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Graduating from college is always an affair worth celebrating, but this year’s college graduates have overcome more than the typical late-night study sessions and rough hangovers that defined our college years. After years of remote learning, COVID scares and having swabs stuck up their nose on a regular basis, it’s any wonder the graduating class of 2022 made it through such a strange, irregular academic marathon.
With that said, the graduate in your life clearly deserves something special this year to commemorate the journey, which is why we’re leaning into luxury ideas of every variety. There are gifts here to prepare them for their first job, others to help them relax over the coming summer months, and a few that simply represent a meaningful splurge. Below, our staffers recommend gifts that are sure to support the class of 2022, no matter where the road may take them.
Sony WH-1000XM5
A just-released follow-up to the best-sounding wireless headphones we’ve used, the XM5 offers a lot of battery (30+ hours), hands-free calling, a comfy fit and a collapsible design for easy storage. Also, these are good-looking but not flashy (available in monochromatic silver or black); they’ll be great for commutes or the grad’s first office job. – Kirk Miller, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Filson Original Briefcase
The WFH era may be upon us, but a sturdy briefcase still makes for an excellent (and handsome) gift any graduate would be thrilled to receive. Designed with rugged, industry-strength cotton twill, and finished with bridle leather and genuine brass hardware, the bag is malleable enough to survive the bus and boardroom alike, but sturdy enough that it’ll last them at least until their promotion. – Paolo Sandoval, Assistant Editor
Raise Hell, Kid Championship Banner
I’ve woken up to this banner for years since my own graduation. It looks beautiful on the wall, reminds me of Han Solo for some reason and serves as a gentle reminder that there’s still plenty of time to realize my craziest dreams. If your grad isn’t the hell-raising type, I recommend taking a full perusal of Oxford Pennant’s offerings. The Buffalo brand is very good at this. – Tanner Garrity, Senior Editor
Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody
I actually wish someone gifted this jacket to me, but instead, I bought it myself and consider it one of the best all-around down jackets I’ve ever owned. Lightweight, versatile and incredibly warm, it’s packed with premium 850 fill-power down and finished with a nylon shell that comes in a variety of colors. And if harm should ever befall this cold-weather beauty, Arc’teryx will help repair it courtesy of the brand’s emerging ReBird initiative. – Cam Vigliotta, Commerce Editor
Louboutin Pigalle Follies
Every young professional needs a classic pump — yes, even in the work-from-home era — and the Louboutin Pigalle Follies are the classic pump. A timeless workplace flex, a pair of work-appropriate red bottoms will carry any recent grad from an entry-level gig through every step of a (hopefully very successful, definitely very stylish) career. – Kayla Kibbe, Associate Editor
Adidas FWD-02 Sport In-Ear Headphones
Equipped with active noise cancellation technology and impressive battery life, these in-ear headphones are ideal for a grad who is on the go for business, pleasure or the combination of the two: exercise. Sweatproof and water-resistant, these headphones can take a dripping and keep on ticking. – Evan Bleier, Senior Editor
Cocktail Kingdom Essential Cocktail Set
I remember my barware collection post-college: a plastic rocks glass and a used Mr. Boston drinks guide. Start the (grown) kids on a better and elevated path to home entertaining with a few necessities from Cocktail Kingdom, starting with this kit that includes a copper-plated bar spoon, jigger, shaking tin and strainer, plus a mixing glass. Pair it with a real cocktail-making tome, and then invite yourself over for drinks. – Kirk Miller, Senior Lifestyle Editor
David Yurman Petite Albion Ring
This is the gift I got for my college graduation, and so did literally every other girl I know — or at least the cool ones with generous families. If she doesn’t already have it, she wants it. – Kayla Kibbe, Associate Editor
All33 BackStrong Chair
Welcome to the working world, grads. It looks mightily different than it did just a few years ago, with an overwhelming majority of companies now committing to hybrid work models. That makes owning a dependable office chair a prerequisite for the many years ahead. This one’s my favorite. – Tanner Garrity, Senior Editor
RovR TravelR
Designed to provide enough space to fit as much food, drink and additional gear as possible, the camping-centric TravelR cooler is equal parts form and function. Lightweight and durable with an interior coated with anti-microbial liner, the TravelR folds flat for easy packing and is a perfect companion for your grad for music festivals, day trips and long walks on the beach. – Evan Bleier, Senior Editor
Our Legacy Camion Boot
As any fashion-forward grad could surely explain, the office dress code has fundamentally changed (hello, sweatpants), so ditch the stuffy suit and grab them a pair of Our Legacy’s Camion Boots instead. The Swedish brand’s signature swanky footwear is a multi-faceted beast; you’ll be able to wear them to the interview, but you could also toss them on for that upcoming wedding, and the post-graduation get down. You know what they say; you should always dress to impress. – Paolo Sandoval, Assistant Editor
Citizen Chandler Eco-Drive Field Watch
There’s no substitute for a statement watch whether they’re attending an interview or heading to the office for the first day on the job. That said, I’ve always preferred field watches such as the Chandler for their blend of style and durability. Behind the stainless steel face and woven, patterned strap is a military-inspired timepiece that’s water-resistant, luminous and powered by light (so it never needs a battery). – Cam Vigliotta, Commerce Editor
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself or for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
