We all have those people in our lives that are hard to shop for. When holidays or birthdays show up, we may find ourselves at a complete loss as to what to get for this person, just like we were last year and the year before that. Some hard-to-shop-for people also happen to be men, and that's what this article will focus on: how to figure out what to buy for the men in our lives that are hard to buy for.
The focus will be placed on the thought patterns that lead us to the perfect gift for the man in our lives instead of a list of "one-size-fits-all" gifts, which, if someone is hard to shop for, typically don't help. As well, attention will be given to a wide variety of price ranges, so no matter your budget, you'll be able to find a tip that works for you and the man you're shopping for.
It's broken down into categories meaning you can make a small gift bundle with something from each category included, or you can focus your attention and money on one bigger item from a single category. Without further ado, here's how to shop for that hard-to-shop-for man:
Something high quality
There are a lot of things that men use in their everyday lives. Take a moment to think about the daily life of the person you're shopping for and think about what items they use on the regular that a durable, high-quality, long-lasting version of the item would be put to great use. This might mean looking into real authentic leather wallets or one of those fancy coffee makers that doesn't contain any plastic. This sort of gift implies that you're paying attention, that you see what his days are like, and you want to be sure he has the best that he can have in that regard.
Something fancy
For some, the word fancy can bring up ideas about spas and massages and really expensive wine, but this term is actually pretty broad. What one person finds extraordinary, another person might be completely uninterested in. Luxuries are things that people don't often buy for themselves because of the price or because these items feel indulgent. Does the man you're shopping for wait a few months after a game he's really excited for is released in order to buy it at a lower price? Maybe that game he's been really pumped about is an excellent gift. Is there a piece of yard work or housework he does the longer and harder way that could be made easier with a tool or device? Maybe that tool is the right gift. What sections of the store does he tend to peruse? Likely there's something stored there he finds luxurious.
Something hobby-related
Whatever hobby the man you're shopping for is into, you can bet there's a perfect gift somewhere in the activity. Maybe the man hunts or fishes, maybe he games, maybe he's into photography or videography, maybe he like hiking, maybe he likes reading-ask friends of his who are into the same hobby what he's missing in his collection or gear list. There will be something. You can even ask his hobby friends to help you pick out the perfect camera bag or Magic the Gathering card.
Something practical
So many men go without things they need because they're focused on work or family, or other things. If you notice something is worn out or about to wear out, you can seek out replacements. Yes, for many men, this means including a package of socks and new boxers in whatever gift you get. But this is more than a simple gift; this means you're paying attention to his needs and doing what you can to provide for him.
Something for eating
There's an old adage that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and in many cases, this is true. What type of cuisine does this man like? If he's into cooking or eating, you can look into specialty hot sauces or gourmet pasta noodles, or something designed for foodies. Pots and pans and other kitchen items like blenders or juicers can also make for excellent gifts depending on the budget you're working with. Of course, you can also sprinkle some of his favorite candy into the gift bag or add a jar of those olives he eats like there's no tomorrow. Even little snacks that he loves can make an excellent addition to a gift.
The above guides should have given you a good idea of how to shop for the impossible to shop for. Take some time to let these ideas mull over in your mind, and pretty soon, you'll be thinking of the perfect gift for the man in your life.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! What do you usually buy for someone for whom its hard to shop? What gifts do you like to receive? How long do you take to decide on a gift? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!
