What Are the Best and Worst Valentine’s Gifts for Women?

Published on: January 29, 2025

Valentine’s Day – the day of love, grand gestures, and occasionally, wildly misjudged presents. Whether you’re a seasoned romantic shopper or a last-minute panic buyer, choosing the right gift can feel like navigating a minefield. To help you avoid the dreaded eyeroll or, worse, a frosty reception, we’ve rounded up the best and worst Valentine’s Day gifts for women as well as a handy list of suggestions if you’re out of ideas.

The Best Valentine’s Gifts for Women

Let’s start with the winners – gifts that consistently earn appreciation and smiles. We’ve got the lowdown on what women actually love to receive on the big day.

  1. Greeting Cards

It’s simple, classic, and, according to 43% of people surveyed, still very much appreciated. A thoughtful card with a heartfelt message inside is the cornerstone of Valentine’s Day gifting. Skip the generic “Happy Valentine’s” note – this is your chance to write something personal and meaningful.

  1. Chocolates

You can’t go wrong with Valentine’s Day chocolates. They’re a timeless treat, with 25% of those surveyed exchanging them for Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s a luxury box of truffles or her favourite brand, chocolates show thoughtfulness (and taste!) without breaking the bank which is why they remain one of the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts.

  1. Flowers

Bright and fresh bouquets remain a romantic favourite, with 32% of men gifting flowers on Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s a classic bunch of red roses or a colourful arrangement of her favourite flowers, it’s an instant win. Pro tip: Know her favourite type of flower- it’s the little thoughtful details that go the extra mile in making her know how much you care.

  1. Thoughtful Experiences

While physical gifts are great, shared experiences like a spa day, a concert, or a special dinner offer memories that last far longer than the day itself. Experiences let you show how well you know her interests, making them a win-win option. The safest bet for a gift experience is booking a relaxing spa day or a romantic getaway.

  1. Jewellery

Gifting jewellery to her on Valentine’s Day is a big winner. If you find something that suits her style, then you can personalise your gift with a message saying just how much she means to you, and it will hold even more sentimental value. Whether it’s a delicate necklace, a sparkling bracelet, or a pair of classic earrings, Valentine’s jewellery transcends trends and can be cherished for years to come.

 

The Worst Valentine’s Gifts for Women

Now for the tricky part – gifts that are less “romantic gesture” and more “what were you thinking?” DJS Research has uncovered the least desirable gifts for Valentine’s Day. Make sure you take note to avoid these common pitfalls!

  1. Household Appliances

Unless she’s been dropping not-so-subtle hints about a gadget she really wants (and, even then, tread carefully), avoid anything that screams “chore.” A vacuum cleaner or toaster is hardly the stuff of romantic dreams.

  1. Lingerie

While lingerie might seem like a romantic idea, cheap, ill-fitting, or poorly thought-out options will likely fall flat. If you’re unsure of her size, style, or preference, it’s better to skip it altogether than risk the awkwardness of getting it wrong.

  1. Last-Minute Petrol Station Flowers

We’ve all been there: the last-minute scramble for a gift. But a tired-looking bouquet grabbed hastily from a petrol station won’t exactly say, “I’ve been planning this for weeks.” Plan ahead and opt for a thoughtful, fresh arrangement instead.

  1. Money Inside a Card

Including money inside a Valentine’s Day card might seem like a practical idea, but it’s often one of the most disliked gestures. It lacks the personal touch and thoughtfulness that make Valentine’s gifts special, as though little effort or consideration went into the gesture.

  1. Generic Gift Card

Like putting money in a card, offering generic gift cards on Valentine’s Day can feel impersonal and lacking in effort. This hated Valentine’s Day gift can suggest a lack of thought or understanding about your partner’s unique interests and preferences.

 

Valentine’s Gift Ideas for Her

 The Secret to Valentine’s Day Success

The key to a winning Valentine’s Day gift for her is simple: thoughtfulness. Consider what she truly enjoys, whether it’s a favourite perfume, an indulgent spa experience, or a cosy night in with her favourite takeaway and a movie.

When in doubt, remember that classics like chocolates, flowers, or a heartfelt card will always hit the mark. And while it’s tempting to overthink things, it’s the personal effort and care behind the gift that truly counts.