12:00a.m. 26th August 2008

Father's Day will be soon upon us on Sunday, September 7, and finding the perfect gift has always been a big challenge.

So here’s some early gift ideas to get you started.

Go upmarket with Tommy Hilfiger. A black cotton linen blazer will be a classic addition to his wardrobe. Tommy Hilfiger stockist: (03) 8416 8600.

Revisit dad’s youth with a pair of the Black Persol 649 sunglasses. Taking a vintage approach to design, the classic shape epitomises style. Available at OPSM or phone 132 020.

The perfect staple for a summer day out, a Farage short sleeve shirt will always keep him looking smart. Our pick is the Halmstad Ted Shirt. Farage stockist on (02) 92124509.

R.M.Williams – the master of weekend wear – tries its hand at the good old fashioned pocket watch, to ensure your dad always keeps perfect time! RM Williams stockist: 1800 339 532.

Peter Alexander – the king of the bedroom – will ensure your dad is ready for any occasion, from his weekly set of briefs to the men’s rib tank with matching men’s blue stripe lounge pant. Peter Alexander stockist: 1300 366 683 or www.peteralexander.com.au

Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Facial Fuel SPF will keep those wrinkles at bay, while the men’s scrub soap will soften the hardest of skin. Kiehl’s stockist: (02) 9326 9980.

Bring a little luxury into dad’s world with the coveted blue box: Tiffany & Co cufflinks add a most refined touch to his day in the office. Tiffany & Co. stockist: 1800 731 131.

Camper’s shoes for men provide something for every father, from smart sneakers to casual loafers. Camper stockist (02) 9261 3910.

Whether dad’s playing backyard cricket, sailing on a boat or simply turning a snag on the barbecue on summer’s day, the Prada Linea Rossa Sunglass Range will reduce UV Rays and bring an everyday luxe to Dad’s overall look. Sunglass Hut stockist 1800 556 926.

Alperstein Designs ( www.alpersteindesigns.com.au) have plenty of gift ideas for dad that includes a range of aprons for work and play.

No more socks and jocks!

Many Aussie blokes have more socks and jocks than a Bonds warehouse, thanks to Father’s Day.

These are often the gifts of last resort for desperate wives and kids who have no idea what to get for the dad who has everything. But a new Noosa business has come to the rescue this year with a range of presents that are unique and fun.

Funky Gift Hampers has something for every kind of dad, from a “Tea and Coffee Connoisseur” pack for the caffeine fiend and a “Head Chef” hamper for the Jamie Oliver wannabe, to a “Mr Metrosexual” collection for new-age guys, who aren’t averse to a bit of pampering.

But if your man prefers to put his snags on the barbie rather than actually be one, you can’t go past the “Serial Griller” hamper, which has everything a true-blue Aussie bloke needs to be King of the Barbie.

And the best news? You don’t even have to leave home to buy them.

Justine Lennon recently set up the online business ( www.funkygifthampers.com.au) after moving to the Coast to escape the Sydney rat race, and admits she was partly inspired by her own dislike of shopping.

“I’ll be honest with you, the idea of wandering around shops looking for the ‘perfect gift’ for someone is my worst nightmare,” she said.

“But when I looked online, I found a lot of the other hampers were a bit dull … more like something you might buy your nana but not your best friend or your boyfriend.

“I figured there must be a lot of people like me, who want to find a funky and unusual present, but don’t have the time to spend hours searching for it.”

For more information, visit the website or phone 5470 2611.

> Garden tools for Dad on Father's Day