not coming off his arm that easy!
7. Metropolitan Brief in Signature Sport Calf Leather from Coach
Boys be gone! This is a gift gorgeous briefcase-style bag will “transform” him into a man that’s a perfect match to your strong femininity. It’s professional and sleek enough for him to be the style icon of the office, yet not too stiffly formal for him to have to ditch the bag during a night out.
FOR BOTH YOU AND HIM
8. Carrera Calibre watches
There are two types of couples: The ones who love the “couple look”, and the ones who loathe it. This option, however, is suitable for both groups. The stylish timepiece pair is the perfect finishing touch of sleek for couples looking to do that “couple look” in style. It’s noticeable, but subtle enough to never reach obnoxious.
For more couple watches this Valentine’s Day, check this out.
9. Dior Prestige La Creme Demaquillante
This cleansing cream doubles as a makeup-removing oil, which really translates into, “I love you double”. The rose-scented cream makes for a great alternative to the usual bouquet of 12 real rose buds. Made with extracts from Rose de Granville flowers, this investment will leave your skin feeling pampered, and you can even share it with your partner in the shower.
10. Steel ice cubes
Photo: Cool Material
If your man (or lady!) loves their drink chilled but hates the inevitable dilution of said cocktail, this is the perfect inexpensive gift. It works much like an ice pack does – it keeps the drink cold and doesn’t melt into a diluted puddle. There are a few variations of reusable ice cubes, such as steel ice balls, so keep a lookout for the twists that’ll help your gift stand out.
11. Netflix accounts
Since Netflix came to Singapore last month, your significant other might soon be reaching the end of their free one-month trial. And what kind of a partner would you be if you didn’t encourage their binge-watching habits? Purchase an account for them and come home after a great night out to watch some shows together – the perfect way to end a romantic night. As for “Netflix and Chill”, well… We’ll say no more.
For a guide on the shows you can watch together on Netflix, click here and here.
12. Lush Dirty Massage Bar
Forget that bar of To’ak Chocolate; opt for a bar of soap instead. The Lush Dirty Massage Bar is made with organic cocoa butter and filled with a rich dark chocolate centre. Contrary to its name, this soap bar will leave you feeling clean and hydrated, as it doubles as a moisturising lotion. The best part? Both of you can indulge in this calorie-free treat together. Emerge from the shower smelling as decadent as your favourite chocolate bar: Perfect for whatever the night has in store for the both of you!
13. Singlish bracelet
It’s a novel gift, and definitely one for couples who love to share a laugh together. The benefit of buying this bracelet is that since it’s still relatively new to the market, your partner will be rocking this accessory in true hipster fashion – before everyone else.
For more information on this bracelet, click here.
14. Burt’s Bees Lip Balm
No matter your gender, lip care is important especially on this day where kissing is almost definitely guaranteed. So what better way to show how much you care for your partner than by ensuring their smackers are moisturised and nourished? Burt’s Bees Lip Balm is touted to be made with 100 percent natural ingredients, which means the only chemical reaction that’ll happen is between the two of you.
