What is the traditional second anniversary gift?
Cotton is the traditional second anniversary gift as it represents the strength and comfort that marriage is said to bring to your relationship. Cotton is a fibre that is twisted together to create a strong fabric that is light yet long-lasting, a metaphor that is said to symbolise the unity of marriage. It makes a great anniversary gift too, with plenty of options from soft furnishings to clothes and accessories.
What is the modern second anniversary gift?
Porcelain or china are the modern second anniversary gifts. They too are meant to symbolise the characteristics recognised in marriage; porcelain and china are used to create beautiful, timeless pieces that when taken care of will last a long time, but are fragile enough that if mistreated they will break. Some believe this is a message that the early years of marriage are perhaps the most fragile, so extra care should be taken to strengthen the bond between you and your partner.
If you're not sure what to give your partner for your second anniversary, here are a few traditional cotton and and modern porcelain gift ideas to get you started...
10 cotton anniversary gift ideas
Personalised Cotton Anniversary Blue Print
Make your second anniversary gift personal with this cotton blue floral print wall hanging. The gorgeous print can be personalised with your initials and wedding date, while the heavy natural cotton ensures durability.
Buy Personalised Cotton Anniversary Blue Print from Not On The High Street (£44)
Embroidered-Spot Classic Cotton Pyjama Set
These cotton pyjamas from The White Company are a lovely second wedding anniversary gift. Featuring a blue embroidered spot design, mother-of-pearl buttons and an elasticated waist band, this set offers luxury with maximum comfort.
Buy Embroidered-Spot Classic Cotton Pyjama Set from The White Company (£59.50)
Wiltshire Print Cotton Square Photo Album
Two years into your marriage, you've probably collected some special memories. What better way to look back on the good times than a beautiful cotton-covered photo album? Fill it with a few of your favourite pictures from your wedding day up until your second anniversary, or keep it fresh to fill with the next year of memories!
Buy Wiltshire Print Cotton Square Photo Album from Liberty (£70)
Cotton Heart Anniversary Bracelet
Jewellery is always a lovely gift, and this cotton bracelet if the perfect second anniversary present. The cotton crochet cord paired with the metal heart detail makes a beautiful addition to any jewellery collection. Plus, there are a variety of colour options, so you can choose your partner's favourite!
Buy Cotton Heart Anniversary Bracelet from Etsy (£27)
Chocolate Sewing Set Cotton Anniversary Gift Box
Just because it's your cotton anniversary doesn't mean you have to buy something made from the material. Think outside the box with these cotton-inspired chocolates featuring yarns, scissors and bobbins.
Buy Chocolate Sewing Set Cotton Anniversary Gift Box from Not On The High Street (£15.50)
Byredo Cotton Poplin Scented Candle
When you think of cotton, you might imagine freshly laundered sheets and clean bedding, which is why it makes such a lovely candle scent. This candle from Byredo is minimalist in design and has a burn time of 60 hours.
Buy Byredo Cotton Poplin Scented Candle from Selfridges (£31)
Cotton Anniversary Custom Cross Stitch
For a more quirky second anniversary gift, this custom crochet is a lovely idea. Simply place your order, and once it's been confirmed, just send the seller the photo you want recreated as a cross stitch. A fun alternative for displaying your wedding photos!
Buy Cotton Anniversary Custom Cross Stitch from Etsy (from £12.49)
Barbour Tartan Check Cotton Handkerchiefs
Your second wedding anniversary gift can be classic and practical, too. These cotton handkerchiefs from Barbour are a useful, sophisticated choice, perfect for your second wedding anniversary dinner!
BuyBarbour Tartan Check Cotton Handkerchiefs from John Lewis (£21.95)
Framed Song Lyrics Printed on Cotton
There are plenty of unique ways to incorporate cotton into your anniversary gift. This frame containing song lyrics is printed onto cotton, so you can easily display it in your home. Featuring your first dance song lyrics is a lovely way to remember your special day.
Buy Song Lyrics Printed on Cotton from Etsy (£24)
Unisex Cotton Classic Robe
Why not buy a gift you can enjoy together? These unisex cotton robes from The White Company are luxurious and cosy, so you can enjoy lazy Sundays in matching dressing gowns!
Buy Unisex Cotton Classic Robe from The White Company (£65)
6 porcelain anniversary gift ideas
Love Birds China Necklace
This necklace is made from broken vintage blue willow china, creating a gorgeous pendant. The recycled nature of the materials used makes this a sustainable anniversary gift for anyone making conscious choices for the environment.
Buy Love Birds China Necklace from Etsy (from £103.86)
Porcelain Trio Bud Vases
No one can resist a beautiful bouquet of blooms, so it's only right your partner should have some lovely vases to complement them. This trio 0f vases is handmade from porcelain, perfect for displaying small arrangements. Why not buy some flowers or greenery to go with the vases for a perfect anniversary gift?
Buy Porcelain Trio Bud Vases from Etsy (£23.99)
Gilded Crane Stand
Here's something for anyone who loves to host. This gilded crane platter is a show-stopping centrepiece for any dinner party and is big enough to display and array of foods, from a Parisian-style pastry platter to a sweet dessert display. It's a second anniversary gift they will use for years to come!
Buy Gilded Crane Stand from Anthropologie (£328)
Lloyd the Llama Ceramic Planter
If your partner is passionate about house plants, this cute llama planter is a lovely modern second anniversary gift. This leak-proof porcelain planter is perfect for displaying succulents and cacti in your home. Or for something a bit different, why not plant your fresh herbs and keep it on your kitchen shelf or window sill?
BuyLloyd the Llama Ceramic Planter from Oliver Bonas (£15)
Timorous Beasties Large Trinket Tray
The Royal Opera House has collaborated with Scottish designers Timorous Beasties to create an exclusive collection, including this floral trinket tray. Made in the Potteries from fine bone china, it's an elegant piece to display on your side table to hold your jewellery and accessories, perfect as an anniversary gift.
Buy Timorous Beasties Large Trinket Tray from Royal Opera House (£18)
Boxed Mr & Mrs Mug Set
A classic porcelain anniversary gift, this set of two matching Mr and Mrs mugs is a lovely gift that's sure to get plenty of use. The neutral tone of the mugs paired with the subtle design makes them a suitable gift to match any taste and style.