Image via Complex Original
Before your Thanksgiving turkey could even get cold—probably before your grandma even started thinking about whether she was making beans, greens, potatoes or tomatoes that day—holiday season gift-giving pressure had already turned up from a gentle simmer to a roiling boil. As we all know, Thanksgiving is really just a warm-up to Christmas—aka the biggest consumer holiday in America. And while eggnog and convivial cheer is all well and good, that doesn’t negate the fact that one the biggest stressors of the season is gifting: I mean, WTF should you buy bae?
Here’s the good news: We found 10 super talented (and beautiful) women to weigh in on what you should avoid buying her under all circumstances. It’s a start, right?
MC Barao
Occupation: Fitness Model & Blogger
Handle: @mcbarao
"For me, there are three things you shouldn’t buy. Christmas-themed undies, because I only wear black. Also gift cards, because they lack a sentimental touch—at that point you might as well give chase. Lastly, lotion, because that’s too soft for me. I need my guy to know better."
Danielle Greco
Occupation: Producer & On-Camera Personality at VFILES
Handles: @thugsbunnny
"I actually discuss this a lot, and I always say do not buy your girl a spa gift card. She doesn’t want it. She won’t use it. Massage her yourself or you’re lazy."
Amarachi Nwosu
Occupation: Visual Artist & Writer
Handle: @amaraworldwide
"I personally wouldn't want a guy to buy me skincare or face products, because everyone's skin is so different, and you never want your gift to be the reason someone breaks out. I also don’t think gift cards are a good idea, because it can look like he didn’t take the time to think about who she is and what she really loves. Also, no workout gear unless she asks for it because that could be interpreted as a sign. Lastly, no pets, because they cost more than they give, and she probably won’t want a reminder of you if you ever break up."
Donmonique
Occupation: Rapper
Handle: @donmon1que
"I like pretty much any gift I receive, because I appreciate the thought (even socks). But one thing I do hate is receiving gifts that just aren’t my style. My family always gets me these ugly ass turtlenecks I never wear—it happens every single year. I hate it. So, just don't buy me weird turtlenecks!"
Ree Laing
Occupation: DJ
Handle: @yochiinky
"I'm not sure about other women, but I probably speak for a lot of people in general when I say, DO NOT BUY ME PAJAMAS. That dreaded pair of ugly 'Christmas' pajamas is the one gift you can count on getting when someone has waited until the absolute last minute to get you a gift. Don't get me wrong: Pajamas are cozy, and they keep you warm, but getting them four Christmases in a row is not fun, especially if they're the $7.99 kind. If you’re going in the direction of cozy Christmas-wear, get her some Rihanna Fenty slides, or drop some money on a nice fluffy robe she can feel like a queen in."
Liza Ostanina
Occupation: Writer & Creative
Handle: @lizostanina
"For me, it’s a cat. Seriously, there's nothing worse someone could gift me than a cat or anything involving cats. I'm allergic, plus I find them to be annoying; all of my closest friends know this. I also think it’s a good idea to avoid anything Christmas-themed, because it’s too basic."
Moxiie
Occupation: Singer & Songwriter
Handle: @moxiie
"Number one is definitely don't buy lingerie. To me that kind of gift is really for the guy, unless I express wanting that (which would never happen). Also, don't buy a trendy designer bag out of nowhere (ultimate side chick gift). I can’t speak for everyone, but for me personally, that says you think all I care about is how much you spend. I think those kinds of gifts are so generic that they're actually offensive. Bottom line is that an experience or gift of any kind that shows that you understand me, appreciate me, and listen to what I say is always the way to go."
Skye Cooper-Barr
Occupation: Co-Founder of Pussy Palace
Handles: @skylermyler
"I think you shouldn't gift a significant other anything that is insinuating something else. For example, if you’re trying to send a message that you want them to start cooking more, don't buy them a spatula, just be upfront or cook for yourself! Use consideration for your gift not selfishness."
Tina Craig
Occupation: Founder of Bag Snob
Handle: @Bagsnob
"My husband has been instructed that under no circumstances is he to buy me a bag. I'm a bag snob and quite picky. I adhere to a very strict criteria when choosing a bag (that's another article altogether and depends on season and location)! My readers come to me for advice when purchasing a bag (husbands/boyfriends included). Most women see bags as investments and want to make sure they choose the right one. So unless he wants to consult me before buying me a bag, he should stick with shiny things—like diamonds."
Maya McHenry
Occupation: Model
Handle: @mayamchenry
"Something that I would absolutely not want a guy to buy me for the holidays is a pet cat. I've been scared of cats since I was kid; I had a terrifying experience with one that I can't seem to get past. My god sister's cat hid under her bed while we were sleeping and pounced on me. When I reacted with fear the cat hissed in my face with its piercing glow-in-the-dark eyes. I guess you could say that pretty much scarred me for life."