ALT-2 Gift Ideas for Girls Aged 13 16
As of one them myself, I know from personal experience that teenage girls are especially picky. They may smile and enthusiastically thank you upon receiving the present, but after that, it's all a matter of deciding to re-gift (or, in those rare cases when they actually receive something they like, use it). And being able to pick a gift that will be put to the latter use is really not that difficult. Spending more time with them, observing them more carefully and associating with them is the best bet. However, for those who just don't have enough time to do that, here are some gift ideas.
Teenage girls these days love their technology. Just take a look at all the iPods, cell phones and who-knows-what's-next. For them, these devices are not only for convenience like they are with adults. They're accessories, fashion statements and, most of all, icons; they're symbols of their generation. Technology, however, can be expensive and picky. You would not want to buy an outdated device (and technology does out-date itself fast), but you wouldn't want to spend a fortune. Unless you can afford the gadgets, a good choice would be to purchase accessories for these devices. Accessorising is huge these days, and accessorising for digital gadgets is no less. Ever seen cell phones splashed out in rhinestones, cell phone dangle straps, iPods wrapped in a skull pattern? These small gifts would be perfect for any teenager; and, as one myself, I would certainly like these. Ideas include cell phone decorating kits (stickers, rhinestones), cell phone dangle straps, iPod skins. And, of course, if you have the money, they'll love you for digital cameras, cell phones, mp3 players, etc.
As I said that accessorising is huge these days, baubles like earrings, necklaces, bracelets are also safe bets. This is more difficult, though, as personal tastes vary. Make sure you know the sizes of the teenager, and if she can wear the item at all. (You wouldn't give earrings to them only to find that they don't have pierced ears.) If you're planning to purchase these, be sure to purchase a quality item, not some plastic thing for 9-year-olds. Teenagers can tell if the item is quality, and, if they see that it is not, they will certainly not wear it. If you're planning to give in this category, do not try to re-gift, no matter how new that necklace or bracelet looks. Only give what you would like, and no one would want a piece of work jewellery.
Elaborating on accessorising, things like studs, rhinestones, patches are great too, provided that you gift them with high-quality clothing. Purchase a stylish t-shirt or pair of jeans (no clearance items) from trendy clothing stores, such as American Eagle, Hollister, Aeropostale, H&M, the GAP, Abercrombie & Fitch, etc. and present it to the teenager with rhinestones that she can apply herself. Self-expression is imperative to teens these days, and what better way to do it than to give her a chance to be her own designer.
Lastly, if you just cannot think of something or those earrings you've been eyeing are sold out, your last resort would be the infamous gift certificate. Give a reasonable amount, what you would pay for the gift initially. Many people perceive gift certificates as impersonal and unfriendly, but you can lessen that perception by including a handwritten note and maybe a small box of chocolates. Nothing warms a heart more than a special message written just for them.
Most importantly, be creative and have fun picking that special gift. Add you own special touches, and make sure you put heart and effort into it. It may be clichd, but I cannot stress it enough: it really is the thought that counts.
