In 2025, Vogue declared that having a boyfriend was, well, somewhat embarrassing. While traditional romance might be fading, romancing your life is definitely in vogue. This includes nurturing the deep friendships with women who know you better than you know yourself. These are the friends you've built profound trust with, who make you feel truly seen and never misunderstood. Galentine's Day presents the perfect moment to celebrate this platonic love.
Gifting with Intention This Galentine's Day
If you're planning to gift this Galentine's Day, be intentional. Move beyond generic presents and focus on what makes your friend unique. Consider her personality and passions. If she loves winding down with a movie, think about gifts that elevate that ritual. For the friend who exudes Main Character Energy, lean into indulgent, even hedonistic, presents. If she's about to embark on a holiday, practical or sentimental items might be ideal. Here are some curated ideas to spark your inspiration.
For the Friend Entering a New Chapter
Help her embrace fresh beginnings with gifts that support new rituals and routines.
- A personalised diary: Brands like Papier offer beautiful hardback diaries, such as their red and pink striped 2026 daily diary, which you can personalise for free. They also have a dedicated Valentine's Day section.
- A date with yourself voucher: This could include a movie ticket, a museum gift card, or a dinner reservation, encouraging self-care and solo adventures.
- A talisman: Choose a meaningful item that signifies change and new beginnings.
For the Main Character
Celebrate her confidence with gifts that feel special and statement-making.
- Statement jewellery: Options range from cute and affordable Coach shoe charms to elegant pieces like the SWAROVSKI red and rose gold horseshoe pendant.
- A signature scent: Sephora offers numerous Main Character Energy perfumes, including Dior's Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet, Kylie Jenner's Cosmic 2.0, and Gucci's Flora Gorgeous Gardenia. For a more budget-friendly choice, consider Burberry Beauty Goddess Eau De Parfum.
- Chic phone accessories: Wildflower cases exude cool-girl vibes, while SWAROVSKI phone cases add sparkle and bling for big personalities.
- A digital or disposable camera: Capture memories with a blue Kodak digital camera or disposable options from Kodak printing shops and Big W.
For the One About to Travel
Support her adventures with practical and thoughtful travel essentials.
- Travel accessories: Brands like Antler offer sturdy key rings, packing cubes with lifetime warranties, and journals with helpful travel notes.
- A city guide or cultural book: Find these at most bookshops or specialised chart and map stores to inspire her journey.
- A travel pillow: The TRTL pillow is highly recommended, especially for long trips like those across Europe.
For the Friend Who Feels Stuck
Help her find motivation and clarity with tools for personal growth.
- A goal or habit tracker: Look for simple, uplifting options like the KIC Goals Journal, or explore habit trackers and journals on Amazon.
- A digital detox tool: Consider apps like Brick to limit phone usage and encourage mindfulness.
- A subscription to a Substack: Support writers like Esther Perel or Miranda July who share insights on living well.
For the Emotionally Talented One
Deepen connections with gifts that foster meaningful conversations and reflection.
- A conversation card deck: Esther Perel's Where Should We Begin game or the WE'RE NOT REALLY STRANGERS deck can spark deeper dialogue and play.
- A poetry collection: Timeless works like Deborah Levy's An Amorous Discourse in the Suburbs of Hell or Frank O'Hara's LUNCH POEMS offer lasting inspiration.
- A shared ritual gift: A real Japanese matcha bowl or a special coffee mug can create bonding moments.
For the Friend Who Needs a Hobby
Encourage creativity and relaxation with gifts that inspire new pastimes.
- Knitting supplies: Spotlight offers wool collections and beginner guides, making it easy to start crafting scarves, blankets, or beanies.
- A magazine subscription: Consider titles like RUSSH, Vogue, or newer editions such as To Be magazine and SIDE-NOTE.
- Art supplies: Jackson's Art Supplies provides quality options, like the well-priced Da Vinci Spin Synthetic Watercolour Brush Gift Set.
For the Person Who Has Everything
Opt for heartfelt and experiential gifts that create lasting memories.
- A handwritten letter: Romanticise the gesture with nice paper, a thoughtful envelope, and sentimental words.
- A donation in her name: Support a cause she cares about as a meaningful alternative.
- An experience to share: Plan a concert, musical, or sports game together; check Ticket Master for events like the KESHA waitlist.
The True Spirit of Galentine's Day
Ultimately, Galentine's Day isn't about extravagant spending. It's about truly seeing your friends for who they are. The best gifts should inspire something bigger—a shift in routine, a new interest, or a gentle reminder of their identity and potential. Choose presents that don't just say I love you, but I see you. Happy Galentine's Day!
