School’s Out: The Haute 5 Graduation Gifts in Phoenix

They did it, they graduated. And now it’s time to send the Class of 2010 out into the world to stand on their own feet and enter the workforce. Of course, we wouldn’t dare send them off empty-handed, so here are our Haute 5 graduation present selections – in other words, shiny new essentials to help them jump-start their careers.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Lilly Tote


Odds are, your socialite has plenty of stylish clutches and campus carry-alls, thanks to her busy schedule of academic society meetings and student organization evening functions. But what to carry with her first-job attire? This bag is perfect no-nonsense  for the office while still displaying a touch of fun femininity in the form of some well-placed hardware.

$248 at Michael Kors, located at Scottsdale Fashion Square and Kierland Commons

Burberry Herringbone Watch

Now here’s a timepiece to make colleagues take notice without being so flashy as to put anyone off. This Swiss-made watch by Burberry featuring a stainless steel case and a unique pattern on its armband will say of the wearer, “I am dependable, I am a man of well-timed action.”

$495 at Burberry, located at Scottsdale Fashion Square

Kate Spade Moon River Double Pearl and Bow Necklace


Every lady should have a strand of pearls, and Kate Spade delivers a modern twist on the classic wardrobe staple. With two 12-karat-gold-plated bows, this dainty pearl necklace will surely provide the finishing touch to any ensemble, whether for work or a high society function.

$145 at Kate Spade, located at Scottsdale Fashion Square

Kenneth Cole New York Roma Satchel

If his future employers are ever going to invite him along on the company’s next business trip, the young man is likely going to require an update to whatever messenger bag he’s been lugging all over campus. This stylish and sensible weekender ought to do the trick. Made to be the perfect carry-on, this grained leather bag has room for everything he’ll need on short trips. The shoulder strap detaches, there’s a luggage tag included, and the two-way zipper closure even locks.

$395 at Kenneth Cole, located at Arizona Mills and Scottsdale Fashion Square

BULGARI BULGARI Ballpoint Pen

Give your graduate a pen he or she can carry for the entire length of a long and successful career. Bulgari’s ballpoint is stylishly minimalistic, with a soft touch black cotton resin body and sterling silver touches. It produces a medium stroke in black ink and includes the brand’s iconic logo on its cap.

$345 at Bulgari, located at Scottsdale Fashion Square

Image by Sande Chase of A Gift Wrapped Life