It's spring time! It's spring and summer holiday and events time!
That means Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, and special events of all kinds. And with it, gifting is often a part -- whether it's for those hosting the fete, grads, moms, dads, or whatever other guest of honor you might be celebrating. He or she might be a fashion enthusiast, foodie, or have miles of beauty products in the cabinet. Whatever interests or hobbies your special somebody has, make the gift giving easier with some of these cool, chic and pretty much perfect gift items.
One key way to gift well regardless of who you're gifting to is to look to unique, upstart and independent product brands. While the boutique brand experience is hardly new to the world, there are more of these types of products and companies in stores than ever. Check out independent fashion or home decor designers in your area, or hop over to Whole Foods or any gourmet shop on or offline to find the perfect food lover item. It's a clever way to give something special and unique without breaking the bank.
On to your recipients. The fashionista can seem hard to shop for so keep gift items to the universal that can be worn his or her way. That can be simple wallets, a great cashmere wrap in a solid color, or anything that's a bit workable for any taste or style. Deux Lux, a vegan handbag and accessories line, is carried at a ton of luxury retail stores and looks and endures as well as any traditional accessory brand, yet is incredibly affordable. Perfect for spring and summer gifts!
Playing on the season trends is another way to gift fashion -- bright, bold yellow is a hot color for 2015. Go with an accessory like a bright jewelry piece or a card case as gift items if you're not sure an apparel item would be ideal. Copper metal is everywhere for spring and summer this year. Lainieline's collection has beautiful, effortless pieces in the popular metal that can be a great gift for moms, grads, family or friends.
Beauty lovers might be among the easiest to shop for when it comes to presents. Condiment editors love SpaRitual products across the board -- especially its sand scrubs for the shower or bath. The company is one of the leading in natural products, none of which are tested on animals. The rich scents and luxury textures make them every bit as chic and decadent for gift recipients. Stowaway cosmetics is perfect for college grads, those who'll be embarking on internships, traveling for study programs, or moms and working women on the go. Products are designed for just this, and the quality is fantastic.
The foodie's another easy one to shop for, especially during summer months when outdoor cooking and other feasts are popular. Nothing says warm weather season than s'mores outside by the fire. Plush Puffs gourmet marshmallows pack interesting and unique flavors and high quality perfect for this. Or, grab a stylish basket or container of any kind and pack with a range of spring and summer produce that's in season. Toss in gourmet chocolates, bake mixes or other non-perishable treats that compliment the fruits and veggies you've pulled together.
For house and home, there are also a ton of items perfect for saying thank you, congratulations or other celebrations. Spanish glassware is a fun way to incorporate something unusual and unexpected into a gift item. It makes a statement and conversation piece yet is simple to work with any taste or style. For students and young professionals who've graduated and will be off to college or first apartments, popular budget-friendly fashion stores like Zara, Target and H&M offer great houseware items perfect for gifts. Zara Home's boxes and baskets are in particular perfect.