An original gift for him and her: fewer things, more story
Original doesn’t mean strange. The most original gift is something the recipient wouldn’t have thought of, but instantly recognises as right.
Key takeaways
- When people think of an original gift, they often think of something funny or unexpected.
- For her, a gift that combines refinement and character works well.
- Men often receive gadgets or drinks.
- More and more people want fewer but better things.
- Delftsche is a Dutch clothing brand inspired by Delft blue, the visual language that emerged in Delft in the seventeenth century.
What is an original gift, really?
When people think of an original gift, they often think of something funny or unexpected. But the gifts that last are rarely the quirkiest. They combine a surprising story with real use.
A good test: would the recipient buy this themselves if they knew about it? If yes, and they didn’t know it yet, you have found an original gift.
Three qualities of an original gift
1. It has an origin. A gift with a story, a place or a craft behind it feels more personal than a random product.
2. It gets used. A gift that is worn or seen daily stays present in the recipient’s life.
3. It is understated. Subtle is often more original than loud. A small detail sparks curiosity; a big logo does not.
Original gift for her
For her, a gift that combines refinement and character works well. A white essential with a small Delft blue botanical motif is one example: calm enough for every day, special enough to be asked about. Suitable for a girlfriend, partner, sister or mother, for a birthday, anniversary or just because.
Original gift for him
Men often receive gadgets or drinks. A good white shirt with a story is a welcome change. It is practical, works with jeans or a blazer, and the Delft blue detail gives it a recognisably Dutch signature. Suitable for a friend, partner, father or brother.
A sustainable gift
More and more people want fewer but better things. An original gift that lasts fits that movement. Choose timeless design and an essential that gets worn often, instead of something that disappears into a drawer after one use. Read also about sustainable fashion from Amsterdam.
Moments for an original gift
- Birthday: see our article on a special birthday gift.
- Christmas: read our ideas for a Christmas gift with a Dutch story.
- Anniversary: a gift with tradition suits a moment of tradition.
- Farewell or moving abroad: a wearable piece of the Netherlands.
- Thank you: for a host, mentor or good friend.
The story behind Delftsche
Delftsche is a Dutch clothing brand inspired by Delft blue, the visual language that emerged in Delft in the seventeenth century. The brand makes white essentials with subtle botanical details in the blue of the Delft potters. Read the Delftsche brand story.
Quick gift guide
- Partner: something with a story you can remember together.
- Friend: an essential with character that suits their style.
- Colleague: understated and universal, without getting too personal.
- Expat or Dutch person abroad: a wearable piece of Holland.
In short
An original gift for him or her has an origin, gets used and is understated. Clothing with a Delft blue detail from Delftsche fits that. The first collection is coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
What is an original gift for her?
A gift that combines refinement and a story, such as a white garment with a subtle Delft blue botanical detail.
What is an original gift for him?
A practical gift with character, such as a good white shirt with a recognisably Dutch signature instead of a gadget.
What makes a gift original?
An original gift has an origin, is actually used and is understated. It surprises without trying too hard.
Can an original gift also be sustainable?
Yes: choose timeless design and an essential that is worn often, so the gift lasts.
What is an original gift for a colleague?
Something understated and universal with a story, such as a timeless essential with a Dutch detail.