Christmas gifts that no man wants to get
Of course, the best part about Christmas is the exchanging of gifts. But there’s something mildly traumatising about having to force a ‘thank you’ through a fake smile after unwrapping a rather disappointing present. And it’s even worse receiving the same reaction from someone else upon receiving a gift from you. To help you steer clear from those situations, here are a few awful Xmas presents that you should definitely, absolutely avoid.
G-Shock ring
Cringe Alert! This is a tiny ring shaped like the G-Shock 5600 wrist watch. Can you imagine trying to keep a straight face talking to somebody wearing one of these? But if you do like it – it’s £79.90. At gshock.casio.com
Self-help books
Unwrapping a festive parcel, only to unearth Taking Control of Your Depression or How to Break the Cycle of Unhealthy Eating will of course signal to the recipient that you think something’s wrong with them. If a loved one is truly in need of help, they probably already know it. Save this sort of subject matter for a deep truth sesh in a safe space amongst very close friends, not a Xmas gift.
Photo frames
Unless you’re a primary school kid who’s just made an art project with dried pasta and spray paint, don’t give people photo frames, especially if there isn’t even a photo included. Empty picture frames are considered bad luck as the blank space invites negative energy, so the least you can do is fill it with something personal. If you’re close enough to a person to give them a Christmas gift, then you’ll likely have a photo of or with them – use it!
Statement mugs
Another mug for Christmas, how original! Worst of all are mugs featuring cringey statements like ‘Do all things with love’. And mugs shaped like characters are even worse. They’ll go straight to the back of the cupboard, sitting along with 20 other mugs with slogans like ‘It’s actually wine in here’ or ‘Don’t talk to me before I finish my coffee’. Nobody on earth needs another mug.
Chocolates from brands no one’s heard of
Chocolates are often the way to go when it comes to Christmas presents. Most of us love a sweet treat. But forgive us for expecting something from Fortnum & Mason, Lindt or even trusty old Ferrero Rocher, over some dubious brand that no one’s ever heard of from Aldi or Lidl.
Socks, socks, and (no) socks
Yes, everyone wears socks – but just about everyone has enough socks and isn’t about to go barefoot. Socks are an item best bought for oneself, considering they have to be the right size, style, and colour. Gift a pair that are too small or too colourful and they’re pretty much rendered unwearable. And don’t even get me started on festive socks or offerings with cartoons.
Anything ‘novelty’
It’s probably incredibly funny and entertaining for the first couple of hours once you’ve opened the present, but every novelty gift quickly becomes an annoyance for the rest of the year. Just how likely are you to use that bum bag with a man’s hairy belly printed on it or a golf set designed to be played in the loo? Items that are sure to be binned before January’s midway through.
Anything exercise or diet-related
Think you’re being thoughtful by getting someone workout equipment? Think again. Unless you’re buying a gift for a fitness fanatic – and even then, it’s still a bit risky – it’s never a good idea to give anything exercise or diet-related. Instead of a ‘thank you’, you’re more likely to get a “what are you trying to say?” reaction.
