10 Practical and Fun Gifts For Valentine's Day That Are Better Than Flowers

"At first, I was skeptical about whether the LuMee Duo iPhone Case ($70) was useful. But after going to Disneyland and wanting to take photos of everything, I realized it was a great investment in a phone case. It protects the phone and gives you perfect selfie and background lighting whenever you need it!" — Ann-Marie Alcántara, assistant editor, Tech

"I've been a huge fan of A Color Story since my favorite bloggers, Elsie and Emma from A Beautiful Mess, launched it early last year. I use the photo-editing tool on every Instagram snap that I post, and I've been especially obsessed with their latest filter pack, 'Flashes of Delight' ($3 as an in-app purchase). The tool is so easy to use, and the filters in this new pack add the perfect touch of muted magic to any photo you edit. Love!" — Brinton Parker, assistant editor, Trending

"Never underestimate the need of a portable charger — especially one that's thin enough and can fit in any purse like the Slim Pizza Portable Power Charger ($24)." — AMA

"If you're like me, who makes an effort to try to journal every day, then you'll appreciate the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: Newt Scamander Hardcover Ruled Journal ($20). It comes with a magnetic close and a back flap to store anything." — AMA

"Trying to get started on making your home a smart one? Try Samsung SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit ($250). It comes with a hub to connect plenty of smart home products, an outlet, a motion sensor, and two other sensors. Set it up and schedule a time for your lights to turn on, or set a temperature to get your thermostat going, and even use an Echo device with it." — AMA

"Indulge in any '90s obsession with instant film with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera ($70). It comes in four fun colors and just requires two AA batteries and film to start snapping shots." — AMA

"I'll admit that I was a bit wary when I got the press release about Hot Topic's new DC Comics formalwear collection . . . that is, until I got my hands on the floor-length Poison Ivy gown ($100). It is easily the most elevated geek-chic fashion I've seen outside of Comic-Con's annual fashion show, with a sheer, lacy paneled bottom and a gorgeous emerald fabric that flatters from every angle. Now I'm just waiting for the right occasion to rock it! Maybe Valentine's Day will present the right opportunity?" — BP

"With the growing popularity of vaping, many people partake in a fashion that's anything but subtle . . . looking at you, people who vape on the subway. That's why I have so much love for the new W!NK pen ($40), which is discreetly designed for women who enjoy the occasional smoke — minus the annoying 'vape culture' habits. Because it's USB-chargeable and the size of a pen, W!NK is an easy, high-tech way for subtle smokers to indulge their vices in a way that's classy, not trashy." — BP

"If you're celebrating Galentine's Day instead, then consider getting this Pizza Besties Case ($30) for your best friends. It's cute and describes your love of your friend and pizza." — AMA

"Let's face it: everyone's phone is full of germs and bacteria. Keep your phone a bit cleaner with Whoosh! Screen Shine ($15). Spray, swipe, and you're done!" — AMA