How to ace Valentine's Day gift giving for her

Valentine's Day gift giving is a tall order. Expectations, and emotions, run high which leaves plenty of room for disappointed dates. The classic fallback of flowers and chocolates is nice, but doesn't feel particularly thoughtful, especially on a day designed to celebrate your one true love. The key to guaranteeing a Valentine's Day hit? Play Cupid with a present that matches her personality and unique style. See our gift guide below for 12 original ideas that say, "I love you".

For the sneaker lover, there's nothing sweeter than these high-octane kicks. The classic Converse high top gets a modern makeover thanks to pretty polka dots and Play Comme Des Garcons' quirky heart character.

Play Converse Polka Dot Chuck Taylor All Star '70 High, $193, doverstreetmarket.com

A retro neon sign is a glowing reminder of your love. It will look just as great on her curated bookshelf as it will on her bedside table.

Indigo Neon Heart Table Lamp, $69.50, indigo.ca

Too shy to say how you're feeling? Why not wear it instead? This graphic tee does all the talking with a message that rings true on Valentine's Day and beyond.

J.Crew "Love First" T-shirt, $45.50, jcrew.com

There isn't a beauty lover on the planet who wouldn't love to receive something in that now-infamous millennial pink bubble wrap package. The newest member of the Glossier family? Their skin-perfecting "Solution".

Glossier Solution, $29, glossier.com

Her weekend style game will never be the same once she gets her hands on a pair of these stylish sneakers. The best part? She can snap on and off the interchangeable "LOVE" patches depending on her mood.

Michael Michael Kors Leighton Leather Sneakers, $198, michaelkors.ca

Remind her of those first few flutters with a box full of gummy butterflies. Fruit flavours will satisfy her sweet tooth and are way more original than that basic box of chocolates.

Sugarfina "You Give Me Butterflies" Baby Butterflies, $9.95, sugarfina.ca

They may not be rose-coloured, but these loved up glasses pack a serious style punch. Spotted on street style stars across the globe, she'll feel like a true fashion insider when she wears these heart-shaped shades.

Saint Laurent New Wave 181 Loulou Sunglasses In Shiny Ivory Acetate With Grey Nylon Lenses, $576, ysl.com

Eric Buterbaugh shot to fame as a celebrity florist before launching a line of luxe perfumes. His stunning line of flowery fragrances is a much more modern (and long lasting) way to gift your girl with a lush bouquet.

EB Florals 8-Scent Sampling Kit, $375, saksfifthavenue.com

Sometimes, your bedtime story doesn't need to have a happy ending. Entertain single gal pals with a book of hilarious, embarrassing and nightmare-ish date-night disasters.

Crap Dates: Disastrous Encounters From Single Life By Rhodri Marsden, $12, urbanoutfitters.com

Remind her of the spark that ignited the fire. This 14k gold matchstick necklace is as pretty on its own as it is worn stacked with other delicate pieces.

Smith + Mara Pave Diamond Matchstick Necklace, $1,640, smithandmara.com

Surprise your sweetheart with a twist on the traditional signet ring. Make it extra special by engraving her initials or your anniversary. One word of caution: if she thinks you might pop the question, put this in a bigger box to avoid that awkward moment.

Kate Spade Demi Fine Heart Signet Ring, $118, katespade.com

Gifting lingerie on Valentine's Day gets a bad rap. This minimal blush pink set from Toronto-based lingerie designer Mary Young chicly straddles the line between sexy and comfortable.

Mary Young Contrast Bra, $78 and Mary Young Lux High Waist Brief, $57, maryyoung.ca

Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.