Gift Guides

47 best 40th birthday gift ideas she won't return in 2024

‘Cos your 40s are the the new 30s, we've heard.
47 Best 40th Birthday Gift Ideas She Won't Return in 2024

40th birthday gift ideas are hard to conjure up. Not quite the big 5-0 but bigger than a 30th birthday, 40th birthday gifts symbolise one of the greatest milestones a woman goes through in her life. It's official: 40 is the new 30, and there's no better way to celebrate this milestone moment than with a well-considered gift. (And of course, a big birthday bash).

Our editors have curated an edit of amazing 40th birthday gifts for her that would impress even the most discerning. From tasteful home décor to personalised gifts, beautiful jewellery, gift experiences, timeless fashion finds and lush beauty gift sets, our guide to the very best 40th birthday gifts covers all the bases – with options to suit all kinds of budgets. Whether she’s a fan of ‘quiet luxury’, a home interiors fiend or a wine aficionado – we have something for everyone. We've got you covered.

In a rush? The best 40th birthday gift ideas at a glance:

  1. Best Overall: Coravin Timeless Three+ Wine Preservation System
  2. Best Skincare Gift: Augustinus Bader The Hydration Heroes
  3. Best Luxury Gift: Max Mara Madame Coat
  4. Best Foodie Gift: Our Place Cast Iron Set
  5. Best Affordable Gift: Hey Harper Valerie Ring

Forget birthday cards. For a fashion girl, you can’t go wrong with a timeless cashmere roll neck from Whistles, or a classic bag from Mulberry. Those who relish beautiful interiors will enjoy our homeware favourites, like these beautiful place mats from Emilia Wickstead. Elsewhere, those looking to amp up their skincare routine will adore our choice of gift sets from Dr. Barbara Sturm and Augustinus Bader. If Victoria Beckham approves, right? If all else fails, we’ve also curated some of our favourite gift hampers and gift sets from Fortnum & Mason and Harvey Nichols, which each offer a variety of trinkets, gadgets and treats that will make any new 40 year-old smile.

After more present ideas? We've got Christmas gift ideas, anniversary gifts for him, best friend gifts, Valentine’s Day gifts for her, baby gifts, photo gifts, Father’s Day gifts, 30th birthday gifts, 21st birthday gifts and 18th birthday gifts. Head this way for letterbox gifts and over here for gifts for men.

Scroll for the best 40th birthday gifts that'll make her milestone birthday extra special.

  • Theres a reason that Augustinus Bader was voted as the ‘best skincare brand of all time and its because it simply works....

    1. Augustinus Bader The Hydration Heroes Gift Set

    There’s a reason that Augustinus Bader was voted as the ‘best skincare brand of all time’ and it’s because it simply works. This stuff anti-ageing gold, approved by everyone from Ashley Graham to Kate Bosworth.

    £245 at Space NK

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these Space NK promo codes.

  • 2. Clifton Suitcase Set in Taupe

    Whether she’s travelling with the fam or ‘eat pray love-ing’ her way through Italy – she’ll be travelling in style with this gorgeous set from Antler.

    £527 at Antler

  • 3. La DoubleJ Set of Six 18kt-gilded Porcelain Dessert Plates

    This snazzy dessert plate set from La DoubleJ is the perfect birthday present for the hostess with the mostest.

    £390 at Net-A-Porter

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these Net-A-Porter promo codes.

  • 4. Our Place Cast Iron Set

    Everyone knows how much we rate Our Place’s cult favourite Always Pan. We think this heirloom-quality set of enamelled cast-iron piece will be an excellent addition to her kitchen collection. Plus, they’ll make great foodie Christmas gifts too.

    £350 at Our Place

  • 5. Chanel N*5 Eau de Parfum Spray, 100ml

    Chanel N°5 is a classic for a reason. Undoubtedly one of the most iconic fragrances in pop culture history, every woman should have this in their fragrance arsenal at some point in their lives.

    £136 at Chanel£136 at Harrods

  • 6. Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Skincare Discovery Set

    What better way to say happy 40th birthday than giving her gift of glow. This discovery set brings together of all Dr. Barbara Sturm’s hero anti-aging products in one magical, skin pampering pouch.

    £100 at Net-A-Porter

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these Net-A-Porter promo codes.

  • 7. PDPaola 18ct Gold Plated Initial Necklace

    Forget novelty keyrings, t-shirts or photo frames, because this gold necklace from PDPAOLA isn’t just stylish, but can also be personalised with her initials. The perfect trinket to add to her jewellery box.

    £65 at Selfridges

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these Selfridges promo codes.

  • 8. Missoma Large Jewellery Case

    With this stylish and compact leather jewellery case from Missoma, she can take her favourite trinkets every with her throughout her travels.

    £87 at Missoma
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  • 9. The White Company Seychelles Hamper

    The Seychelles scent is The White Company’s most heavenly scent, and this great gift box has it as a perfume, bath & shower gel, body lotion and diffuser.

    £120 at The White Company

  • 10. Prosecco Rosé & Pink Chocolate Truffles Gift Box

    Prosecco rosé, Champagne flutes and pink chocolate truffles? What’s not to love with this perfectly bubbly gift box from Harvey Nics? We think these treats can double as excellent wedding gifts too.

    £45 at Harvey Nichols

  • 11. Mejuri Pavé Diamond Slim Signet Ring 14kt Yellow Gold

    They say, ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’ and that certainly holds true no matter what age she is.

    £368 at Mejuri

  • 12. De La Vali Broadway Sequin Dress

    De La Vali, the partywear brand on everyone’s lips, is an expert at making any woman feel sexy, confident and beautiful no matter what the occasion. We think this sparkly dress will really razzle dazzle – and can even be worn during her big birthday bash.

    £620 at Harvey Nichols
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  • 13. Chateau D’Esclans Garrus Rosé

    This one is for all the rosé lovers in your life. If she’s a fan of Chateau D’Esclans and Whispering Angel – then she’ll surely love this premium bottle.

    £135 at Selfridges

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these Selfridges promo codes.

  • 14. Cottonmill The Classic Spa Day at Sopwell House

    Just a quick drive away from London (or a 20 minute train on the Thameslink) Sopwell House is undoubtedly one of our favourite spa staycays. With this Spa Day voucher, she can enjoy a choice from a 60-minute Elemis Pro-Brilliance or Pro-Glow Renewal Facial or a facial from Aromatherapy.

    £224 at Sopwell House

  • 15. Lyma Laser Starter Kit

    If you’re really pulling out all the stops then why not splurge on this Lyma Laser System? Beloved by all the celebs – this nifty skincare gadget helps with saggy skin, acne, wrinkles and pigmentation and will save her a few trips to her aesthetician.

    £1,999 at Currentbody

  • 16. The Fortnum's Collection Hamper

    As far as hampers go - this hamper from Fortnum & Masons certainly takes the cake. Filled with its finest tipples, delicious Champagnes and wines – and a selection of sweet and savoury snacks, this wonderful wicker is perfect a boozy afternoon tea picnic in the park.

    £160 at Fortnum & Mason
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  • 17. Abbott Lyon Custom Heart Birthstone Ring

    This gorgeous ring from Abbott Lyon can be personalised with her birthstone – making it more meaningful than your average trinket.

    £69 at Abbott Lyon

  • 18. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick Pillow Talk

    Pillow Talk is a universally flattering shade that works with every skin tone. We think this makeup classic is an absolute beauty staple.

    £27 at John Lewis

    Save when you shop for the best 40th birthday gifts with these John Lewis promo codes.

  • 19. Tekla Logo Patch Merino Blanket

    This cosy 100% merino wool blanket is just the thing to keep her warm during the winter months. It will also look good thrown over her couch throughout the year. Cosy and stylish? Yes please.

    £168 at Matchesfashion

  • 20. Windsor Diamond Set Watch

    An elegant timepiece made with rose gold stainless steel that she’ll treasure forever.

    £219 at Rotary Watches
Most Popular

  • 21. Hanro Natural Elegance Sweatpants

    If she’s a WFH warrior, a mum, or just a women who loves the cosier things in life – then she’s surely going to love these stylish sweatpants from luxury loungewear brand Hanro.

    £110 at Harrods

  • 22. Whistles Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper

    A trusty cashmere jumper will last forever – and we’re sure that this cosy piece from Whistles will stand the test of time. A style staple she can wear throughout her 40s and maybe even up to her 50th birthday too.

    £199 at Whistles£195 at John Lewis

  • 23. Monica Vinader Essential Recycled Sterling Silver and Diamond Earrings

    You simply can’t go wrong with Monica Vinader. Plus, these timeless diamond earrings are also made with recycled silver, so you’ll get plus points for being kind to the planet too.

    £150 at Selfridges£150 at Monica Vinader

  • 24. French Food & Wine Pairing Gift Hamper

    If she’s a lover of French food and wine, then she’ll certainly go ‘ooh la la’ upon receiving this delicious hamper filled with bougie French treats.

    £65 at Marks and Spencer
Most Popular

  • 25. SUKIW Design Cotton Cushion with Blue Abstract Painting

    This colourful luxury throw pillow from independent designer SUKIW will add that welcome pop of colour to her living room – and she’ll certainly thank you for it.

    £50 at Wolf and Badger

  • 26. Buddha to Buddha George XS Silver necklace

    Stylish 40th birthday gifts

    Buddha to Buddha is an exciting new sustainable jewellery brand that’s all about slow fashion. It takes silversmiths five days to complete just the clasp of each Buddha-to-Buddha piece, making it an excellent gift for stylish eco-warriors. Plus, the timeless styles will make a great addition to her jewellery collection.

    £209 at Flannels

  • 27. Le Creuset Chef’s Apron

    Now this is one for all the home cooks. One of the snazzier aprons we’ve seen, it is perfect for looking stylish in the kitchen. This apron truly is a chef’s kiss!

    £50 at Fenwick£50 at John Lewis

  • 28. Swarovski Crystal Rock Oval Watch

    This appropriately bedazzled Crystal Watch Oval Watch from Swarovski will add plenty of sophisticated sparkle to her wrist – making it a great everyday accessory.

    £330 at Swarovski
Most Popular

  • 29. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge Eau De Parfum

    Maison Francis Kurkdjian has made a name for itself as the pinnacle of luxury niche fragrances – and so we think that this elegant scent, though a bit on the spennier side, will make for the perfect 40th birthday gift.

    £235 at Harrods£235 at Harvey Nichols

  • 30. Erdem Vacation Magnolia Garden scarf-tie raffia hat

    This elegant raffia hat from Erdem is the perfect gift for the avid gardeners in your life. Perfect for long summer days in the garden or for holidaying in the Med – this sun hat will be worn for years to come.

    £124 at Matchesfashion

  • 31. Emilia Wickstead Set of Four Printed Linen Placemats

    These retro, linen placemats from British designer Emilia Wickstead will surely elevate her next tablescape. The perfect gift for the seasoned hostess in your friend group.

    £111 at Net-A-Porter

  • 32. Amor Lux Marinière Heritage Top

    This classic Breton t-shirt top is beloved by many fashion icons including Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot – and will soon be part of the birthday celebrant’s wardrobe staples too.

    £75 at John Lewis
Most Popular

  • 33. Sezane Pippa Ankle Boots in Caramel

    The older we get, the more sky high heels become a thing of the past – and so these stylish, comfy and versatile Chelsea boots from Sézane are a win on all fronts.

    £200 at Sezane

  • 34. Craghoppers Eabha Overhead Fleece

    This is perfect for the woman who loves the outdoors, or the lady who is partial to a cosy winter dog walk. With this lovely fleece from Craghopper’s she can conquer the great outdoors in style.

    £70 at Marks and Spencer

  • 35. 111Skin Precision Repair Edit Set

    As a now 40 year old woman, she’ll have plenty of things on her plate balancing work life and everything in between. This Precision Repair Edit from 111SKIN will help her take some time for self-care and also repair and nourish her skin amid the hustle and bustle of daily life

    £160 at 111SKIN£160 at Harvey Nichols

  • 36. Hot Air Balloon Flight

    Forget supercar drives and take her on the hot air balloon ride of a lifetime with this unforgettable experience day. You can make it extra special with a balloon flights gift box complete with celebratory Champagne. She’ll certainly remember her 40th birthday for years to come.

    From £169 at Virgin Experience Days
Most Popular

  • 37. Richard Brendon Diamond Old Fashioned Glass

    Forget personalised pint glasses, tankards and birthday mugs. If she’s the kind of lady who enjoys an Old Fashioned – then she’ll definitely love this whisky glass. This tumbler is the perfect size for enjoying a neat tipple or a strong cocktail.

    £98 at Fortnum & Mason

  • 38. Mulberry Small Amberley Grain Leather Satchel Bag

    Timeless, versatile and a perfect handbag to use from day to night, nothing says 40 and thriving like a stylish handbag from Mulberry.

    £795 at John Lewis£795 at Selfridges

  • 39. Indulgent Spa Day Collection Voucher

    Virgin Experience Days have plenty of exclusive offers and special offers on spa days all over the UK. If you’re unsure where to book and what experience she’s after – then this voucher is a sure win.

    £150 from Virgin Experience Days

  • 40. Hey Harper Valerie Ring

    This is the perfect gift for the 40th birthday girl who excels at balancing work, life and everything in between. Hey Harper makes the very best waterproof jewellery so she can wear this to the office, gym, pool and everything in between.

    £43 at ASOS
Most Popular

  • 41. Alice + Olivia Noella Cardigan

    From meetings to wine o’clock, she’ll look stylish in this classic cardigan from Alice + Olivia, which is a softer take on power dressing.

    £595 at Harrods

  • 42. The Bookshop Little Guides to Style

    We think this handy collection of style guides from acclaimed fashion stylists and journalists Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Homer and Laia Farra Graves will serve as the ultimate fashion bible now that she’s hit the big 4-0.

    £50 at Selfridges£35 at Amazon

  • 43. Loewe Cat Eye Sunglasses

    Spanish fashion brand Loewe is our Roman empire – which is why we’re sure that these elegant sunglasses will make the ultimate fashion gift for the most stylish 40 year-old in your life.

    £310 at Net-A-Porter
  • Courtesy of brand

    44. Coravin Timeless Three+ Wine Preservation System

    With this nifty kitchen gadget, she can pour her favourite wines without pulling out the cork, preserving her priceless collection of vintages for years to come.

    £259.99 at Coravin
Most Popular

  • 45. ‘Empower Your Flower’ Wall Art

    This cheeky bit of wall art will certainly make a statement in her bedroom or living room wall. A fab, sex-positive 40th birthday gift that will surely make her smile.

    £80 at Painting the Rude
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