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40 Unique Gift Ideas to Celebrate a 40th Birthday

Ringing in a new decade has never been better.

By Grace Hunter, and Additional market by Samantha Leal
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Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Turning the big 4-0 is a momentous occasion, and as with any age milestone, it calls for finding the ultimate 40th birthday gift. But with so many ways to celebrate a new decade, it can be a challenge to choose the perfect present for a friend, family member, or even yourself. Whether you’re on a tight budget or you’re looking to splurge, there are plenty of great gift options to consider; it just comes down to deciding on one that’s as unique as your lucky recipient.

To get your shopping started, we’ve rounded up 40 special gifts that anyone would be thrilled to unwrap on their big day. There’s something for everyone across the board, from sleek luggage and statement jewelry to tech gadgets and kitchen essentials. Without further ado, here are the best gift ideas for a 40th birthday, according to ELLE editors.

For The Wine Lover

Small Vines Estate Cuvee Pinot Noir 2018

Cuvee Pinot Noir 2018

Not all great Pinots come from a sprawling vineyard. This exquisite Pinot from Small Vines is sure to please your most discerning wine lover.

For The Scent Aficionado

Parfums de Marly Delina Body Cream

Delina Body Cream

This fragrant body cream is anything but average. The jar itself will make a pretty addition to her nightstand or vanity, and she’ll be fending off compliments about how good she smells whenever she wears it (trust).

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For The Bag Lady

Loeffler Randall Bailey Espresso/Silver Dome Clutch

Bailey Espresso/Silver Dome Clutch

A designer bag will always be the ultimate gift. Between its rich espresso-hued suede and its very au courant silver studs, this one is as good as it gets.

For the Understated One

Jenny Bird Gia Bangle

Gia Bangle

A sleek bangle will make a great addition to her stack, but with its tubular style and ultra-shiny gold finish, this one also makes a subtle style statement when worn solo. If you really want to spoil her, pair it with the silver version for a mixed-metal moment.

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For The Bouquet Admirer

UrbanStems The Dreamscape

The Dreamscape

Keep the 40th birthday celebrations going all year long with monthly flower deliveries. There are three subscription tiers available, but know that no matter which one you choose, she’ll look forward to each month’s bright blooms—and rightly so.

For The Hostess

il Buco Vita Montegranaro Splatterware Pitcher

Montegranaro Splatterware Pitcher

This handmade ceramic pitcher deserves a spot in the chicest of homes. It’ll freshen up any dining table, but wouldn’t it also make a nice vase?

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For The One Who’s Sleep-Deprived

TheraBody TheraFace Depuffing Wand

TheraFace Depuffing Wand

Whether she’s tired or well-rested, she’ll be reaching for this tool on repeat. It’ll have her looking fresher than ever thanks to hot and cold treatments that’ll wake her skin right up.

For The Adventurer

Vuori Hillside Down Jacket

Hillside Down Jacket

This lightweight puffer will keep her nice and warm (while looking cool, of course). It’s great for any outdoor adventure or, you know, just walking the dog.

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For The Makeup Minimalist

Victoria Beckham Beauty The Greatest & Latest Set

The Greatest & Latest Set

Even if she prefers to stick to the beauty basics, she’ll feel quite posh with this set from Victoria Beckham Beauty. It includes a tinted hydrating lip balm, in addition to the brand’s award-winning eyeliner.

For The Silver Devotee

Stone and Strand Oblong Silver Hoops

Oblong Silver Hoops

These chunky oblong hoops look more expensive than their price tag. Made from sterling silver, they also happen to be an excellent pick for those with sensitive skin.

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For the Movie Buff

Nora Ephron at the Movies: A Visual Celebration of the Writer and Director Behind When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, and More

On Sale
Nora Ephron at the Movies: A Visual Celebration of the Writer and Director Behind When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, and More

This new book is a dream for anyone who lives for a marathon of Nora Ephron’s classic rom-coms. Don’t be surprised if she queues up When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, or You’ve Got Mail immediately upon receipt.

For the One Who Wants to Glow

Ogee Contour Collections

Contour Collections

Any makeup lover will get excited about receiving this three-piece contour set from Ogee. In crystal-inspired shades, the sculpted face sticks bronze, blush, and highlight to offer a gorgeous glow.

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For The Jet-Setter

Cuyana Travel Jewelry Case

Travel Jewelry Case

This oval jewelry case looks quite classy, and it’s slim enough that it won’t take up too much room in her carry-on. Most importantly, it’ll keep her most prized possessions safe (and her necklaces tangle-free).

For the Comfy Cozy

Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Stretch-Knit Bamboo Pajama Set

Long Sleeve Stretch-Knit Bamboo Pajama Set

If she’s never had a pair of soft, quality pajamas, this is an excuse to get her some. These are so comfortable.

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For the Organizer

Mark and Graham Block Print Travel Pouch Set

Block Print Travel Pouch Set

Whether she’s a frequent traveler or just likes to stay organized, she will love this cute set of printed pouches. You can even personalize them with her monogram, so she’ll never lose track of what’s hers.

For the Wine Enthusiast

Estelle Colored Glass Stemmed Wine Glass Set

Stemmed Wine Glass Set

This is the type of gift that she may never buy for herself, but will treasure forever. Perfect for displaying, they come in a variety of beautiful colors.

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For the Semi-Home Cook

Our Place Wonder Oven

Wonder Oven

This tiny oven is so petite, she’ll be thrilled to know it’s also extremely functional. Do everything from baking to air frying, toasting, and more.

For the Jewelry Collector

Jennifer Meyer Mini Uppercase Letter Necklace

Mini Uppercase Letter Necklace

Jewelry is always a good idea when it comes to gifting, especially for one as important as 40. This mini letter necklace is great for everyday wear and is sure to become a favorite in her jewelry collection.

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For the One Who Loves Sleep

Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase

Pure Silk Pillowcase

No worrying about bed head here; this ultra-luxurious silk pillowcase will make her look and feel like a million bucks.

For the Classic One

Mejuri Bold Pearl Drop Earrings

Bold Pearl Drop Earrings

Everyone needs a great set of pearl earrings, and these give a bit of an updated look to the classic.

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