Say goodbye to pre-gifting nerves – instead of worrying about keeping a poker face, when they open this gift they'll think 'omg, she gets me!'
Getting that perfect Christmas gift for family and friends can be tricky business.
You’d think that knowing the giftee so well would make things easier, but that’s the tricky part: You want them to unwrap your present with a huge smile on their face and think: ‘They know me so well.’
Fortunately at Marie Claire we’ve got this down to a fine art and are on hand to share with you our present-picking secrets.
Keep reading to find out how our editors are ensuring a stress-free gifting experience so that you nail it this year. (Fingers crossed our friends and relatives don’t see this.)
Holly Rains, Digital Editor – the long-term best friend
This year I’m going for make-up brushes; I’m betting your best friend either a), has no make-up brushes, like mine, but would love them or b) is a beauty junkie and always needs more. You can buy Real Techniques’ individually or in sets, depending on your budget. Sorted.
Real Techniques Flawless Base Set, £19.99
Sunil Makan, Associate Editor – the fragrance lover
In my opinion, the fragrance fan is actually really easy to buy for. Whether they need a top-up of the classics or you’d like to treat them to a new launch to add to their collection, there are so many options that a scent lover would, well, love. One of my favourites is Tom Ford Noir, a blend of vanilla, amber and leather. Delicious.
Tom Ford Noir Eau de Parfum, £96
Penny Goldstone, Digital Fashion Editor – the glam mum
Liz Earle Every Day Radiant Trio, £48
I think I speak for everyone when I say mums can be a bit fussy, can’t they? Not only are skincare sets great value, but they stock them up on some of their favourite skin treats for the new year ahead; this Liz Earle gift, containing iconic Cleanse & Polish, will definitely be the icing on the cake in my house.
Lucy Abbersteen, Digital Beauty Writer – the well-groomed dad
Percy Nobleman Traditional Shaving Kit, £34
There’s nothing nicer than that feeling of ‘out with the old, in with the new’ after getting that perfect ‘upgrade’ for Christmas, especially if your tools are well past their sell-by date. My partner’s dad is an old-fashioned kind of guy, so this traditional shaving kit is him down to a tee (but if yours is more modern, an electric Wet & Dry shaver will work just as well!).
Katie Thomas, Digital Beauty Editor – The over-excited kids
Lego Friends Drifting Diner Set and Lego Super Heroes Batman Set
Christmas really is the best time for kids – I think we can all agree they enjoy it the most! When I’m buying gifts for younger family members I always think about the excitement of Christmas day when you’re little; it’s that feeling of unwrapping something fun, colourful and special.
Whether it’s for your own children, cousins or nieces and nephews, creative kids will love these sets.