Gifts for the New Girlfriend That Don’t Seem Too Serious
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You’ve just started dating, and things are going great. But then… an occasion sneaks up—her birthday, the holidays, or just a “I really like you and thought of you” moment. So, how do you pick out a gift that shows you care, without making her feel like you’re already planning wedding invites? Here’s the guide to nailing that just right gift balance, where it’s thoughtful without being over-the-top, fun without being forgettable. And, yes, there’s a good bit of humor to keep things light and a few trusty tips on dodging the dreaded “too soon” gift trap.
Set the Scene: The Sweet Spot of Gifting in New Relationships
Imagine this: Your friend Alex once bought his new girlfriend a photo album of pictures they hadn’t even taken together yet. Needless to say, she was a little freaked out (and he was out a girlfriend). Finding a gift for a new relationship is a delicate dance between showing interest and keeping things light. You want her to feel noticed and appreciated, without accidentally implying, “I’ve already picked out our kid’s names.” Here’s how to make her feel special without sending mixed signals.
1. A Thoughtful Book for Her Interests (Not Your Self-Help Collection)
Books are the ultimate sweet-spot gift. They’re personal, but they don’t scream commitment. Plus, if you pick a book that matches her interests, it shows you’re tuned in to who she is—without overstepping.
Explore Unique Titles at Book of the Month, where you can find trending titles and specialty genres she’ll love. Just don’t hand her a relationship guide just yet.
2. Cozy Socks or Loungewear (with a Side of Netflix and Chill)
Soft, cozy socks or a fun pair of loungewear pants say, “Hey, relax and be yourself around me.” It’s the perfect combo of thoughtful and low-key. You’re showing you care about her comfort but aren’t going too deep.
Find Cozy and Cute Options at Barefoot Dreams for loungewear she’ll love to kick back in. Barefoot Dreams is known for its ridiculously soft loungewear, ideal for those just-getting-cozy vibes.
3. Sweet Scents without the Hefty Price Tag
A fresh-smelling candle, gentle essential oil diffuser, or a nice hand lotion is the right mix of thoughtful and chill. It’s not a fancy fragrance she has to wear—it’s something that makes her space feel a little more inviting, and she’ll think of you every time she lights it.
Browse Soft Scents and Diffusers at Thymes, a go-to for high-quality candles and lotions with scents that are anything but overpowering.
4. Subscription Box for Something She Loves
If you know she’s a skincare enthusiast, loves tea, or is always looking for new healthy snacks, a subscription box is a cool way to say, “I noticed you like this.” It’s personal without committing to anything beyond the first box, and she’ll enjoy discovering something new.
Discover Monthly Surprises at Causebox, a subscription box full of eco-friendly, artisan-made items that promote wellness, sustainability, and good vibes.
5. A Unique, Fun Accessory That Feels Personal
A funky scarf, a cute pair of mittens, or a bold necklace can add some flair to her wardrobe. It’s light, fun, and says, “I thought of you,” without the weight of something too intimate or extravagant.
Find Stylish Accessories at Anthropologie, where you’ll discover a range of trendy, charming items that add personality to any outfit.
Keeping It Light: The “Not Too Serious” Gift List
When in doubt, aim for the gift that adds a little joy to her day or a dash of “that’s so me!” Here are more options to keep things fun without going too far:
Whimsical Home Decor: Think cute plant holders, desk decor, or a tiny succulent garden.
Shop Chic Decor at Urban Outfitters for unique home finds that are cute but commitment-free.
Floral Delivery (But Make It Casual): Flowers don’t have to mean “love”—they can just mean “thinking of you.” Opt for bright, cheerful blooms instead of a classic romantic rose bouquet.
Find Fresh Blooms at The Bouqs Co., a farm-to-table flower delivery service that offers beautiful arrangements with a side of sustainability.
Local Treats or Gourmet Snacks: Who doesn’t love a little something to snack on? Pick up some artisan chocolates, fancy popcorn, or gourmet coffee for a tasty treat she can enjoy.
Browse Artisanal Treats at Goldbelly, where you’ll find regional specialties from the best bakeries and cafes across the country.
Quirky Travel Accessories: If she’s a travel enthusiast, a passport cover, stylish luggage tag, or travel-sized toiletries kit is both useful and thoughtful.
Find Travel Must-Haves at Away, which offers everything from sleek luggage to stylish travel accessories she’ll love to show off on her next trip.
Avoiding the Too-Serious Trap: Gifts to Steer Clear Of (With a Smile)
Some gifts, while well-meaning, can come off as a bit much in a new relationship. Here are some to dodge (and what to try instead):
Jewelry with Too Much Meaning: Anything with hearts, “love” symbols, or inscriptions like “Forever Yours” can feel intense if you’re still getting to know each other.
Alternative: Try a playful bracelet or boho-style earrings instead. Madewell has stylish, casual jewelry that feels light and fun.
Fancy Perfume: While scents are a classic gift, a high-end perfume can feel overly intimate, especially if she doesn’t already wear it.
Alternative: Opt for a subtle candle or room spray. Voluspa has a wide range of beautifully crafted scents that are casual yet luxurious.
Personalized Mementos (Too Soon!): Custom gifts with dates or initials are sweet… just not right now.
Alternative: Think less “keepsake” and more “cool find.” Paper Source has quirky notebooks, journals, and fun accessories that say “I thought of you,” not “I’m thinking of us.”
It’s the Thought That Counts (Really!)
Gifting early in a relationship doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you go for a book, a candle, a cozy accessory, or a subscription box, the best gifts for a new girlfriend are ones that feel thoughtful, lighthearted, and fun. They show you’re paying attention to what makes her smile, without the pressure of a serious statement. And when in doubt, just keep it simple, creative, and genuine.
Ready to pick out that just-right gift? Browse Nordstrom’s Perfect Picks for an endless array of gifts that show her you’re thoughtful without being intense. She’ll feel seen, appreciated, and excited for what’s to come—and so will you.
Disclosure:
“At ThingsWomenWant, we make gift-giving effortless—so you look like a hero. Some links in this article are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). But don’t worry —we only recommend gifts we’d proudly give ourselves, from brands that bring quality, style, and thoughtfulness to the table.”
