9 simple tips to help you buy the perfect Christmas present for your wife or girlfriend

Brought to you by Dyson.

This can lead to a happy new year.

Christmas is coming. So it’s once again time to get the lady in your life something that she won’t absolutely hate. That may seem like a pretty low bar for Christmas presents but it’s probably a realistic starting point for many people. Get it right and you’re a great boyfriend/husband. Mess it up and you're in the doghouse on Christmas Day or you'll find her asking "Do you even know who I am?" Luckily, we’re here to help you pick out something that she actually wants or even *whisper it* a present that she’ll love. So deep breathes, let’s get focused and we’ll dive into this mission together.

1. Don’t buy her a gift that you want for yourself

This isn’t the perfect crime. In fact, it’s pretty obvious what you’re doing. Especially if she hates football and you buy her two tickets to see Barcelona vs Real Madrid.

2. Listen for clues

Even at this stage, it’s not too late to pick up some ideas. Think back to anything useful that she may have mentioned in the preceding months but stay tuned for last minute tips. If she’s suddenly talking a lot about how much she’d love to visit Portugal, you know what to do.

3. Get something she wants but won’t buy herself

Christmas is about treating each other. We all have things that we want but can’t justify buying for ourselves. Has she always wanted a Versace handbag or a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer? You could be in the business of wish fulfillment if you were to treat her on Christmas morning.

4. Think about presents that show how much you care

You know things about her that no one else does so use that knowledge. Try to buy her something that only you would know she wants. It doesn’t have to be big or expensive but you’ll get serious brownie points if you can nail it.

5. Avoid boring or practical presents

Nobody wants a kitchen appliance for Christmas. Practical presents are the relationship equivalent of your parents getting you books for Christmas. All you really wanted was toys.

6. Always have a present to open

Although we're not suggesting that it has to be a puppy. Organising a holiday, concert tickets or an experience are all well and good but try to get her something tangible as well. It doesn’t have to be big but everyone wants to have something to unwrap on the day.

7. Get a card

As a rule, most fellas don’t really get the big deal about a card. For some women, a card is a fundamental part of any present so just cough up a couple of Euro and err on the side of caution.

8. Ask what she wants

This very much depends on your partner. Theoretically, it’s no harm to ask her if there’s anything in particular she wants. Still, some people see this as laziness or a lack of imagination. If you’re unsure about something, you could bounce the idea off some of her friends to see what they think. Just make sure the person you ask is discreet!

9. Be wary when buying clothes or jewellery

Maybe you have an instinctive awareness of your other half’s style and fashion preferences. Or maybe you were there when she was drooling over something in a shop. If so, have at it. Otherwise, this is one of those times where it probably pays to know your limits. This Christmas, Dyson is giving you the opportunity to build her dream Christmas present. Select the colour of your Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer, from iron/fuchsia, white/silver and Special Edition black/purple. Then add two accessories from a range of storage boxes, bags and stands for the perfect gift set, all wrapped up for €419.99. Order online before 4pm on Thursday, 21 December, for guaranteed Christmas delivery. Brought to you by Dyson.