Giving a gift to someone means you care.
However, when you're buying something for a friend, co-worker, boss, or family member, you might not always hit the mark when it comes to good taste or what's the most appropriate item.
You don't want to be a victim of bad mouthing behind your back or seeing your item re-gifted.
In order to avoid the embarrassment of a well-meaning gesture, here are the 6 worst ideas for gifts.
- Tie: This one's a no brainer.
Seriously? A tie? How many men cringe on Father's Day when they see that long box wrapped up for them? Ties are a personal choice and should be left to wives and mothers to pick out before a job interview or after a promotion.
Men have their own certain style and to gift a tie is a bit lazy and unoriginal.
- Scented Bath supplies: Even though a nice bath supply basket could fit into the theme of a bridal or baby shower, it's best not to give someone bath supplies as a gift.
Why? Because the message the gift sends is, "you don't smell good...
so I bought you all of these things.
" It's not very creative and can give off the wrong idea.
Also, scents are a very personal decision, so you don't want to gift a giant basket of musk products when it's something the person can't stand.
- Clothes: Clothes are a risky choice for a couple of reasons.
Sometimes, it is hard for people to know the right size.
Getting something that is too small, large or tight makes it an instant candidate for a store return.
Also, it is hard to anticipate people's choices in style.
- Pajamas: Unless you're buying a present for a newborn or a little kid, stay away from gifting pajamas to anyone.
It can be considered juvenile or comical and you never know how the offer will go over.
It's not an appropriate gift for co-workers or your boss or your mother-in-law as you really don't want to know what they sleep in.
- Socks: There's nothing less romantic, less friendly, or less caring than the gift of socks.
Sure, parents can give them to their kids, but when you're talking presents for a friend, co-worker, or other family member, giving socks says one thing.
"I didn't care enough to get you a good present.
" It's impersonal and boring and you'll be remembered as that person who gave socks.
- Artwork: Stay away from giving anything artistic to friends, co-workers, or family members.
Home or office artwork and decorations are a very personal choice and you never know what someone will or won't like.
Art is in the eye of the beholder and something you think is creative and beautiful might be an eyesore to another person.
Hopefully these tips will help with future present purchases.
Avoid these bad gifts the next time you're invited to an event or bridal shower.