Know your recipient
Take a few minutes to consider the person you're buying for:
What is their dress style (i.e. contemporary or classic)?
If you know them well, does their house and home accessory style follow the same pattern?
What are their hobbies? Cooking, Gardening, Sport (if so which?)
What type of fragrance do they wear?
What do they do?
Look out for 'hints' throughout the year
Particularly with members of the family, listen when they say 'I'd love those Ugg boots/purple eye shadow/new Jo Malone Fragrance.
Store these up until you need to buy them a gift, buy something you know they're coveting and you'll score points for seeming really clever. Never choose something because you like it and would like it to be given to you.
This is the most common mistake that people make - they buy without making sure that what they choose is appropriate for the person they're buying for rather than what they'd like to receive themselves. Try not to have to buy in a hurry
If you're in a real hurry and haven't done any research you're bound to get it wrong. Try and allow just that extra bit of time and thought. If seriously in doubt
Buy something gorgeous from a great brand. No one ever hates being given something from Lalique, where prices start at £70, or Gucci. The packaging will be so luxurious it says it all. Clothing and Accessories
Be very careful here and only buy if you know exactly what your recipient likes and wears. Buy something in the wrong size, shape or colour and it can be embarrassing - 'where did you buy it and can I exchange?' are questions you don't want to be asked. That Chloe handbag or Prada wallet - no problem ever - if you really want to shell out that much! On a tight budget
There are lots of retailers offering gift ideas for extremely reasonable prices, such as Arran Aromatics Bath Soaks from Bath and Unwind and scented candles from M&S Something Different?
Find unusual ideas try the gadget shop or gorgeous personalised flowers and chocolates got to allpresents or prezzybox for great gift ideas. Finally, know their favourite film or music genre?
Then go to Borders you'll find everything.
Patricia Davidson's The Gift Book and best selling Shopaholics Top 1000 Websites turn gift buying dilemmas into a breeze.
| 
