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No matter how old you are, a birthday is always a big deal! However, there's something special about turning 40. It's a huge milestone to hit a new decade, and it's important to celebrate it in style. At 40, most folks have what they need, so now's the time to shell out for something fun and luxurious that your recipient might not buy themselves. Whether the gift is for your mom, your daughter, your husband, or your best friend, we've curated a list of the best 40th birthday gifts to help you find the perfect thing to spoil them.
Here, you'll find everything from the perfect red dress to a must-have bag to a luxury Scrabble set. From sentimental offerings to gag gifts, you simply cannot go wrong with any of these 40th birthday gift ideas. Happy shopping!
Billecart-Salmon Brut Sous Bois Champagne
Help them toast to a new decade in style by gifting a great bottle of Champagne. This one by Billecart-Salmon has notes of glazed apricot, baked currant fruit, toast, hazelnut, spice, and lime blossom. It's ultra-silky and has a pleasantly acidic finish, making it perfect to pair with everything from french fries to a lobster dinner.
Baby Jane Dress
There's something to be said about red when it comes to celebrating your 40th year around the sun. Rubies may be the symbolic gemstone for a 40th wedding anniversary, but we think that they are perfect to mark a 40th birthday, too.
We love the idea of gifting this bold red dress to help signify a fun new chapter. It's perfect for parties and co*cktail hours to come.
N/S Park Small Nubuck Tote
When you turn 40, isn't it just an excuse to get something you've really been wanting? After all, you've just hit a major milestone.
The ROW, a quiet luxury brand, makes some of the most beautiful leather goods on the market. This versatile tote made from calf leather is perfect for running errands, going out, or taking to work.
The Square Mary Jane
A pair of Rothy's will allow your giftee to travel around the world in style. Washable, comfortable, and available in a wide selection of colors, these square Mary Janes are the perfect on-the-go staple.
Oil Dispenser
This sweet ceramic oil dispenser has a dual purpose. Your recipient can use it in their kitchen or remove the spout and use it as a vase for the prettiest flowers from their garden.
Panama Textured-Leather Cosmetic Case
A good cosmetics case is something every grown-up should have. This one, in a classic style from London-based Smythson, will look pretty on a vanity or packed in a suitcase.
Aesop Lightweight Facial Hydrating Face Serum
You might be familiar with Aesop for their chic packaging and ever-popular hand soap, but the brand also has an incredible variety of skincare products.
Treat the newly minted 40 year old in your life to the ultimate self-care treatment with this lightweight facial serum. With aloe vera, ylang ylang, and panthenol, their face will instantly look more hydrated and plump.
Warrior Mat
Alo's best-selling mat, with its moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology, will become a favorite in a flash. Available in a variety of colors, you're sure to find the perfect option for their style.
Linen Chenille Throw
A good throw for curling up with a good book or watching television is always a welcome gift. The soft, velvety feel of this Serena & Lily blanket is second to none. Crafted from a linen-cotton blend, it has a luxe feel without being too heavy.
Savannah Gardens Tablecloth
Luxury linen house Matouk makes some of the most incredible sheets and linens in the world, and this tablecloth would make a stunning addition to anyone's dining room table. We love this sunny, Spring Green color with a fun scalloped trim.
The Green Vase Peony Tree
While we typically get someone fresh cut flowers for their birthday, they don't last forever. Paper flowers, like this arrangement from The Green Vase, is designed to last a lifetime. The delicate details of a peony are replicated with thin paper that creates the most lovely petals and shape.
Mixed Stemless Set
Hand-blown in Poland, these delicate, colorful wine glasses deserve a place on the bar cart. Available in a variety of pastel hues, each guest can have their own color, meaning there will be no more drink mix-ups.
Breville Tea Maker
Hot water tea kettles are nothing new, but a kettle that makes its own tea is an innovation. All kinds of tea can be brewed, from green tea to black tea, in this nifty machine.
Birthday Cake
Since 2008, Milk Bar has been crafting up fun, creative confections, and their birthday cake might just be one of their most celebrated offerings. This little 6-inch cake is perfect for celebrating the big 4- in style.
Carolina-Style BBQ Party
Give the gift of a BBQ party that takes out all the guesswork and party prep. Caroline's Cakes, a South Carolina-based company, knows how to throw a good party, and everything you could possibly need is included in this thoughtful spread.
Diamond Daisy Huggies
Something that sparkles seems totally appropriate for a milestone birthday. In a Victorian-inspired setting, the six prongs connecting the earrings make them slightly unique while allowing the diamonds to shine.
The Everyother Day Crewneck
The slightly cropped style makes this crewneck flattering with practically every outfit. From layering over a flirty dress or wearing with a basic pair of leggings, it's the perfect capsule piece.
Polish Detoxifying Body Scrub
A good self-care ritual is a gift that someone who's reached their 40th year certainly deserves. Packed with nutrients and feel-good elements, this soothing scrub is an excellent way to add luxury to their everyday routine.
Crochet Raffia Sun Hat
For someone who plans to go on a tropical vacation to celebrate their 40th year, a sun hat is a necessity. We love this one from Jenni Kayne that's crocheted out of raffia; it has the perfect amount of coverage for a hot summer's day.
Tinted Lip Oil
French beauty products are always chic, and this lip oil combines makeup and skin care for the ultimate holy grail product. It's the epitome of cool French girl style.
Fête Notecards
The party doesn't have to stop after the big day. Continue the celebrations throughout the year with these fun Fête Notecards from stationary brand Dear Annabelle.
House of Music & Love Print
A milestone birthday deserves a grand gesture like a photograph or piece of art that's significant to the recipient. If you've gone on vacations together in the past, get them a photo of your favorite place, or if they have a favorite artist, get them something in a similar style for a thoughtful gift.
Survival Guide For Your Forties Female Edition
This little book is a fun gift for a woman turning 40. It acts as a lighthearted new-decade roadmap with health, relationship, and work advice, as well as mindfulness and mental health tips. You can customize the book with her name, a caricature of herself, and a personal dedication.
Dieux Forever Eye Mask
For those who worry about fine lines at 40, there's no need to fret. Dieux, a skincare brand dedicated to more accountability in the beauty industry, has created Forever Eye Masks that one can use indefinitely with their favorite gels, creams, and serums.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
There's nothing quite like walking and talking to a dear friend on the phone. These open earbuds make it easier (and safer!) than ever. Bose's design allows for one to hear all the noises around them while still being able to listen to their favorite jams on a long walk or during their daily commute.
Mastering the Art of French Cooking Leather Bound Edition
Julia Child changed the culinary world when Mastering the Art of French Cooking was published in 1961, and her cookbooks still fly off the shelves today. This particular edition is beautifully bound in leather and will last forever.
Ceramic Air Styler Blowout Kit
There's no better gift than a good hair day. This kit from T3 includes everything your recipient needs to get the perfect blowout at home. Designed to help protect hair from heat damage, each attachment is especially designed to help hair maintain its natural moisture.
The Bloom Party Pajama Set with Pants
These pajamas are so chic, one could wear them practically anywhere. For a fabulous 40th birthday brunch or getting ready to celebrate at home, this fun set is the perfect 'fit.
Pique Kimono Robe
This isn't just any old robe; it's the plush robe that guests are given when they stay at a The Ritz-Carlton. Knitted from luxurious pique cotton, this indulgent robe will make the birthday girl or boy feel like royalty every time they slip it on.
Feuille de Lavande/Lavender Leaf Scented Candle
The fresh scent of lavender filling a room is one of the most dreamy things for the senses. We love this lavender candle from French brand Diptyque—and we know your birthday giftee will, too.
Light Rattan Footed Bowl
This pretty rattan bowl would make a show-stopping accessory for their home. This versatile piece can hold everything from silk scarves to bananas.
Lavanda Danza Floral Pareo
Turning 40 means that it's time for a beach vacation. This beautifully designed pareo from Agua by Agua Bendita is full of tropical florals that are sure to stand out on the sand.
Clarins V-Facial Intensive Wrap Face Moisturizer Mask
In just 10 minutes, this face mask will brighten and tighten their skin. Designed to help reduce puffiness, this holy grail skincare product is the gift that keeps on giving all year long.
Zip Sunglass Case
Made from fine leather and with a variety of personalization options, this is the perfect gift for someone who always wants everything to be in its rightful place.
Meribella Slipsilk™ Eye Mask
Made out of silk, this eye mask is the perfect gift for someone who always looks for ways to get a little extra beauty rest.
Geoffrey Parker Leather Scrabble Set
Some old-fashioned fun is a perfect way to ring in a new decade. Made in a light blue colorway exclusive to Abask, this Scrabble set is sure to stand out wherever the games begin.
Dior Idylle 90 Square Scarf
We're all about a scarf moment. This one from Dior is inspired by an Art Deco folding screen. Full of birds and butterflies, this stunning design is sure to be the perfect accessory for your recipient to wrap around their bag or wear around their neck.
Freya Wicker Ice Bucket with Ice Tongs
For their big 40th birthday bash, fill this ice bucket up with ice and a bottle of Champagne to really celebrate the occasion.
Fleur x Sister Parish Dolly Wave Frame
A 40th birthday deserves a major home accessory upgrade, and this mirror by Fleur and Sister Parish is just the ticket. We love the iconic Dolly Wave pattern design and the sweet wavy edges.
Scallop Starter Pack
Who doesn't want a set of luxurious towels for their birthday? Weezie is known for their endlessly customizable and ultra-plush towels that any giftee will adore.
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