Buying Beauty Boxes for Christmas Presents: A Festive Treat for Everyone

Christmas gifting can be a joy, but it can also be a bit of a puzzle. When you’re searching for something thoughtful, indulgent, and guaranteed to please, beauty boxes tick every box.

Packed with skincare heroes, grooming essentials, and fragrances, they offer both excitement and excellent value for money. 

Whether you’re shopping for the women or the men in your life, these curated collections make brilliant gifts that feel personalised without any effort on your part.

Here’s why beauty boxes deserve a place under the tree this year.

Why Beauty Boxes Make Wonderful Christmas Gifts

A curated surprise

Opening a beauty box is a bit like unwrapping several presents in one go. Inside you'll often find a mix of full-size items, deluxe samples, and limited-edition treats. That variety creates the thrill of discovery – perfect for a festive morning.

Great value for money

Most brands bundle far more product value into a box than the price you pay. This means you can give a luxurious gift without stretching your seasonal budget. Many boxes even feature exclusive products or early releases.

Tailored to different personalities

From skincare to fragrance, from haircare to grooming, there’s a beauty box to suit every taste. It’s a practical way to give something that feels bespoke, even if you’re not exactly sure what they already use or like.

Beautifully packaged and ready to gift

Beauty boxes usually arrive in presentation-ready packaging. With designs ranging from elegant minimalism to full festive sparkle, they’re made to be placed straight under the Christmas tree.

Beauty Boxes for the Women in Your Life

Whether you’re shopping for a skincare enthusiast, a makeup lover, or someone who could do with a pampering boost, there’s a box to suit:

Skincare collections

These often include cleansers, serums, moisturisers, and face masks from brands such as Elemis, Liz Earle, and No7. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a relaxing self-care ritual.

Makeup edit boxes

Ideal for trend seekers and beauty lovers. Expect palettes in seasonal shades, premium mascaras, lip colour collections, and the occasional festive sparkle.

Luxury spa sets

If she deserves a rest (and let’s face it, most of us do by December!), go for boxes centred around bath oils, body butters, and soothing aromatherapy blends.

Haircare hampers

From nourishing masks to styling essentials, these make brilliant gifts for someone who puts effort into their hair or enjoys discovering new products.

Beauty Boxes for the Men in Your Life

The men in your life might not buy themselves grooming products very often, which makes Christmas a good moment to treat them to something indulgent.

Grooming and shaving kits

These can include beard oils, quality razors, moisturisers, aftershaves, and exfoliators. Brands such as Bulldog, L’Oréal Men Expert, and Molton Brown often produce festive gift boxes.

Skincare starter sets

If he’s curious about taking better care of his skin, these boxes offer an easy introduction with simple, effective routines.

Fragrance collections

Miniature eau de toilette sets, or boxes with matching shower gels and aftershave balms, look (and smell) premium without the full price tag of a single large bottle.

Hair and beard care

For the man who loves his mane, boxes with beard softeners, hair masks, and styling creams make a thoughtful yet practical choice.

Where to Find the Best Beauty Boxes

You’ll find excellent options from:

Major high-street retailers such as Boots, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, and Superdrug

Online specialists like Lookfantastic and Cult Beauty

Department store favourites offering exclusive Christmas editions

Amazon’s seasonal beauty gift range (a convenient choice through the That’s Christmas 365 online shop, here https://amzn.to/43SAh3k)

Shopping early gives you the best selection, especially for limited-run advent-style boxes or premium brand edits.

The Final Touch

To make your beauty box gift feel even more special, consider adding:

A handwritten tag or Christmas card

A small extra, such as a scented candle, a chocolate bar, or a festive face mask

A reusable beauty bag or toiletry pouch for travel

Little additions can turn a simple present into a proper pamper package.

Beauty boxes offer festive abundance, excellent value, and a touch of luxury – ideal for the women and men you want to spoil this Christmas. 

With countless themes, price points, and brands to choose from, you’ll easily find a box that makes your loved ones feel seen, treated, and thoroughly festive.

At Christmas Time, we ask... Why Do So Few Top Beauty Houses Offer Skincare Aimed at Men?

Discover why top beauty houses still overlook men’s skincare, the myths holding the industry back, and why older men deserve better representation in premium skincare ranges.

After we were recently looking at how granddads can benefit from a simple, effective skincare routine, a natural next question arises: why do so few major beauty brands offer dedicated skincare lines for men at all? 

Walk into most department stores and you’ll see shelves upon shelves of creams, serums and treatments for women – yet the men’s shelf, when it exists, is often an afterthought.

Here’s a closer look at why this gap persists and why it might finally be starting to shift.

1. The Old Myth: “Men Don’t Care About Skincare”

For decades, beauty houses assumed men simply weren’t interested. Grooming was framed as optional, even vain, unless it involved shaving.

This outdated belief still influences the industry. Many brands fear that investing heavily in male-targeted skincare won’t generate enough returns – even though surveys increasingly show the opposite.

Men, and especially older men, do want to look after their skin. They simply haven’t been marketed to in a way that feels familiar, accessible or even permissible.

2. Legacy Marketing Still Drives Strategy

Beauty houses are creatures of habit. Historically, women have always been the primary buyers of skincare products, and brands built their entire marketing structures around that demographic. Everything from packaging to language to in-store displays remains tailored to women.

Creating a men’s line requires rethinking:

Branding

Product textures and scents

Advertising tone

Retail placement

That level of overhaul can be expensive – and many brands choose to stick with what they know.

3. Men’s Skincare Is Often Hidden Inside “Unisex” Ranges

Another reason the market looks sparse is because much of the skincare technically suitable for men isn’t labelled as such. Brands often launch “unisex” or “universal” products rather than products explicitly aimed at men.

This allows them to avoid:

Creating a separate male brand identity

Committing to men-specific product education

Running parallel advertising campaigns

It’s a safe strategy for companies, but it leaves many men unsure about what’s for them and what isn’t.

4. Misconceptions About Men’s Skincare Needs

Some beauty houses still assume that men don’t need tailored formulas. But that’s simply not true.

Men’s skin can behave differently due to:

Higher collagen density

More active sebaceous glands

Daily shaving

Differences in wrinkle patterns as they age

Older men, including granddads, may need help with issues such as dryness, sensitivity, razor-related irritation, sun damage and uneven texture. Yet only a handful of premium brands actually formulate with these needs in mind.

5. The Packaging Problem

Many men resist buying skincare because it’s often packaged in ways that feel overly luxurious, feminine, or complicated.

Beauty houses haven’t always been successful at producing men’s ranges that feel:

Straightforward

Functional

Mature

Stylish without being embellished

This leaves a gap for niche brands and supermarket ranges to fill – while the major players stay cautious.

6. A Missed Opportunity with Older Men

One of the most surprising omissions is the lack of skincare marketing for older men. Brands chase male consumers in their twenties and thirties but rarely speak to men over fifty, even though this group:

Has strong spending power

Values quality

Often wants simple, no-fuss routines

Can see real benefits from targeted skincare

Your previous feature on skincare for granddad highlighted this beautifully – older men often don’t know where to start because they’ve never been invited into the skincare conversation.

7. Change Is Coming – Slowly

There are early signs that the big labels are waking up. Male grooming is a growing global market, and younger generations of men are far more comfortable using skincare. As this becomes the norm, beauty houses will have to adapt or risk being left behind.

Expect to see:

More premium men’s moisturisers and serums

Expanded anti-ageing lines for men

Advertising campaigns featuring older male models

“Routine”-based kits aimed at beginners

There’s still a long way to go, but the shift is undeniable.

Final Thoughts: Men Deserve Better Representation

The lack of men’s skincare from top beauty houses isn’t due to a lack of need – it’s due to outdated assumptions and marketing inertia. But as more men take skincare seriously, the brands that step up will reap the rewards.

Men, including granddads, deserve skincare that feels welcoming, effective and tailored to them. And perhaps it’s time the beauty industry realised that.

Why You Should Buy the Men in Your Life Luxury Skincare This Christmas

When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gift for the men in your life, it can sometimes feel like a challenge. 

Socks and aftershave are tried and tested choices, but why not surprise him this year with something that’s both indulgent and genuinely beneficial, luxury skincare?

Breaking the Stereotype

Gone are the days when skincare was seen as something just for women. Men today are far more aware of the importance of looking after their skin. 

Daily shaving, harsh winter weather, and pollution all take their toll, leaving skin dry, tired, and dull. A good quality skincare routine isn’t vanity, it’s vital self-care.

Luxury skincare brands now cater brilliantly to men’s specific needs, creating products that soothe, hydrate, and protect without being greasy or overly scented. Think sophisticated formulations that fit seamlessly into his morning or evening routine.

The Benefits of Luxury Skincare for Men

Improved Skin Health: Premium cleansers, serums, and moisturisers are packed with high-quality ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and natural botanicals. These nourish the skin, boost elasticity, and reduce signs of ageing.

A Better Shave: A luxury exfoliator or pre-shave oil can help prevent ingrown hairs and irritation, while a hydrating balm soothes post-shave redness.

Confidence Boost: When skin feels refreshed and looks healthy, it naturally boosts confidence – ideal for those busy workdays or festive nights out.

Long-Lasting Quality: Luxury skincare might cost a little more, but a small amount goes a long way. It’s an investment that pays off with visible results and longer-lasting products.

A Touch of Indulgence: Everyone deserves to feel pampered – and men are no exception. Beautifully packaged skincare gives a sense of calm, care, and luxury every day.

Gift Ideas to Get You Started

A luxury cleansing set, perfect for introducing him to a simple but effective routine.

An anti-ageing or hydration kit, great for men who spend time outdoors or work in heated indoor environments.

A premium shaving collection, complete with pre-shave oil, rich cream, and a soothing balm.

A skincare subscription box, for a gift that keeps on giving, month after month.

Brands Worth Considering

From Clinique for Men and Kiehl’s to Elemis, ClarinsMen, and Molton Brown, there are plenty of trusted names offering quality men’s skincare ranges. You’ll also find excellent UK-made options from Bulldog, Neal’s Yard Remedies, and Heath London, perfect for those who prefer homegrown luxury.

The Perfect Stocking Filler, or Main Gift

Whether you’re shopping for your partner, dad, son, or brother, luxury skincare makes a thoughtful and useful Christmas gift. It’s a present that says, “Take care of yourself – you deserve it.”

This festive season, skip the predictable and give him the luxury of healthy, glowing skin. After all, confidence and self-care are gifts that last long after the decorations come down.

You can buy luxury skincare items for men at our Christmas shop https://amzn.to/4p4bth3

How to Choose the Perfect Razor for Men with Tough, Hard-to-Shave Beards

When it comes to Christmas gifts that are both practical and luxurious, a top-quality razor is hard to beat. 

For men with coarse, hard-to-shave beards, finding the right razor, electric or traditional, can make the difference between a smooth, comfortable shave and a morning of irritation. 

Here’s how to find the perfect tool for the job, whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone special this festive season.

Understanding the Challenge of a Tough Beard

Thick or wiry facial hair presents unique challenges. Coarse hair is often denser and grows in multiple directions, which means standard razors can tug, clog, or cause razor burn. 

The key is finding a razor (and routine) that cuts efficiently, glides smoothly, and reduces friction.

Best Traditional Razors for Tough Beards

1. Safety Razors – Precision and Power

A high-quality double-edge safety razor can handle even the thickest beard growth. Look for models with adjustable blade angles, such as the Merkur Progress or Parker Variant Adjustable. These allow you to fine-tune aggressiveness for a close yet comfortable shave.

2. Cartridge Razors – Convenience with Comfort

Modern cartridge razors like the GilletteLabs Heated Razor or Harry’s Winston Set offer comfort coatings and multiple blades designed to tackle coarse hair without excessive pressure. Heated or lubricating designs can soften stubble as you shave, ideal for sensitive skin.

3. The Straight Razor – A Classic for a Reason

A well-honed straight razor, such as those by Dovo or Thiers Issard, delivers unmatched closeness when used correctly. It’s a more traditional choice but can be a thoughtful Christmas gift for men who enjoy the ritual of grooming. Pair it with a quality strop and shaving cream for a complete kit.

Top Electric Razors for Coarse Hair

1. Foil Shavers – Clean Precision

For men who like a very close shave, foil shavers such as the Braun Series 9 Pro are ideal. They capture flat-lying hairs and cut them cleanly without pulling, making them excellent for tough beards and sensitive skin alike.

2. Rotary Shavers – Contour Comfort

Rotary models like the Philips Series 9000 Prestige use multiple rotating heads that adapt to facial contours, effortlessly tackling dense growth along the chin and jawline. These are great for men who prefer speed and comfort over a traditional blade shave.

3. Wet & Dry Flexibility

Models that allow both wet and dry shaving, such as the Panasonic Arc5, provide extra comfort when used with a quality shaving gel. This combination can soften stubborn hair and minimise irritation.

Essential Accessories for the Perfect Shave

Pre-shave oils help soften stubble before shaving.

High-quality shaving creams or soaps with natural oils (like sandalwood or aloe) improve glide.

Post-shave balms soothe skin and prevent redness or dryness.

These essentials transform shaving from a chore into a self-care ritual, a perfect Christmas morning routine before pulling on your favourite festive jumper.

The Gift of a Better Shave

A well-chosen razor set makes a brilliant gift for Christmas 2025, practical, personal, and often luxurious. Many brands offer beautifully boxed gift sets that include blades, creams, and accessories. Consider adding a monogrammed travel bag or shaving brush for an elegant finishing touch.

Final Shaving Thoughts

Men with coarse beards shouldn’t have to choose between comfort and closeness. Whether opting for the smooth efficiency of an electric razor or the satisfying ritual of a traditional wet shave, investing in the right tools makes all the difference.

This Christmas, give the gift of a better shave, a thoughtful gesture that brings lasting comfort well into the new year.

To check out and purchase a range of men's grooming products visit https://amzn.to/47sjXIQ

Time for a Wardrobe Wake-Up: Why (and How) You Should Smarten Up Your Dress Style This Summer and beyond

Time for a Wardrobe Wake-Up: Why (and How) You Should Smarten Up YoSummer is a season of change. 

The days are longer, the mood is lighter, and the social calendar starts filling up fast. It’s the perfect time to reassess not just your schedule, but your wardrobe too. 

Whether you're stepping into a new job, looking to refresh your dating life, or simply want to feel more confident day-to-day, giving your style a smart summer update could be exactly what you need.

Here’s why you should consider stepping up your style game this summer – and exactly how to do it.

Why Smartening Up Your Style Matters

1. First Impressions Still Count

Like it or not, how you dress sends a message. A polished, thought-out look doesn’t just help others take you more seriously – it helps you take yourself more seriously too. Whether you're networking, going on a date, or just grabbing coffee with friends, an upgraded outfit can give your confidence a noticeable lift.

2. The Heat Is No Excuse for Laziness

Yes, summer’s warm. But that doesn’t mean it’s all flip-flops and crumpled T-shirts. Breathable fabrics and lighter tones mean you can stay cool and look composed. Style and comfort don’t have to be mutually exclusive – the key is choosing the right materials and cuts.

3. New Season, New Energy

Summer is a season of momentum. You’re more likely to be out and about, so why not let your wardrobe reflect that refreshed, active energy? Updating your style can be a subtle but powerful way of signalling that you’re embracing change – personally or professionally.

How to Smart Up Your Look This Summer

1. Embrace Lightweight Layers

A linen blazer or a well-cut overshirt can instantly elevate even the simplest outfit. Choose natural, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or seersucker to stay sharp without overheating.

2. Upgrade Your Basics

Tired T-shirts and faded shorts are fine for the beach – but they don’t work everywhere. Invest in high-quality basics: a crisp white polo, tailored shorts, a classic Breton stripe. It’s about refining, not replacing, your everyday staples.

3. Switch to Smarter Footwear

It’s time to give those beat-up trainers a rest. Loafers, espadrilles, or smart leather sandals can completely change the tone of an outfit. A stylish pair of shoes often makes the biggest difference to how ‘put together’ you look.

4. Add Subtle Accessories

A leather strap watch, a woven belt, or a pair of stylish sunglasses can take your summer outfit up a notch without trying too hard. Think “quiet confidence” rather than “look at me”.

5. Play With Colour – Strategically

Summer is the ideal time to break away from head-to-toe neutrals. Try pastels, earth tones, or one standout piece in a bold colour. Not only is it seasonally appropriate, but it shows you're confident enough to mix things up.

Ready to Reinvent Your Look?

Changing your style doesn't mean abandoning who you are. It’s about enhancing your current wardrobe, aligning it more closely with who you want to be, and feeling good in your skin. So whether you're aiming for a full fashion overhaul or just want to look a little less “rolled out of bed” and a little more “brunch-ready”, summer is your runway.

Now’s the time to put a bit more thought into how you present yourself – and enjoy the boost that comes with it.

Why You Should Buy the Man in Your Life a Shed for Christmas

Christmas shopping can often feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to finding the perfect gift for the man in your life. 

You’ve probably covered all the usual suspects, gadgets, cosy socks, perhaps a luxury bottle of his favourite tipple, but this year, why not think bigger, bolder, and give him something he'll truly treasure?

Yes, I'm talking about a shed. A garden shed may sound unconventional, but it’s a gift with serious potential. Here’s why a shed might just be the ultimate Christmas surprise.

1. A Place of His Own

A shed can become the sanctuary he didn’t even know he needed. Life is busy, and we all need a quiet space to retreat, tinker, or simply clear our minds. For many men, a shed can be that special retreat where they can relax without interruption. Whether it’s outfitted as a workshop, a reading nook, or even a mini-office, having a dedicated space in the garden can provide a sense of ownership and freedom.

2. A Personal Workshop

For the DIY enthusiast or budding carpenter, a shed is a dream come true. It offers a place to keep tools organised, experiment with projects, and even upcycle furniture without having to clean up immediately. Plus, having a dedicated workshop space might even mean fewer DIY bits scattered around the house—a win for both of you! Imagine how thrilled he’ll be at the idea of his own creative workspace to tackle projects, big or small.

3. An Outdoor Entertainment Hub

Sheds are no longer just storage spaces for rusty lawnmowers and spare pots. With a bit of creative setup, they can become cosy outdoor pubs, mini-gyms, or gaming dens. Adding a small bar, some comfy chairs, or a vintage record player can transform a shed into the ultimate relaxation zone for weekends and evenings. His mates will likely enjoy the space as much as he does, making it a great spot for gatherings, movie nights, or simply unwinding after a long day.

4. A Hobby Haven

If he’s got hobbies that take up more room than your home can comfortably spare, whether that’s model-making, painting, photography, or something else entirely, a shed can be the perfect haven. With a dedicated area to dive into his interests, he won’t need to pack away his projects every time he’s finished for the day. This hobby-focused space can be customised to fit his needs, from ample shelving and work tables to equipment storage.

5. More Space, Less Clutter

Let’s face it—household clutter can become a bit overwhelming, and sometimes all that stuff just needs a home of its own. A shed provides an additional storage solution that will help keep your indoor space clear and organised. Tools, bikes, gardening supplies, and seasonal items can all find a place in the shed, helping to reduce the inevitable overflow in cupboards, under beds, or in the garage.

6. An Opportunity for Customisation

There are all kinds of sheds available, from rustic wooden models to sleek, modern designs. You can even opt for a customisable shed that allows him to get involved in its setup. Many people find the process of decorating and setting up their shed as enjoyable as using it. You could surprise him with the foundation or basic frame and let him add his own finishing touches—like painting, adding shelves, or designing the interior exactly as he wants.

7. The Gift That Keeps Giving

Unlike a lot of gifts that might lose their charm after a few months, a shed is something he’ll use for years to come. Every season brings new ways to enjoy it, whether it’s sipping a hot drink inside during the winter or hosting a casual BBQ outside during the summer. It’s a practical, versatile gift that will keep bringing joy, purpose, and convenience into his life year-round.

8. It’s the Gift of Solitude and Balance

As much as we cherish our time together, everyone benefits from a bit of time alone. A shed gives him a way to have a balanced life with his own space. Without needing to leave home. 

It’s a healthy and thoughtful way to show your support for his mental well-being, self-care, and creativity. And let’s be honest, giving him that personal corner of the world can work wonders for household harmony!

Finding the Right Shed for Him

When selecting a shed, consider the size of your garden and the shed’s intended use. Think about what features will make it functional and enjoyable for him, like windows for natural light, extra storage options, or enough height to accommodate shelving. Many home and garden stores offer sheds in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, so you’re bound to find one that fits your budget and his taste.

Final Thoughts

A shed may not be the first idea that springs to mind when thinking of Christmas presents, but its benefits are undeniable. It’s practical, long-lasting, and tailored to his unique interests, making it a deeply personal and meaningful gift. 

This Christmas, give him the gift of his own space—a retreat, a workspace, or simply a corner of peace. It’s not just a shed; it’s an opportunity for him to cultivate his passions, enjoy his hobbies, and create memories in a space that’s truly his own.

To find shed retailers in your areas check local garden centres, shed retailers, etc.

These links are not sponsored but we thought they'd be of potential help or inspiration:-

https://www.oecogardenrooms.co.uk

https://www.crownpavilions.com

https://dunsterhouse.co.uk

https://www.cranegardenbuildings.co.uk

Unwrapping Joy: Unique, Quirky Christmas Gifts for him and for her

Christmas is upon us, and what better way to spread some festive cheer than by surprising your loved ones with unique and quirky Christmas gifts? 

Instead of the usual run-of-the-mill presents, let's explore some out-of-the-box ideas that will put a smile on the faces of both men and women.

Whether you're shopping for your significant other, family members, or friends, these one-of-a-kind gifts are sure to make this Christmas extra special.

For the Men:

Personalised Whiskey Decanter Set: Elevate his spirits with a custom whiskey decanter set engraved with his name or a special message. Complete with glasses and a wooden display, this gift combines functionality and elegance.

Darth Vader Waffle Maker: If he's a Star Wars fan, this Darth Vader waffle maker will make breakfast times a galactic adventure. Who could resist the allure of a crispy waffle shaped like the Sith Lord's iconic helmet?

Virtual Reality Headset: Transport him to otherworldly realms with a high-quality virtual reality headset. It's an experience he won't soon forget, and it's perfect for gamers and tech enthusiasts.

Desktop Punching Bag: Help him relieve stress and have some fun with a desktop punching bag. This quirky gift will not only provide a laugh but also offer a healthy outlet for frustration.

Bonsai Tree Kit: For a more zen gift, consider a bonsai tree kit. It's a unique way for him to tap into his nurturing side and add a touch of nature to his living space.

For the Women:

Customised Star Map: Gift her a personalised star map that captures the night sky's appearance on a special date, like an anniversary or her birthday. It's a beautiful and sentimental reminder of a cherished moment.

Morse Code Jewellery: Morse code necklaces or bracelets are a clever way to convey a hidden message or a meaningful word. Choose something that's close to her heart, and she'll love the thoughtfulness behind it.

Aromatherapy Diffuser: Turn her home into a haven of relaxation with an aromatherapy diffuser. Paired with essential oils, it's a thoughtful and unique gift that promotes well-being.

Literary Candles: For the bookworm in your life, literary-themed candles with scents inspired by classic novels can transform her reading nook into a cosy, magical world.

DIY Embroidery Kit: If she enjoys crafting, an embroidery kit with a beautiful pattern can be a delightful and relaxing way for her to spend her free time. It's a perfect gift for those who appreciate the art of handcrafting.

Plant Parenthood Kit: Encourage her green thumb with a plant parenthood kit, complete with stylish pots, soil, and easy-to-care-for indoor plants. It's a great way to bring the outdoors inside.

These quirky Christmas gifts for men and women are sure to stand out amidst the sea of traditional presents. Remember, the most cherished gifts are often the ones that show thought, care, and a dash of creativity. So, this holiday season, think outside the gift-wrapped box and make your loved ones' Christmas extra special with these delightful surprises. After all, the best gifts come from the heart.

Thoughtful and Practical Christmas Presents for Men and Women

That's Christmas will be running a feature on practical Christmas presents and gifts for men and women. And this is our introduction to this.

Christmas is nearly upon us, and it's time to start thinking about finding the perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones. 

While it's wonderful to choose presents that are thoughtful and sentimental, it's equally important to pick gifts that are practical and will be used and appreciated throughout the whole year. 

In this blog post, That's Christmas will be exploring some practical Christmas present and gift ideas for both men and women that strike the perfect balance between functionality and sentiment.

Practical Christmas Presents for Men

Grooming Kits: Men love to look and feel their best. A high-quality grooming kit, complete with a razor, shaving cream, and other essentials, is a thoughtful and practical gift. Consider adding a personalised touch with a monogram or their favourite scent.

Tools and Toolkits: For the DIY enthusiast, a set of quality tools can be a game-changer. A versatile toolkit with essential items like screwdrivers, pliers, and a hammer will always come in handy. (Also, as my wife will attest, tools and toolkits are great gifts for women too! Is this related to my wife being the daughter of a builder? That's very likely!)

Wireless Earbuds: Whether for work, working out, or just enjoying music, a pair of wireless earbuds can be a valuable addition to any man's daily routine.

Smart Home Devices: From smart speakers to smart thermostats, these gadgets can make life more convenient. They're perfect for the tech-savvy man in your life.

Personalised Accessories: A customized leather wallet, phone case, or keychain can add a personal touch to everyday items that men use regularly.

Practical Christmas Presents for Women

Cookware and Kitchen Gadgets: A set of high-quality pots and pans, or kitchen gadgets like a stand mixer or a coffee maker, can make cooking and baking more enjoyable and efficient. (And for male amateur chefs, too!)

Tote Bags and Purses: Women often carry a lot in their bags. A well-designed tote bag or a stylish, practical handbag (or a purse for our American readers) is a great gift that combines fashion with functionality.

Fitness Trackers: Help her stay on top of her health and fitness goals with a fitness tracker. It can monitor steps, heart rate, and more, making it a valuable tool for an active lifestyle.

Subscription Services: Subscription boxes, like meal kit services, book clubs, or streaming platforms, can be a thoughtful and practical gift that provides entertainment or convenience.

Spa and Self-Care Gifts: Pamper the special women in your life with spa-quality bathrobes, skincare products, or a day at the spa. These gifts promote relaxation and self-care.

Reusable Water Bottles and Tumblers: Stay eco-friendly by gifting a reusable water bottle or insulated tumbler. They're not only environmentally responsible but also practical for staying hydrated throughout the day.

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones doesn't have to be a daunting task. By selecting presents that are both thoughtful and practical, you can show your appreciation while ensuring that your gift is something they'll use and cherish. 

Whether it's grooming kits, tools, wireless earbuds, cookware, fitness trackers, or spa gifts, there's a practical and thoughtful gift option for everyone on your Christmas list. Remember that the best presents are those that come from the heart, and practicality is just an added bonus to make the gift even more special. Happy gift-giving this holiday season!

You'll find some very practical and welcome Christmas gift ideas in this previous blogpost about the top British brand, Tower:- https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2023/10/tower-makes-excellent-christmas-presents.html

Make the chaps Smell well this Christmas!

Debenhams has revealed the results of new research which show that a man's choice of fragrance alters dramatically with advancing years, resulting in men in their sixties and above selecting and piling on the strongest of scents.

The sense of smell weakens in people who are their sixties hence why older generations prefer impactful, longer lasting perfumes, often opting for classic, masculine pongs from the likes of Aramis and Davidoff.

Unlike today's man who on average begins to use cologne from the age of 14 years old, sexagenarians and their older brothers didn't grow up wearing fragrance and most men in this age group (77 per cent) claimed to only start wearing aftershave at the age of 30 years old.

Now that wearing scent is an acceptable part of everyday male grooming, it seems those born in 1951 and earlier are making up for lost time and 'splashing it on all over' with 56 per cent saying they respray three times a day, more than any other age group.

Ruth Attridge, spokesperson for Debenhams said: "No longer the fusty Steptoe or the less-than-fragrant Compo, the older generation has embraced the fragrance hall and is creating a buzz in the beauty industry.

"Choosing a signature scent can be a challenge whatever your age however, before reaching for another spritz, we'd always advise remembering that a 'man doesn’t have to try too hard'."

The older generation still has a little way to go to match up to their sons in their late twenties and thirties. Research has shown that 63 per cent of men in this age group have a 'fragrance wardrobe' of five or more scents, with men citing "mood", "occasion" and "trend" for why they experiment.

They were also the age bracket most likely to be influenced by the women in their life with 71 per cent of men claiming their wife or girlfriend has a say in their smell.

Despite their bad rap for piling on the pong, it is fresh, often unisex fragrances that are bought most frequently by men in their teens and early twenties. Bottle design and association with celebrities and sports proved major motivations for purchases in this age group.

As men reach their forties and fifties, sex sells resulting in a sales boom for the spicy and musky fragrance sector. The baby boomers have ascertained what fragrance they like and therefore spend more but buy less, investing in premium, designer brands such as Chanel, Tom Ford and Bvlgari.

Attridge added: "This research is massively important as we enter the Christmas shopping period.

"Fragrance is one of our most popular gifts for men and we can now provide further training for our fragrance consultants to help busy shoppers pick the right perfume, whether it's for your Great Uncle Bob or your image-conscious teenage son.

"We will be managing our stock levels accordingly to make sure that no one ends up with a dusty bottle of Old Spice left on the shelf year after year."