Real Dad's Wish List for Father's Day

You weren't wrong. All those times Dad said how much he'd "always wanted a new tie"? He was just being polite. When it comes to a real Father's Day wish lists, playing to Pop's vices, interests and passions will mean greater gift success than simply picking up a tired and clichéd tie or cufflinks gift. Don't know where to start? Find a gift he'll never forget with these handy hints and tips Dad would never admit!

Dad's white lie number one? He loves novelty boxer shorts. You know, the ones with Bugs Bunny on them. Truth be told, he makes sure he'll never be wearing them on gym days for fear of complete locker room humiliation. So this year why not ditch the quirky apparel, make up for years of past embarrassment and treat him to a gift certificate to an upscale department store or boutique? Or, better yet, update his beaten-up gym bag with something sleek, sophisticated and definitely not wacky.

Think Dad enjoys receiving power tools as gifts? Wrong! It just reminds him of all those household repairs that need to be completed. Would you buy Mom a vacuum cleaner? Instead, gift him a pair of tickets to a sports game or a cool excursion. Whether it's white-knuckle rafting, skydiving or a relaxing boat trip, it's up to you. After all, Dads just wanna have fun.

Next comes the gag gifts and singing fish desk accessories. Dad might be closer to retirement than you, but that doesn't mean he wants his boss and co-workers to think he's a joke. So forget the funny fish and opt for a great new digital photo frame for the desk, a stylish leather catchall for the desk drawer or something that helps him unwind after a long day at the office. For the beer drinker that can mean cool new customized barware, for the avid traveler, a stylish new travel wallet, or, for the movie fan, a delicious gift hamper featuring snacks he loves and a copy of his all-time favorite movie.

Or, how about those 'as seen on TV' gadgets? Despite their short shelf life, don't you think Dad deserves something cool, useful and up-to-the-minute? If he's not entered the MP3 age, spend a little time getting him set up with his own player loaded with tunes, or for the tech-savvy father get him a cool accessory, new smart phone case or application.

And finally when in doubt, you can always go to the experts. Gift boutiques like RedEnvelope.com offer a huge array of classic and contemporary choices - none of which feature Sponge Bob Squarepants.