The best gifts for Father’s Day (that he’ll actually want)
From the latest innovations in grooming to some of the best home gadgets on the market, we’ve got Father’s Day 2021 all wrapped up
Words: Gentleman's Journal
Father’s Day presents a tricky gift-giving scenario. It’s not as important as a birthday, so you shouldn’t be buying him a holiday or a luxury watch. But nor should you go too small — and risk showing a lack of appreciation.
Thankfully, Gentleman’s Journal is on hand. We’ve trawled the length and breadth of the internet to find gifts that hit that ‘thoughtful-but-useful’, ‘luxurious-but-not-flashy’ sweet spot. So, whether your Dad’s a style maven, grooming guru or alcohol aficionado, we’ve got the perfect Father’s Day gift for him…
For a well-groomed father, focus on his bathroom cabinet…
Whether your Dad already has a well-polished skincare routine or is still stuck in the dark ages of soap and water, it’s hard not to be impressed by good grooming products. And these products really don’t get more impressive than New & Lingwood’s ‘Rococo’ grooming roll — a stylish, striking partnership with Mantidy.
Alternatively, why not smooth out the nicks in his shaving routine with this ‘Post-Shave Repair’ balm from Heath — chock full of Sweet Almond and Shea Butter. Or, for a fragrance update, there are few bottles better than ‘Viking Cologne’ from The House of Creed. With crisp citrus top notes, it’s an ideal scent for summer.
For a drink-aficionado dad, restock his home bar…
Few and far between are fathers who wouldn’t welcome a fine bottle of a fine spirit with open arms (and mouths). That’s why we’ve hunted around for the best — if he’s more of a wine man, we’ve rounded up the top magnums to gift him here.
But, for whisky, there are few more intriguing, sumptuous single malts than Aberlour‘s ‘A’Bunadh’. Aged in ex‑sherry butts, it’s got a rich, decadent, almost fruit-cake flavour. For G&T enthusiasts, you should look to gift a handsome brown bottle of Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin. Or, for something very different, why not wrap up a bottle of the playfully named Shanky’s Whip — a head-scratching (but mouth-watering) blend of black Irish whiskey and natural vanilla and cream flavours.
For a style-conscious father, invest in some classics…
Buying clothes for anyone other than yourself can be a bit of a minefield. So, even if you feel your father’s wardrobe could do with a little sprucing up, we’d recommend you stick to the classics. Pieces like Aurélien’s stripped-back, pared-down suede jacket. It’s simple, timeless — and one of the rare leather jackets that won’t look try-hard on a middle-aged man.
Alternatively, go for a quality shirt. With summer rearing its sunny head, heritage shirtmaker Turnbull & Asser has buttoned up this ‘Holiday Fit’ shirt in a pale blue stripe. With its neat revere collar, it’s a casual choice. Or, for an even more relaxed choice, Sunspel’s fabled ‘Riviera’ polo shirt is always a solid, block-colour option.
For a gadget-obsessed father, upgrade his home tech…
Every father loves a gadget. Whether it’s a choice piece of DIY hardware or an even bigger TV on which to watch the Euros, you’d be hard-pushed to go wrong buying tech for Father’s Day. Dad’s love a manual, after all. We’d start simply, with Oakywood’s wireless charging pad. It’s the perfect practical gift for your father — and it won’t break the bank.
If you’re looking to dig a little deeper into your pockets, why not look fork out for a smart speaker, such as Braun’s slick LE01? Or, if he’s more into portable audio, upgrade his existing Walkman with Astell&Kern’s pioneering high-resolution SE180.
For a useful, long-lasting gift, find the perfect pair of shoes…
Still struggling with what to give him? Step into his shoes for a minute — literally, if you can. That way, you’ll be able to figure out exactly what styles of lace-ups or loafers he prefers. Because nothing says hard-wearing, well-heeled investment like the gift of shoes.
Especially Edward Green’s ‘Newmarket’ Chelsea boots. Like the Aurélien jacket above, these kicks will make a style statement without belying his age. Similarly, Cheaney’s double-monk shoes are the ideal way to add a little edge into a formal outfit. Or, for another summer spin on a classic, turn to Crockett & Jones — and these unlined ‘Salcombe’ loafers.
For a food-loving father, opt for mouth-watering experiences…
And, finally — for those fathers who consider themselves great gourmets — give the gift of gastronomy this June 20th. We’d recommend starting with breakfast, and ordering the ‘Father’s Day Hamper’ from Gail’s Bakery; just £30 for everything from cinnamon buns to sausage rolls (and a jar of the brand’s inimitable tomato ketchup).
For dinner, why not treat him to some immaculately sourced and perfectly prepared fish at J Sheekey — with vouchers purchased valid for 12 months. And then, for a nightcap, head to ‘The Ginstitute’ on Portobello Road, where he won’t only learn the history of the tonic-twinned spirit, but also get to choose some choice botanicals and blend a bottle of his own.
Looking for more gift ideas? These are the ultimate Father’s Day experiences…
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