EDITOR'S NOTE

We haven’t met yet, but I’m Alex. By day I’m known as a senior analyst for theSkimm, but at night I’m the shopping team’s Collective Boyfriend™. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, the team asked me to impart some deeply important knowledge: What gifts do the men really want for Valentine’s Day? So I’m here to give my expert boy opinion on what to gift a man. Here are the product-related hills I’m dying on:

• A “fresh vegetable, but make it chic” cologne from Troye Sivan.

• The $115 umbrella that actually makes all the difference (don’t judge).

• Some designer sneaker dupes that are a comfortable, noteworthy upgrade to his cheugy pair.

• The noise-cancelling Bose Headphones that are $200 cheaper than that popular pair. Perfect for flights, quick commutes, and deep focus.

• The henley sweater I can’t take off. It’s 100% cashmere and under $80.

If you want more Valentine’s Day gift ideas, click here.

—Alex Mutammara, Skimm Shopping Boyfriend, Brooklyn, NY