Ask Anya: Make My Presents Cool

Let’s go right back to beginning here, yes Aunty Dorris just bought you a hideous head to toe floral dress that looks like a big girl version of an outfit you had at age five, but at the end of the day Aunty Dorris bought it because she thought you would love it, maybe she even made it for you all by herself! And although it’s not something you would buy yourself, or for any of those around you, it’s kind of sweet that she’s grinning ear to ear.

 

Swallow your Ksubi jeans loving pride and wear the damm thing, and make your Auny happy. Of course if this is a habit of hers and she’s laughing evilly at you, then there is a sadistic element to it too. There is a difference between being clueless with gift giving and taking joy in making others uncomfortable!

 

Pieces of clothing are pretty hard to get wrong, short of it being the complete wrong size there is always a way you can make it work. A belt around that shapeless dress, a dye job for that white top, a trip to the tailors for the dress that’s slightly too big... Just use your imagination! It’s remarkably easy to have a look at something and say “no”, but sometimes it’s better to give it a go.

 

There is an art to regifting, but when it comes to fashion I tend to go down the route of – share the love. If you open a present and it really doesn’t work at all with who you are, then surely someone in your army of friends would be more than happy to take the offending item off your hands. Or of course you can take on the spirit of the season and donate it! Charities like Dress for Success would be more than happy to pick over your Christmas goodies.

 

You hate it, it makes you want to cry and you wonder why the heck that person bought it for you? Take it back! Most people will hand over exchange cards with the purchases so that if it doesn’t work then you can take it back. Embrace the Boxing Day sales with a credit note in your hot little hand and that bad gift will seem like a blessing!

 

The thing you despise today you may actually warm to tomorrow. Just like how we all warmed to footless tights and skinny jeans. Maybe a little time will allow you to think of your gifts in a happier light. And if not then at least you can say you tried before cutting the item up or sending it on to a friend. And maybe next year you can avoid the whole situation by writing a wish list!