
Does your loved one love his or her newest iPhone? Here are some top-notch cases that make for a Valentine’s Day gift he or she will remember but are still more affordable than an engagement ring.

A leather case is always a good choice, but for a special occassion like Valentine’s Day, why not go a little more exotic? Ullu’s alligator leather SnapOn case ($449) for iPhone 6 and 6s comes in a bunch of vibrant colors, like hot pink, lime, turquoise, and “Blue Jeans.” All of Ullu’s leather products are handcrafted, and the company ensures that the leather has been sourced ethically and legally.

The iPhone may have replaced our Moleskins but that doesn’t mean we can’t still feel like we’re carrying around a notebook just in case inspiration strikes. Hex’s Icon Wallet Case ($50) for iPhone 6, 6s, 6 Plus, and 6s Plus has the same leather finishes as a Moleskin. It even has an elastic strap to keep the cover from flapping open.

Jewelry designer Samantha Wills knows how to make a girl feel special. Inside this dark marble and rose gold case ($50) for iPhone 6, you’ll find an inspirational quote, “So she decided to live the life she’d always imagined.” Perfect for making every day feel like Valentine’s Day.

If your loved one prefers natural materials over glass and aluminum, this case might be the one. Portland-based Grovemade has a Walnut & Leather Case ($139) for iPhone 6, 6s, 6 Plus and 6s Plus. It’s made from solid walnut wood and the leather cover can be configured so that your iPhone is propped up horizontally.

For your first date, did you two go sky-diving, white water rafting, or engage in any other epic adventure? LifeProof’s FRĒ Power battery case ($117) for iPhone 6 and 6s will have you covered. It’s waterproof and will also keep snow and sand from getting into your iPhone. Oh, and just because it’s sometimes hard to find an electrical outlet in the wildnerness, this case will also double your battery life.

Some iPhone users believe that putting a case on their device is akin to putting a bumper sticker on a Bentley. If you’re dating an Apple design die-hard, consider getting SwitchEasy’s Nude case ($18) for iPhone 6. The transparent case is ultra-thin, measuring a measly 0.6mm, so it doesn’t detract from Apple’s design.

You know what they say, the couple who bikes together, stays together. Or something like that. San Francisco-based WaterField has a Cycling Ride Pouch ($69) designed specifically for those times you just have to check your iPhone while riding your bike. The leather pouch has a plastic slot that fits an iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. You can even tap your Homescreen and Home button while your phone is inside the pouch, but just make sure your can bike hands-free.

If your iPhone had to get dressed to go to a New Year’s party, this is probably what it would wear. Case Mate’s Brilliance Case ($80) for iPhone 6 and 6s is made with real crystals that shimmer and shine when the light hits it. The Brilliance collection has cases in Champange, Rose Gold, Turquoise, and Diamond, of course.
Author: Oscar Raymundo, Staff Writer

Oscar writes about iOS, mobile culture and digital music. He also hosts 'The iPhone Show' from Macworld's San Francisco HQ.