A golden milestone calls for a special gift.
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Though the '70s seems not too long ago, believe it or not, that special someone in your life who was born in that decade is turning the big 5-0 this year. Finding the perfect birthday gift can be daunting, especially for a milestone year. You want to ensure that you are finding the right options to show your love and appreciation for the special 50-year-old in your life. Whether it's for a parent, a friend, a relative, a coworker, or a partner, finding the perfect gift can be a fun and rewarding experience. But the real question is: What do you get the person who seems to have it all?
When thinking about a gift, consider the person's hobbies, interests, and needs. It could be a cookbook they are excited to try, a stylish piece of jewelry that will complement their personal style, or even a new gadget for the tech enthusiast—there are so many excellent options at all price points. You can even create a personalized gift such as a photo album featuring memories of each decade.
Below, we have rounded up some options that are guaranteed to put a smile on your recipient's face. They'll love how much thought you put into celebrating their special day, and you'll love getting to honor them with something truly unique.
1
Best Unique Gift
UncommonGoods My Life Story So Far
1
Best Unique Gift
UncommonGoods My Life Story So Far
When someone has been on this earth for half a century, they're sure to have some stories to share. That summer they backpacked around Europe, the time they won that big game, the lost weekend in Nashville. Encourage them to put pen to paper with this My Life Story So Far, with prompts for memories, stories, and wisdom.
2
Funny Gift for Women
ShirtInvaders 50th-Birthday Shirt for Women
2
Funny Gift for Women
ShirtInvaders 50th-Birthday Shirt for Women
If you are gifting this to your mom or another lady in your life, they are guaranteed to feel 50 and fabulous in it. Plus, it comes in a number of colors, so pick the one they love the best and can wear all year long.
3
Best Candy Gift
Vintage Candy Co. Vintage Candy 50th-Birthday Box
3
Best Candy Gift
Vintage Candy Co. Vintage Candy 50th-Birthday Box
Birthdays are always a time for nostalgia, especially big milestones like a 50th. If they have a sweet tooth, this special box of candies will have them salivating at first sight and evoke memories of their childhood.
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4
Best Luxury Gift
50th Birthday for Her - Prosecco & Truffles
4
Best Luxury Gift
50th Birthday for Her - Prosecco & Truffles
A 50th birthday is the ideal time to get a little decadent and indulgent. Celebrate them with this impressive gift that is guaranteed to impress. Delicious fine chocolates and prosecco come presented in a beautiful faux-leather box.
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7
Best Gift for History Lovers
UncommonGoods New York Times Custom Birthday Book
7
Best Gift for History Lovers
UncommonGoods New York Times Custom Birthday Book
Celebrate their special day with this compendium of The New York Times front covers on the date of their birthday. Their name and date of birth will be printed on the front, making a truly wonderful coffee-table book.
8
Best Plant Gift
PlantOGram Live Frantoio Olive Container Plant Tree for Indoor or Outdoor
8
Best Plant Gift
PlantOGram Live Frantoio Olive Container Plant Tree for Indoor or Outdoor
Sometimes there is nothing like a gift that is a living thing. Flowers are always welcome, but with a plant, the giftee can enjoy the item for so much longer. "I'm a firm believer in the power of nature," says Oprah. This is one of her go-to gifts.
9
Best Mindfulness Gift
“The Life You Want” Gift Set
9
Best Mindfulness Gift
“The Life You Want” Gift Set
Now 20% Off
$88 at Oprah Daily Shop
Is your person someone who is mindful? Perhaps they're a big fan of Oprah? This "The Life You Want" gift set could be the perfect present for them. It includes Oprah's bestselling "The Life You Want" Planner, Oprah's first-ever Love and Happiness Journal, and Oprah's Daily Inspiration Cards. Give the gift of inspiration.
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10
Best 50th Birthday Gift for Female Friend
On The Rox Drinks 50th-Birthday Stemless Wine Glass
10
Best 50th Birthday Gift for Female Friend
On The Rox Drinks 50th-Birthday Stemless Wine Glass
Does your 50-year-old love wine? Let them say cheers to 50 years in style with this "Fifty & Fabulous" stemless glass.
11
Best 50th Birthday Gift for Mom
Cozy Earth Oprah Daily “Live Your Best Life” Bamboo Pajamas
11
Best 50th Birthday Gift for Mom
Cozy Earth Oprah Daily “Live Your Best Life” Bamboo Pajamas
$185 at Oprah Daily Shop
Made by Cozy Earth—the brand whose bedding Oprah described as the “softest ever”—these luxury pajamas are designed for the ultimate in comfort. Treat your 50-year-old to blissful relaxation in this sumptuous stretch-knit loungewear designed to drape beautifully and flatter every body type.
12
Best Gift for Travelers
Wallaroo Hat Company Men’s Turner Fedora
12
Best Gift for Travelers
Wallaroo Hat Company Men’s Turner Fedora
Turning 50 means your recipient may want to go on a trip to celebrate their birthday. If their birthday trip is a tropical vacation, chances are this fedora hat will literally have them covered. Designed in Australia, these hats offer a trendy and effective way to protect against the sun.
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13
Best Tech Gift
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Square Smart Glasses
13
Best Tech Gift
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Square Smart Glasses
Oprah had this to say when choosing these smart sunglasses for one of her Favorite Things: “They look like classic, streamlined Wayfarer sunglasses, but they actually connect to your phone. You can listen to music or podcasts, answer calls, and even take pictures and videos. A simple tap or voice command is all it takes to do these things. And they charge in their case!”
14
Best Scented Candle Gift
AveSeena Reine de Nuit Candle
14
Best Scented Candle Gift
AveSeena Reine de Nuit Candle
Candles are the perfect gift for people who appreciate all the cozy vibes and spa atmosphere without having to leave the house. Plus, these smell so nice you'll want to purchase one for yourself.
15
Best Gift for Foodies
UncommonGoods The National Parks Cookbook
15
Best Gift for Foodies
UncommonGoods The National Parks Cookbook
Cookbooks, especially for the nature buff, make a great gift because not only will your friend or family member find great recipes to try out, but they'll also have a great excuse to invite you over for dinner! Win-win.
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16
Best Gift for Men
UncommonGoods Gardener's Tool Seat
16
Best Gift for Men
UncommonGoods Gardener's Tool Seat
This tool set is an ideal gift for those who love to garden. With a comfortable seat and built-in storage for tools, it's the perfect way to avoid back strain and keep everything organized while working on their stunning greenery.
17
Best Gift for Wine Lovers
FlyWithWine Portable Wine Glass Carrying Case
17
Best Gift for Wine Lovers
FlyWithWine Portable Wine Glass Carrying Case
For the person in your life who is well, aging like fine wine, they will especially appreciate this carrying case for wine glasses when they are traveling or simply going on a beautiful picnic in the summer. Though on the pricier side, this may make a grape gift for a parent or close friend who loves their wine.
18
Best Gift for Music Lovers
Lexon Design Water-Resistant Floating Bluetooth Speaker
18
Best Gift for Music Lovers
Lexon Design Water-Resistant Floating Bluetooth Speaker
Music lovers will appreciate the thought you put into getting this floating Bluetooth speaker that will let them listen to podcasts or music while they shower. Plus, it's the perfect size to carry while lounging poolside or going away for the weekend.
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A good-quality, stylish watch is always appropriate when it comes to milestone birthdays. Friends and family will be green with envy. The watch comes complete in a premium wood box, making it a perfect gift.
PoojaShah
Freelance Writer
Pooja Shah is a freelance writer and lawyer based in New York. She writes on commerce, culture, lifestyle, and travel. More of her work is at www.pooja-shah.com.