Hi Ladies,

Like any other day, I chatted (or at least corresponded) with a few girlfriends yesterday. At some point during our communication I posed these simple questions, “Have you purchased Father’s Day gifts yet? What did you buy?”

I wasn’t surprised to learn that while they all look forward to indulging the men in their lives, few, with less than 72 hours ‘til the “big” day, have put their dollars or credit cards where their hearts are.

The answers were entertaining…to say the least.

Friend #1:

“Mrs. M” (35 years, Married 4 years, 1 child and very pregnant) said, “I find this to be a very interesting question that intrigues me…”

Clearly she hasn’t made a purchase!

Friend #2:

“Mrs. J” (31 years, Married 4 years, 2 children) said, “Yes. Of course! I actually gave it to him last night. He loved his giftsssss: a French-cuffed shirt, Paul Smith cufflinks, and  tie. He’ll wear them to an event where he’s being honored this Saturday."

Good for you Mrs. J!!! She’s the sweetest, superwoman-mother-wife I know. (Really!)

Friend #3:

“Miss B” (31, In a Relationship, no children) said, “Oh my gosh! Shucks! I need to buy something!! Any ideas?”

Of course, Miss B! In fact, I have ideas for you and Mrs. M.…and all the Mrs.-es, Misses, and Ms-es, A-Z.

Three tips to last-minute, stress-free shopping for him:

• Keep him at the forefront of your mind…of course. (You don’t want to get sidetracked when shopping.)
• Consider his likes, dislikes, wardrobe and valet needs, his lifestyle…of course.

And the not so obvious:

• Think about you, too!

After all (in the case of a stylish but practical gift), what’s good for the gander can be great for the goose. The perfect gift for him is one that you can borrow.

The Every-Man-Will-Like list:

Acqua Di Parma Capri Orange EDT, 2 oz. Spray, $64, Saksfifthavenue.com. I don’t usually suggest a woman wear a man’s cologne or vice versa. But Acqua Di Parma scents are gender neutral. This scent will transport anyone to a citrus grove in Capri. Call it a vacation in a bottle.

Cole Haan Duffle Perri Collection, $250, colehaan.com. Whether he’s stopping off at the gym or spending a few days golfing with the fellas, this nautical-hued carry-all is equal part handsome and chic. He’ll throw it over his shoulder for his trip, but when you jet set, you’ll carry it in the crease of your arm.

Enter code: MENSALE at checkout for 20% off.

Banana Republic Slim Fit Geo Floral Dress Shirt, $59, bananarepublic.com. Striped shirts are a safe choice. There’s something so sexy, sensitive, and confident about a man in a delicately patterned shirt. When it’s your turn to wear it, pair it with a wide belt worn high on your waist.

Locman Tremila Watch in Orange, $795, barneys.com. Paired with a polo or oxford shirt, this time keeper is sooooo GQ. On you? It’s oversized face and band looks sporty but feminine when matched delicate bangles.

Ray-Ban Original Aviator Sunglasses, $129, macys.com. Up the cool factor of any guy in your life while keeping his style clean and traditional.

Man-ly and Pedi-cure, $95 at Bliss Spa, blissworld.com. I know, I know…most guys are slow to admit it…but who doesn’t enjoy being pampered (just a little bit) every now and again? Bliss’ signature Man-ly Cure was created with him in mind. If Bliss hasn’t come to your town (just yet), you’re favorite local nail salon will serve him the royal treatment, too.

Good luck, happy shopping and happy Father’s Day!

Tai