The difference between what you want and what you get for Valentine's Day can sometimes vary ... dramatically. Sure, it's adorable to receive flowers at work or chocolate upon your arrival home. But sometimes a girl just wants a gigantic Dyptique candle ... or a practical, Dyson hairdryer. Here, the definitive list of what InStyle editors are hoping to receive this Valentine's Day.
VIDEO: See How the Stars Celebrated Valentine's Day Last Year
Le Labo Fragrance
"I've been searching for a new, earthy fragrance, and Le Labo fits the bill," Olivia Bahou, Assistant Digital Editor.
Tibo Bar Cart
"A bar cart that holds my wine bottles and my wine glasses? I've never needed anything more," Lauren Spinelli, Freelance Photo Editor
Gold and Pearl Earrings
"Jewelry that has heirloom quality is always a good idea. I love these simple yet elegant pearl earrings that will stand the test of time," Kristina Rutkowski, Market Editor.
Delfina Delettrez 18kt yellow gold and pearl earring
"I’ve had my eye on this chic earring by Delfina Delettrez for some time. The sweet little heart is a perfect way to carry Valentine’s Day love all year round," Allison Taylor, Assistant to the Editor-in-Chief.
Love Tea
"As a tea lover, I’m always trying new flavors. This Sweet Love tea, which includes licorice root as a main ingredient, has a naturally sweet flavor. What could be better from your even sweeter Valentine," Laura Simola, Associate Art Director.
Serpentine Ring
"I'm obsessed with this serpantine ring. Period. But never ever in a million years would I buy it for myself. #dreamgift," Kim Peiffer, Executive Editor.
Patent leather-trimmed suede shoulder bag
"This bag is a lot more than my monthly rent, but it’s practical, and I know I’d use it a lot. Since I don’t want to get evicted, if someone were to surprise me with it I would be filled with so much joy," Erin Lukas, Beauty Writer.
Fringed jacquard-knit cashmere cardigan
"Listen. I know that this is ridiculously expensive and has nothing to do with "love" or "romance," but if I had it my way, I'd be getting a sweater by Alanui. They're insanely warm, made from 980 grams of Cariaggi cashmere (DROOLING) and can take up to eleven hours to make. And that's chic to me," Ruthie Friedlander, Special Projects Director.
Leather-Trimmed Organic Cotton-Canvas Tote Bag
"Ever since I discovered Want Les Essentiels totes, I have been incredibly hooked on the brand. Not only is it sleek and stylish, it's beyond practical; and for someone like me who carries way too much into work, the multiple interior pockets are the best detail," Aaron Valentic, International Assistant.
A Potted Plant
"I would gladly take on the challenge of keeping a plant alive in February if it meant that I could put in it this beautiful, mid-century plant stand. Plus the pot is included," Kelly Chiello, Associate Photo Editor.
Pompom Hat
"Baby, it’s cold outside. To stay warm and chic during these frigid temperatures, I would love to get this gorgeous Kyi Kyi hat. It comes in a variety of beautiful colors, and its oversized pom-pom is super cute and fluffy! Perfect for braving the NY cold this Valentine’s Day. I heart it," Marina Budarina-Sanchez, Deputy Chief of Reporters.
New Optics
"These are basically a million dollars, but if someone got me these, I'd be so happy. It's time for a new prescription," Jonathan Borge, Associate Editor.
Supersonic Hair Dryer
"This hair dryer piqued my interest when it first came out but since it's on the pricier side, I have resisted treating myself. If someone else wanted to pick up the tab though, me and my beautifully blown out hair would appreciate it," Lauren Kane, Site Producer.
Gypsy Water Hand Cream
"Because my hands are constantly dry in the winter and this scent smells like heaven, I'd instantly love whatever angel gifted me this," Ann Jacoby, Assistant Fashion Editor.
Color Block Shoulder Bag
"This bag might be a little *too* on-theme for V-Day, but it'd look super chic the other 364 days of the year," Dianna Mazzone, Beauty Editor.
Faux Fur Ruched Throw
"Love is snuggling up on the couch with your partner—and potentially your squirmy four-year old—and watching your favorite Pixar movie. Also there is popcorn. That's my kind of love, at least. This blanket is key to making the aforementioned scenario work," Leigh Belz Ray, Features and News Director.
Evil Eye Jacket
"I've had my eye on this Nicole Miller leather jacket for a while now. Essentially, in Italian culture the "evil eyes" ward off negative energy, which I think makes this the perfect gift for really any occasion," Shalayne Pulia, Editorial Assistant.
Chocolate Heart Bag
"How about this cute heart-shaped purse from Kate Spade? And if it is filled wth candy ... even better! It feels like a fun gift," Glynis Costin, West Coast Bureau Chief.
Baies 3-Wick Candle
"Like every other red-blooded millennial, I live for a good candle but never really want to spend my own money on a particularly nice one. This is the perfect practical, but still luxe, gift," Karen Ho, Social Media Editor.
Patent Leather Sadals
"I’m a sucker for hearts all year round, so I’d be psyched to open up these gorgeous patent leather Gianvito Rossi sandals on V-Day. Who says you have to wear your heart only on your sleeve," Jennifer Ferrise, Senior Editior.
Heart Cutout Charm With Diamond
"I have a Helen Ficalora necklace that I wear everyday with my children's initials. It includes my birthstone and a little bird for my husband who we call "Jaybird." Receiving a little heart to add to the family would be a nice Valentine's day gift," Lucy Fox, Deputy Photo Director.
The Hutton Oversized Shirt
"This is the perfect striped button-down shirt. It's $$$, but practical -- and I know I would wear it to death. It'd be so nice if someone read my mind/browser history and surprised me with it," Leslie Price, Digital Director.
Large Four-Step Ring
"This blue sapphire ring caught my eye because it’s so distinctive. I like the varying color and sizes of the stones, but I love that Wwake is a local brand that’s sustainably run—even the gold is recycled on this piece," Jennifer Mason, Copy Chief.
Polished Flower Pot
" I love to get lasting gifts for special occasions. This Skultuna brass flower pot is something that will never go out of style since it resembles a classic terracotta pot. I might pop a toiary in it or use it for fresh flowers," Rina Stone, Executive Creative Director.
Picnic Blanket Bracelets
" A friend just gave me some Roxanne Assoulin bracelets, and now I'm obsessed, and want one in every color! They're like the grownup version of friendship bracelets and make me so happy when I wear them," Macey Hall, Senior Social Media Manager.
Bar Cart
"My family and I just bought a house, so I'm in total nesting mode right now. This gold bar cart would look so chic in the dining room," Angelique Serrano, Beauty Director.
Pillar Earrings
"Nothing says, "I love you, ya weirdo!" quite like a kooky sculptural earring," Emily Shornick, Senior Multimedia Editor.
Sleepshirt With Lace Detail
"I am in the market for a pretty slip nightgown. I'm usually a t-shirt and shorts girl and I normally don't even bother for the "pretty". But if there's any occasion for a beautiful sleepwear piece, it's Valentine's Day. This slip from Addition Elle is gorgeous and it's sexy yet comfy," LaShauna Williams, Assistant Market Editor.
Classic Wave Yellow Gold Ring with Diamond
"Anyone that knows me knows that the key to my heart really is through jewelry. I love a ring and I am very particular about the ones I wear everyday. I’ve been swooning over this beauty because its classic, cool and timeless. Probably the dreamiest gift imaginable," Alana Zajdman, Accessories Editor.
Maman's Limited Edition Cookie Love Gift Box
" Cookies. Because their love is unconditional," Eric Wilson, Fashion News Director.
Signature Diamond Ring
"I could always use more diamonds in my life. And I like how this Monica Vinader ring has an edge to it—it kind of reminds me of a nameplate ring," Stephanie Trong, Fashion Features Director.
Nile Glass Vase
"This chic vase would be perfect for the fresh blooms I have on my dining table year round. It could also display those flowers I hope to get for Valentine's Day, too," Lauren Brill, Assistant Photo Editor.
Crazy Twist Bracelet
"Valentine's day is special because my husband Michael and I became engaged on that day. I have everything that I want now that I have him, but a hug from him with a Tiffany and Co. twist bracelet would be even sweeter," Delora Jones-Blake, Chief of Reporters.
Heart Shaped Gummies
"What could possibly be better then strawberry and marshmallow gummies shaped like a heart," Alexis Parente, Assistant Fashion Editor.
