As someone who prides myself in my shopping capabilities, buying for men can be a tough nut to crack. The mark of a good gift is a personal touch, something they wouldn’t buy themselves which is perhaps the reason why guys are so tricky. They’re typical shopping nature is if they want something, they buy it. So unless they have given you a heads up on what’s on their list, then what’s a girl to do? Put down those socks and sweaters, I have made a list of ten ways you can shop smart for the men in your life, hell, why not even double up an add to your own list? Either way, don’t worry boo, Betty gotcha covered.
From festive to functional, Abandon Ship Apparel have something for everyone. From the guy who loves a bit of tongue in cheek to the fella who likes his clothes classic and well fitting, ASA has got that and then some. They have a pretty redic honesty sale on at the moment so be sure stock up on all their best loved pieces before they are gone, for good.
Catherine Aitken has been on the scene for a while but her latest collections are nothing short of timeless. Her smart backpacks are made from beautiful Harris Tweed fabric, backed with waxed cotton and finished with natural veg tan leather straps, this is shopping local for the urban gentleman at its very best.
I know I said this would be an alternative gift guide but sadly, garments 100% made in the UK are hard to find. If you are planning on buying your man some new underpants, put the Calvin’s aside and opt for something a little more close to home. There’s a lucky Dick!
If the poor fella’s shoes have seen better days, you can’t get better than the iconic Dr Martens 1401 shoe. Sturdy, practical and fit for most personal styles, these bad boys will see him way past next Christmas and then some.
Yup, you read correctly, beard oil is so last season honey! The second collaboration with cruelty free skincare brand Aesop and French fashion house APC brings you Poo Drops. For the man who maybe enjoys a Brussel Sprout or two, give him this to drop in after his business for a fresh fruity scent after business has been taken care of. But online or pick up your bottle in the Aesop Edinburgh or London stores. You are both welcome.
Got a keen cycler on your hands? He needs a Trakke. As robust, comfortable and practical as they are stylish, these bags and accessories is all he needs in making sure he and his belongings get from A to B safely. Hand made in Scotland, the buckles can even be used as bottle openers too which of course shouldn’t be used when cycling! Check out their Tweed and Timorous Beasties collabs while you are there, these are Cycling bags like you’ve never seen them before.
Is he always late, late, for a very important date? Sort him out with a new timepiece this Christmas and make sure he is always on time with style. I love the minimalist take on the classic British design. Take £25 off your order and free worldwide delivery with the code BettyAL25, don’t say I’m not good to you.
Fancy a ‘Netfliks and Chill’ day? Take the laptop off the bed and ping it onto the telly where it belongs. Working straight from a PC, Apple or Andriod device, stream to the comfort of your own telly with no distruptive wires. Make sure you also download the TV Cast for website streaming too. New episode of South Park anyone?
I’ve not been able to live without my Aeropress since I got it from my bro last Christmas. From the dude that brought us the Frisbee, sort your favourite caffeine addict with the quickest, freshest coffee he’s ever had. Make sure you pick up a pack of Dear Green coffee while you are at it too! Even if he’s more of a tea Jenny, just get one of these for yourself anyway!
Still can’t figure out what to get your man? If all he is really into is you, beer and pizza, how about grab him a few shares in Scotland’s finest Craft Beer, Brew Dog. Not only will you’re fella own a part (albeit small) of the company, he will get free beers, invited to events and even have some pretty shit hot discounts all year round. Pretty sweet eh?
