Clothing can be a thoughtful, practical gift to give someone you care about. Whether it’s for a partner, friend or family member, everyone needs clothes and will appreciate the thought you have put into selecting items for them.
However, it can also be easy to get this gift wrong by choosing the wrong style, size or brand. Everyone has different tastes and just because you like certain clothes, it doesn’t mean that the receipt will feel the same. Here’s our guide to choosing the right clothing gifts:
Don’t try to change their style, opt for what they love
It can be difficult to know where to start when choosing clothing as a gift. However, one useful tip is to begin by thinking about what clothes they already love. If you live with them, you might be able to take a quick peek in their closet.
You could also have a look back at any photos you’ve taken together and note any common themes in their style. For example, they might always wear neutral tones or have a preference for wide leg pants. This should help you to decide the types of clothes they do and don’t like.
You can also consider their interests and hobbies, and the types of clothes associated with them. For those with an interest in hip hop music, streetwear could be the ideal gift, such as men’s stacked denim or an oversized hoodie.
Alternatively, if they are into fitness and exercise then some new gym t-shirts or sports socks could be recommended gifts. For those that enjoy golf, a new polo shirt would be a lovely ideal for their next tournament.
Whatever you choose, just remember you are shopping for them and not for yourself, so your own clothing preferences are not the focus when making gift decisions.
Think about brand
Consider what brands they currently wear as this might help you decide where to shop. But don’t think you have to stick to only those brands. For example, you might find a nice independent store that sells clothing in their usual style.
If you want to go the extra mile, think about how the brand you choose aligns with the recipient’s personal values. For instance, if they are particularly environmentally conscious then they might appreciate clothing from a brand known for its sustainability and use of recycled fabrics.
Don’t know their size? Choose accessories instead
It is best not to try and guess at their clothing size. If you live with them then you can easily check the size of their clothing in the closet or if the gift isn’t going to be a surprise, you could just ask them. There may be a way that you can find out their size, such as checking their jacket or coat if they hang it up while visiting.
Alternatively, opt for accessories that do not come in an exact size. This could include a belt, tie, hat or bag. Personalized accessories can make extra special gifts, this could be cufflinks with an important date or a tie clip with their initials.
Is there anything they need?
Gifting clothes that they need is a great way to ensure they will get good use out of your gift. Have they perhaps mentioned their running shoes have a hole in them or that they lost their favorite jacket on a night out.
Perhaps they have a vacation to a cold destination coming up and a pair of gloves or warm hat are needed. Think about any upcoming events they are attending and what they might need for them.
Remember to keep hold of the receipt
Even when you put a lot of thought into a gift, it might not be what the recipient wants or needs, or it might not fit them correctly. You might even find they already own the item.
Finding a gift for your male friend doesn’t have to be a painful mission. Always keep in mind their personal hobbies, their needs and especially their size and you won’t go wrong. Stick to what you know they will like.
What gift will you buy next?
