A gift card when you are in doubt

Short answer: If you are unsure about both size and taste, a gift card is the solution that does not end up at the back of a cupboard. The recipient chooses the style, colour and size, and the gift is spent on something that fits.

When the size is uncertain

Clothes in the wrong size are either exchanged or put away. Sizes vary between brands and styles, and even if you know the recipient's usual size, it may not fit in that particular style. A gift card solves the problem, because the recipient can try things and choose the right size.

When taste is uncertain

Colours and styles are personal, and what you like is not necessarily what the recipient would choose. A gift card lets them choose for themselves, so the gift ends up being used. This is especially true when you give to someone you do not see very often.

For someone who has everything

A gift card for something that needs buying anyway gets used. Many people have what they need, but sooner or later they need new socks, underwear or nightwear. A gift card makes that purchase a little more enjoyable. Find more suggestions in Christmas gift ideas.

Combine it with something small

A gift card on its own can feel a little thin to unwrap. Together with a pair of socks it feels more like a present, because there is something to hold. Socks need no exact size and get used. See all bamboo socks for men.

For him

If you are unsure what he needs, browse the selection in Christmas gifts for him for inspiration before choosing between a specific gift and a gift card.

For her

The same applies for her. Browse the selection in Christmas gifts for her, and choose the gift card if you are still unsure about size or colour.

Is a gift card impersonal?

Many worry that a gift card looks lazy. But a gift that fits and gets used is more personal than one that ends up in a cupboard. Write a few words on the card about what you had in mind, and you show that the gift was chosen with care.

When a gift card works best

A gift card works well for someone you rarely see, for adults with a particular taste and when you send the gift by post. It also works well when several people club together for a bigger gift.

When to give something specific instead

If you know the recipient's size and taste well, a specific gift is often more festive to unwrap. For small gifts such as socks and towels you rarely need a gift card, because they do not require a size.

Frequently asked questions

Is a gift card a lazy gift?

Not if size and taste are uncertain. Then it is the gift that gets used, and a few personal words on the card show you have given it some thought.

Can I combine it with something?

Yes. A gift card together with a pair of socks feels more like a present, because there is something to unwrap. Socks do not need an exact size either.