Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating in style, and the perfect gift can make it even more special. The best 40th-birthday gifts reflect the recipient’s personality and interests, ensuring they feel truly appreciated on their big day. Whether you’re shopping for a best friend, a hard-to-please family member, or a partner who seems to have everything, we’ve got something to impress them.
For a hassle-free option, a curated gift set is always a winner—especially if it includes indulgent beauty finds. Prefer a more personal touch? Create a themed gift box tailored to their interests, whether it’s a spa-inspired self-care kit, travel must-haves, or cozy home essentials. Personalized gifts, like a custom book or monogrammed accessories, show thoughtfulness and effort, making them extra meaningful. If you’re looking to go big—perhaps with a group gift or a luxurious splurge—an upscale item will leave a lasting impression.
Our golden rule for gifting? Choose something they wouldn’t typically buy for themselves but would be absolutely thrilled to receive. From thoughtful presents for women to fun finds for men and sentimental treasures for loved ones, our gift guide takes the guesswork out of shopping. Just don’t forget to top it off with a heartfelt, handwritten card they’ll cherish forever.
INSTANATURAL VITAMIN C TONER – $12.55 (AMAZON), $20.00
Give her skincare routine a refresh with this brightening toner. Infused with witch hazel, lavender, and botanical extracts, it helps cleanse and hydrate while combating signs of aging. One reviewer raved, “My skin looks hydrated and smoother instantly—so glad I tried this product!”
MOROCCANOIL SHOWER GEL CLEANSER – $20.00 (AMAZON, SEPHORA, MOROCCANOIL)
Treat her to a little luxury in the shower with this ultra-hydrating body wash. Former Shop TODAY editor Ellen Abraham describes it as “an affordable luxury that smells amazing and leaves your skin silky smooth.” Ideal for those with sensitive skin, this cleanser is a must-have.
AOA STUDIO PAW PAW COLLECTION GIFT SET – $25.55 (MISS A), $31.60
For the homebody who loves a little pampering, this set is a beauty lover’s dream. It includes cozy slippers, a highlighter set, a handheld mirror, and more for the ultimate self-care experience.
ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS MINI SPICE EYESHADOW PALETTE – $29.00 (ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS, ULTA, SEPHORA)
A makeup essential for everyday looks or glamorous nights out. Featuring warm and shimmery tones, this palette is a favorite among beauty lovers. Ellen Abraham says, “This timeless eyeshadow palette has everything you need for both natural and bold styles.”
DEARFOAMS EZ FEET SCUFF SLIPPER – $37.99 (WALMART)
After a long day, her feet will thank her for these ultra-cozy slippers. Made with 100% Australian sheepskin lining and plush cushioning, they provide ultimate comfort and warmth.
THE COMFY ORIGINAL OVERSIZED MICROFIBER & SHERPA WEARABLE BLANKET – $41.99 (AMAZON), $49.99 (QVC), $54.99
For someone who’s always cold, this wearable blanket is a game-changer. It’s oversized, ultra-soft, and perfect for lounging around the house—or even staying cozy outdoors.
BALA BANGLES – $55.00 (AMAZON, TARGET)
These stylish, adjustable weights add extra resistance to workouts, whether worn on wrists or ankles. A favorite among fitness enthusiasts, Bala Bangles are perfect for elevating her cardio sessions.
SAHIRA JEWELRY DESIGN DARIA HOOPS – $58.00 (SAHIRA)
A timeless jewelry piece, these tarnish-free gold hoops are a perfect addition to her accessory collection. Simple yet stylish, they’ll complement any outfit effortlessly.
ARTIS FINI COSMETIC BRUSH – $65.00 (HSN)
If she’s looking to upgrade her makeup tools, this premium blending brush is a must-have. Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown says, “I’d heard so much about Artis brushes—I tried it, and it’s hands down the best blending tool I own.”
SWEEJAR STORE PORCELAIN TEA SET – BRITISH ROYAL SERIES – $69.99 (AMAZON), $75.99
For lovers of historical dramas and elegant tea parties, this stunning tea set includes a teapot, teacups, saucers, a sugar bowl, a cream pitcher, and a stainless-steel strainer. Perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and conversation.
STILOSA ESPRESSO MACHINE BY DE’LONGHI – $75.99 (TARGET), $83.99, $99.95 (QVC)
A coffee lover’s dream! This compact yet powerful espresso machine makes barista-quality coffee at home. Senior Partnership Editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil says, “There’s truly no better way to start my day.”
RENÉE ROULEAU TRIPLE BERRY SMOOTHING PEEL – $88.50 (RENÉE ROULEAU)
This antioxidant-rich peel helps brighten and even skin tone, making it a skincare essential. “I use this peel weekly, and it has transformed my skin,” says Ellen Abraham.
VERA BRADLEY WEEKENDER TRAVEL BAG – $101.25 (VERA BRADLEY), $135.00
Spacious, stylish, and durable, this quilted weekender bag is perfect for quick getaways. Made of nylon, it’s lightweight yet sturdy—ideal for frequent travelers.
AERANGIS DISCOVERY JOURNEY GIFT SET – $110.00 (AERANGIS, ETSY)
If one candle isn’t enough, this set offers three signature scents, a wick trimmer, and a scent story card for a luxurious aromatherapy experience.
NEW YORK TIMES CUSTOM BIRTHDAY BOOK – $125.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)
A thoughtful keepsake, this book compiles The New York Times front pages from every year since her birth—perfect for history buffs and nostalgic moments.
HATCH RESTORE SMART SLEEP ASSISTANT – $169.99 (HATCH)
For the woman who needs better sleep, this all-in-one device combines a sound machine, sunrise alarm, smart light, and meditation app to create the ultimate nighttime routine.
LILYSILK TRIMMED SILK WOMEN’S LONG-SLEEVE PAJAMA SET – $185.00 (LILYSILK)
Made from 100% grade 22 Momme Charmeuse silk, this ultra-luxurious pajama set is perfect for beauty sleep in style.
OSTRICHPILLOW GO NECK PILLOW – $69.00 (OSTRICHPILLOW, AMAZON)
Ideal for frequent travelers, this memory foam neck pillow offers 360-degree support for restful sleep—even on the most turbulent flights.
PERSONALIZED BOURBON BARREL FLIGHT WITH GLASSES – $85.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)
For whiskey lovers and entertainers, this handcrafted bourbon barrel flight comes with four tasting glasses—perfect for a refined home bar setup.
EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG² – $121.99 (AMAZON), $127.99 (TARGET), $149.95 (QVC)
No more cold coffee! This smart mug keeps drinks at the perfect temperature for hours. One happy customer shared, “It truly keeps my beverage at the same set temperature long enough for me to enjoy every last drop at my own pace!”
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