It’s no surprise that the humble groomsman gift presents a complex riddle as the wedding date fast approaches. Aside from having so many last-minute surprises to occupy one’s thoughts, from seating arrangements to RSVP dropouts, the degree of care that must go into this simple gesture is often anxiety-riddled. This is especially true when, at a certain point, there are only so many monogrammed flasks and money clips that one gentleman can really utilize.
There’s Freedom in Mixing & Matching
Rather than balk at the monumental task of finding one cookie cutter option that meets the needs of every member of your wedding party, consider mixing and matching. No longer does every groomsman need to receive an identical (and often limiting) gift. Why not offer your meticulously organized best man a universally appreciated auto appliance upgrade in the form of Dyson’s compact V7 Handheld Vacuum? On the apparel end, the track suit’s recent acceptance as both lounge and formalwear from devotees like Armie Hammer lends a clever opportunity to outfit your party in chic athleisurewear like Ellesse’s dressy blue Cass Pants and crisp white slides. For future toasting, a few orders of ultra-luxe champagne like Dom Pérignon’s Vintage 2009 Limited Edition Wedding bottle, touting spicy notes of green grapefruit zest and warm toasted brioche, proves a useful gift (or proud re-gift) for any soiree enthusiast, because really, when are you truly bummed over a bubbly? But for those skipping alcohol in favor of a personal cleanse, a package of Double Good Popcorn’s flavors like Chi-Town Chow Down and In Queso Fire gives half of every dollar you spend to children with special needs or an organization of your choosing.
Grooming Is A Go-To for A Reason
The modern lean toward gifting vanity staples and grooming essentials is a smart move, since it’s so often an area with room for improvement. The best man who has everything surely hasn’t invested in Tom Ford’s timeless leather Double Zip Dopp Kit, or, on a smaller scale, a designer lip balm or Private Blend Patchouli Absolu Candle. And, come to mention it, candles shouldn’t be overlooked. A hefty five-wick option like Diptyque’s smoky Feu De Bois scent in its handmade earthenware encasement offers indoor and outdoor-worthy ambiance that actually smells like an open fire. For anyone who just needs to scratch the customization itch, a clean-lined flacon of Cartier’s lightweight L’Envol Eau de Toilette can be easily monogrammed with your groomsmens’ initials at a Bloomingdale’s counter, while a Harry’s Winston Razor can be etched to perfection with the click of a button. For larger parties, trust me when I tell you that the unisex deodorant in Baxter of California’s Herbal Musk Body Bundle will likely be the most beloved and final brand you and your dudes shall ever choose to purchase—bonus: it’s aluminum-free and skin-conditioning. It’s these small staples that, due to their constant need for replenishment, rarely receive the Midas touch. An elegantly old-school trio of The Art of Shaving’s pre-shave oils or mint-colored formula and minimal font of Imperial Barber’s Bergamot After-Shave can sit proudly in view of houseguests, while Maapilim’s natural botanical-infused set of soap, shampoo, and conditioner is a quiet route to elevating every morning ritual, into eternity (depending on the serving size). Or for the history buff on your list, Krigler’s pale blue bar of American One 31 soap is the same peppery scent that presidents like JFK and scholars like Hemingway preferred. Below, 22 options built to impress your closest friends and family.
—Arden Fanning Andrews
