Gifts for the Fashionable Graduate

I mildly despise gift guides. First off, every other damn blog features a gift guide. Most of the stuff is overpriced junk and the two things you actually do like are only sold by a store that is open for two hours a day on Mondays. It’s iffy if they answer the phone and of course they don’t have a web site. This is actually a true story, and the main reason I don’t do gift guides.

However, my little sister is getting ready to graduate with two degrees and she’s more or less helped me put together this gift guide as a sort of “hint hint wink wink” to friends and family.

What do people actually want when they graduate? My little sister says they want nice, practical gifts that make them appear “grown-up.” They don’t want college-themed trinkets–they have plenty of those already–or anything branded with “Class of 2013!” Also nixed are those inspirational “Oh the places you’ll go” gifts. She says people have no idea how much stuff like that can hurt when one’s top job prospects involve folding jeans or delivering pizza.

1. I call it a power purse, but a really nice bag tops my sister’s list. She wants something that convey’s “I’m here to work” or at least something that will make people take her slightly more seriously. Look for purses in neutral colors–black or brown–that are well-made in a sturdy material with simple styling.
2. A grown-up wallet. “It’s time to move beyond the lanyard.”
3. A grown-up watch. She thinks having a watch is a good idea because she’s under the impression you can’t check your cell phone for the time at work (she’s partially right).
4. A good going-out clutch. Again, look for quality workmanship and materials. If you can’t afford to gift someone a power bag, a clutch is less-expensive option.
5. A good piece of everyday jewelry. Pearls and diamonds are a bit clichéd, and gemstones can fall out of settings. A nice unembellished piece like the one above makes a wonderful gift, especially for someone you’re close to. This is something she can wear everyday and looks good with a business suit or a breezy sundress.
6. A grown-up keychain. My little sister thinks after graduation a beer-opener keychain is immature but as an actual adult I have to disagree with her.
7. Much like the power purse, any fashionable grad would adore a pair of power shoes. Get her something she can wear to work or an interview.
8. A gift card for work clothes. A giftcard to Macy’s, Nordstorm, or even JC Penney’s can help a grad out when they sudden have to drop a massive chunk of change for work clothes. If you find a gift card tacky (hi mom!), take the young lady to the store of her choice to pick out an outfit, and toss in a nice lunch.

You don’t have to spend a fortune buying a graduation gift. If I were to single out any one particular gift, I’d go for a nice piece of everyday jewelry. It’s hard to fake a good bag or pair of shoes, but a lovely stainless silver pendant can be had for an affordable price from Kmart. Stop by Michael’s or Hobby Lobby and pick up an elegant jewelry presentation box and no will be the wiser. All she’ll see on graduation day is a beautiful gift from a loved one.