Wrap your arms around his neck and a fine hide belt around his waist. Even if he’s an odd size—like a 37 or a 39—Bayou Belts will make a custom belt just for him. Choose from exotic skins such as alligator, lizard, ostrich, snake or shark, and be sure to check out the key chains, card cases and money clips. Bayou Belts, 4017 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 833-1880.
The quintessential gift for Dad—a fine silk tie—gets a shot in the arm with summery motif patterns and hand-sewn details. Providing a wrinkle-free cotton backdrop is a vacation-ready button-down from Jos A. Bank Traveler’s Collection paired with blue oxford cloth trousers. Jos. A. Bank, 230 Carondelet St., 528-9491, 3213 17th St., Metairie, 620-BANK.
This depth-defying TAG Heuer 2000 Series Aquaracer watch was designed for divers, but is stylish enough so dads can still wear it to work. Made of high-performance stainless-steel, it’s rugged, yet has a precise Swiss quartz movement—important when diving to 100 feet or speaking at a conference. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, 333 Canal St., 581-6161, Lakeside Shopping Center, Metairie, 832-0000.
Hand-cut on a copper wheel, this William Yeoward cased crystal cocktail shaker with violet accents and silver-plated top will give your father a celebrity bartender status among his friends. Friend & Company, 7713 Maple St., 866-5433.
Cool Daddy. This summer, help him weather the heat and humidity … in Technicolor. Made of ultra-breathable cotton, these Indian Madras shorts by Berle can be topped with a classic Lacoste pique polo in teal green. Perlis, 6070 Magazine St., 895-8661, 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 674-1711.
If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, a gift of fine chocolates will put you in the express lane to being his favorite child. Dad will devour delectable gourmet treats like El Rey pure Venezuelan chocolate discos, chocolate-covered orange peels and Frans Chocolates Macadamia Gold Bars. Chocolate Gourmet, 3294 Lake Villa Dr., Metairie, 301-9400.
If your dad counts himself among the more stylish set—or if you’d like to give him a little nudge in the “hip” direction—pop into Style Lab for Men. Among the fresh crop of designer duds, you’ll find this cool and comfy cotton midnight flower print shirt by Theory. Style Lab for Men, 3641 Magazine St., 304-5072.
