The best present isn't necessarily the most expensive, it's the one still being used in February. A useful Christmas gift that is also original brings joy on the day, then earns its keep every day after. Here are 15 tried-and-tested ideas, sorted by personality, plus a few tips to get it right.
The essentials
- A good useful gift replaces something worn out or improves an everyday habit.
- To make it original, choose the nicer, softer or more beautiful version of something people wouldn't buy for themselves.
- Slippers and clogs are among the most-worn presents in winter.
- When giving shoes without knowing the size, make sure exchanges are easy.
How do you find a gift that is both original and useful?
Ask yourself three questions before buying: will it be used every week? Does it replace something worn out? Is it nicer than what they would buy themselves? If the answer is yes to all three, you have your present. Originality doesn't have to come from a gadget; it can come from a material, a colour or a thoughtful touch.
Another tip: think about the habit rather than the object. "She always has cold feet", "he reads every night", "she's often away for the weekend": every little everyday remark hides a gift idea. Jot them down on your phone through the year and your Christmas list will practically write itself. Set a budget per person before you start, too: it's easier to find a lovely idea at €35 when you know you're not looking beyond that.
For everyday comfort
1. Vegan suede clogs
A pair you slip on in the morning and keep on until bedtime. The Sienna comfort clog has a cushioned footbed that hugs the arch and an adjustable metal buckle. Leopard for the bold, taupe or black for the classic.
2. Slippers with style
The perfect present for someone who always feels the cold: the Merano cuffed slipper, with a wide faux-fur cuff and plush lining, in sizes 36 to 45, in pink, beige, taupe, grey, light grey, brown or black.
3. A lined clog that can go outside
For anyone who pops out to the post box in their slippers: the Bormio clog, lined right up to the collar, has a cork-effect grip sole you can wear outdoors.
4. Lined booties for town
For a keen walker, the lace-free Cortina sherpa booties, with a platform grip sole, will see them through winter.
5. A chunky knit throw
It will live on the sofa from November to March. Choose a colour that suits their living room, not yours.
6. Quality wool socks
A set of lovely thick socks may sound ordinary, but it is one of the most-used presents of winter. Paired with clogs, they make a perfect match.
For the home
7. A hot water bottle with a knitted cover
Simple, retro and wonderfully effective on cold evenings.
8. A stylish insulated bottle
Hot tea at the office, cold water on a hike: it replaces dozens of disposable cups.
9. A reading lamp
A small adjustable lamp or a warm-light night light transforms a reading nook. Used every evening.
10. A subscription
A magazine, a tea or coffee box: a present that comes back every month and makes Christmas last.
For foodies
11. A spice or oil gift set
For keen cooks, quality ingredients they wouldn't buy for themselves.
12. A workshop or class
Baking, pottery, world cuisine: an experience to share and a skill that stays.
For the organised
13. A beautiful notebook or diary
Thick paper, fabric cover: it comes along all year.
14. A travel pouch
For chargers, jewellery or toiletries. Useful on every trip.
The most original idea: a cosy kit
15. A homemade cosy kit
A pair of slippers, a Christmas tea, a candle, a paperback: put them together in a box and you have a personal, useful present. If you are buying for several people, our bundle of two pairs of your choice is €59.99 and three pairs €79.99. For the wrapping, try zero-waste gift wrapping.
Giving shoes without knowing their size
It is the number one worry. A few tricks: sneak a look at the label of a pair they wear often, or ask someone close to them. Our styles are true to size: if in doubt between two sizes, go one size up. And if it isn't right, size exchanges are free and there are 60 days to change your mind. Our guide to choosing the right size of slippers and clogs can help too.
Frequently asked questions
What is a useful Christmas present?
Something used every day that people don't buy for themselves: quality clogs or slippers, a throw, an insulated bottle, lovely wool socks.
What is an original gift for under €40?
A pair of vegan suede clogs (€39.99) or cuffed slippers (€34.99), a taster workshop or a homemade cosy kit. For more ideas, see our selection of cosy Christmas gifts under €50.
How can I be sure a present will be used?
Look at the person's daily life: what they wear, what is worn out, what is missing. A gift that improves something they do every day is very likely to be adopted.
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