Parents can be so hard to buy for - you want to show how much you appreciate them, but somehow, they seem to have everything they need! And they rarely give a proper answer when asked for suggestions!
Our top tip for buying for mum or dad is, don't try to find the perfect gift - just look for a surprise which will make them smile. A little luxury, a special something which they wouldn't have bought themselves. Something simple and beautiful.
Fathers
Dads are surely the hardest people to buy for - but don't let that put you off trying! Instead of just picking this year's best selling novel, find your father something which shows you really care.
Traditional Dad
If your father isn't known for browsing the fashion section of the Sunday papers, choose a gift which will be within his comfort zone. But traditional doesn't have to mean ugly - a classic piece, such as a quality silk tie, is sure to be appreciated whilst pepping up his wardrobe. Visit a real tailor's store, or buy from a Gents' designer such as British brand Ted Baker, and your gift is bound to be worn for years.
Board room Dad
If your dad is more at home in the office than the golf course, a fountain pen could prove to be a gift he uses every day. Even in the internet age, there's nothing quite like whipping a fancy pen out of your shirt pocket to take notes in meetings - or keep score on the links!
Avoid the cliché classic pens on yesteryear - contemporary stationery design features lines as slick as a top of the range car. We love this shiny black fountain pen from cult brand Lamy - and with an 18ct gold nib, your dad is going to love it too.
For the Dad who's still a kid at heart
Some boys never grow up - and never is this more obvious than at Christmas. If your dad is always quick to 'help' the grandkids set up the latest gadget, why not just get him his own toy? This year, remote control helicopters are still a big thing - and some of them really are grown-up models, rather than children's toys. Check out this cool, black quadcopter with inbuilt camera - it comes with lots of technical gadgetry which your dad is sure to understand without even reading the instructions!
Practical Dad
Some dads just don't really understand frivolous gift giving. They'd rather be hammering and fixing than playing or dressing up. If this sounds like your father, why not get him something useful which you know he'll appreciate. If his workshop is already stuffed full of power tools, take advantage of end of year deals on equipment like steam mops and carpet cleaners. Your dad will appreciate never having to hire a professional cleaning service again.
Mothers
Mums are as varied as their daughters - although we often have more in common that we like to admit! You only get one mother, so show her how much you care with a special gift this Christmas.
Glamorous mum
Buying make-up for older women can feel scary - what if their skin reacts differently to yours? Will the colors suit her? Stick with classic bronzes and nude lips from a quality brand, and you can be sure your mum won't be disappointed. Bobbi Brown has a great reputation for creating products to suit all skin tones and ages - not to mention beautiful palettes and gift sets! Any make-up loving mother will be overjoyed with this collection.
Classic style
If your mother enjoys a good necklace but tends to avoid statement pieces, why not treat her to a piece of beautiful minimalist jewelry? She'll be getting in on contemporary trends without even realising it! This hydrangea influenced necklace has a traditional floral theme she'll love, and a classy solitaire diamond which will show just how much you value her.
Homespun Mama
Some mothers value home above all else - and deserve a great big thank you for providing us with comfort and security as we were growing up. If you have a homebody mum, treat her to something really luxurious to throw over the sofa, like this beautiful knit blanket from Anthropologie. The neutral colors and traditional style make this a piece which will fit in any décor scheme.
Prairie Chunky Throw by Anthropologie for around $220 USD
For a truly Diamond Mum
If your mum really means the world to you, why not treat her to a little piece of luxury? The small but perfectly formed diamond in this dainty ring makes this a very wearable piece. Whether your mum is rarely seen out of a cocktail dress, or more of a jean and t-shirt kind of gal - this ring will fit in with her style. In fact, it's so perfect, you might find it hard to give away!
That finishes our collection of Christmas suggestions for all the family - happy shopping!
