Not that I’m biased at all, but I genuinely think that us ladies are so much easier to buy for than guys. Not only are there so many amazing gift guides out there for woman (*cough* I even made my own one here *cough* #ShamelessPlugsAreAllowedAtChristmas) that makes shopping a piece of cake, but there’s also just so many pieces of beautiful makeup, or a fragrance, or a candle that just looks so dreamy that any girl would be over the moon with.
But I always find myself having to really sit and think when it comes to buying for my boyfriend Ryan Gosling the men in my life. Of course there are the standard items that work a treat, but generally you’ve already used those ideas last christmas (… and the Christmas before that). So bearing in mind that so many of you asked if I was going to be doing a Men’s gift guide this year – clearly the struggle is real for all of us – I dedicated a good amount of time to thinking of the perfect gift ideas for the guys – I know, spending hours thinking about shopping, I surely deserve some kind of Blue Peter badge for that, right? – and came to the conclusion that the best option for me was to head into town, back to Debenhams – you know, that really amazing Department store that I fangirl over far too much – as I just know that when it comes to the perfect set of gifts that all men will love, I’m always going to find some winners there.
Clothing
The huge perk of buying your favourite males clothing is that if they have quite, how can I put this, questionable fashion sense, it’s a great way of helping them out in the style stakes. It also just works really well because everybody wears clothes – at least I hope they do – so it’s practical and something that they’ll really get their use out of. Here are my top picks for amazing clothing options from the designers at Debenhams.
A scarf. You just cannot go wrong with a scarf. Practical, a necessity in our UK winter, and just something that can instantly make an outfit look more chic (not that most men will really appreciate looking more chic, but their girlfriend, daughter, Mum, significant other etc. probably will). My favourite has to be this gorgeous, classic J by Jasper Conran grey checked scarf.
I also absolutely love these knits from J by Jasper Conran which come in all the colours in the world and just look so classic and put together. On it’s own and over the top of a shirt, it’s the perfect go to sweater that you really can’t go wrong with.
OK, the next pick is one for the guys (and the girls in a way, hear me out on this one…) One of the first things I look at on a man is his shoes. I genuinely think – in a completely superficial way – that it says a lot about a man. So if your guy’s shoes are…. not quite to your taste, then I think a good pair of smart shoes are such a perfect pick. I adore these Red Herring Brogue boots especially (and I have to say, the fiance does actually wear these a lot [insert thumbs up emoji here]) otherwise they would be at the top of my list for his gifts this year!
Finally for clothing, a good pair of gloves. Guys like to be all “macho macho” but they’re the first ones that want to steal your gloves on a freezing cold, winter’s evening. A pair of classic leather or suede/shearling gloves will not only keep him warm (and moan-free) but also happy as they look so stylish.
Accessories
If trying to completely overhaul the man in your life’s wardrobe lend a helping hand in the fashion department isn’t your main priority, then an amazing quality accessory would be a fabulous idea. Here are some of my favourite picks which I really had to resist buying all of for my fiance/Dad/brother etc.
I feel like a wallet might be slightly creeping towards the more cliche/standard side of gifts but I had to include it as not only did Debenhams have beautifully well made ones, but they also have amazing sets which immediately struck my eye. A wallet really is one of those fail safe items, they’re going to use it everyday, it’ll last them a long time (providing you buy a great quality ones like the above, of course) and this nifty little set also includes a fab black belt to go alongside it. Useful, practical and chic.
Watches. For me, watches are such a personal thing that I do think are really tough to buy as a gift unless you know the exact one that somebody likes. However, when I saw this Red Herring brown analogue watch I immediately wrestled/karate chopped everyone out the way grabbed one as it had my brother’s name written all over it. A beautiful classic brown strap with a really modern navy front, I know he will love this. But if brown and blue aren’t doing it for you, there are so many other options to go for. Yep, I really wasn’t joking when I said Debenhams was your one stop shop was I?
Last but most definitely not least, a bag. I have to say, this is definitely one of my favourite options (… and not just because Men’s bags make for perfect travel bags too). There’s something about a Man’s bag that’s always very simplistic, very minimalistic, but always looks chic; and it’s safe to say that this runs true for the Debenhams options too. Not only was I blown away by the beautiful leather/suede materials, but also by the incredible range of shapes and styles. My fiance’s biggest bug bear is that men’s clothing in general is just so much more limited than women’s, so I was really pleased to see so many options. My personal favourite (that I intend to buy for – and then subsequently steal from – him) is the beautiful leather satchel [insert heart eye’d emoji’s here].
Fragrances
Another item that you really can’t go wrong with – p.s I am not being sponsored to say “can’t go wrong with” 20 million times, I just made a really conscious effort to pick things that would work for the vast majority – are fragrances. Whether the man in your life uses it every day, or on special occasions, I’m always blown away by how much a spritz of fragrance can completely change your mood and make you feel more “put together”. After much searching, spritzing and “ooh-ing and ahh-ing” I finally decided on my favourite male scents that I think would work for everyone.
One thing I learnt from my mass spritzing session – much to the delight of everybody around me – is the Men’s section of Fragrances is Debenhams is not only huge, but pretty much rivals the ladies which I was really pleasantly surprised to see. It also means that there really is something for everybody and my first pick for the guy that likes a fresh, citrusy, fruity scent is Davidoff Cool water. I used the ladies version of this when I was in secondary school (a long time ago) so this was so nostalgic for me, but it really is gorgeous. So fresh and clean and one of my top picks. The Montblanc Emblem intense gift set also comes high up on my “need a gift for an awkward man and I’ve left it to last minute, help a girl out Debenhams list” because not only does it consist of an eau de toilette, shower gel and shaving balm, but it also smells incredible. Woody, oriental and spicy, this is seriously sexy, one for your other half rather than your Dad in my opinion but equally gorgeous all the same. And then we have Prada Luna Rossa, a scent which totally took me surprise and taught me to never judge a book by it’s cover (or an aftershave by it’s packaging). With a very sleek and stylish bottle, I was so pleasantly surprised to discover the herby, fresh lavender based scent that lies inside. A really quite stunning scent with the bottle to match. And finally, we have Jasper Conran Nightshade which I have to say is not only highly underrated, but also one of my all time favourite Men’s scents. I’m a huge fan of Floriental fragrances and the musky, cedar wood base definitely amps up that warm, sexy feel.
Skincare
It’s taken a long time for a higher majority of Men to really embrace skincare but I definitely think we’re starting to see this transition now. Pretty much all of my girlfriends are forever commenting that their boyfriends like to steal their lotions and potions so I think a lovely skincare set – packaged in very masculine packaging of course – is such a fab option. Plus, it saves them slathering your really expensive face cream all over their whole bodies. Been there, done that, given the hardcore evils… 😉
Clinique Skincare in general is always absolutely outstanding, but I have to say that for me, they’ve really paved the way for other brands to delve into men’s skincare. Their packaging is always very sleek and masculine but mainly just minimalistic. But it’s the skincare itself which always comes up trumps. My fiance is now a huge fan – he is also the person that previously used carex soap all over his face – so I honestly couldn’t recommend them enough. Clarins are another brand that do men’s skincare so well and their starter kit for Men really couldn’t be any more perfect for a man just getting into skincare (or one that you’re trying to “gently push” into skincare). Finally for skincare, are some slightly more “out there” choices in the form of some body oils and candles from Elemis. Now, I know these are very much female associated products but what I love about Elemis is that nearly all of their pampering products are extremely unisex. The scents are very gender neutral, spa like scents that I think guys would definitely appreciate after a hard day at work. (Plus, let’s be totally honest, that candle is really a present for you isn’t it? Yes, yes it is!).
The Something special – Gift experiences
My final option is something a little different, a little special and I have to say, are always some of my favourite gifts to buy for people. As much as I love products – jeez, I write a whole bloomin’ blog about them – it’s experiences that are most special to me which is why I love the Gift Experiences section at Debenhams.
What I love about this particular section is that there really is something for everyone. Indulgent, spa treatments for the pamper lover? Tick. Activity days for the adventurer? Tick. Racing car driving sessions for the undercover Lewis Hamilton’s? Yep, it’s got that too. What I love is that I found so many options for the younger guys in my life – obviously referring to boyfriend, fiance etc. and not that I’m a secret player [insert cry laughter emoji here] – but at least 3 older gentlemen picked out some gift experiences for themselves whilst I was there too.
And that brings me to the end of my gift guide, I had so much fun walking/dashing around like a kid in a sweet shop, trying to find the perfect gifts. But before I left, I couldn’t resist sneakily purchasing the gorgeous Red Herring Brown and blue watch for one of my brother’s Christmas presents. Luckily he doesn’t read my blog – brother of the year award he will not be winning – so I’m looking forward to surprising him with this on Christmas day.
I really hope this has helped for those of you lacking in inspiration for what to buy the men in your life. I would love to know if you have any idea’s for mens gifts if you’ve been super organised and purchased already? Or if there’s anything from this post that you’ll be clicking through and ordering?I’d love to hear your thoughts 🙂
As always, thanks so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
xx
Post in collaboration with Debenhams but all thoughts, photographs and love of stealing my man’s clothes, my own.
These are such good ideas! I never have a clue what to buy men (not that I have a man haha!) but I'd definitely struggle..! My brother is hard enough haha xx
Finding a great Christmas gift for men is such a thing! I always have no idea but end up buying a perfume! Thanks for giving us some ideas! Have a nice day x
I agree, buying for men is so difficult 🙂 But your suggestions are great and that's what normally I go for when buying for the men in my life. I also tend to get my husband some games as he loves his XBox 🙂 x
Men are always the hardest to buy for! Department stores are perfect for ideas and quality too so actually I ended up buying Debenhams bits myself for my husband this xmas 🙂
Women are definitely easier to buy for! I usually just resort to chocolates or alcohol for men, since I can never think of anything. I love the idea of getting a experience day for them though, I think it's something a lot more special.
My boyfriend's birthday was a month ago and I struggled quite a bit with finding the perfect gift for him but I eventually settled for a beanie and a bow tie; worked like a CHARM. Shoes and wallets shall make their way to the gift agenda once this broke college girl gets some cash in, haha. Great guide, Elle!
Buying for men is definitely really difficult! These are really great suggestions and I picked up most of these for my fiance, now I don't really know what to get…I will probably check out bag, they look so stylish! xx
So true when it comes to buying gifts for females it is so much more easy, it's is such a hard task buying a gift for the male in your life. These are some great picks though I like it. http://artadorned.com/
My boyfriend is so irritating and never wears scarves or gloves BUT they are ideal for the older men in my fam, I always think a scent is definitely a good shout xxx BlondeOfCarbs
I like your blog, its really dope. Do you want to follow each other? If you want, than follow me, and let me know in comments, so I can follow you back with pleasure.
The guys in my life are seriously the hardest people to buy for, a bloody nightmare! But this post has given me a few more ideas, something to think about for the weekend!
Awesome guide, so complete! You covered so many great options in your fun and easy to read style. I felt like I was shopping with you! I still don't know what to get my husband though : (
Fab post gal! As always! Men are SUCH a nightmare to buy for, especially when they seem to not need anything (because we've bought it all in the previous years and they never seem to wear out anything)!
Ahhh the struggle is real. This is a lovely round up of gifts, though my dad is always disappointed if I get him anything but whiskey. At least that makes my job easy, even if it is boring! x
I am totally hearing you here!! I struggle so much to find things for males. I also think us ladies express more about the things we're lusting after :P, but they barely say a word! You've done a fab job here! 🙂
Great picks Ellie! I gave my hubby one of those Clarins kits last Christmas and he really like it. But I have to say the leather bag is also one of my favourite items out of everything you showcased here. My husband actually needs a new holdall style for travelling so I must have a look at Debenhams' website. 🙂 x
I absolutely adore this! Hope you have a lovely day.
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I agree men are so much harder to buy for, I always struggle here but you have some great ideas. I never opt for clothes as I always worry they won' like it but the accessories are amazing x
I love your guide, I see here few inspirations for the gifts for my beloved mens – for my brother, Dad and my fiance 😉 Personally I usually buy for them clothes, but I think that these gift experiences are really great idea for unique gift, thank you for sharing it, Elle 🙂
Wonderful post! And I completely agree – girls are so much easier in this respect! 🙂
Thanks so much Natalia, it's so true isn't it!
xx
These are such good ideas! I never have a clue what to buy men (not that I have a man haha!) but I'd definitely struggle..! My brother is hard enough haha xx
Sam // Samantha Betteridge
Haha oh I know the struggle, brothers are so hard!
xx
Men are definitely harder to shop for, I always seem to but everyone clothes on a last whim!
Jodie, xo // Jodie Loue
I'm usually exactly the same lovely, it's so easy to panic buy clothes isn't it!
xx
Finding a great Christmas gift for men is such a thing! I always have no idea but end up buying a perfume! Thanks for giving us some ideas! Have a nice day x
V.
http://violettedaily.com
You're so welcome, glad you liked the post!
xx
I agree, buying for men is so difficult 🙂 But your suggestions are great and that's what normally I go for when buying for the men in my life. I also tend to get my husband some games as he loves his XBox 🙂 x
Mummy’s Beauty Corner
That's such a good idea, Men are always pleased with games right? 🙂
xx
Beautiful post, love !
KISS PRETTY ❤
Obra d´art
Thanks so much Fatima!
xx
Men are always the hardest to buy for! Department stores are perfect for ideas and quality too so actually I ended up buying Debenhams bits myself for my husband this xmas 🙂
The Fairytale Pretty Picture
Ahh I am exactly the same hun, always end up treating myself too haha!
xx
That satchel is soooo lovely, I think I'm also heart eyes for it!
Meg | A Little Twist Of…
Thank you lovely me too, definitely need to buy it for hubs/me!
xx
Women are definitely easier to buy for! I usually just resort to chocolates or alcohol for men, since I can never think of anything. I love the idea of getting a experience day for them though, I think it's something a lot more special.
Bethany | Curly and Wordy
So true, can't go wrong with a bit of alcohol and chocolate! Such a nice idea isn't it, experiences always mean much more to me too!
xx
If I could just curl up in a ball and roll around in your writing for the rest of my life…I really do think I would.
Love reading your shit.
I've already bought all my fella's stuff this year…but still clicked through to read because it's YOU and your GREAT.
xx lacoconoire.com
you're*
Great tips. I find it so much easier to buy presents for women too XD
Nati xx
http://www.simplyartdicted.com
Thanks hun, men are so difficult aren't they!
xx
Great gift guide – I always get my dad aftershave! x
Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness x
Me too, such an easy but great gift, right?
xx
The leather bags are my favourite, they're never going to date and will look good for years
Suze – Luxury Columnist
Totally with you there Suze, such a fan!
xx
My boyfriend's birthday was a month ago and I struggled quite a bit with finding the perfect gift for him but I eventually settled for a beanie and a bow tie; worked like a CHARM. Shoes and wallets shall make their way to the gift agenda once this broke college girl gets some cash in, haha. Great guide, Elle!
May | THE MAYDEN | Bloglovin'
Haha so so with you on that May, so glad you liked the post!
xx
Great ideas!
xo | The Fashion Forecast
Thanks hun!
xx
Some really great choices! I think a great wallet and an aftershave really work well, along with a nice pair of gloves, and a scarf 🙂
Great suggestions!
Laura http://www.shehearts.net xx
Thanks so much Laura, so pleased you agree 🙂
xx
Buying for men is definitely really difficult! These are really great suggestions and I picked up most of these for my fiance, now I don't really know what to get…I will probably check out bag, they look so stylish! xx
http://www.elabellaworld.com
Thanks lovely, so pleased you liked it. Definitely check it out, so lovely!
xx
So true when it comes to buying gifts for females it is so much more easy, it's is such a hard task buying a gift for the male in your life. These are some great picks though I like it.
http://artadorned.com/
Totally with you, so difficult aren't they. So pleased you like the picks!
xx
I always find it so hard to buy gifts for guys, so this post was really helpful! 🙂
X Marjolein
http://misscocoblue.blogspot.com
Thanks so much hun!
xx
My boyfriend is so irritating and never wears scarves or gloves BUT they are ideal for the older men in my fam, I always think a scent is definitely a good shout xxx
BlondeOfCarbs
So so agree, what is it with younger men that don't dress for the cold!
xx
I like your blog, its really dope.
Do you want to follow each other?
If you want, than follow me, and let me know in comments, so I can follow you back with pleasure.
http://facetiouslywind.blogspot.com/
kisses
Only follow me if you like the blog hun, not because I've followed you.
The guys in my life are seriously the hardest people to buy for, a bloody nightmare! But this post has given me a few more ideas, something to think about for the weekend!
Dana || fashion-dew.blogspot.com
Oh snap! So pleasad it's helped you though hun!
xx
Awesome guide, so complete! You covered so many great options in your fun and easy to read style. I felt like I was shopping with you! I still don't know what to get my husband though : (
http://Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
Ah thanks so much lovely, so happy you liked it!
xx
I might get the hubs some perfume. 😀
Shang J. | The Feminine Crusade
I always end up doing that too 🙂
xx
Great post, this was such an interesting read. x
http://themakeup-gypsy.blogspot.com.au/
Thanks so much hun!
xx
I actually find it quite easy to shop for men.
Rubi | Instagram | The Den | http://www.the-den.blogspot.com
Lucky you!
xx
how many beautiful things for men
http://bellodiesseredonna.blogspot.it/
Thank you 🙂
xx
In all honesty,shopping for men just gives me a headache because I never really know what to buy so this is really helpful
sophieatieno.blogspot.com
Thanks so much Sophie, so pleased to hear it!
xx
Fab post gal! As always! Men are SUCH a nightmare to buy for, especially when they seem to not need anything (because we've bought it all in the previous years and they never seem to wear out anything)!
Robyn / Phases Of Robyn
Ahh thank you lovely, so pleased you like it! So so true!
xx
It's so hard to shop for men but this post was really helpful! Thank you so much, I've got so much inspiration from your post! x
http://whiteshirtchic.blogspot.co.uk/
Thanks so much Georgia, so pleased you liked it!
xx
Ahhh the struggle is real. This is a lovely round up of gifts, though my dad is always disappointed if I get him anything but whiskey. At least that makes my job easy, even if it is boring! x
Martha Jane | http://www.marthajanemusic.com
Haha your Dad sounds like the best person to buy for ever!
xx
These look great, my other half is a bit strange and wanted a book about constellations this year…
Rosy | Sparkles of Light Blog
That's so funny Rosy, at least it's unique, right?
xx
These are great gift ideas.
Perfume and wallet are the most common for men.
The Bandwagon Chic | Instagram | Bloglovin | Snapchat: bandwagonchic
Thanks so much Zarrah!
xx
girls are definitely way easier to buy for! so many great ideas here
avec danielle | holiday giveaway!
Thanks so much Danielle!
xx
What lovely options for men! xx, adaatude.com
These are all really lovely ideas for men! I'll have to have a look 🙂 xx
Great ideas!! I like a watch and cologne for gifts.
http://www.maggiealamode.com
I am totally hearing you here!! I struggle so much to find things for males. I also think us ladies express more about the things we're lusting after :P, but they barely say a word! You've done a fab job here! 🙂
Style Sunrise☀
🙂
x
Great picks Ellie! I gave my hubby one of those Clarins kits last Christmas and he really like it. But I have to say the leather bag is also one of my favourite items out of everything you showcased here. My husband actually needs a new holdall style for travelling so I must have a look at Debenhams' website. 🙂 x
Renata | Speaking Beauty UK
I absolutely adore this! Hope you have a lovely day.
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NEW POST: MeNow Long Lasting Lipgloss Review and Swatches
Great post dear!
http://helderschicplace.blogspot.com/2015/12/gray.html
I agree men are so much harder to buy for, I always struggle here but you have some great ideas. I never opt for clothes as I always worry they won' like it but the accessories are amazing x
Beauty with charm
I love your guide, I see here few inspirations for the gifts for my beloved mens – for my brother, Dad and my fiance 😉 Personally I usually buy for them clothes, but I think that these gift experiences are really great idea for unique gift, thank you for sharing it, Elle 🙂
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
Men are SO hard to get gifts for! Love to see mens gift guides as usually they're all for women and women are so easy!
Sinead x
http://www.lovestylemindfulness.co.uk
Hey Very Nice Blog!!! Thanks For Sharing!!!!
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