The time of year has once again come when men must open their hearts and wallets to express how much they love and care for their significant others. Whether you like it or not, you need to get your girl something, and, lucky for you, we've gone and done the legwork to find a range of gifts that will satisfy even the most fickle of femmes.
But what if you've only been dating for two weeks -- should you get her jewelry? And if you've been together for over a year, how much money is enough to show her you love her?
All these questions will soon be answered, as we took the liberty of compiling a list of gifts for different stages in a relationship.
1-3 Months
Flappers and Philosophers by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Dating an aesthete with beauty and brains? This Penguin Classics black and gold Art Deco-inspired hardcover of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short stories will win you points for both substance and style. $16.30 from Amazon.ca.
La Dolce Vita Collector's Edition DVD
If dissecting the finer points of auteur cinema brings you two together, what better way to inspire some Roman-style hedonism than with Federico Fellini’s 1960 classic La Dolce Vita? From $22.35, from Amazon.ca.
Copponeur Chocolate
With decadent flavours in their filled bars like a Chili & Highland Whisky Bar and Pistachio and an Acacia Seed & Vanilla Bar, one set of the mini versions, all dolled up in wrappers that function as art in themselves, will surely satisfy your gourmand girl. If you're looking to spend more, there are plenty of other options with which to supplement. Gift Box Of Mini Filled Bars, $19.95.
Veuve Clicquot Champagne
Simple, classic and, if you’re lucky, she’ll be willing to share. Bring some fancy glasses, get that fireplace going and dial up the winter romance with some elegant bubbly. Approximately $41.99, available at liquor stores across the country.
4-6 Months
NARS Monoi Body Glow II
If you haven’t already whisked her off to an island paradise, Nars’ heavenly scented flower-filled Tahitian body oil will still leave her skin soft and glowing. Grab some candles and run a bath — she’ll likely need an extra set of hands for those hard-to-reach places. $80, Sephora.
Riedel O For Two Cabernet Wine Set
Any woman with a bit of sophistication knows how to enjoy her fine wine. This five-piece decanter and wine tumbler set will surely be appreciated at your next double-date dinner party and even more when you open that second bottle for two. $99.99. Buy it here.
Tom Ford Black Orchid
Sophistication in a bottle. With notes of black gardenia, jasmine and incense, Tom Ford’s new classic will look just as good on her dresser as it will smell on her already alluring skin. Perfectly paired with a little black dress and dimly lit hotel bar, where perhaps you'll be heading later. From $70. Get it here.
J. Crew Isabel Cashmere Sweater
Italian Cashmere? Yes, please. This navy pullover sweater will luxuriously swath even the most low-key of ladies. Perfect for her to relax in when you bring her that first morning coffee. $286. Get it here.
Dating 1 year +
Black Silk Stockings
Is there a more elemental way to appreciate a woman’s gorgeous legs than through a layer of sheer black silk? Pick up a matching lace garter while you’re boldly browsing Agent Provocateur, hang the mistletoe and she just might show you how stunning she feels. $80, plus shipping. Agentprovocateur.com.
iPhone 5
Let her know you want to stay in touch in style with a sleek new iPhone 5. Now even when you’re apart, you’ll still be able to see that gorgeous smile of hers with enhanced features, a better camera and tons of space for her favourite songs, books and sweet messages from you. Apple.ca, from $699.
Tiffany & Co.'s Color by the Yard Necklace
Watch her eyes light up at the sight of Tiffany & Co.’s iconic blue box -- she’ll definitely be thinking of you every time she slips into this sterling silver necklace with tanzanites. She’ll sparkle even more when you take her out by candlelight. Tiffany.ca, starting at $580.
Celine Shoulder Bag
This Celine shoulder bag in calfskin grey is minimalist enough for a jeans-and-T-shirt kind of girl, but with its architectural appeal, it won’t distract if your lady rocks a more vivacious style. Practical and sleek, this bag will surely become a staple and she’ll have you to thank. Celine.com, price upon request.
Engaged/Married
Canada Goose Victoria Parka
Put this Canada Goose jacket in her closet, and it’ll quickly become her favourite way to keep warm this winter. Get all bundled up together for a walking tour of the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood before you turn up the heat back at home. $650. Buy it here.
Leather Opera Gloves
If your lady shows a tendency toward naughty chic, these gorgeous Kiki de Montparnasse leather opera gloves go seamlessly from a night on the town straight to the bedroom. What a bad boy you were to be so lavish. $695(US), Kikidm.com.
Cartier Entrelacés Ring
You’ve already put a ring on it, but why not double the fun? Beautiful and uncomplicated, this Cartier gold knot ring will remind her of your love every time she wears it, and it won’t distract from the rock you’ve already wowed her with. $1,025(US), Cartier.com
Shangri-La Hotel, Paris
Can it get any more romantic than an opulent hotel in the heart of Paris? Ditch the Christmas tree lights for a view of the sparkling Eiffel Tower, take her to the Shangri-La and unveil her inner aristocrat. Extra points for that bottle of Dom Rosé you’ve already got chilling in her suite, you classy gent. From €855. Book it here.