As the founder of SheerLuxe, the ultimate online shopping guide, Georgie Coleridge Cole is the ideal person to reveal what girls really want.
If you’re her other half then don’t buy things that are secretly for you. She does not want a Sky Sports subscription when she isn’t interested in sport. Feigning interest in the World Cup doesn’t count.
Her taste may be different from yours so don’t assume just because you like something she will too. If in doubt ask one of her best friends.
Don’t rush. Spend some time thinking about what she enjoys, might need and like to open. “It’ll do” is not the answer. If you’re not excited at the prospect of her opening it, it probably needs more thought. Imagine yourself handing over your present. Are you already apologising for it? If you are you’ve probably got it wrong.
There’s nothing wrong with asking what she?d like. Don’t get her to buy and wrap it, though.
Women do not want novelty jumpers, nor do they want you to buy them clothes that are too fashionable (they’ll decide on the direction they want to go in, thank you) or too tight. Handpicked’s poncho is glamorous, spoiling but likely to fit and suit almost anyone.
Five Way Cashmere Poncho
Avoid household objects like rubber gloves or new saucepans unless she specifically asks for them. Presents are supposed to be enjoyable. Washing up is not.
A coffee table book or hardback cook book make lovely gifts, but avoid novels unless you specifically know of authors or genres she enjoys.
Jane Packer's Flower Course
Give pretty things for her home that she might not truly need or feel that she can justify buying for herself. Silver Jug (below left).
Listen. Women drop hints ALL the time so pay attention. Email yourself or write a note whenever she mentions she needs something or you might forget when shopping time comes around.
Plan carefully and put some time aside to research what you want to buy. Don’t rush to one shop at the last minute in a panic and buy any old thing. Read what people on The Handpicked Collection’s panel, who might have something in common with the recipient, recommend.
Silver-Plated Jug
Try not to get the same thing every year. If you gave her bath stuff last year, think of something else. Remember that if she says don’t get me anything, she actually means do…
Wrap your gift beautifully. Half of the fun is unwrapping something lovely – if you’re not great at it, pay someone else to do it for you.
And finally, keep the receipt!