I would suggest books,food, wine, or something related to an interest of hers (but not a hobby. if she has a hobby that requires equipment, she has what she wants already, try to pick something that she’ll simply enjoy).

Gift cards and cash are rather thoughtless, especially if you actually have known the person long enough to know her tastes and interests, which you have. A gift that you’ve picked out because you thought she’d like it is far more appropriate. No polite person, especially one of whom you speak so highly, would dream of expressing distaste for something you thoughtfully picked out.

CD? Book? Computer game? Did you know any of her hobbies? Something to add to her collection maybe.

Nothing is horrible. She was your roommate and now your friend, and nothing is a really crappy gift. It’s more like a non-friend gift really. Gift card seems really impersonal but you’re a guy so maybe because you are a guy she might let you off on that. Some ppl really do believe guys are idiots when it comes to gift buying. No offence meant. I’m just saying what so many ppl have bandied about.

Just don’t give anything sexual. No underwear. No flowers unless you know for a fact she won’t misconstrue it as something else. No perfume. No jewelery.

It should be personal but not sexual. Basically, not something you’d usually get a girlfriend.

Hope this helps some. Good luck!! Birthday gifts are always tough.