If you’ve not yet been accosted by Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’ either in the office or walking past the shops, you’ve definitely not got out enough. For ’tis the season, and with the multiplying tinsel comes growing anxieties over presents.
In a world where shopping can happen at the click of a button, choosing a memorable gift for someone is harder said than done. But that’s enough about other people. You also need to make time to consider what you want to see in your sack this festive season.
Been eyeing up a new watch, or in need of a refill for your drinks cabinet? Take advantage of the Christmas spirit and have someone else shell out for one for you. That’s how it works, right? The Christmas spirit?
With that in mind, we’ve collated the finest festive gifts for men at every price point. Here’s what to ask for Christmas this year:
Head Gear
The trick to bossing the winter months as a style-conscious gentleman is to keep warm while looking good. Not as easy as it sounds – wearing a hat, of course, is an art form in itself – but you’ll manage it with any of this quality headgear.
House Plant
No home is complete with some shrubbery to add that all-important natural touch to the interior décor – especially in those winters when venturing out into actual nature is about as appealing as a snowball to the face.
Coffee Table Book
Nothing says Christmas present like a giant slab of a book to fill out those shelves – the kind of luxury, oversized gift you can’t get enough of at Christmas. Packed with glossy pics and dense information, these are the dictionary definition of a man-book.
Your Favourite Aftershave
Just make sure to spell out exactly what you want, leave the empty bottle lying around, send links if you have to, or risk getting a fragrance that smells more like rubbing alcohol. These are all safe bets.
Wrist Bling
It’s often thought that a watch is one of the few pieces of sparkly jewellery that men are allowed to actively seek out. The problem? The generally hefty price tags that come attached to bling. Can’t afford Swiss-made? That’s alright, you ain’t paying.
High-Quality Socks
Not just a myth; well-made socks make getting up when it’s still dark out that much easier (on your cold feet, at least). Wool-cotton styles wear better and keep your feet warmer. Add a splash of colour under your suit trousers for a little added personality.
Premium Cotton T-shirts
If there’s one thing every man needs more of, it’s basics. Washed a red sock with your white T-shirt? Ruined. Coffee spill in transit? In the bin. Sweat stains? Out. We’d suggest requesting a pack of six or more.
The Thinking Man’s Accessory
Here’s a shocker: men have feelings too. Even if you don’t want to use a journal as a diary, they can help keep track of your thoughts and ideas; from money-making to incriminating. In either case, always burn once full.
Shades
sunglasses in winter might signal to others that you’re a bit of a tool. But getting this holiday expense out of the way early is a good way of keeping more cash in the kitty for when you’re eventually poolside. Until then, they can be used to ease the inevitable New Year’s hangover.
An #InteriorGoals Throw
There’s nothing manly about being cold. Or leaving your company to freeze while you sit there looking glib and oblivious in a Christmas jumper. Plus, it’s probably time you covered those sofa stains.
A Cosy AF Down Jacket
Come on, own up. It’s cold. You can say it. This is a safe space. There’s nothing manly about tempting fate with frostbite on the walk back from the pub. So this year stock your wardrobe with a winter coat that’s much warmer than a beer jacket.
A Good Cookbook
It’s the 21st century and if you haven’t yet cooked a meal that consists of more than toast you’ve got some catching up to do. We’d suggest one-pot options to start (a home-cooked meal is still a home-cooked meal) while you work up to more complex recipes.
A Lamp To Love
Still choosing between two extremes of lighting: pitch black and operating theatre? Switch your family on to sorting you out with a stylish lamp, and learn the art of hygge, candlelight, pillows and throws while you’re at it. You won’t regret it.
Adult Bed Sheets
Crack a joke about being 27 going on 72 if you have to, but trust us, you’ll never look back. Aside from the fact no one is going to want to jump your bones if ‘where the magic happens’ is covered in race cars, there’s really no better excuse for snoozing through your morning meeting.
An Alarm Clock
Dark winter mornings make it even harder to crowbar yourself out from under the duvet. A wake-up light alarm clock mimics a real sunrise to coax your body into getting up and at ‘em while others are simply obnoxiously loud but get the job done.
Whisky
For when you nail that job interview (slash whenever, really) – there is always an excuse for quality whisky. You can’t go wrong with these luxe options, and if you can’t splash out on a drink over Christmas, when can you?
A Razor
razors are created equal but you can find some that are sharp in more ways than one. This year, make sure you ask for one that’s both useful and aesthetically pleasing as it’s likely the grooming gear that’s most in-use – and thus most-seen laying about.
High-Fidelity Headphones
Although you can get away with any old pair of earbuds, why would you? Invest in a high-quality pair and they will elevate your music to a whole new level of audio, proving useful long after you use them to drown out the in-laws over Christmas dinner.
Wall Art
You’ve successfully moved out, you’ve kept a plant alive and you no longer live in halls of residence. Now it’s time to decorate the walls. No, not with boughs of holly. With tasteful wall prints (old lad’s mag pin-ups don’t count either.)
A Beard Trimmer
Christmas is a fraught enough time as it is, don’t add giving your other half stubble rash. Keep your facial forest neat and tidy with a set of beard trimmers. Now all you have to do is worry about cleaning the hair-covered sink.
An Activity Tracker
Looking to get fit in the new year? A fitness watch can be enough to motivate you (or shame you) into swapping the TV tray for the treadmill. Try not to take it as an insult, everyone is wearing them these days.
Big Boy Pants
Underwear is a personal gift, sure, but also one that will never elicit an “ugh, more of those?” reaction. You may even discover a new favourite brand, like CDLP who has a sleek collection of upscale men’s underwear in every style you can think of. And really, do you actually need a reason for owning more pants?
A Neck Massager
Nowadays, life is just so stressful. From hunching over your computer for 8 hours a day (or more) to running around making sure your life doesn’t completely derail, you definitely need to relieve some tension. Ask for some bliss from the comfort of your own couch with a neck massager.
Coffee
The nectar of the gods. The fuel that keeps on giving. Whatever coffee is to you, asking for a few bags of your favorite coffee beans — or even a coffee subscription — will have you waking up energised (literally) on Christmas morning.
A Needed Skincare Set
Not taking care of your skin is so 2000 and late. Stop relying on faucet water to keep your skin looking clear and young, and instead ask for a beginner skincare set equipped with basic cleansers, moisturizers, and more. You will look refreshed and glowing in no time.
A Wallet
Do you have your big-boy wallet yet? No? It’s time to upgrade. Whether you go with regular leather, faux leather, or vegan leather, you need a wallet that will stand the test of time – and actually has pockets for your cards, ID, and more. Trust us, no one wants to see you pull out a frayed and ratty wallet.
Knife Set
Whether your Gordon Ramsey or not, you need a grown-up knife set for chopping veggies, fruits, and more. You can’t rely on your blunt knives anymore; instead, know the satisfaction that comes with clean and crisp cuts.
A Weighted Blanket
Feeling anxious? Tap into the healing energy of a weighted blanket, and enjoy the benefits of having less stress and a better night’s sleep. It might take some getting used to but feeling the weight slowly pushing down on you will be worth it.
A Legendary Air Fryer
Chicken wings? Set. French fries? Set. Literally any food you can ask for? Check. Everyone made fun of air fryers at first, but you can become a culinary genius with this countertop gadget. Gameday will never be the same.
Travel Backpack
Whether you’re hopping on flight after flight or just trying to make the most of your commute to work, a travel backpack for your laptop and other important necessities is, well, a necessity. And we aren’t talking about the backpack you brought to school every year. Time to get something professional, sleek, and stylish.
A Towel Set
On top of making sure you have big-boy sheets and bedding, you should also ensure that you have a big-boy towel set. When your hand towels match your body towel, you know you’ve truly made it in life – or are at least ready to fake it!
Charging Station
With all of our gadgets nowadays, you need a one-stop place to charge everything. When writing out your Christmas wish list, make sure to add a charging station. You will never have to worry you’re phone, Ipad, etc is going to be dead before you can even use it.
Beer Subscription
If you’re a beer lover who enjoys taking their tastebuds on spontaneous trips, this type of subscription is for you. Test out different ales, pilsners, and stouts from local breweries, and impress everyone when you go out.
House Slippers
Don’t walk around on cold floors anymore. Instead, embrace the comfort that a sturdy pair of house mocassins or slippers can give you. Not only will it encourage you not to wear your outdoor shoes inside (and help keep your floors cleaner), but it will keep your toes warm when the colder months enter the chat.
A Portable Bluetooth Speaker
From the shower to the beach, a portable speaker will allow you to narrate your life through song. Also, just think about the holiday cheer you can spread on Christmas morning by playing Christmas carols over the new speaker!
A Belt
Odds are, you’re still using the same belt for every pair of your pants. Do yourself a favor and put new belts on your wish list. You need at least one brown belt and one black belt to avoid looking like a walking fashion faux pas.
Comfy Joggers
You can never have too much athleisure in your wardrobe. Perfect for running errands, working out, going on a casual stroll, resting at home, and even for more laid-back hangouts, a solid pair of joggers will keep you both comfy and stylish. Get pairs in different colours and fabrics, and you’ll be set.
Legit Bartender Kit
Instead of going out every weekend and blowing through all your hard-earned money, have someone else invest in a bartender kit for you. Learn how to create your favorite cocktails from your kitchen, and become the speakeasy you were meant to be.
Cellphone Case
Have you updated your cellphone case yet? Do you even have a cellphone case? Treat yourself and protect your phone at the same time. Whether you want just some simple solid colours or a case with pockets for your cards or pictures, there is a case for you.
A Humidifier
Tired of waking up congested? The air in your home too dry? One way to solve these problems is by asking for a diffuser for Christmas. Breathe easier with your air being the right humidity. And if you’re feeling really fancy, you can ask for a humidifier that doubles as a diffuser to help keep your home smelling right.
Driving Gloves
A pair of leather or faux leather gloves are an adulthood must. Either lined with cashmere or another luxurious fabric, these gloves will keep your hands warm and you looking cool. Perfect for long winter drives or on a first date in the bitter cold.
Fresh Pajamas
It’s nice to spice up your nighttime wear with a bougie pajama set. Whether it’s satin or flannel, looking put together for bed adds maturity to your look. Also, it gets boring just wearing a T-shirt and boxers.
A Necessary Face Mask
Nowadays, you should carry a face mask with you in case you find yourself in a situation where you need it. Now, that face mask doesn’t need to be just a plain old disposable one; up your game with some carefully detailed fabric and cloth masks.
Decadent Deodorant
You shouldn’t rely solely on your months-old Old Spice to keep your BO in check. Instead, ensure you smell great always with a deodorant that will last. Also, updating your smells is never a bad thing.
A Soft Scarf
Trust us, it’s not manly to have a cold neck. This Christmas, ask your loved ones for a super soft and warm scarf to help you get through the winter months. Also, it really pulls together a winter outfit.
New Sneakers
What is Christmas other than opportunity to get a new pair of sneakers all bought and paid for? And we all know that unbeatable feeling of strutting around the house wearing a box fresh pair and brand new duds on Christmas Day. Try these classic designs or opt for a sleek new style from a brand like Axel Arigato or Oliver Cabell.
A Nod To Hygge
It’s hard to breathe fresh air into a market saturated by samey scents, but sometimes you’ve just got to go with the classics: applewood, forest leather and rose. Nothing says festive gifts for men more than a comfy candle and when they’re burned through, re-purpose the vessels as a key holder/coin purse/bud vase.
Knitwear
A chunky fisherman’s jumper or merino wool roll neck is never a bad idea. Ideal for layering or just wearing around the house on a cold winter’s day, good quality knitwear should make up a large portion of your winter wardrobe, so why not add to it this Christmas?
Jewellery
Male jewellery has really taken off over the past few years, with more men turning to necklaces, bracelets and earrings to add a personal touch to their style. If you want to get involved, be specific with what you ask for – perhaps send over a couple of links so people know what styles you like.
Grilling Set
There are millions of pans, pots and grilltops out there but to really up your BBQ game it’s best to start with the classics. You’ll never get those perfect grill marks if you’re still using the tiny fork from the utensil drawer. Embrace the wild outdoors (or at least the backyard) and make sure you never have another dry steak for those first-rate get-togethers.