December is flying by, we’re all very busy and you might be wondering what that special guy in your life wants for the holidays. I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite must-buys to inspire your holiday shopping agenda. Whether you need to stuff a stocking with socks or wrap some bigger items for under your tree, here is my Trend Hungry 2014 holiday gift guide.
1. Alabama Clay belt , $25 at Huckstraps.
These eco-friendly belts are made with rubber and are cut-to-size. The one size strap can be cut to a person’s waist and then the “huck” buckle is clipped on.
2. Bright colored socks (made-in-America), $13.00 at American Trench.
These socks have a nice cushion sole, but just enough without having a lot of “thick”. Bonus: FREE SHIPPING.
3. Seigaiha socks (or other fun prints), $25 at Soxfords.
For the lengthy-legged individual, these socks come up practically to my knees. A lot thinner than the American Trench version, I wear Soxfords with slim loafers and cuffed chinos.
4. Skin Care Set from Jack Black, $52 at Sephora.
These products are great for the lightweight formula. The kit includes a cleaner, beard conditioner and moisturizer. The face moisturizer softens average skin types without causing excess oil buildup. Bonus: SPF is already in the formula!
5. Spotlight wallet, $39 from Jump From Paper.
This brand creates cartoon-like accessories. Contrasting colors, slim styles and expressive models fill the company’s website. I love this bright yellow wallet. It’s fun color will ensure it never gets lost in a jacket pocket (do wallets get lost in jacket pockets?) or a travel bag.
6. Trooper green camo socks (or other fun prints), $10 at The Select Man.
This new menswear boutique carries some of the coolest American made apparel out there. Fresh off their Fall 2013 launch, The Select Man’s online store has great socks left and a few other items. (talk about selling out on the launch weekend). Be on the lookout for more styles in early 2014.
7. Customized stationary from The Papery ($49.95 for 50 cards and envelopes)
It’s imperative to use personalized notes when sending snail mail. Instead of buying cards at a store for $2-3 each, order custom stationary with your full name or initials (about $1 each from this retailer). The receiver will surely thank you for the note while being impressed by your professionalism.
8. Terry sweatshort, $98 from Goodlife Clothing.
Super soft sweatshorts should be on everyone’s holiday need-list. Enough said. Plus these are made-in-America with Supima cotton.
9. Japanese cotton pocket square, $55 from Commonwealth Proper.
Continuing the made-in-America trend, these Japanese cotton pocket squares can be used to dress up a blazer or suit in lieu of a tie. Commonwealth Proper says they are “handmade with pride in the United States.”
10. Kiss t-shirt in Vintage Black, $34 at RAGs & Thread.
For the urban cool guy, RAGs & Thread carries a variety of graphic t-shirts including this kissing style. Printed in Philadelphia.
11. Duck Island Dopp in Blaze Orange, $65 at Blue Claw Co.
Traveling is essential to living a well-rounded life. Give the gift of organized packing with this Dopp kit. The bright orange color is easy to find in large suitcases. (I won’t tell if you keep this gift for yourself… or just buy two).
12. Brace Pants from Publish, $86 at P’s & Q’s.
Tired of seeing so many people wear light wash jeans? Yes, me too. Here’s a casual cool (non-denim) option so your recipient can stop donning those light-washed pantalones.
Have other gifts in mind? I’d love to know. Tweet photos of purchases and inspiration to me at @IanMCrumm.
For more from Ian visit him over at his blog IanMichaelCrumm.com.
