How to wrap a gift that is clothing

Short answer: Fold the clothing flat instead of stuffing it, and include the receipt. Without a receipt the recipient cannot exchange it, and clothing gets exchanged more often than anything else.

The receipt is half the gift

Clothing does not always match the right size, no matter how well you know the recipient. A receipt for exchange means the gift can turn into something that gets used, instead of sitting in a drawer because it does not fit. See Christmas gift ideas. It is the simplest thing that can save an otherwise good gift.

Fold it flat

If clothing is stuffed into a small wrapping, the creases set in for months, and the recipient has to iron before it can be worn. Fold the item flat and place it in a flat box instead of pressing it into a bag. It also makes for a nicer package to open.

Mention the care

Bamboo clothing lasts longest without fabric softener, because softener sits on the fibres like a film and makes them less soft over time. A small note with that information is worth more than it sounds. See washing and care.

Several matching pieces in one gift

Socks and underwear are best given as several matching pieces rather than one single item, because it gives the recipient something to rotate through from day one. See all bamboo socks for men. A single item is often set aside, while a set gets put to use straight away.

For both

See Christmas gifts for him and Christmas gifts for her for ideas if you are unsure what suits the recipient. Both lists are built around what actually gets used, not just what looks good under the tree.

Choose paper that will not harm the fabric

Ordinary wrapping paper is harmless for clothing, but avoid wrapping a damp item that has just come out of the wash. Let it dry fully before wrapping, so it does not smell musty when the box is opened.

The box size matters

A box that is too big lets the clothing shift and crease during transport, while one that is too small presses the fabric out of shape. Choose a box that fits the folded item closely, so it keeps its form from wrapping to unwrapping.

Avoid tape directly on the fabric

Tape can leave residue on delicate materials, so always use paper or a box as a layer in between if you are unsure. It is a small detail, but it is the difference between a gift that looks new and one that looks creased.

In short

A clothing gift is received best when the receipt is included, the item is folded flat, and matching pieces are added if it is socks or underwear. It is these small details in the wrapping that decide whether a gift gets used or set aside.