Welcome to Gentleman Within’s Holiday Gift Guide 2018!
It’s our biggest one yet. Inside you’ll find something stylish, something scented, something tech and a whole lot more. There are items ranging from under $10 to several hundred dollars.
Whether you’re shopping for a dad, son, brother, friend, whoever — there’s something in here for every guy. Some of these items I own and have used myself and so they come highly recommended. All other items have been researched and vetted to ensure quality whether through reviews or other reputable resources.
Hit the play button below to see some of the items up close and personal.
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GENTLEMAN WITHIN’S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2018
Happy Holiday shopping to you! And while you’re at it, pick up something nice for yourself :).
// Something Stylish //
1. Timex Weekender Watch
Price: $36
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The Timex Weekender is a classic quartz watch from a brand with heritage. It’s one of the best bang for your buck watches that you can find. Coming in at under $40, this is the one watch I recommend any guy own.
The beauty of the Weekender is that it’s clean and minimal, pairing exceptionally well with a myriad of casual outfits. Additionally, it looks great with all kinds of different leather and nato straps.
2. Timex Marlin Watch
Price: $199
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Want something minimal and dressier than the casual Weekender? The Timex Marlin is a reissue of the 1960s version that retains the hand-wound mechanical movement and sleek, yet sophisticated design.
The standard 40mm is the size most men will spring for. But for guys with daintier wrists, the 34mm is an appropriate option.
3. AVI-8 Hawker Hunter Watch
Price: $242
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The AV-4064 Hawker Hunter Avon Edition is the latest model from the unique watch company AVI-8. The dials are cockpit inspired and multi-layered taking design cues directly from the Hawker Hunter aircraft.
This is for the guys who want something a little different and a whole lot cooler looking than your tried and true Seiko or Hamilton. It comes in 3 versatile colorways of blue, green or gray.
The Avon Edition sports a Japanese Quartz Chronograph movement, hand-stitched leather strap, 45mm dial, 11mm thickness, and a water resistance of 5 ATM.
Big thanks to AVI-8 for offering GW readers a special discount. Enter GMW20 at checkout for 20% off your order.
4. Cheapest Nato Straps
Price: $16
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Now that we’ve covered several watch options, here is a great package of nato straps to compliment them so that you or your friend can mix and match their watch straps to their belts and shoes. Don’t be deceived by the name either, I have a collection of their natos and it’s high quality stuff.
My recommendation is this leather nato package of 4. Of course you can go for traditional canvas strap natos as well which are better suited for spring and summer months.
5. The Mission Bomber
Price: $580
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I polled my Instagram and one of my followers asked for bomber jacket options in my gift guide. And so here’s my bomber jacket pick for this winter. It’s made with high-performance fabrics and advanced technologies that makes it perfectly suited for an array of temperatures or environments.
The navy colorway is my first choice and then black or olive.
6. Alternative Bomber Jacket Options
Prices: $35-$48
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If the Mission Bomber is too rich for your blood, then here are some much more affordable options.
This green bomber with contrasting collar, cuffs and waistband is an affordable alternative. And for something a little trendier, try this navy bomber from the trusty ASOS brand, known for their stylish and affordable apparel. Finally, I recently tried on this nylon bomber at H&M and the fit is on the money.
7. Solo New York Backpacks
Price: $54-$134
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Based out of NYC, Solo New York offers some seriously stylish backpacks for the modern man. Their designs will appeal to a younger crowd like the Draft Backpack from their Varsity Collection or The Boyd Backpack from their Highland Collection. From hangouts to workouts or, these sleek, compact bags are built for everyday use.
I particularly like the Boyd’s black and blue plaid pattern and waxed canvas finish. Another fantastic option is the Altitude Laptop Backpack from their Black Ops Collection. Equipped with loads of pockets and durable parachute nylon, this lightweight bag helped me through my travels in Australia and New Zealand earlier this year.
8. Sheec No-Show Socks
Price: $6-$9
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Earlier this summer I wrote a massive 5,000+ word post on no-show socks that’s likely Gentleman Within’s crowning achievement to date. Joking aside, sure it’s cold out and you’re probably wondering who’s going to buy no-shows at a time like this?
Well let me tell ya, Sheec has a special kind of no-show sock, unlike any other brand I’ve tried, and I’ve tested a lot. It’s called Invisisoft™ and is fleece lined for a silky smooth and comfortable feeling. You can rock that sockless look and Keep your toes warm and comfortable this winter.
I just checked and much to my dismay, the Invisisoft™ socks have been discontinued, but they are currently on clearance for half the price. You might want to pick up a pair or two before they’re gone for good. I should mention that their other no-show socks are some of the highest rated in the massive round-up article.
Big thanks to the folks at Sheec for kindly offering to give you a 20% discount with code KNSS18. They mentioned that sometimes, if they are running a huge sale, the code will only work on full-priced items. But other times there will be no restrictions.
9. Wohven Premium T-Shirt Subscription
Price: $11-$16/mo
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Wohven provides quality basics on a monthly basis. If you’re looking something unique every month, Wohven’s got quality basic tees, underwear and socks at an affordable price. There’s no commitment as you can cancel at anytime.
I have a few of their solid and graphic tees and the quality is up there with some of my favorite pima cotton and bamboo t-shirts. Not bad for a little over $10. Go ahead and take a look at their past designs. They’re pretty clean.
Big thanks to Wohven for offering GW readers a special discount. Enter GW30 at checkout for 30% off your first month.
10. He Spoke Style x Seaward & Stearn Necktie
Price: $165
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Part of their exclusive line, HSS x S&S offers some premium, textured woolen neckties. They’re beautifully crafted with a clean drape. My pick for the holidays is the tartan plaid. Check out the navy stripe for something a little more versatile, yet still striking.
11. The Dark Knot Neckties
Price: $55-$85
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They were on my list last year and they’re back on the list again, and for good reason. The Dark Knot (TDK) not only sells neckties and other fine men’s accessories, they do so by providing a tailored experience from unboxing to long after you put on the finished product.
Their fantastic blog continues to educate and provide men with style knowledge to take their formal and smart casual suit up game to the next level. My pick is the Berkshire silk tie in grey and red, and the Caledonia skinny knitted silk tie.
Just like last year, long time friends at TDK kindly offered GW readers 25% off sitewide with the code GW25.
12. The Tie Bar Neckties
Price: $25
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For something a bit more affordable than TDK, though not as high-quality, Tie Bar is a good alternative. My picks are the pointed tip knit tie and the textured solid knit in navy.
13. SuitSupply Havana Brown Check Blazer
Price: $499
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Hard to go wrong with SuitSupply (SS), who’s known for their high quality, Italian sourced fabrics and an emphasis on fit. There’s no wonder why so many stylish men gravitate towards the brand.
One of my Instagram followers asked for smart casual options, like blazers and so, I thought of SS. Their Havana line has a modern cut. I particularly love the brown check pattern and texture of this blazer. The patch pockets give off an air of casualness.
14. Alternative Casual Blazer Options
Prices: $64-$160
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Once again I’m providing alternatives for those who are on a budget. This skinny blazer from Topman has casual vibes with the patch pockets and skinny notch lapels. The one button stance and texture further dials down the casualness of this jacket.
For another modern option, this one from ASOS is in a classic grey color with a jersey material which gives it an ultra-casual, modern look for a younger gent. It’s almost as essential as the navy blazer.
15. Warby Parker Sunglasses
Price: $95-$145
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Founded by college students who wanted to provide a prescription eyewear and sunglasses alternative to the company that dominates the industry, but shall remain nameless.
Warby Parker (WP) offer quality and stylish glasses for men and women, mostly under $100. My picks are the Barkley with a 2-tone frame and green-grey lenses and the Abe aviators in a polished silver with vintage blue lenses.
One of my favorite things about WP is their home try-on program which allows for you to test out 5 frames to try-on at home for free.
16. FITS Socks
Price: $20-$29
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I tried FITS socks earlier this year and be warned, their socks are cushioned and ultra-comfortable. Offering everything from hiking, running, tactical and compression socks there’s a pair for every occasion. And with performance fabrics like super-fine merino wool and lycra, these socks are soft to the touch and feel good on your feet.
My picks are the medium hiker crew socks for regular wear, the heavy expedition socks for hiking or snowboarding, and the cushioned compression OTC socks if you need them.
Big thanks to FITS for offering GW readers a special discount. Enter code GENTLEMAN at checkout for 20% off your order.
// Well Groomed //
I’m light on grooming items this year, but go ahead and check out last year’s gift guide for more of my grooming picks which are still great holiday picks in my book.
17. Hawthorne Cologne
Price: $100
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You may know all about custom clothing, but what about cologne tailored for you? Hawthorne is said to use your body chemistry and lifestyle data combined with study-backed research to pinpoint your scent preference with over 95% accuracy.
I’ve tested Hawthorne myself and the two bottles — one for work and one for play — have their own unique scent, both of which I have been enjoying thoroughly. I was surprised at how pleasant the scents were, and they’ve since become my go-to fragrances over the past couple of months. Just wait till you see the packaging, the personalization is on another level. You might want to get this one for yourself or ladies may want to gift it for that special guy in your life.
18. Avon Moisture Therapy Hand Cream
Price: $5
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This one I’ve been using for years. Winters are harsh where I live and I pull this hand cream out only for emergencies, but it’s a life saver when your hands become so chapped that it feels like you have cuts all over. This really does provide intensive therapy as it heals and repairs your dry skin.
19. Oral-B 7000 SmartSeries Electric Toothbrush
Price: $119
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Time to level up your power electric toothbrush. Dentist recommended, the Oral-B 7000 provides real-time feedback via the Oral-B app, tracking your habits and motivates you with oral care tips.
// Tech Fiends //
20. DJI Spark Mini Quadcopter Drone
Price: $299
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Introducing the ultimate toy of the decade for adults. I’ve had my DJI Mavic Pro for a little while now and it’s the most fun you’ll have without actually having to leave the ground. Not to mention you’ll be able to see the world like never before. It captures any scene beautifully.
Here’s the Mavic Pro’s younger brother, the DJI Spark portable mini that’s sure to thrill any kidult on your list.
21. Tribit Wireless Over Ear Headphones
Price: $49
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This highly reviewed pair of headphones cover your entire ears, have wireless capability, over 40 hrs of playtime, and comes with a sturdy, compact carrying case, all for $50. Not too shabby.
22. ENACFIRE Wireless Earbuds
Price: $39
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Not feeling the over ear headphones? Here’s a good Airpod alternative at a fraction of the cost. It comes highly reviewed with a 4.5 star rating with over 1,000 customer reviews.
23. Sonos One Smart Speaker
Price: $199
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With Alexa built in, this is the ultimate smart speaker for music lovers who have embraced voice control. It connects wirelessly to other Sonos speakers sot hat you can play music in every room.
24. Echo Dot w/ Alexa (3rd Gen)
Price: $29
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If you didn’t already pick one or two up during the Black Friday, Cyber Monday craze, here’s the much more affordable option to the Sonos.
The Echo Dot can play music, answer questions, read the news, check weather, set alarms and so much more. These devices just keep getting smarter and smarter and making our lives easier and at under $30, everyone could use one of these in their homes.
25. Anker PowerCore Portable Charger
Price: $49
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Never run out of juice while you’re on the go with this Anker power bank with dual-device charging. This is a must-have in my own everyday carry.
It’s especially handy when I’m in tourist mode in a new country. Comes with a 7-day charge capacity which is more than enough juice to keep your electronic devices up and running when you need them most.
26. RAVPower Fast Wireless Charger
Price: $29
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These fast wireless chargers are fast. Though not quite as zippy as a high speed cord charger, the convenience factor is well worth it. Coming in at under $30, this charger is one of the more affordable options with pretty good ratings as well.
// Books & Games //
27. The Incomplete: Highsnobiety Guide to Street Fashion and Culture
Price: $45
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This is the kind of book for those who want to dive deep into street fashion and urban culture, where it’s been and where it’s at.
“Street fashion and urban culture have come a long way from humble beginnings in the ‘90s. From disparate local scenes in Japan, Europe, and the US, the youth-driven movements of hip-hop, punk, and skateboarding have finally infiltrated high fashion.”
The Incomplete, alongside some of the most influential designers and tastemakers, highlights the pieces and brands in men’s fashion which have stood the test of time.
28. Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop
Price: $19
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Perfect for music and photography enthusiasts, Contact High is the definitive history of hip-hop’s early days, celebrating the artists that shaped the iconic album covers, t-shirts and posters beloved by hip-hop fans today.
It features rare outtakes from over 100 photoshoots alongside interviews and essays from industry legends.
29. PlayStation® Classic
Price: $99
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I know I’m not the only one tempted here. The nostalgia is real. For under $100 you can relive your childhood with what is perhaps the greatest video gaming console of all-time, the inimitable Sony Playstation® (PS2 was really my jam though).
It’s equipped with the original design and controller, button layout and packaging, only it’s a miniature version that’s preloaded with all of the classics. Tekken, Metal Gear, Twisted Metal, Syphon Filter anyone?
// Everything Else //
30. Neewer Ring Light Kit
Price: $105
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This is the kit I’d get if I were starting out on YouTube today. The ring light provides one of the best lighting sources for that professional look when you’re filming those talking head videos. Know someone looking to get started with their own YouTube journey? This ring light kit can help to jumpstart their YouTube career and future stardom.
31. LapGear Home Office Lap Desk
Price: $39
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Another Amazon’s Choice pick, this lap desk is pretty genius. It’s already in my Amazon wishlist. Not only is it ergonomic, but looks well made and well designed while improving laptop airflow.
32. ASAKUKI Essential Oil Diffuser
Price: $26
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A 5-in-1 aromatherapy device that improves air quality and functions as a humidifier. Know someone who suffers from dry air, allergens and dust, this oil diffuser can help them breathe easier. Aesthetically, it comes with 7 different LED light colors for an ambiance to match any mood.
33. Body Back Buddy Massage Tool
Price: $29
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This strange looking device can really work wonders on your back. If you happen to know someone who spends a majority of their time sitting, most likely they complain of back ailments. The Back Buddy can release the worst of knots and provide pressure points that relieve your pain points.
I have one myself and only use it when I really need it, but it really is a miracle worker along with my foam roller.
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
That’s it for Gentleman Within’s Holiday Gift Guide 2018. Let me know if you liked it and how I can improve things in the future. I hope you and yours have a blessed holiday season filled with much laughter and joy.
Cheers to your style,
Khoi
(Gentleman Within Founder)
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