Father’s Day, which is coming up Sunday, usually conjures images of power tools and button-down shirts. And in Savannah, most of the large-scale chain stores are selling the kind of things this day of dads has always been associated with.
At Dillard’s on Abercorn Street, store manager Linda Laquidara said men’s fragrances, specifically Bleu de Chanel and Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio, are top sellers, along with Michael Kors watches.
Laquidara said customers have been spending about $100-200.
A Target employee at the store on Abercorn Street said customers were buying movies, electronics, cologne and clothing for dad.
“Anything you can think of for Father’s Day, we have a sale for it,” she said.
Employees at Lowe’s and Home Depot said power drills, small tools and barbecue grills were popular items among Father’s Day shoppers.
But the Father’s Day purchases at small, local boutiques offered a look into what the distinctly unique dads of Savannah might have on their Father’s Day wish lists.
At Half Moon Outfitters on East Broughton Lane, employee Christin Schoettle said Chaco Sandals, a quick wet-to-dry athletic shoe with “amazing arch support,” have been a hit this season. They cost $50-$100 depending on the type of sandal.
Schoettle also said “transitional bathing suit trunks,” such as the Columbia Sportswear Whidbey II Water Short for men, are a popular buy for fathers who need to go from the beach to downtown quickly and effortlessly.
If you’re still doubtful about what to get dad, Half Moon has a solution.
“People are hesitant to pick out specific items,” she said. “They go for gift cards so that the guy can pick out exactly what he wants.”
She recommends a gift card amount of $100.
Prospector Co. on West Broughton Street is the place to go for dads who need a trim.
Sales associate Chad Chilton said safety razors and Brummell Shave Creme are big sellers for bearded and mustachioed fathers alike. Safety razors run from $32-$74, and the shaving cream is $14 for a 4-ounce jar or $18 for an 8-ounce jar.
Whether dad is a beer connoisseur or an ale amateur, Moon River Brewing Co. offers something for every father.
Employee Julia Harrison said T-shirts, hats and sets of beer-scented soap have been the Father’s Day buys this year.
“We have had quite a few ladies come in with kids,” she said. “One boy bought a hat and some beer glasses for his dad.”