Written by Bec Loades in Stockists on the 7th February 2019

Valentine's day is just around the corner and I can guarantee you and your partner are still wondering what to buy each other. It's a unnecessary stress we all experience at some point in our lives and it usually ends up with a last minute decision and a dash to the shops. Luckily for you, MenswearStyle has been on the hunt for some luxury gift ideas and I think we found a great selection at The Royal Exchange, situated right in the heart of London.

The Royal Exchange is the perfect place for some gift inspiration, and to be honest it is a really pleasant place to walk around, even if you aren’t in the mood for any shopping. Founded in the 16th century, the Royal Exchange was Britain’s first specialist commercial building. It is actually the third design of the building as it was previously destroyed, and subsequently rebuilt, after a couple of major fires. As it stands now, it features a central courtyard which is surrounded by luxury boutiques and cafes. The impressive interior courtyard would have been originally used as a place for merchants to exchange business. In 2001, this truly beautiful building was fortunately remodelled and refurbished to bring it back to its original state, but with a different purpose. We headed to the central city shopping destination and wandered around the boutiques, both inside and outside. There was plenty to choose from for Valentine’s Day; whether it be a luxury watch or token leather card wallet. Have a browse below and start dropping those hints so you don't end up with something you can't fake a smile at whilst unwrapping.

Bamford Edition 1 Cologne

The new Bamford Grooming Department may be tiny in size but it really is worth a visit. With the incredibly high ceilings with dark wooden displays, it almost feels like you are walking into a traditional apothecary. This Edition 1 Cologne smells amazing and will certainly attract the right attention on Valentine’s Day. The scent contains a blend of fresh Vetiver, Bergamot and Cassis and has dark and smokey notes of amber and leather. Just a single spritz and you will be ready for any date night.

Leica SOFORT

We all like to captures moments on our smartphones, but we can end up quickly forgetting them as we never print them off nowadays. This Leica SOFORT instant camera enables you to hang on to those memories with its tiny photos that can be immediately handed to a loved one or pinned up on a noticeboard as a happy reminder. Different colours are available but we really like the new matt black version, or the white. The camera has various modes including self-portrait and self-timer. Once you start snapping away with this, you will find yourself filling up those photo albums in no time.

Penhaligon's The Tragedy of Lord George

This sophisticated bottle from Penhaligon's will look impressive on any bedside table. The Tragedy of Lord George is one of Penhaligon's best selling eau de parfums within their Portraits collection. With top notes of brandy and hearty notes of shaving soap, it is intended to create an air of aristocracy and will be perfect for any sartorial gentleman. Each fragrance in this collection is just as unique as the other, so do have a browse through the rest of the scents. These eau de parfums are actually quite dense so a little will go a long way.

Montblanc Great Characters James Dean Fountain Pen

You might be wondering who uses fountain pens anymore, but this is not like any other fountain pen and is something of a collectors item. This will be an extremely special gift for any of you who might enjoy the traditional form of writing or perhaps someone who loves film, and particularly James Dean. If you didn’t know, the famous Hollywood actor was actually a talented writer and as part of Montblanc’s Great Character’s limited edition series, they have taken inspiration from the actor to produce a unique series of writing instruments. The red precious resin cap and barrel refers to James Dean’s famous red jacket and the cap ring is engraved with one of his poignant quotes.

Crockett & Jones Pembroke Brogue

Every man needs a decent pair of brogues in their wardrobe and these classic shoes from Crockett & Jones are both stylish and sophisticated. The ‘rough up’ leather of this Pembroke, available in-store at The Royal Exchange, will take you from a meeting in the office to a more casual diner in the evening. It is such a versatile shoe that can be worn with a suit, as well as a pair of chinos or denim jeans. This style is also available in other leathers. The Dainite rubber soles will see you through the seasons for years to come and can even be taken back to Crockett & Jones when they need a bit of TLC.

Aspinal Double Leather Hip Flask

The winter weather has well and truly settled in, so a hip flask will be a welcomed gift when out for a cold country walk or perhaps an afternoon watching a live rugby match. This one from Aspinal will be the envy of many, not only because of its good looks but also because it is ideal for sharing your favourite tipple. The leather casing is made from the finest Italian leather and can be engraved at Aspinal with a name or memorable date. The individual Hunter Leather flask is also a sharing option with its discreet two stainless steel cups. These are great for toasting to any special celebration with a loved one.

Hermès Faconne Grand H Pocket Square

Everyone needs a luxurious red accessory for Valentine’s Day. It may sound cliche but a touch of red can really add something to an outfit and a classic pocket square from Hermès is possibly the perfect way to go about it. Fold this large printed piece of silk into the pocket of a dark suit for a bold statement. An Hermès pocket square is something you will keep for years to come and if looked after, could be passed down to future generations. Just make sure you keep the infamous orange Hermès box to go with it.

Bremont Supersonic Rose Gold

This exquisite watch might be a gift for this Valentine’s Day and many more to come. The price tag of Bremont’s Supersonic is certainly surprising, so this is an investment timepiece for a possible collector. There are only 100 items available in this style so there's no chance of one of your friends wearing the same one. Bremont designed these watches in honour of the Concorde and have incorporated a ring of aluminium from Heathrow’s last remaining Concorde jet into the back. The watch also features a rose gold case and case back, a sunburst white dial and Bremont’s first ever manual wind movement. It comes in a rather special display case in the shape of the tip of the plane which would look pretty impressive on any desk. 

For further information visit The Royal Exchange website to discover the full selection of boutiques and special gifts that your partner will be sure love as well.

We feature the Bamford Edition 1 Cologne, Leica SOFORT, and Penhaligons The Tragedy of Lord George in this The Royal Exchange Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2019.