Yes, it is the thought that counts … but only to a certain extent. I asked my female Facebook followers to tell me the worst gift they ever received from a man. The results? Nothing short of hilarious. If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas for women in your life, here are 8 really bad ones I wouldn’t suggest.
1. Hygiene Products
A razor and deodorant. I said to him, are you trying to tell me something here? – Megan
I know hygiene products might be a practical gift you think your partner will definitely use, but they imply you have a less-than-flattering impression of your partner’s body. Also avoid buying workout gear (unless she’s an avid gym-goer and you know her exact size) or weight-loss products (unless you want to be punched in the face).
2. Stolen Jewelry
A college boyfriend gave me a diamond necklace. I later found out that he stole the money from his roommates to buy it. I felt pretty terrible, but I totally kept that s**t. – Colleen
And (unbelievably) another:
A necklace … That he stole from his mom. I opened it in front of her and she knew immediately. Plus there was a picture of her wearing the same necklace framed on the table next to me. – Abbie
Can you imagine how awkward that moment must have been? Whew! Stolen goods are not the way to a woman’s heart, I assure you.
3. Candles That Smell Like You
Candles that smelled like his cologne with his face taped on them. – Caitlin
If she wants something that smells like you, she’ll “borrow” one of your sweaters and never return it. Even without the accompanying photo, I wouldn’t suggest buying candles for a woman since fragrances cause allergic reactions in some people.
4. Video Games
An ex-boyfriend once got me a video game (that HE wanted) for me on my birthday and then played it incessantly. – Kemi
Unless you want to find yourself in Club Single, don’t be inconsiderate. Gifts should be personal and relevant to the person you’re giving it to, i.e. something she actually wants!
5. A Photo of Yourself
A selfie. Seriously. – Olivia
Nothing says “narcissism” like giving your girlfriend a framed picture of yourself, so don’t even think about it.
6. The Thing She Just Told You NOT to Buy
After I specifically asked for no lotion sets because I had too many, he got me a pomegranate scented lotion set. When I asked him why, he said, “I saw you eat a pomegranate once so I thought you might like it.” – Metha
May I just say that is the best explanation for a bad gift ever? But in seriousness, don’t buy her something she might like. Do some detective work. Pay attention to her hobbies, interests, and passions. Ask her friends, family, or co-workers for help if you’re totally stumped. But whatever you do, buy her something you know she will like.
7. Tickets to a Movie She Doesn’t Want to See
Tickets to Garfield the movie … then he met up with another guy there and they talked through the whole movie. The only thing he said to me was, “Do mad cows really run that fast?!” – Brandi
Have you ever been invited to a party or event by a friend, who then proceeded to ignore you the whole time? It is hurtful and can be stressful (especially for introverts), so don’t do it.
8. Gifts That Hint at Marriage (Before It’s Been Discussed)
An old boyfriend gave me a bridal magazine and a wedding planner. He never proposed and we never spoke of marriage. He just arrogantly assumed I’d be all over it. Uh, no thanks. – Jessica
You know what they say about assuming…
Your Turn
If you came here looking for Christmas gift ideas for women, I’m sorry to disappoint. Click here to check out some unique gift ideas the women in your life will adore. Now it’s your turn: what’s the worst gift you’ve ever received? Tell us in the comments below (and if you’re a spectator, vote for your favorite by clicking the “like” button).
