Christmas gifts for your boyfriend—ideas to shop now

a collage of ideas for Christmas gifts for your boyfriend including YMC, Le Labo, Mainl + Goetz, Babyliss, Bose, Dishoom and Acne Studios

(Image credit: YMC / Le Labo / Malin + Goetz / Babyliss / Bose / Dishoom / Acne Studios)

published 2 December 21

If you're struggling to think of what to get this year, like finding the perfect Christmas gifts for your boyfriend, then you've come to the right place.

Look, unless they're dropping hints left, right and centre, you'd be forgiven for thinking it was an impossible task. Last year the hints came thick and fast—PS5, anyone? But, if they haven't been as forthcoming with what's on their list for this year, then we're here to help.

When it comes to Christmas gift ideas, there are certain failsafes that you need to remember: a pair of great socks will always make a good gift, you can't go wrong with grooming and skincare and a bottle of their favorite tipple—like a good Scotch—is never going to be frowned upon.

So, whatever your budget may be—and whatever he's into—from the best grooming gifts, tech buys and cookbooks, we've pulled together a list of the items that will ensure smiles all around come Christmas day.

The perfect Christmas gifts for your boyfriend

1. Le Labo Another 13

It’s not Christmas unless there is a bottle of something that smells delicious under the tree. Equal parts sexy and mysterious, Another 13 by Le Labo is the sort of scent that you can’t really pinpoint exactly what it smells like but you know it smells seriously good. Plus, he won’t notice if you have a spritz or two for yourself—there’s a reason it made it into our best perfume list.

2. Acne Studios Canada scarf

You can’t go wrong with a scarf, but make it a good one. Yes, a lot of people ask, ‘Are Acne scarves worth it?’ And IMHO the answer is a resounding yes. Not only are they a timeless classic but the quality is second to none. This one comes in an oversized silhouette as well as several colorways and is perfect for layering up a look.

3. Dishoom From Bombay With Love Cookbook

Seriously, if he can throw down in the kitchen, marry him! If he can’t, then there’a always time to learn, right? Whatever his skill level, from a Mob Kitchen enthusiast to someone still into toaster potato waffles, a cookbook makes the perfect Christmas gift. Just make sure you choose accordingly. Granted, the Dishoom cookbook, is for those that know the difference between Turmeric and Chilli Powder, but half the fun is in learning right? And, it has the ultimate Black Daal recipe too.

4. Malin + Goetz Cannabis Candle

Yes, guys are into candles too. This one by Malin + Goetz is natural, cruelty free and seriously the business. Light it up and kick back when the aroma of these delightful candle fills the air. With notes of bergamot, black pepper, orange, a cannabis accord (in a good way), magnolia, amber and sandalwood, this is one smokey, spicy and fresh scent.

5. YMC, Hawkeye denim shirt

A good overskirt is the perfect way to update his wardrobe. They’re easy enough to throw on over a T-shirt and jeans can be worn layered up in the colder months, and won’t feel like a complete departure from his regular style. Look to brands like Arket, Samsoe + Samsoe, and Weekday for simple but seriously cool offerings. This one by YMC is made of a heavy denim fabric that looks and feels luxe too.

£175 at Farfetch
$251 at Farfetch

6. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Unwrapping new tech at Christmas would make even the Grinch himself light up from ear to ear. These earphones from Bose not only look good but are seriously good too. Bose have been pioneers of noise cancelling technology from the get-go, so expect the very best from these. They come with a portable charging case and last for a seriously impressive time.

7. Babyliss iStubble Beard Trimmer

You can’t go wrong with a beard trimmer—well unless he doesn’t have a beard. This one from Babyliss is a classic with its sleek silhouette and contouring head which hugs the curves of a face. It’s perfect for trimming all lengths from stubbles to well-groomed short beards.

8. Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops

SPF is the most important part of any skincare routine, so it’s essential that it becomes part of his. The Sun Drops by way of Dr Barbara Sturm offer broad spectrum protection—meaning it protects from both UVA and UVB types of light. It also blends seamlessly into all skin tones leaving no traces of grey smudges in its wake—this is make or break for me tbh.

Sunil Makan

Sunil Makan is the Deputy Editor of My Imperfect Life.

With over 12 years of publishing experience, working on print publications and their digital counterparts, national newspapers, and digital pure plays he is an Editor, Strategist, Content Producer, and Creative Director. In his most recent role, Sunil was the Associate Editor of British Marie Claire and prior to that he worked at ELLE, InStyle, Shortlist Media and freelanced at titles such as Mr Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, Floral Street fragrance, and The Times.

Sunil’s specialisms include Fashion, Beauty and Grooming, Lifestyle, and Culture. He has reported and covered fashion trends at International fashion weeks in London, Milan, and Paris, smelled and tested countless fragrances, beauty treatments, slathered on more serums, moisturizers, and masks than he cares to mention plus reviewed some of the best hotels in the world—and the worst.

Sunil has appeared on and led workshops and panels like the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Creative Diversity roundtable, the British Fashion Council’s Diversity and Inclusion Board, and Fujifilm reader events. A lover of—in no particular order—fragrance, fine wine, champagne, Dior, food, and chicken wings.