Men are notoriously hard to buy for. Not any more! No matter what he's into we've found the perfect gifts for men he most definitely won't be donating to Oxfam!
It's no urban myth that we tend to dread looking for that perfect present for the men in our lives, so we've put together our handy guide to the dos and don'ts to bear in mind when buying gifts for men.
Gifts For Men Dos:
Do try and give him something he wouldn't buy himself
When buying gifts for men experience gifts, or luxurious treats that he might not fork out for himself are always a good idea. Let's face it, it'll hardly be on top of his list to run out and book helicopter flying lessons for himself!.
Do opt for the classic gift option
His favourite book or album in a specialised format (an anniversary edition or vinyl) always make a great gift for him, and he'll appreciate that you put thought and care in giving him something he'll always remember.
Do remember that its okay to play it safe
If you know that he'll love something, don't be afraid to play it safe. If he loves sport, buy him a gift of tickets to see his favourite team; if he's a movie buff get him that box set he keeps meaning to get. Even you're not exactly filled with joy at the thought of spending all day in a field/ watching re-runs of Top Gear, he'll love it so your job is done.
Do keep it simple
We don't mean simple as in buying him a pair of socks- more that you don't have to spend hours making a handmade birthday card to show you care. It's the thought that counts and if you stick to what you know he'll like (you'll most likely have an in depth knowledge of this) chances are he'll be very happy.
Do stay away from gifts for him that you think might be a bad idea
Chances are, your instinct's will be spot on.
Gifts for Men Don'ts:
Don't give him anything with an obvious monetary value
Never, ever give cash!. Not only is it supremely impersonal, it shows a distinct lack of imagination. Plus do you really want him to know the exact monetary worth that you put on him?.
Don't give him anything his Mother would buy him (unless you are his mother!)
For obvious reasons!
Don't get him something you wish he would wear/use
In other words, don't buy him a gift that you think might encourage him to change. It may seem like a bright idea, but there's a good chance it could backfire and you don't want to get a bad rep for what we're sure are your super gift buying skills. The best gifts for him are gifts that he (rather than you!) likes.
Don't over think it
If you're feeling super stressed about it, trust your instincts and go with what you know he'll enjoy. Choosing a gift for him should be a pleasure, not a chore.
It's the good book for iPhone lovers and bibliophiles. Keep your iPod wrapped up in a brown leather book casing that doubles up as a wallet. You'll never forget the important...
Price: £49.99 From Firebox
Extremely Loud and Incredible Close (now a major motion picture starring Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock) is not a book based on 9/11 you think it might be. Oskar is a nine-year-old...
Price: £5.84 From Amazon
Keep up to date with all the latest news and opinion in fashion, music, politics, inspirational features and beautiful women. Quality writing and great journalism with coverage of...
Price: £26.99 From Magazine Group
With eye-catching photography and quality, up to date coverage of business, politics, travel, science and culture. The year's subscription can be delivered weekly to your home or...
Price: £24.95 From Magazine Group
Nominated for the Man Booker prize, Sebastian Barry's 'On Canaan's Side', is told through the eyes of 89 year old Lilly Bere as she mourns the death of her grandson Bill. ...
Price: £10.73 From Play.com
A must have for all Liverpool fans, this brilliant gift brings Liverpool's most historic moments to the fans starting with becoming Division 1 Champions in 1996 and more great...
Price: £44.99 From TOFFS
Get all your monthly music news, interviews, exclusives and reviews with the Q subscription. If you love music then Q is a must-have.
Price: £15.00-£34.00 From Magazine Group
Learn the art of sketching with illustrated close ups of work, strategies, controlling linear drawing, shadows,tones and everything else an art novice could need to know.
Price: £12.99 From Fred Aldous
Perfect gift for wine lovers to find out facts and tips on wine drinking.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech Publishing
A great gift option for landmark birthdays and wedding anniversaries, "A Day to Remember" is an enjoyable throwback to the past with an original newspaper for any desired...
Price: £39.99 From Getting Personal
A book full of ideas and advice that no gardener will want to be without. Your green-fingered loved one will enjoy these traditional ’recipes’ and trusted hints.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech Publishing
Make sure the coffee lover in your life is au fait with the correct coffee drinking etiquette with this charming book. The perfect accompaniment to a steaming hot cup of java.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech Publishing
To drive on one’s own side of the highway is the first principle in the etiquette of the road. Manners and driving hints for new or experienced drivers.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech Publishing
Die-hard campervanners will love this book full of photography to inspire campervan owners and design ideas.
Price: £9.97 From Amazon
For the Mac Lover in your life, a subscription to MacUser magazine is the perfect gift. A comprehensive guide to Apple's latest and hardware and software, the pages are bursting...
Price: £1.00-£78.99 From Magazine Group
Ever since Penguin Paperbacks first appeared in 1935, the design of their iconic jackets has been part of Britain's culture and design history. Filled with wonderful illustrations...
Price: £13.94 From AmazonWe've all had that split second realisation. The panic! This is a gift emergency. Never fear, we've got some great last minute gifts to bail you out.
Read more