The Ultimate River Oaks District Valentine’s Day Gift Guide — 16 Sweet and Surprising Finds

This article is part of a promoted series and not produced by the editorial staff.

Love is in the air — and in some ways the pressure’s on. But before you go the quickly forgotten chocolate and flowers route for Valentine’s Day, know you still have time to make a much more meaningful impression.

This is your opportunity to show someone special how important they are to you. Doing it with a distinctive gift that will be remembered long past the time those flowers are wilted is easier than you might first expect.

As long as you go to the right special place.

River Oaks District is an oasis for distinctive gifting in Houston, offering a wide variety for finds for every type of sweetheart. There is more here than you even experienced shoppers realize. Strolling through River Oaks District is a breeze.

This is a place where Valentine’s Day shopping can be fun. And when’s the last time you said that?

Drop in for a glass of bubbly at Bisou or a cocktail at Le Colonial while you shop — or turn into a whole day with a nice dinner, too.

Gift Land

Looking for some gift giving inspiration?

Here is a carefully curated, polished list of some of the fine Valentine’s Day gifts one can find at River Oaks District. Even Cupid sometimes needs some help. Click through the photo gallery above and below this story to see all the picks — and get the full 411 below.

For the stylish woman in your life, you can’t go wrong with a bright floral Alice + Olivia Rolanda Large Lapel Coat with Belt. The long powder blue coat features a bright array of petals in contrasting colors. This delightful piece of finely cut outwear is a sure head turner.

Let’s not forget about the man who makes you smile. Get him something he’ll actually enjoy, and not just the standard tie or socks. Instead, go for Bonobos’ Fish in A Barrel Golf Polo, a casual and trendy shirt that’ll make him stand out while keeping him comfortable.

Show her she’s special with an Akris‘ Envelope in Embroidered Lips, a stunning satin and nappa calf leather purse. It shines with silver-colored hardware, a detachable shoulder chain and flap with signature turn lock, zip, clamp pocket and six credit card compartments. It’s roomy yet convenient.

The Chopard boutique‘s Happy Hearts Watch comes with a bold crimson band and a playful heart-shaped accent. Talk about a statement piece.

Help that someone special smell heavenly with Baccarat’s Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum, a scent that augments the strength and radiance of the amber, woody and floral fragrances. It’s unique and perfect for special occasions when they want to spruce up, or to heighten the every day.

Show her it’s more than OK to treat herself with a Bella Rinova Salon gift certificate. The hair salon and spa offers specialty services for haircare, from color to toner, gloss, balayage highlights, keratase conditioning treatment, along with styling like bridal updos. Then, there’s customized facials, spa manicures, brow threading and more. She’s sure to thank you after her day of pampering.

Daring outfits aren’t just for the outside world. Surprise her with Stella McCartney’s impeccably tailored Tara Tickling Pajama Set. The classic sleepwear pieces are printed with hearts, in Stella’s silk-inspired iconic masculine cut. She’ll definitely love settling into bed in her lovely pajamas with delicate lace trim, mesh and pin tuck detailing.

If you’re more into events than tangible gifts, go for an iPic Theaters Access Gold Membership, perfect for any film buff who loves viewing the next hot movie in the lap of luxury. The gift gives back, with up to 40 percent off ticket pricing, 10 percent off food and non-alcoholic beverages and a complimentary ticket on the member’s birthday.

That’s two holiday celebrations in one. Well done, you.

Jewelry is a timeless gift, with good reason. Go for a classic like John Hardy’s Classic Chain Reversible Bracelet, one of the stunning pieces that have been artisan-crafted in Bali since 1975. Powerful design, dramatic detail and meaning converge in this bracelet, a pinnacle of craftsmanship and quality. Nothing says love quite like this symbol of eternal human connection and community bond.

If he appreciates the finer things in life, this may just be the perfect opportunity to gift him Davidoff of Geneva’s Year of the Pig Limited Edition Cigar Box. It will delight the palates of aficionados across the globe. Davidoff designed the pigtailed Gran Toro cigars to honor the Chinese New Year.

Remarkable drop earrings from Patek Phillipe will brighten her day. The de Boulle Collection Rosette Earrings are memory-makers in 18-karat rose gold.

Your boho-chic beloved will squeal with delight over Etro’s Embroidered Foulard Bag with carpet-stich embroidery and vintage lace edging coming together with large carnivorous fauna. Handy features include the adjustable, removable shoulder strap and a concealed magnet fastener.

Show them how to look on the bright side with these rose-colored glasses from Oliver Peoples. The Erissa Deep Burgundy and Damson sunnies are oversized for extra coverage and a little drama. The design’s glamorous lens shape and slight endpiece wrap bring an ultra-feminine flair.

Get her ready for a night out on the town with Joie’s elegant Alana Heel in Peach. Party season has met its match with these strappy heels’ delicate pearl details. Pretty gets prettier with the effect, and pink is a great color choice for painting the town red.

The Eres’ Noddi Slippers are modern and fun, with a bright pattern to boot. Your treasured one can slip them on for a stroll around town. Brunch outfits never looked so good.

A Pullover Hoodie from Vince is the ultimate in chic casual comfort, made from springy French Terry spun cotton. The relaxed fit makes it a go-to piece for lounging.

A Flower Wonderwall

No matter what you buy, there’s one stop you absolutely have to make in River Oaks District from Thursday, February 14 through Saturday, February 16. You need to see (and take a selfie in front of) the special 10-foot Flower Wall that’s being put together for the weekend.

River Oaks Planthouse is designing and handcrafting the jaw-dropping installation, woven through with blossoms of sweet red and sentimental pink. Could you ask for a better backdrop to commemorate your love?

No, we didn’t think so.

River Oaks District is all about raising the bar — and delivering special moments (and memories).

For more information on the flower wall and all the other Valentine’s Day February fun, click here.