Valentine's Day is fast approaching (read, it's a day away) and if you're beginning to panic about the present you don't have, well, here's a little gift just for you.
Introducing the ultimate last-minute gift guide for her, although many of these suggestions could work for any partner. Let's face it, you've left it a little bit late and if you're ordering online, it probably won't arrive in time for Tuesday (it won't), but as the old saying goes - better late than never. This guide includes some suggestions for some seriously sweet presents that are guaranteed to get you in the good books, or you can use these ideas as a jumping-off point.
Of course, if all else fails, a block of Whittaker's and a bottle of bubbly will also do the trick.
Activewear
Whether your S/O is a fitness fanatic (or counts a walk from the couch to the fridge as a workout), there's nothing quite like new activewear to make one feel they've got their ish together. Perfect for running errands, casual at-home comfort and yes, exercise, I struggle to think of anyone who'd be disappointed with luxe new lycra - it can even be dressed up for a quick day-to-night look. Lululemon and LSKD offer both lounge and activewear that is fashionable yet functional - you'll never sacrifice style for the sake of comfort. Your partner will be tickled pink by LSKD's chic sportswear pieces, with plenty of very Valentine's-appropriate blush tones to choose from. For a matching set made in heaven, my personal picks are the Rep Mid Short Tight and Rep Sports Bra in Boysenberry. Otherwise, LSKD's selection of hoodies and sweatshirts is unparalleled - if we're talking pink, the Slam Oversize Sweater in Peach and Incline Sweater in Magenta will have everything coming up roses. Alternatively, you can't look past Lululemon as a one-stop shop for sumptuous, stylish sportswear that's all too easy to mix and match. My favourites are the ever-popular and oh-so-versatile Align High-Rise Pants (also available in Pink Peony) and the best-selling Enlite Weave-Back Bra for supreme support.
Lovehoney lingerie
Sure, giving is great, but as the saying goes - give and you shall receive. Lingerie is the perfect treat for your partner, and yourself - it really is a win-win for everyone. For the gift that keeps on giving, perhaps pick your partner a set of stunning lingerie from Lovehoney, one of Australasia's leading sexual wellness brands. Sexy shopping can be overwhelming at times, particularly for our male counterparts (sizing can be a minefield and of course, you want to pick a style your partner is comfortable with). Thankfully, Lovehoney makes it a bed of roses: many of their styles come in one-size-fits-all, plus there are plenty of options for va-va-voom voluptuous vixens. Better yet, you don't need to pay through the nose: there's a vast array of budget boudoir get-ups and sizzling but savey pieces, and to make things more affordable, Afterpay is also an option. There's nothing quite like an outfit that's designed to be taken off, so enjoy.
Dyson hair styling tools
Dyson made the Valentine's Day gift guide last year, and here it is again: maybe because it's one of the most talked-about products of its time, appearing in a TikTok by arguably every tastemaker there ever was. While the coveted Dyson Airwrap has been the holy grail for hairstyling enthusiasts for a time now, the price tag can make it difficult to justify - but if you're looking to splash some cash, this is a gift almost guaranteed to be a hit. While the Airwrap is a cult favourite, Dyson's Corrale Straightener shouldn't be overlooked - it's also more than $200 cheaper. Plus, it comes in a nickel and fuchsia colourway that's very on-theme. I won't pretend to be an expert on Dyson's cutting-edge technology, but if you want a quick summary, the Corrale offers patented flexing copper plates that deliver enhanced styling, greater control and better grip, with less damage. Another plus point is the Corrale is cord-free, meaning you can style your strands on the go and literally anywhere. Alternatively, GHD offers a range of tools from hot brushes to hair curlers at more affordable price points, so be sure to check out their offerings too - the Thin Curling Wand is my personal fave. With all that being said, this gift will surely turn up the heat come Valentine's Day (see what I did there?)
Fresh kicks
They say good shoes take you good places, and with any luck, a fresh pair of kicks will take you on a one-way ticket to the good books. Cute, comfortable and a staple in anyone's closet, the perfect pair of sneakers will be one of your S/O's most-worn pieces. The New Balance 574 in varsity red with white is a statement kick sure to stand out, plus New Balances are continuing to see a resurgence among sneakerheads. Alternatively, Converse kicked off the season with their new Valentine's Day Pack collection, with eight styles inspired by luuuurve. The collection features swoon-worthy details such as embroidered hearts, gold chains, sparkling red finishes and soft pink hues. The latest iteration of the best-selling platform Run Star Legacy CX can elevate any Valentine’s Day 'fit, its lightweight cushioning perfect for kicking ones feet up during Netflix and chill. Insert 'head over heels' pun here.
Self-care treats
There's nothing quite like a spot of self-care: from candles to creams, there's a myriad of goodies to get your Valentine gooey. The likes of Mecca and Sephora are one-stop shops for self-care treats: if you want to splash some cash, a beautiful Diptyque candle (the Roses scent is very appropriate) could be a good bet, or the Vyrao Rose Marie Large Candle makes a stunning addition to your space. A guaranteed favourite? The Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream has become a cult classic, as well as the best-selling Brazilian Kiss Cupuaçu Lip Butter. To have your S/O smelling sweet and sultry all-day long, the Brazilian Crush Cheirosa Perfume Mist will likely become a must-have. For the skincare enthusiast, the Drunk Elephant O-Bloos Rosi Drops are barrier-replenishing, buildable blush drops that combine soothing, softening ingredients with a peachy-pink wash of colour.
A restaurant-quality dining experience at home
If your special friend is a foodie, they'll likely love this. A high-quality dining experience from the comfort of your own home? Yes, please. Two of Aotearoa's premium producers, Matangi Angus Beef and Palliser Estate, have partnered to create a delicious beef-and-wine pairing that's delivered right to your doorstep. The two have launched their exclusive Summer Gourmet At Home offering, pairing top-quality cuts with some of the country's most sought-after wine, with matching origin year. You can dine on the double-vintage offering from your own table, replicating that fancy, fine-dining restaurant experience in a more intimate setting. The packs make the best of Aotearoa's wine and beef accessible and convenient - no reservations or travel time required. The experience is offered in two packs, the Tukituki and Ruamahanga, named for the rivers providing the life source to Matangi and Palliser Estate.
