We’ve all received gifts where the phrase, “Oh, you shouldn’t have…” takes on a whole new meaning. Often, these less than desirable gifts are clothes that end up in the back of your closet. Receiving something that is totally not ‘you’ leaves you wondering what the giver thinks of you and how well they really know you.


On the other hand, getting clothes that are ‘you’ are often the very best gifts received. It’s obvious that the giver put lots of thought and time into choosing the gift, considering you, your size and your style. And, every time you wear the item, you’re reminded of the giver’s thoughtfulness.


If you’re considering gifting clothes to your loved ones this holiday season, follow these tips to ensure your gift doesn’t end up at the back of a closet.

1. Consider Personal Style & Taste

This is a no brainer, but it’s funny how often this is the reason gifts flop. I know a guy who is pretty urban and casual. He wears khakis, stylish jeans, fitted shirts, flip flops, etc. Yet, every Christmas, his super conservative uncle gifts him another version of a plaid button up shirt that he’ll never wear. The problem his uncle has is he’s buying clothes HE likes…not clothes his nephew will like.
Consider what your recipient wears on an everyday basis. Is she conservative, edgy, preppy, feminine? What types of clothes does she gravitate to when you’re out shopping together? Which of your clothes does she compliment the most? Choose something that embodies the person who will receive it…not you.
Don’t take this as an opportunity to create your own ‘what not to wear’ scenario. Be thoughtful about the style and taste of your friend. What will they like the best? If it’s something that you think is hideous, try to find a nice common ground. What is in their style, but still tasteful? This might be a good opportunity to bridge their style to a more trendy style. Just don’t get too far off track.

2. Consider Body Type

Size can be a tricky thing when buying clothes. If you don’t pay attention and get the wrong size, your recipient can take it the wrong way. “Does she really think I wear a LARGE?!” Or, “This is too small…is she trying to tell me to lose weight?” If you’ve every shopped with the recipient, you probably have a good idea what size she is. If you’re in doubt, ask someone who might know. Or, judge based on what you wear. If they’re slightly larger than you and the item is tight on you, go for a size bigger. If they’re smaller than you, get a size smaller.
More than just size, though, consider what will look good on your friend’s body type. If she is larger or smaller in a certain area, consider which style will be most flattering for her. Don’t buy something just because it would look good on you or because it looks good on the mannequin. If you’re shopping in a store, talk with the salespeople. Tell them what your friend looks like, what their style is, etc. and ask if they have any suggestions. Salespeople help lots of different people each day, so they have a great sense of what works on different body types.

3. Get Something They Don’t Already Have

This doesn’t mean you should buy leather leggings for your conservative, preppy cousin. No.
If your recipient wears a uniform of a black pencil skirt and white oxfords every day, don’t buy more! Obviously, they already have that! But, don’t choose something from left field either. Choose something that is similar, but different. For the pencil skirt/oxford friend, try an interesting pair of tights or a pink oxford with a brown pencil skirt. Change it up a bit, but make sure to consider what they will like and actually wear.

4. Make Returns Easy

The worst part about the gifts my friend’s uncle gives him is that they don’t come with receipts and they’re bought at a store he doesn’t have in his town.
Make returns easy. Place the gift receipt on top of the clothes when you wrap them. This lets the recipient know that you won’t be offended if they return the gift. When they open it, let them know that the gift receipt is there in case something doesn’t work or fit right. This is a very thoughtful addition. It lets them know that you considered size and style, but are also open to the possibility that you were wrong. It’s basically like getting them a gift card to the store. I would much rather someone give me a gift they picked out (and that I had the option to return) than a gift card!
Also, consider where the recipient lives. Don’t buy them something from a store that they won’t have the opportunity to visit and make a return. My husband is a chronic gift returner. I’ve found the ‘thing’ I want to get him for Christmas much cheaper online, but I’m going to spend a little extra and buy it from a local store so that he can return it if he wants.

5. Play it Safe with Accessories

Still feel uncertain about gifting clothes? Play it safe by gifting accessories instead. It’s still important to follow all of the above tips. But, if you give a scarf and earrings, you only have to consider style and taste. Size is not an issue. This season, there are many fun and fashionable accessories perfect for holiday gifts!

Your Thoughts?

How do you feel about gifting clothes for the holidays? Do you have any other tips you’ve found to be helpful?

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