What moms like

MANILA, Philippines - Moms are incredibly easy to shop for. Present her with a set of wilted gardenias that have seen better days and she’s overjoyed by your thoughtfulness. She’s more likely to ask for a handmade gift (like going to church or a bowl of your homemade leek pasta) rather than something pricey. That doesn’t mean you should scrimp when it comes to Mom Appreciation Day, because the woman who shot you down her birth canal deserves more than a shabby set of half-off flowers (although nice fresh flowers would be sweet). Here, a list of happy, chic, comfy goods any mom would love.

Jonathan Adler on Happy Chic Colors, P729, and Jonathan Adler on Happy Chic Accessorizing, P729

“Beige is a bummer! Colorless is character less! So vanquish the vanilla: Bold colors will make you happy!” Jonathan Adler declares in his opening note in his tome Jonathan Adler on Happy Chic Colors. Adler has a simple formula for reaching the ultimate in design: 95% chic + 5% happy = the decorative formula called Happy Chic. Full of crafty bon mots, like “Pillows are the exclamation point of the home,” and “Orange = electrolytes for your eyeballs,” Adler comes off as a fun-loving aunt with a taste for the eccentric instead of a strict authoritarian. His advice is to make your home a happy one — which is what every mom strives to do anyway. These books just complete her happy home. Available at National Bookstore.

Umbra jewelry stand, P500

This clever resin jewelry stand doubles as a cute candelabra table accent as well as a handy depository for mom’s numerous pearl necklaces. Available at Rustan’s Department Store

Anya Hindmarch tote, P8,950

For gym bunny mothers who like to wear Stella McCartney Adidas to the gym and Alexander McQueen Puma trainers to the jogging track, there’s an Anya Hindmarch canvas tote with a cheeky sketch, inscribed with “Gym kit” in a cute script. You don’t need to be a gym bunny to appreciate the tote. Roomy enough for folders and a diaper or two, the cute tote is really an everyday bag in disguise. Available at Adora, Greenbelt 5

Lilly Pulitzer Elina tunic, P4,950

Comfort is key for moms on the go, but that doesn’t mean they have to forego cute as well. Lilly Pulitzer has been the go-to label for moms in Palm Beach. These days, even Manila moms want in on that action. Lilly Pulitzer’s Elina tunic, a vibrant dress that can be worn on the beach or off, makes the perfect summer uniform for moms anywhere. Available at Rustan’s Department Store

Tarte Tatin diffuser, P500

Tarte Tatin may be known for their childrenswear but those in the know hop to their shop for their fragrant — and oh-so-affordable — diffusers. The sweet scents of L’Orangerie and Pamplemoussier are enough to perfume an entire household. Any Mom worth her perfume cabinet would enjoy this present. Available at Tarte Tatin, Greenbelt 5

Swim floppy hat, P1,995

If sun protection is the ultimate anti-aging remedy then this wide-brimmed floppy hat, an inspired take on the ’70s trend that made its way down the catwalks of Marc Jacobs and co., is the perfect accessory for the sun-wary and hat-loving folk. Available at Adora, Greenbelt 5