Everyone needs clothes and taking the time to think about the right piece of clothing shows that you have given a thoughtful gift. So, what could go wrong? Surely, giving clothes as a gift is always a great idea?
The truth is, it can be a great idea, but it can also present some issues. There is the question of taste and style, sizing, and even of wearability. So, with all that in mind, read on for some useful tips for giving clothing as a gift so you can get it right every time.
Ask Them First
Although many people love to give surprise gifts, the fact is that when it comes to clothing, it can often be a much better idea to ask the recipient what they want first. Perhaps there is something they need, such as a new work outfit or some warm socks. Maybe they would love some pajamas or they could do with a new jacket.
By asking, you can be entirely sure you are buying the right thing – something that will be appreciated and used. You can ask as many questions as you like. You can just ask what they want or need and then make choices yourself, or you can ask more questions about the color, style, and so on. It’s your choice but asking before buying is always a great option.
Go for the Basics
Everyone has their own style (which we will discuss below), and if you’re not sure what your friend’s or family member’s is, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to get them. In that case, you can opt for the basic, classic clothing that everyone will need and that someone can dress up in the way they want to, depending on their preferences.
These basics could include a great pair of smart shoes that you saw in this Christmas gift shoe guide, plain white (or single-color) t-shirts, black socks, dark jogging bottoms, and so on. These things can be paired with anything and in any way, ensuring they will be a much-appreciated gift.
Think About Their Style
One trap that a lot of people who buy clothes for other people easily fall into is that they will buy clothes they like. This would be fine if they were shopping for themselves, but since they are shopping for someone else, their tastes really won’t factor into things. You need to think about your friend or loved one’s style if you want to be sure they are going to love what you buy them.
Think about things, such as:
- Do they love bright colors or do they prefer darker shades?
- Do they like retro styles or the most up to date?
- Where do they go regularly? Work? Home? The gym?
- Have they said they particularly like a certain style?
In most cases, if you are looking at the clothes objectively, you’ll be able to spot things that you know would suit the person you’re buying for and match their aesthetic. Just remember that you’re not buying for yourself, as this will help a lot.