25 Best Second Wedding Anniversary Gifts: Cotton Ideas They'll Love
The traditional second wedding anniversary gift is cotton. Mark two years of marriage with a thoughtful 2nd anniversary gift - we've picked out 25 great cotton gift ideas
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You probably set the bar quite high with an amazing first wedding anniversary gift, so you need to make sure you deliver with an incredible second wedding anniversary gift.
Good news! The traditional gift for your second wedding anniversary is cotton. That means there are some seriously covetable presents you can buy while still following tradition. From gorgeous homewares to affordable-luxe clothing and personalised treats, there are plenty of excellent gifting options.
To help you narrow down the options, we’ve hunted high and low to find the best second anniversary gift ideas with cotton at their heart. The best bit about cotton anniversary presents? Treated right, the recipient will be able to treasure them forever.
Whether you're buying for your partner or for a special couple, these are the best contemporary cotton second wedding anniversary gifts that nod to tradition.
- 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Her
- 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Him
- 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Couples
25 of the Best 2nd Wedding Anniversary Cotton Gifts
Cotton is the traditional wedding anniversary gift for two years of marriage, but there is a modern equivalent too. Here are the anniversary symbols for two years of marriage.
- Traditional Second Wedding Anniversary Gift: Cotton
- Modern Second Wedding Anniversary Gift: China
- Second Wedding Anniversary Colour: Red
- Second Wedding Anniversary Flower: Cosmos
Cotton is the traditional gift as it represents the fabric of your life as it starts to weave together. It's still quite delicate, but it's coming together as you build the fabric for the tapestry of your marriage life.
2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Her
Looking for a second wedding anniversary gift for your wife? Here are some of our favourite 2nd anniversary presents for her.
1. Signature Pyjama Set – Desmond & Dempsey
Not only does Desmond & Dempsey have some of the coolest PJ designs around – think punchy tropical jungle and animal prints (like this signature Jaguar style) aplenty – you can also monogram them for free, giving an even more luxurious feel to that next lazy Sunday morning.
They're made from 100% cotton which will keep you cool as you sleep, despite the long trousers. This is confirmed by a customer who said, "I’m usually so hot in the night wearing silk or stretchy cotton pyjamas, but in these gorgeous cotton ones I’m the perfect temperature!"
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in three to five days
- Expert Take: They have deep pockets and an elasticated waistband for a comfortable fit. It is recommended to size up if they prefer a looser fit for pyjamas.
2. Cotton Flowers – Little Foundry
Who says you can’t still give flowers on your cotton wedding anniversary? The best thing about these beautiful blooms from Little Foundry is that they're made of cotton so will last a lifetime! We particularly like the personalised oak charm that you can order with these flowers.
Choose from a selection of different colours, including blue, purple and pink and you can also add on a bouquet jug so that they can sit pride of place on the side.
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in around a week, with options to add express
- Expert Take: If you are trying to match them to your wedding bouquet, they have an option for that. Bespoke orders will take a little longer to be delivered.
3. Monogrammed Shirt – With Nothing Underneath
Beautiful shirts from British designers With Nothing Underneath can be monogrammed in store, whether you're looking for initials, numbers or a more custom design to celebrate your second wedding anniversary. If you'd like something a bit more personal, choose to have your embroidery done by hand with Cressida Jamieson, and have a unique handwritten message on a shirt.
Your loved one will wear and treasure this luxurious shirt for years to come. It costs upwards of £15 to have your monogramming done.
- Delivery Time: £5 for delivery in seven to fourteen days
- Expert Take: If you can’t decide which shirt to buy for your loved one on your second wedding anniversary, take the find your shirt quiz.
4. ADA Oversized Hoodie – Adanola
It may be a popular choice, but this hoodie from Adanola is a hit for a reason. Made from 100% organic cotton with a super soft feel, this oversized hoodie combines style and comfort. It's a great gift for those who love chilling out.
- Delivery Time: £3.50 delivery in around three to five days, with options to upgrade to express delivery
- Expert Take: If you’re feeling especially generous, buy your spouse the whole set. There are hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts and bottoms to choose from.
5. Tie Dye Blue Laundry & Undies Bags Set of Two – Oliver Bonas
These cotton drawstring bags will be just as practical as they are pretty. If you're planning to go on a romantic holiday to celebrate your second wedding anniversary, these bags are ideal for travelling. You can use them to store your laundry and undies as they suggest, or fill them with other items like skincare and makeup. They’re incredibly useful!
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in around three to five days, with the option to upgrade to express delivery
- Expert Take: Purchase two sets and have a matching pair for when you travel together. Nothing says romance more than taking responsibility for your own dirty laundry.
6. Linen and Cotton Scented Candle – John Lewis
Who doesn’t love the smell of clean laundry? We're confident that you and your other half will both appreciate this gorgeous scented cotton candle, which burns for up to 35 hours. Enjoy the tranquil fragrance of linen, rose petals, lily, musk and sandalwood which one customer described as "fresh".
It's an unusual take on second wedding anniversary cotton gifts and one we don't think your partner will expect.
- Delivery Time: £4.50 delivery in two to five days, with the option for click and collect and express delivery
- Expert Take: As the design of this candle is so stunning, it will look wonderful on the side even when it isn't lit.
7. Sightseer Cotton-Linen Set – Free People
A beautiful set from Free People, there are three colourway options in this easy to wear, free flowing design. A wardrobe staple, this set will make your other half feel comfy and free, and makes for a brilliant travelling outfit. This second wedding anniversary gift is especially suited if you have an upcoming holiday or plan on surprising your spouse with a trip.
- Delivery Time: £6 delivery takes around seven to ten days
- Expert Take: Pack a camera, whether digital or disposable, with this beautiful set, and frame it as an upcoming trip invite.
2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Him
Looking for a cotton wedding anniversary gift for your husband? Here are the best 2nd wedding anniversary gifts for him.
8. Paul Smith Pack of 5 Cotton-Blend Boxer Briefs – Matches Fashion
Looking for a second wedding anniversary gift for your husband? Get him some stylish underwear from a leading brand, like this Paul Smith five-pack. The vibrant, contrasting waistbands give a fun and playful look, but the plain black design keeps them understated and ideal for everyday wear.
- Sizing: S-XL
- Delivery Time: £8 for delivery that takes around two to three working days
- Expert Take: They're cotton blend rather than pure cotton, but when they look as good as this, who's complaining?
9. Ultimate Turkish Luxury Cotton Towel – Marks & Spencer
Nobody can resist luxuriously soft towels, and these Turkish luxury cotton sets from Marks & Spencer are an excellent pick. There are several colours to choose from, and we’re particularly fond of the mauve, duck egg and stone. Customers seem to agree with us, with one writing “fabulous quality towels, very soft and thick. Perfect!”
- Delivery Time: Free delivery with a spend over £60 or £3.99 otherwise, with options for click and collect and express delivery
- Expert Take: These will be a present for you, too, so it’s a win-win second wedding anniversary gift.
10. Socks – Solesmith
Socks, but make them second-wedding-anniversary-worthy. This personalised pair from Solesmith are a cute, affordable gift and and they're made from 75% cotton so will keep toes toasty, while still being breathable.
Reviews confirm that they wash well, but we recommend a cold wash so that the lettering stays in great condition.
- Sizing: 4-11
- Delivery Time: £3.95 delivery in around five days
- Expert Take: The black design means they are ideal for everyday wear - whether they rock them to work or on the weekend.
11. Unisex Cotton Classic Robe – The White Company
On chilly mornings and evenings, there's nothing more delicious than a snuggly cotton robe - and The White Company may well make the snuggliest. This robe manages the clever trick of being incredibly comfortable and yet still stylish.
It's a bestseller for this brand for a reason, with one person saying "it is the best bathrobe out there," and "great value compared with alternatives."
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in around three to five days
- Expert Take: The mid-weight material makes it a perfect year-round option. It has an oversized fit so be mindful of this when ordering.
2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Couples
Want to get a second wedding anniversary gift for a couple? Or perhaps you're looking for something to treat yourselves to, to mark two years of marriage? Read on!
12. French Rose Washed Cotton Percale Duvet Cover – Piglet In Bed
Made from 100% cotton, this beautiful bedding set has a washed feel for extra softness, whilst the percale weave gives it a matte finish and relaxed look. This fresh and velvety pink is inspired by the warm romance of English cottages, and will make for a super sweet second wedding anniversary gift.
- Delivery Time: Free delivery which takes around one week.
- Expert Take: This is a present that both you and your partner can enjoy. Choose designs and bundles to suit your budget and style, picking from pillow cases, sheets and duvet covers.
13. Natural Printed Cotton Throw – Trouva
A throw is one of those design details that can really add style to a living space or bedroom. This natural cotton throw is undeniably chic, and it would also be a delight to snuggle under during a Netflix marathon. Here are some of the most romantic Netflix movies to watch right now.
It is crafted from recycled cotton and is brimming with texture and warmth.
- Delivery Time: £4.99 delivery in around three to five working days, with options for click and collect
- Expert Take: This boutique offers a complimentary gift wrapping service. There are only a few throws available so we recommend adding this to your basket ASAP.
14. Spa Day – Virgin Experience Days
This is cheating a tiny bit, but if you book a couples’ spa day, you’ll have robes and slippers provided which counts as cotton. So when you think about it, you’re not cheating really are you? And you’ll be so relaxed you won’t even care. Discover even more romantic spa breaks in the UK.
"A gift experience for couples is great for those who are hard to buy for and you'll have memories of your second wedding anniversary that will last a lifetime," says Joanna Magill, writer at Hitched. "You could even book the spa day in for the date of your anniversary."
- Delivery Time: Instant delivery via email
- Expert Take: There are lots of experiences to choose from so it will take some time picking the perfect one. The variety of spas and packages means there is bound to be one that is suitable for your location and taste.
15. Personalised Cotton Towels – Etsy
Splash out on some new fluffy towels that reference your new couple status with this luxury customisable set. They are available as a hand, bath towel or bath sheet so can cater to different budgets and are embroidered in stylish lettering.
They would also make a lovely wedding gift if you have any in your calendar.
- Delivery Time: £2.95 delivery in around a week
- Expert Take: They are only available in white with black font, but this is a gorgeous colourway that will fit into any bathroom.
16. Fabric Wedding Song – No Ordinary Gift
It’s been two years since your romantic first dance at your wedding – so why not reminisce about that special song and have the lyrics printed onto cotton and framed? It will be a beautiful reminder of a special moment and is a really unusual way of livening up a wall in your home.
One review said that their wife cried from happiness upon opening - now, that's a reaction we like to see!
- Delivery Time: £3.95 delivery in around a week, with options for express delivery
- Expert Take: The wooden frame is optional but we recommend opting for it as it will stop any damage to the cotton and means it can be hung up in your house straight away.
17. Bridgerton Fit For A Queen Soft Rose Rug — Ruggable
Another slight cheat from us here, but we couldn’t resist. Whilst traditional oriental style rugs are made from cotton (along with wool, pure silk and even animal hair), Ruggable’s designs are much more practical.
These premium rugs are still liveable – so if you have a family running around making a mess, but don’t want to compromise on style, you’ll be pleased to hear that these rugs are machine washable and made with more friendly materials. For a touch of romance, we just can’t get enough of this exquisite Regency inspired rosy rug.
It will be a second wedding anniversary gift that is treasured for many years to come.
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in around three to five days, with the option to upgrade to express delivery
- Expert Take: The perfect gift for homeowners, and customers of Ruggable think so too. One customer wrote “I love this rug. It is so pretty and unique. It’s good quality, whimsical and it livens up a space.”
18. Sari Photo Album – Paper High
These beautiful photo albums, which you can fill with all your memories, come in colourful sari colours and are bound with recycled cotton paper. They are a lovely alternative to a traditional album and a great idea if you haven't got around to getting a wedding photo album yet.
Each album contains 30 pages and can hold up to 60 photographs.
- Delivery Time: £3.95 delivery in around five days, with the option for express delivery
- Expert Take: You can add photo corners for an additional fee so it will be all set up for you to get sticking. Fountain pens aren't recommended for use on this paper.
19. Champagne Bottle Bag – Etsy
A bottle of their favourite drink - it doesn't have to be alcoholic, of course - is a simple yet effective present. Make it extra special by presenting it to your other half in one of these personalised bags. Made from 100% cotton, it holds up to a one litre bottle and has a drawstring closure.
- Delivery Time: £2.95 delivery in around three to ten days
- Expert Take: This present is best suited for those who don't want to go too extravagant for their second wedding anniversary, but still want a thoughtful idea.
20. The Viral Collection Embroidered Napkins – Avalon Home at Wolf & Badger
Absolutely gorgeous! That’s what we think of these witty napkins from Avalon Home. ‘Please leave by 9’ has us chuckling, and we think your other half will feel the same way. This set of four cotton napkins is an excellent way to honour your second wedding anniversary whilst keeping gifts practical.
- Delivery Time: £5 delivery takes around a week
- Expert Take: Invite your loved ones over to celebrate your second wedding anniversary with you and show your new purchase off, we think they’ll love them.
21. Cactus Embroidery Kit – Etsy
Surprising as it may sound, embroidery has become one of the hottest hobby trends out there. If you know your partner would like to give it a go, there are some fabulous kits on Etsy - think contemporary designs rather than the twee animals of old. We chose this cactus kit because the finished product is very much something we would like to have in our homes.
Anniversary relevance? Your partner would be sewing cotton thread onto cotton fabric.
- Delivery Time: Free delivery in around three to ten days
- Expert Take: This kit includes practice fabric making it suitable for beginners. One review commented that it was their first time doing embroidery and "the instructions were really easy to follow and it was a great introductory piece."
22. Cotton Stems – Etsy
If your partner loves on-trend homewares, treat them to this bunch of dried cotton stems - dried flowers and foliage are all over the most fashionable Insta grids right now. It's perfect for adding texture to a small corner of your home while maintaining a minimal pared-back look, and it will last for years to come.
"If you're planning on gifting your partner a bunch of flowers for your second wedding anniversary gift, it's a lovely idea to pop a few of these stems in among the blooms," says Zoe Burke, editor of Hitched. "It'll nod to the traditional present of cotton and give the bouquet a beautiful finish."
- Delivery Time: £5.99 delivery in around seven to ten days
- Expert Take: You can choose from one, two or three stems but we recommend going for the latter as they will look fuller in a vase. The buds are delicate so be careful not to damage them when wrapping.
23. Personalised Wedding Cross Stitch Pattern – Etsy
If you or your partner are into cross-stitch, this cute personalised design is just what you've been looking for. When you send your picture over, they'll create the design that you can stitch yourself. You can have up to seven characters in the design.
Worried that the cross-stitch won't resemble you? Reviews confirm that the design is on-point: "It is super accurate and detailed and it totally looked like my husband and I! I was so impressed with the detail down to the facial features, colouring, and style of our clothing."
- Delivery Time: Instant delivery via email
- Expert Take: This present will take some time to complete before you get the finished product, but that's half the fun of it, and you can do it together.
24. Happy Marriage Tea Towel – Etsy
How adorable is this 'recipe for a marriage' cotton tea towel? You can personalise it with your names and wedding date and the rest of the recipe will be done for you. It doesn't even have to be used as tea towel - one customer said they framed it and hung it up in their kitchen.
- Delivery Time: £3.49 delivery in around three to ten days
- Expert Take: All the tea towels are white so that the design shows up clearly, however they can be machine washed. Line dry for longevity.
25. Recycled Cotton Tote – TBCo
There isn’t a time when a shopping tote hasn’t come in handy. They have so many uses — heading to a workout class, packing essentials for a trip, for work, at the shops, and plenty of other things in between. We love this tote from TBCo, and it's made from 100% recycled cotton. The thick canvas makes it especially durable, and it's a great price, too.
Shoppers tend to agree, with one writing “I keep buying from TBCo. because I love their stuff! And everyone I've ever gifted something from them too. Quick shipping, lovely packaging, stunning quality and design.”
- Delivery Time: £4 delivery in around two to five days, with the chance to upgrade to express shipping
- Expert Take: If you’re feeling especially generous, buy your spouse the whole set. There are hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts and bottoms to choose from.
What is the Traditional 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gift?
The traditional second wedding anniversary gift is cotton as it symbolises the strength, weave and comfort between two people.
"It is sturdier than the first wedding anniversary gift of paper but is still flexible as your bond is getting stronger," explains Zoe Burke, wedding expert and Editor of Hitched.
What Gift Do You Give For Your 2nd Wedding Anniversary?
Your second wedding anniversary is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your home with lush cotton bedding, luxury clothing and cosy throws. "You can also think outside the box with cotton scented items, such a candles or fragrance, or personalised cotton products including beautiful shirts and framed crafting ideas," says Zoe.
Gift sorted, but how are you going to celebrate your second wedding anniversary? Check out our list of fun date ideas for inspiration!
