The savvy high schooler’s fool proof 2012 gift guide

By Ivey McDaniel | Art & Entertainment Editor
Christmas is swiftly approaching and everyone is bustling around to find the perfect gift. However, if you’re not an extreme couponer, and/or you didn’t take advantage of the Black Friday sales in November, it can be difficult to find great gifts on a student budget, so, I present to you, The Savvy High Schooler’s Fool Proof 2012 Gift Guide!

DAD

“My grandpa is the most difficult person for me to shop for because he never tells me what he wants.”
-Junior Hayden Housson

Gift giving to dads is a notoriously tricky task, heck, even gifting to men in general is a toughie. If your father is like mine, when he wants something, he gets it, so it’s difficult to find a unique gift that they really need.

A Goorin Bros. Hat $40.00 to $70.00
Goorin Brothers is a high end hat shop with its nearest location in Austin on South Congress. Walking into the store is like stepping back into a 1920’s bar, very nostalgic. These hats are great quality and incredibly hip.

Shave Cut Block of Alum $19.95
Unless your dad is a hairy lumberjack, he’ll really enjoy this gift. The Shave Cut Block by Duluth Trading Company eliminates the need for little tissue wads after the inevitable shave nick. Just have your dad rub the block on his face after a cut and ta-da, the bleeding stops.

Mr. Beer Brewing Set $49.95
If your dad is a hopp enthusiast and willing to get a little down and dirty, get him this DIY brewing kit by Mr. Beer. The kit includes the ingredients, labels, bottles, caps, the fermenter, and a instructional DVD. This is a great activity for dad’s day off that isn’t on the Honey- Do list.

MOM

“My mom is definitely the easiest person in the family to shop for. She never tells me if she doesn’t
like anything and she’s just happy we’re all together.”
-Senior Bivina Diaz

When in doubt follow JCB: Jewelry, cosmetics, and bath products. This universal mom gift giving acronym is always a success, and even if it isn’t, it’s your mom, she’d love it if you’d just agree to go out in public with her.

Rich Caviar Eye Palette by Bobbi Brown $47.50
These mature and sophisticated colors will keep your mom from looking like she belongs on Ru Paul’s Drag Race.

‘He Knows Your Name’ Initial Necklace $47.50
This Texas hill country jewelry is perfect for mom. The turquoise pendant is the perfect piece rustic touch to any outfit.

Vintage Leather Jewelry Box $59.00
Featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things, who, let me just tell you, is never wrong. This jewelry box is the perfect place for your mother to keep her jewelry.

SISTER/ GIRLFRIEND/ BEST FRIEND

Time to get shopping!

“My best friend is the hardest to shop for because I want to buy her something special, but I always second guess my decision, and before I know it, it’s Christmas.”
-Senior Ashley Krupa

Your best friend. The one who you usually forget about, and then end up getting her a gift card. After, you usually feel guilty because it’s not sentimental enough. Am I the only one this happens to?

Madewell Hepcat sunglasses $55.00
Okay, these sunglasses are FABULOUS! Channel your inner Jackie O. with the vintage stout round frame.Prayer Shawl $6.99
I’m a huge believer in World Market, and this scarf seals the deal. This good luck accessory is perfect with a casual dress or a tank and jeans.

Portlandia: A Guide for Visitors $16.99
If your gal ever watched IFC’s Portlandia, get her this book. Fred and Carrie take you around the granola city and include references from the show. PUT A BIRD ON IT!

Feminist Ryan Gosling $12.95
From Urban Outfitters, this book showcases all of Ryan Gosling’s feminist memes. Filled with encouraging statements, this book is sure to make your girl swoon.
$25.00

Stila ‘All Is Bright’ Lip Glaze Set $25.00
This Sephora set encompasses all of the high street makeup brand, Stila,’s holiday colors. Available at Sephora, this set come with eight shimmery shades.

BOYFRIEND/ BROTHER

“I’m getting my boyfriend a Ralph Lauren shirt and a snow globe with our picture in it.”
-Senior Brianna Higgins  

Luckily, I don’t have to worry about having a brother… or a boyfriend.

Cardboard Animal Heads $28.00-58.00
If your guy’s room is missing some decor, and he’s an animal, these no kill cardboard animal heads are the perfect thing for his crib.

Casino Chrome Watch  $34.00
This geeky chic watch is sure to put a smile on any guy’s face.

The Art of Racing in the Rain $14.99
A masculine Marley and Me with sports cars. Need I say more?

Estate Zip Gusset Traveller Wallet $45.00
You can never go wrong with genuine leather. This reasonably priced Fossil wallet will last ages.

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