The sensible guide to getting the gifts you want this Christmas

Asking someone to buy you clothes, without any guidance, is a dangerous game to play. Yet Christmas comes but once a year and if you’re lucky enough to have friends or family who are willing to part with their hard-earned cash just for you, you’ve got to make it worthwhile. The point of gifting is to receive something you wouldn’t have bought for yourself; a cashmere jumper or a new pair of boots, say. The only way to get what you want in life is to ask for it – that includes Christmas presents.

Maybe your personal preference is for perennially stylish must-haves – the polo shirt, the jeans, the staple sweatshirt. Or maybe it’s for something a little more decadent or on-trend, such as a wool overcoat or colourful padded jacket. Whether you’ve been making your list and checking it twice for months or are just trying to bat off that overly keen relative who likes to get all of their shopping done and dusted before November’s out, our expert guide will make your life easy.

First things first: the in-laws. It’s essential to impart gifting requests here or you’ll end up with something that goes in a drawer until your next declutter. The trick is balance: you don’t want to go in all guns blazing, but, equally, don’t skimp. Pick something that’s small but built to last – a cashmere scarf, a smooth leather wallet or a soft cotton sweatshirt.

Secret Santa gifts tend to be on the cheaper, more plastic side but – budget depending – you might be able to swing for something a bit nicer. You don’t want to be that guy that punches too high, so start small. A new tie, a pair of sunglasses or even some stationery can all come in around the £20 mark, so do some digging and start dropping hints early.

Depending on both the seriousness of your relationship and how deep their pockets may or may not be, this is an important opportunity to ask your partner for things you really want. (Pretending you’re into something when you’re not is just setting yourself up for a lifetime of disappointment.) What have you coveted for months? Perhaps it’s a cashmere hoodie with matching joggers, or maybe a suit. What about a classic pair of leather shoes to see you through winter, or an understated overcoat that’ll last years? 

If you’re lucky enough to have a family member who genuinely enjoys giving you presents, think what you’ll get most use out of during winter. How about a padded jacket or pair of trousers that blend comfort and style? Or maybe a jumper you’ll wear until spring, or a luxurious pair of cashmere socks? Pick a piece that you wouldn’t necessarily buy for yourself, but one that you’ll love and wear for months. 

Approach a brother or sister who doesn’t like parting with their cash the same way you’d approach a Secret Santa gift with a colleague. Going in too high will only put them off and result in you receiving something that you definitely don’t want. Instead, pick pieces below the £30 mark. A winter hat, gloves or scarf are all within budget, as is a simple polo shirt, T-shirt or lightweight shirt.