20 BEST 40TH-BIRTHDAY GIFTS TO RING IN THE NEXT DECADE

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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8 KEY TIPS FOR DECORATING A NAVY BLUE BATHROOM ON A TIGHT BUDGET

If you’ve found your way here, you’re probably eager to learn how to decorate a navy blue bathroom—especially on a budget! Do you dream of creating a spa-like retreat but worry about the hefty price tag that often comes with bathroom makeovers?

Great news! You can easily transform your plain navy blue bathroom into a serene sanctuary without spending a fortune. No need to hire an interior designer; these simple and affordable tips will help you create the soothing space you’re after.

In this article, I’ll share eight budget-friendly ideas to help you achieve the spa-like navy blue bathroom of your dreams. From enhancing your lighting to adding greenery for a touch of nature, I’ve got all the inspiration you need. Whether it’s a powder room, guest bath, small bathroom, or master bath, these tips will help you turn it into a luxurious oasis—without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!

UPGRADE YOUR LIGHTING

To create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom, start by upgrading the lighting. Swap out harsh overhead fixtures for soft, ambient lighting that promotes relaxation. Installing dimmer switches allows you to easily adjust the brightness to suit your mood.

Add candles for a cozy glow and calming fragrance, and consider incorporating LED strip lights around your mirror or vanity for a sleek, modern touch. The right lighting can completely transform your bathroom, making it feel like a serene, luxurious spa retreat.

INCORPORATE SPA-LIKE DECOR

To truly turn your navy blue bathroom into a spa-like retreat, the right decor is key. A few simple touches can go a long way in creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere.

Wondering how to achieve a spa-like bathroom on a budget? Start by investing in high-quality, fluffy towels in neutral shades like white or beige. Not only will they look elegant, but they’ll also feel soft and comforting on your skin. Introducing natural elements such as plants and stones can enhance the calming ambiance. A small potted plant or a tray with carefully placed pebbles can bring a touch of nature into your space, boosting air quality and promoting relaxation.

Don’t overlook the finer details, either. Organize bathroom essentials like cotton balls and Q-tips in clear glass jars for a sleek, uniform look. Upgrade your soap dispenser and toothbrush holder to chic, modern designs for a polished feel.

By incorporating these affordable decor elements, you’ll transform your navy blue bathroom into a true spa-like oasis. With greenery added in the next section, your bathroom will become a natural sanctuary right in your home.

MARBLE COUNTERTOPS

Marble countertops can give your bathroom a luxurious feel without the hefty price tag. The DIY marble countertop trend has gained popularity, offering an affordable way to achieve the elegant look of marble. For those who enjoy DIY projects, installing a marble countertop is a relatively simple task that requires just a few tools.

Depending on the size of the area, the installation process takes only a few hours and can significantly enhance the look of your bathroom. Not only will it create a high-end, stylish appearance, but it will also save you money—funds you can use for other projects or simply put into savings.

Additionally, you’ll have the freedom to customize the marble countertop to match your personal style. With the right supplies and a bit of time, you can achieve a stunning, personalized finish that’s sure to impress anyone who steps into your bathroom.

CHANGE OUT THE HARDWARE

Many people assume that upgrading fixtures in a navy bathroom requires a significant investment of time and money. Fortunately, that’s not the case! With a limited budget and minimal effort, you can easily create a spa-like oasis, and updating your bathroom hardware is one of the quickest ways to achieve this.

Start by replacing the fixtures. A new set of taps for the sink or bathtub can completely transform the look of your bathroom. With a wide variety of styles and finishes available, it’s easy to find something that complements your desired aesthetic. For a modern look, opt for lighter metals like chrome or brushed nickel. If you’re going for a more classic, old-world feel, consider oil-rubbed bronze or copper. The options are endless, making it simple to find the perfect fit for your space.

Another quick and easy upgrade is swapping out towel rods. Like fixtures, towel rods come in a wide range of styles and are fairly simple to install yourself. Instead of standard bars, consider swing-arm designs, ornate rods with intricate detailing, or even options with built-in shelves to maximize space.

These small changes can have a big impact, helping you transform your bathroom into a stylish and relaxing retreat without breaking the bank.

WALLPAPER

Revamping your bathroom doesn’t have to be daunting—simple touches like paint or wallpaper can effortlessly elevate a plain space into a spa-like retreat. Imagine stepping into a chic, navy blue oasis with soothing hues and textures, creating a relaxing atmosphere that lets you escape without leaving home.

A fresh coat of paint or some stylish wallpaper can instantly make your bathroom feel larger and more inviting. Thoughtful use of color and pattern can create visual interest, while contrasting shades can bring out your unique style. Try a contrasting border for your walls and ceiling to add elegance, or create an accent wall to highlight a specific area of the room. For a more subtle look, stick to a cohesive color palette with varying shades and tones.

Wallpaper is another great option to introduce texture and character. From wood-inspired designs to shimmering stone effects, the choices are nearly endless. If you’re feeling bold, use striking patterns or prints sparingly, such as on a single accent wall, to create a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Ultimately, painting or wallpapering your bathroom is an affordable, easy way to inject personality and transform the atmosphere. With the right tools and a bit of creativity, you can turn your bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like escape without spending a fortune.

ADD GREENERY FOR A NATURAL TOUCH

Incorporating a touch of greenery can instantly bring an organic feel to your navy blue bathroom. Not only do plants purify the air and create a calming atmosphere, but they also provide a refreshing pop of color to balance the neutral tones.

Try placing a small succulent on your bathroom counter or install floating shelves to showcase a few hanging plants. If maintenance is a concern, choose low-maintenance options like snake plants or spider plants. With the addition of greenery, your bathroom will become a tranquil, natural retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

MAXIMIZE YOUR STORAGE SPACE

To create a true spa-like oasis in your navy blue bathroom, maximizing storage is essential. Clutter can quickly disrupt the calming atmosphere you’re aiming for, so keeping everything neatly organized and out of sight is key.

Consider installing shelves or cabinets to store hand towels and toiletries. A shower caddy or built-in niche is a great way to keep shampoo and soap off the floor, while drawer organizers in your vanity can prevent makeup and small items from becoming disorganized.

Stylish storage solutions can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Woven baskets for towels or sleek metal shelves for decorative items can blend function with design. With the right storage in place, your bathroom will feel more open and inviting, making it the perfect retreat for unwinding after a long day.

Incorporating stylish storage options is not only practical but also elevates the look and feel of your bathroom. Whether it’s woven baskets or modern metal shelves, organizing your essentials will help create a serene, relaxing space.

INVEST IN LUXURIOUS BATH LINENS

If you’re looking to elevate your bathroom transformation, investing in luxurious bath linens is a simple yet effective way to do it. This is one of the easiest ways to enhance the decor of a navy blue bathroom!

Soft, plush towels and bath mats can instantly make every shower or bath feel like a spa experience, while adding an elegant touch to your space. And, if you fold them the way spas and hotels do, you’ll create that upscale, relaxing vibe at home.

When selecting bath linens, opt for high-quality materials like Egyptian cotton or bamboo. These fabrics are renowned for their softness and durability, making them a great investment in your everyday routine.

With a wide range of colors and patterns available, you can easily find linens that complement your current decor or introduce a splash of color to your navy blue bathroom.

CONCLUSION

Decorating a navy blue bathroom on a budget can be a fun and rewarding challenge. By following these eight key tips, you can create a stylish and inviting space without breaking the bank. Remember to focus on affordable materials, DIY projects, and creative repurposing. With a little imagination and effort, you can transform your bathroom into a luxurious oasis that reflects your personal style.