Mother's Day Gift Guide

Published May, 1, 2008
Your mother clothed you, she fed you, she got the knots and occasional piece of gum out of your hair, and she never said anything when you walked out the door wearing spandex shorts and an oversized T-shirt with the neck cut out (or maybe she did, but it was out of love). So this Mother's Day, get her something she really deserves to let her know that deep down, you've appreciated it all.

Something Comfy:

It was a rough job keeping you in line all those years while you were growing up, and nothing is more relaxing then wearing uber-comfortable apparel and loungewear; Mom will forget entirely your hell-raising days when she snuggles up to this Cashmere Cardigan ($99.20, Brooks Brothers) or when she reclines by the TV wearing this Supersoft Long Gown and Stretch Jersey Short Robe ($39.50 each, The Gap). And if your mom frequently gets stuck with all the household errands, let her run around town in comfort with these divine Kingston Suede Driving Mocs ($98, J.Crew) or the Mossimo Donna Moccasins ($24.99, Target).

Something Luxurious:

For the mom who refuses to buy things for herself, a little luxury can go a long way. Sure, you may not be able to splurge on a Fendi baguette, but a tiny bit of something lavish can be incredibly special. We love the idea of getting her a small jar of caviar, perhaps to nibble on while sipping from a glass of champagne in a hot bath. This 100 gram tin of Russian Royal Black Pike Roe Caviar ($29, Amazon.com; sold by JustCaviar.com) is just the right amount for a night of pampering. She can fill the room with extravagant aromas with this Fresh Sugar-Scented Candle ($48, Beauty.com) or the Jo Malone White Jasmine & Mint Bath Oil ($60, Neiman Marcus), both from well-known, opulent brands that have the swanky packaging to match. All the while, she can indulge in the Godiva Mother's Day Gift Box ($35, Amazon.com). Or, try getting something small from one of her favorite designer brands, like a luggage tag, key chain fob, or card case. This Coach Mini Signature Picture Frame Snap Keyfob ($28, Coach) is a small piece from the storied leather goods brand. As an added bonus for her, put your picture inside the mini frame.

Something Creative:

Think carefully about what your mother's favorite hobbies are. When she has time to herself, what does she flock to? Once you've pinpointed the activity, look for a unique accessory. For example, if she loves to cook, why not get her a festive apron (and not of the "Kiss the Cook" variety)? Anthropologie has a great assortment, and we particularly love this 3-D Toile Half Apron for $28 or the Georgie Apron -- which almost looks like a halter dress -- for $38. Does your mom like being outside? Try a Two Person Jumbo Outdoor Hammock for $34.99 at Amazon.com. Gifts like these demonstrate thoughtful attention to what your mother enjoys, and even if it's not something she expressed wanting, you know it'll be something she'll cherish.

Something Floral:

Of course, flowers are always a welcome gift. We like FTD.com, 1800Flowers.com, and Proflowers.com but to make them a bit more special, try a variety other than the traditional rose. We adore hyacinths because they smell fantastic and look fresh and different, so we recommend this Todd Oldham Jewels of Springtime Bouquet for $52.99 at FTD.com.

Whatever route you take this Mother's Day, just remember to aim for sentimental value over price. After all, sometimes a poignant card will start the waterworks far quicker than an expensive gift!

-- Lindsay Sakraida

Note: there may be a way to make the items mentioned above an even better bang for your buck -- remember to search stylenotes for special promotions and coupon codes that may be applied to your order.