Inevitably they’re full of generic gifts chosen by someone who doesn’t know you (of course) and containing items that the writer would like, rather than what you would like.
And here’s the rub, you can’t actually choose a gift for someone remotely, you have to know that person, whether it’s a man, woman, or your mother-in-law. You have to ask yourself the right questions:
What are their hobbies?
What are their sports (if any)?
What colours do they wear?
What’s their dress style – modern, minimal, modern/classic, old fashioned
What kind of fragrance do they wear? If they do.
And so on, creating a kind of instant picture of the person that’s being bought for.
That’s why generic gift lists are so difficult, and it’s so easy for everything to be totally wrong.
Having said all of this, and somewhat shooting myself in the foot on the way, I do believe that there are gifts, or types of gifts, that most grown up girls would be happy to receive. They’re all generic in a way, but can be tailored for the exact person, for example, where I’ve listed a cashmere scarf (who doesn’t love cashmere unless they’re allergic to it…..?) just get the colour right. Bright or muted or neutral, and you’ll have the idea.
Notes: Fragrance, I think this is always tricky, and would choose to give shower gel or a scented candle, always thinking if the person would like modern, spicy or floral fragrance.
Jewellery: Think about the type of jewellery she already wears. Statement, Classic, Modern.
Cosmetics: Only if it’s something really beautiful, makeup per se could be taken the wrong way…..
Sunglasses: Only if you’re absolutely certain you can get it right, and by a luxury brand. Must be exchangeable
Clothing: Don’t take risks on sizing, check on something she already has. ‘Oh I though you would be a smaller size’ won’t get you Brownie points…
Luxury: Just spending a lot of money on the latest designer handbag doesn’t win prizes any more than buying the wrong fragrance or type of jewellery. You’ll do far better to think of something she’ll really love, that works with her existing style and taste. And if you’re taking any type of risk make sure that what you choose is exchangeable, and don’t be offended if it goes that way.
