I've seen the tepid smirk -- indicative of something between patient tolerance and mild contempt -- on women's faces when they receive a huge bouquet of flowers enough times to know that women aren't really all that into big lavish gifts. I think it makes them feel like their men are attempting to buy them. And the ones who do want the expensive gifts are self-conscious whores and comfortable with that fact.
I can count on one hand the number of times I've given my wife flowers. The first time it was
A flower, a single long-stemmed red rose. When I handed it to her, her eyes welled up with tears. She carried that rose with her everywhere for days, showing it off to all her friends. It
meant something to her. The jewelry I've given her has been simple and elegant, sometimes even handmade. Nothing elaborate or ostentatious.
As a result, she's thrilled and surprised every time.