Say “Happy Birthday” on her 40th birthday with these delightful gift ideas! Whether a woman is sad or glad to be turning forty, she’ll love these gifts, ideas, and ways to celebrate this milestone birthday.
These gifts will make her 40th birthday meaningful because they focus on experiences, not just elegant and practical presents. The sooner you buy her a gift,the sooner you can start planning how you’ll present it and surprise her on her fortieth birthday 🙂 And, remember how important it is to give a woman a gift that matches her personality and lifestyle. Turning forty is a big deal for most women; finding the right 40th birthday gift idea will make it memorable.
Thefirst batchof gift ideas list includes elegant, thoughtful40th birthday gifts for women. The second batch contains unique, creative ideas for fortieth birthday celebrations that involve experiences– which I explore more in Creative Things to Do for Your 40th Birthday.
First, though, I want to tell you what my husband’s gift to me was on my 40th birthday…nothing. Because I told him I didn’t want anything for my birthday! I didn’t know it, but I was lying. I didn’t think I cared about turning 40, but when the day came and we didn’t do anything to celebrate, I was sad. The other reason my husband didn’t give me anything for my 40th birthday was that I already had my gift. About three weeks before my birthday, we went on a 15 hour road trip to be with my sick friend. My husbandtook almost two weeks off work for this trip; I told him it would be my 40th birthday gift because I was so grateful.
The biggestlesson from my experience turning forty? Don’t believe any woman who saysshe says she doesn’t want a gift for her 40th birthday. My husband did exactly what I told him to: he didn’t give me a giftfor my 40th birthday – not even a card. I had no right to be disappointed because he was only doing what I told him to. If your birthday girl told you not to get her a gift for her fortieth birthday, don’t listen to her.
The Best 40th Birthday Gifts and Ideas for Women
Asyou scroll through these gift ideas, keep your birthday girl’s personality, habits, lifestyle and quirks in mind. I included a wide variety of beautifuljewelry, luxury birthday ideas,and evengourmet chocolate gifts…but you have to know your 40 year old woman if you want to buy her the perfect gift.
A colorful, whimsical birthday gift for women who are young at heart
The Anuschka Women’s Genuine Leather Shoulder Bag – Hand-Painted Original Artwork is first on my list of 40th birthday gifts for one reason: it will make your “birthday girl” feel cheerful, creative, beautiful and beloved.This gift is hand-painted and yet durable. The vibrant colors will enhance any outfit your fortieth birthday girl chooses. It’s big enough to fit lots of purse-type items, but not as unwieldy as a backpack. This gift is whimsical and happy – which is what any woman turning forty needs.
For your birthday girl’s 40th, give her a gift that surprises and delights her.
Even just one night away is an amazing birthday gift for women turning forty – andyou don’t have to go to a faraway place. The fact that you thought ahead, planned something different, and took steps to celebrate her 40thbirthday by doing something different will make her happy. That’s one of the best gift ideas you could give her.
The best gift my husband ever gave me: a MacBook Air
For Christmas last year (not my 40th or 50th birthday!), my husband gave me the most delightful and useful gift I could ever ask for: a new Apple MacBook Air. Which I am typing on right now.
I love this gift because I would never have spent that much money on myself – even though I earn my living as a writer. I love this gift because I told my husband I wanted one, but I couldn’t bring myself to spend that much money. And every day I use this laptop for my work…and every day I am so grateful he bought me this gift.
A weekend getaway on her birthday
If she likes to travel, read Where is the Best Place to Celebrate Your 50th Birthday?
The Lily Bloom Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels for Women is an exciting birthday gift for women who like to travel – or for women who are planning their first vacation as a 40th birthday gift. If she travels light, a carryon size is best; it will save on checked bag fees. Taking a trip is an extravagant idea – especially if money is tight and travel restrictions are in place. But women who love traveling are looking forward to the next vacation. So, a new suitcase or luggage set may be a the most exciting, surprising birthday gift you could give a woman turning 40! Luggage represents hope and faith in a future trip somewhere in the world.
If you think she’d love a weekend getaway, pack her new travel suitcase witha few small gifts (anything from retro candy from 40 years ago to pearl earrings). Surprise her with a birthday card that explains where you’re going for your weekend getaway – or just give her a hint. Make it fun, light-hearted, special.
Diamond earrings – a classic gift for women turning 40
What do you give a woman on her 40th birthday? If she likes jewelry, she’ll love theseBlack Diamond and White Gold Round Hoop Earringsas her 40th birthday gift. The black diamonds and white gold complement each other, offering astunning twist on classic hoop earrings.
No matter what gift you buy for her 40th birthday, remember that turning 40 is a huge milestone in a woman’s life. I loved my 40th because I felt like I was starting fresh. I felt strong, healthy, wise, and calm.The best 40th birthday gift is something unforgettable, that makes a woman feel good about herself.
A light-hearted birthday book for women
You’re Only Old Once!: A Book for Obsolete Children by Dr Seuss is a creative and delightful book for women turning forty. Not everyone can afford to go away for the weekend or even a day to celebrate a birthday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t travel in other ways! Go back in time with Dr Seuss.
Oh, the Places You’ll Go! is my favorite Dr Seuss book. It really is a delightful way to remind any woman that her life is just beginning. If your 40 year old birthday girl loves to read and has a childlike streak, she will love these “blasts from the past.”
The following gifts are pretty, elegant 40th birthday ideas for women. Jewelry is one of my favorite gift ideas because it’s really hard to make a mistake in terms of colors, styles, size, etc. If you’re not planning on buying 40th birthday jewelry, you can rest easy. Right after this section are unique and creative birthday experiences for women – plus a fun Retro Candy Box for Women Turning Forty 🙂
A diamond sun pendant
The10k Yellow Gold Diamond Sun Pendantis one of the most beautiful and unforgettable gifts you can give a woman turning forty. People will compliment her on this birthday gift because it’s both classy and light-hearted – and every time someone notices it, she’ll be reminded of you! This will help her feel good about turning forty.
What do you give a woman on her fortieth birthday? The most important thing you can do is show her how important she is to you, and how much you care about her. The key to helping a woman feel good about herself on her 40th birthday is knowing her personality, likes, and dislikes.
A gift that symbolizes timeless love
TheMulco Unisex “Bluemarine” Stainless Steel and Light Watch is both pretty and practical. This 40th birthday gift idea is “timeless” – especially for a women who would rather look at an elegant wristwatch than her phone when she needs to know the time. Turning forty might make her pay more attention to how fast time passes, and a beautiful watch is a lovely way to encourage her to live fully, deeply, madly!
A 40th birthday toast for a woman:
“To a woman that we all know
And who all of us adore,
Congratulations on your 40 years,
And here’s to 40 more!”
Beautiful 40th birthday jewelry gifts that reflect her beauty and individuality
The 10k Yellow Gold Diamond Infinity Pendant Necklaceis meaningful because of its reference to time.The “infinity” message is important, because your 40 year old woman is infinitely beautiful, wise, and lovely no matter how old she is.
This infinity pendant features diamond-studded and yellow gold crisscross bands suspended by yellow gold rope chain. It has an easy spring-ring closure, and the diamond suppliers confirmed they complied with the Kimberley Process to ensure that the diamonds are conflict free. This is a gorgeous 40th birthday gift idea for her.
The Sterling Silver Infinity Created Blue Sapphire and Diamond Braceletis a dazzling, classic bracelet that represents traditional values and beauty. Diamonds are forever, even if we aren’t. Jewelry is one of the best 40th birthday gift ideas for women – even for women who don’t normally wear jewelry. Jewelry is elegant, but not necessarily extravagant.
If your birthday girl likes to travel, scroll down to the African safari vacations and Caribbean cruise ideas. They’re extravagant 40th birthday gift ideas for her.
The 10k White Gold and Diamond Double Heart Pendant Necklaceis an unforgettable 40th birthday gift to add to the Dr Seuss book or in the leather travel bag. It’s a symbol of love and unity. I’m not a woman who welcomes or even wears jewelry gifts, but I would wear this pendant if my husband gave it to me.
Jewelry is a “safe” gift for 40th birthday gift idea for her because most women really like to glam it up once in awhile. The tricky part is knowing what kind of jewelry she likes. For instance, I don’t like big costume jewelry because I’m a small woman. I also don’t wear earrings, rings, or bracelets.
Should you give a woman jewelry on her 40th birthday? Not if she doesn’t wear necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.
Creative 40th Birthday Gift Ideas for Her
It’s important to know how she feels about turning 40. Does she see this birthday as a new beginning or the end of her youth? If she thinks she’s over the hill, consider getting her something thrilling, such as sky diving or ski lessons. If she isn’t bothered about turning forty, give her one of the mostthoughtful40th birthday gift ideas: somethingfun and creative.
An experience is an exciting way to spend any birthday. Here’s what @BamaGretchtweeted: “I’m asking for my husband to rent me a Ferrari for the day on my 40th birthday. 🙂 ” An extravagant gesture is a good gift for some women.
Silk pajamas – a luxurious 40th birthday gift for women
Believe it or not, theWomen’s Classic Silk Pajamas Luxury Giftis one of the most popular 40th birthday gift ideas for women. I think it’s because they’re so luxurious and comfortable. These pajamas are a soft, gentle way to go to sleep at night and wake up in the morning. They’re comfortable and sleek against her skin, and a luxury she wouldn’t buy for herself.
Time is one of the best gifts you can give any woman turning forty. Time to herself, time to pursue her goals and dreams, time to center herself. Give her the pajamas, and a whole weekend to do whatever she wants in them.
A YouTube video of loved ones saying “Happy 40th Birthday!”
When I searched the internet for 40th birthday gift ideas for women turning forty, I found several YouTube videos of friends and family members saying “Happy Birthday” to the birthday girl. If you’re technologically inclined, this is a fun and thoughtful 40th birthday gift – especially if you get creative about how you send birthday wishes. For instance, you could tease her with all the possible fortieth birthday gifts she might be getting.
An unforgettable handpainted leather satchel
I’m going back to the purse aisle, and picking up the unforgettableAnuschka Women’s Hand Painted Genuine Leather Satchel. Does your birthday girl love purses? (yes, all women do). Does she love pretty, cheerful things to look at? (yes, we all do). Is she not thrilled about turning forty? (yes, all women want to forget their 40th birthdays, and your gift ideas will help her celebrate with delight!).
Anuschka bags are a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors are a very powerful element in these designs. The wide range of abstracts, imaginary and natural scenes, depicted in muted colors of all shades and hues, transforms each handbag into an object of timeless art.What other gift could yougive on her 40th birthday?
A birthday giftfrom her bucket list
This creative idea for 40thbirthday gift ideas is from Alicia King, writer and creator of TheLili Effect. When I asked for gift ideas for women on Twitter, she said: “Plunder the birthday woman’sbucket list for a novel experience you can do together.”I love it! If your birthday girl likes boating, gift her with a water experience! Rent a kayak for a couple hours, or even a houseboat for a weekend.
If travel is on your 40 year old birthday girl’s bucket list, read 10 Things You Need to Pack for a Resort Vacation at the Beach.
A custom-made 40th birthday cake
Hire a cake decorator to bake a beautiful custom cake for her birthday. The one in the picture is an actual edible birthday cake, baked for a woman who loves shoes. The people who bake and decorate cakes are absolutely amazing in their creativity and artistry, and a cake like this will be something a woman never forgets when she celebrates her 40th birthday. For more ideas, search the internet for “40th birthday gift ideas for her”.
Gifts for Women Who Love Technology
Is your birthday girl part of a book club? Many of the women in my book club have a kindle or digital reader, and they love them. Electronic or digital gifts are an extravagant way way to celebrate a big birthday.
Apple iPad tablet
If she hasn’t tried an Apple iPad Pro Tablet – or if you want to splurge and buy her a new one – spoil her with this “tech-y” 40th birthday gift. When I went to a writing conference a couple weeks ago, a woman brought her new iPad. We loved it, and she loved the convenience and flexibility that it offers. I bought a Samsung Galaxy Tablet a few years ago, but I like my new iPad better.
Amazon’s newestKindle Fire HD 10 Tablet With Alexa– loaded withher favorite books – will jolt her out of the doldrums that come with turning 40. If she loves to read, surprise her with a digital reader she wouldn’t buy for herself.
Random Gifts for Women Turning Forty
The next few ideas on this list of 40th birthday gift ideas vary from cruises to retro candy…
Made in the 80s t-shirt – a popular 40th birthday gift for women
The 40th Birthday “Made in the 1980s” Ladies T-Shirtis a fun, creative 40th idea for women! I like it because it doesn’t advertise her age (most people won’t bother doing the math), yet it’s funny because it says “all original parts.” 🙂
This is the only 40th birthday gift idea for women that I’m not excited about. It’s from Prank Ideas Central:
“For a woman turning 40, hot flashes are a real concern and can strike anytime! So show her you care with a hot flash survival kit as her 40th birthday gag gift. Get a nice box and add useful things like a hand held fan and ice packs to cool down, a small towel or pocket handkerchief to wipe her brow with, a spare shirt and emergency medication (chocolates).” ~ 40th Birthday Gag Gifts for Women on PrankCentral. This is one of my least favorite 40th birthday gift ideas for women. I know menopause is a new beginning, but who needs to be reminded of “the change”?
Retro candy from 40 years ago
A box of40th Birthday Gift Basket Box of Retro Candyis a gift many readers give for fortieth birthdays, as a creative addition to the “real” thoughtful gift idea for her fortieth birthday.
3 most popular gifts for women on their 40th birthday:
- Box of retro candy for 40th birthdays
- Women’s silk pajamas
- The diamond sun pendant
Those three most popular birthday gifts are so different! Candy, sleep, and elegance. To find the perfect gift for a woman on her 40th birthday, think about what she most wants in life. Sweets? Sleep? Sunshine? That’s the most thoughtful idea – and only you can give it.
Still don’t know what to give her? How about 40 small thoughtful gifts!
Here’s a fun idea from the Gift Ideas Muse:“Giving 40 small gifts is a cool idea! You can do something fun like 40 coupons or a collage of 40 photos… or something really meaningful, like 40 personal letters from their closest friends and family expressing love and appreciation. Get creative and throw in some surprises, like perfume for a woman or sporting event tickets for a guy. If you’re on a budget, bake them 40 cupcakes or cookies!” ~ 40th Birthday Gift Ideas from the Gift Ideas Muse. This is one of the best 40th birthday gift ideas for women who like to open lots of presents.
Gourmet Chocolate Gifts for her 40th Birthday
Women love chocolate, but we don’t often splurge on gourmet melt-in-your-mouth chocolate delicacies. Why? Because they’re expensive. That’s what makes gourmet chocolate a good gift for women on their fortieth birthdays!
The Fairytale Brownies Magic Morsel 48 Gift Box is handcrafted with rich, dark Callebaut Belgian chocolate, pure creamery butter and farm fresh eggs.
This 40th birthday gift for women includes 48 individually wrapped pieces are hand packed in this gourmet gift, and it’s guaranteed fresh upon arrival. It includes a sampling of 1.5″ x 1.5″ bite-size Magic Morsel brownies in all six assorted flavors; a personalized gift message card is included with every order.
Leonidas Belgian Chocolates: 1 lb General Assortmentincludes a well balanced and representative selection of Leonidas’ fresh butter creams, sinfully smooth truffles and delectable pralines.
An assortment of gourmet chocolates is an indulgence for a woman on her fortieth birthday – and that’s exactly what you wnt to do! Indulge her with someone guaranteed to tantalize even the most discerning palates.
Finding right 40th birthday gift idea for a woman should never be left until the last minute.
A cruise vacation (perhaps a better gift idea for women twice as old as 40)
When searching the internet for 40thbirthday gift ideas for women, I found this entry on a cruise forum:“I’m a cruise addict…I have only been on 6 cruises so far. When my marriage ended last year, I gave up hope of EVER going on another cruise. Well….just today….approaching the top of the Wild Thing rollercoaster at Valleyfair in Minneapolis…. my boyfriend told me he is taking me on a cruise for my 40th birthday next month. I am SOOOOO excited! Who knew turning 40 could be so wonderful! I pretty much missed the whole rollercoaster ride after he said that because my mind was fixated on the cruise! We are sailing on Carnival Imagination on September 25. I have been on four Carnival cruises before, and I just love them. He has only been on one cruise and that was 20 years ago, but he knows how much I LOVE cruising!”
Can’t you justfeel her excitement? She doesn’t feel “over the hill” – she’s thrilled, excited, and happy about turning 40. Can you afford to give your birthday girl a cruise for her 40th birthday?
The Last 40th Birthday Gift Ideas for Women
This is your last chance to find the right birthday gift for your woman’s 40th birthday…
The Sterling Silver Oval-Cut Amethyst with Genuine White Diamonds Braceletis an elegant gift for a woman who wants to look and feel beautiful (and don’t we all?).
Yoga retreatorAfrican safari on her 40th birthday
If I were turning 40 again, I’d love a yoga retreat. Other women might like to experience zip lining, sky diving, or hot air ballooning as their 40th birthday gift. These are once-in-a-lifetime adventures that can change her perspective on life.
When my best friend turned 40, her birthday gift to herself was a five week trip to Africa. Nowthatis a luxurious birthday present! She went to Jamaica for her 50th birthday.A less extravagant 40th birthday gift is a power point presentation of flattering or funny photos of her, paired with beautiful poetry or the lyrics of a song you both love.
A whimsical, artistic wallet and handbag gift set for her
The Anuschka Leather Front Pocket Handbag and Walletis a gift set that includes a removableleather organizer wallet, an optical case for her reading glasses (she is forty, after all), and a cosmetic pouch. It also has a slip-in cell phone pocket and 2 zippered pockets in the front.
I keep coming back to these handbags – in fact, I rewrote this whole list of 40th birthday gift ideas so I could include these three bags – because they are unforgettable. Each piece is sketched, then painted in layers to ensure long lasting quality. The vibrancy of colors, beautiful design and top-quality craftsmanship will last for many years. The Anuschka purses are hand painted on genuine leather and finished with stylish top stitching.
Tickets to her favorite show
I’m blessed with the luxury of working from home; the only two TV shows I’ll turn on for background company while I write is Judge Marilyn Milian and Dr Oz. I like the judge show better, but get a kick out of the women in the audience of the Dr Oz show! They’re so excited and happy – like the women on the Ellen show, actually. A lot of those women are over forty years old.
The best 40th birthday gift ideas are those that take women out of their comfort zone – and give her plane fare to get there.
Make her 40th birthday an unforgettable, positive experience
Is your birthday girl unhappy or even depressed about turning forty? Give her time and space to be sad. Turning 40 is difficult for many women, because it does seem old in comparison to those younger milestone birthdays of 30 and 20 years old. Don’t push or try to convince her that 40 isn’t old, or that she should be positive about her fortieth birthday. Instead, give her a gift that makes her feel good about herself.
Give her a gift that matches her personality. For example, I love travel more than jewelry or other stuff, so I wrote 5 Tips for Planning a 50th Birthday Pilgrimage to India.
I hope you found something helpful on this list of 40th birthday gifts for women. If you have any ideas, please comment below! May you find an unforgettable gift for ther, and may her fortieth birthday be awesome.
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