Do clothes make the man? Not exactly, but they do make an impression.
With that in mind, perhaps this year's best graduation present is not a "Life's Little Instructions" gift package, but an addition to that often-overlooked, but oh-so-vital, post-graduation necessity: a work wardrobe.
Most college students quickly digress from fairly fashionable high-school kids to sloppy, over-worked, over-partied young adults.
Sweats and jeans and football hoodies play a big role in their day-to-day ensembles.
But when it's time to look for that springboard internship or first real job, something polished, unique, and appropriate is required.
Unfortunately, the college years also leave most graduates saddled with considerable debt, so the burden of finding an apartment instead of lounging in the dorm, perhaps purchasing a car, since they're no longer schlepping around campus, and other considerations of becoming an independent adult sap whatever funds are left.
Paradoxically, the professional wardrobe that is needed to make an interview into an offer, which would significantly improve the student's financial status, is difficult to obtain.
This is where you, the gift-buyer, have the opportunity to make a creative and useful contribution, instead of the normal, rather stale gift that will be plunked down on a shelf somewhere and forgotten.
Of course, cash is a nice option for the needy graduate.
Unexpected bills and unanticipated needs will always arise, and it's comforting for anyone trying to get all their ducks in a row to have a little money roll in, no strings attached.
But maybe that's a too...
unsentimental.
Maybe you're the doting aunt or proud grandfather, and you want to give something lasting to this surprising, successful young adult who has somehow replaced that funny little kid you used to know.
What should you give? Frankly, giving actual clothing is probably not a good idea.
For one thing, the item will not last much longer than the prepaid Visa you were considering.
For another, a garment's attractiveness is very much in the eye of the beholder.
Instead, consider a beautiful and timeless pair of designer cufflinks.
Cufflinks are the perfect gift; like jewelry, they last forever and can become heirloom pieces.
Cufflinks also add verve and interest to an otherwise average outfit, but in a way that is never garish or out of place.
A variety of elegant and interesting artistic designs are available, and will breathe an air of old-world sophistication into the wardrobe of a hip, young graduate.
It's a great way to encourage a special young person as he turns this new page in his life.