Dad wanted me to tell you this: He does not need any new ties for Father's Day. And stay away from golf balls and socks, too -- he's got more than enough of those, thanks.
So, what to get the old man? Well, we have some ideas for a half-dozen gifts that will make Dad smile. And you'll smile too, because when Dad is happy, isn't everyone happy?
Give the shirt on his back
What: Relaxed-fit sun-washed shirt
Why: Dad works hard. He ought to relax. And this soft cotton shirt in colorful solids or stripes is just the thing to make the head honcho sit back and watch the clouds float on by.
Where: Available for $39.50 at The Gap or www.gap.com
A dab will do
What: Dr. Hauschka Neem Hair Oil
Why: Johnny Depp and Jude Law's colorist swears by this intensive hair and scalp treatment that fortifies dry, brittle and chemically treated hair. Truly, a little dab will do to strengthen and soften hair.
Where: Available for $26.50 at Joie de Vivre in Pikesville.
He's in the pink
What: Thomas Pink "Sellers Stripe" dress shirt
Why: This well-tailored pink-and-black stripe shirt marks the 40th anniversary of the classic movie The Pink Panther. You know what a Peter Sellers fan Dad is.
Where: $160 at www.thomaspink.com.
For the disorganization man
What: Ghurka leather folding snap tray
Why: Dad is always emptying his pockets on the front-hall table, leaving coins and caramel cream wrappers out for all to see and causing Mom to have conniptions about the mess. Help him clean up the mess and stop the madness with this $75 organizational wonder.
Where: www.ghurka.com
Daddy's got a brand-new bag
What: A cool new Tumi Flow gym bag
Why: Ballistic nylon trim, specially constructed hybrid material, cool streamlined design, secure place for laptop, MP3 player, PDA and cell phone -- this bag rocks.
Where: Tumi Flow duffel costs $155 and is available at www.tumi.com.
The scent of a man
What: Duel, an Annick Goutal fragrance
Why: Because Old Spice isn't so nice after 50 years of wearing it day in and day out. Duel is a masculine, woodsy eau de toilette with a hint of tobacco that's straightforward and appealing.
Where: $95 for 3.3 ounces at Nordstrom and www.nordstrom.com.
