How to Buy a Gift for a Woman Over 50

Whether it is the holidays or just a birthday gift, here are some thoughts to consider for the woman over 50 who already has everything she needs, as she so often tells you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Try a nice tasteful lapel pin, especially as a holiday related gift. Something handmade or unique is your best bet and please avoid the Rudolph or Santa with a light-up nose gag. Also, anything made of plastic is not tasteful.
2. Search for 14k bargains. In keeping with the jewelry theme, you need not spend a fortune to buy 14k gold earrings. Many stores have last minute or one day only sales on jewelry that make this an affordable alternative. Keep in mind that many older women do not have pierced ears so you need to know this up front. You can buy clip or screw earrings but they are harder to find.
3. Consider a necklace or slide. Slides are jewelry charm that slides onto any size chain and need not be diamonds or rubies to be tasteful. Note that many older women do not like tight chains so buy a chain that is 20 inches or more in length to be safe.
4. Avoid costume jewelry. It is always better to buy 14k or better jewelry instead of costume pieces. Some women are actually allergic to the nickel in costume jewelry and cannot wear it at all. Stick with gold or white gold.
5. Consider size when buying clothing. When in doubt, go with the larger size unless she is very petite. Sweaters are a good choice but buy a better fabric like a soft wool, cashmere or all cotton. If she tends to be cold all the time, wool is best. For women who are too warm, try cotton or cashmere. Stick with a safe color like black, cream or blue.
6. Shop for a nice blazer, as it makes a great gift. Wool, leather, microsuede or a less expensive alternative like corduroy, in black, brown or navy, would be appreciated by most women. You can also buy a blouse in a neutral color to go with it.
7. Buy a nightgown or pajamas for a close friend or relative. Do not buy anything like this for a coworker or boss as you may send the wrong impression. This is a good gift for your wife. Again, mimic the style and material that she likes to wear.
8. Consider a nice bottle of wine, champagne or a favorite liqueur like Amaretto or Bailey's Irish Cream if she enjoys a drink. This is a good choice if you are visiting someone for a dinner party or celebration.
9. Match styles she uses when you choose a nice wallet in top grain leather. Neutral is good but red or alligator grain is a fun alternative. Buy designer labels and go to discount stores, and you will pay much less than you would at a retail store.
10. Limit buying purses unless you know which designer she likes. Purses are harder to buy and many women are very particular about style and brands. Also avoid intimate garments, shoes and perfumes unless you know her preferences.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are still lost, try a gift certificate to a day spa with a massage or manicure package. A gift card is also a possibility if you are still confused on what to get her.