Best Christmas gifts for him, from cookbooks to fashion staples

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Wax London

Show his lid some love with a new cap. Specifically, this Spencer cotton sports cap from Wax London with its pure cotton construction and vintage-inspired design.

Uniqlo

Uniqlo’s heattech range has somewhat of a cult following. Engineered to be insulating and warm, but designed with trends in mind, the prices are pleasingly affordable. This unisex scarf makes a lovely stocking filler. It’s available in six stylish tartan finishes that add the final flourish to winter ensembles.

Cremo

Cult US skincare brand Cremo aims to streamline – and demystify – the world of men’s grooming. Now available this side of the pond, its body washes, fragrances and bestselling shaving essentials are luxurious without an extortionate price tag. The Italian bergamot gift set is an energising body wash and eau de toilette duo with fragrance notes of neroli blossom and citrus.

Fortnum & Mason

A luxury alternative to the bubbles and fizz typically consumed at this time of year, Fortnum & Mason’s sparkling tea has a celebratory appearance and feel thanks to its delicate palate of lemongrass, water mint and Darjeeling. Bottoms up.

Abbott Lyon

A luggage tag is one of those little travel items that’s easy to overlook, but can make a world of difference when trying to locate a bag on the carousel. A handy gift for someone who travels regularly, this leather version from Abbott Lyon comes in black or navy, while the personalised detailing adds a thoughtful touch.

Amazon

Douglas Stuart’s latest Booker Prize-nominated novel, John of John, explores the author's signature themes of masculinity, working-class Scottish life and family relationships. Immersing readers in a small, close-knit community on the Isle of Harris, the story begins with the homecoming of 22-year-old art school graduate John-Callum. His father, John, a devout Protestant, sheep farmer and a deacon at the Presbyterian church, is troubled by his son’s free expression. Exploring the tension between duty and religion, and desire and love, John of John will occupy those blissfully empty days between Christmas and New Year.

Salt & Stone

Okay, deodorant might not feel like the most flattering gift to give/receive, but all bets and rules are off when it comes to a Salt & Stone deodorant. A cut above the rest, this luxe and mindful scented product is unlike any other on the market.

M&S

If your giftee has been guilty of neglecting their plants in the past, treat them to an artificial one instead. M&S’s range combines realistic-looking greenery with stylish pots and affordable prices, just like this money tree design. Helping them create an eye-catching display, the faux plant is potted in a ceramic-style green pot: perfect for brightening up interiors without having to remember to water it.

Kiehls

When it comes to bathroom staples, you can’t beat Kiehls. The US beauty brand has been at the forefront of skincare innovation for more than a century. Its grooming collection is an affordable, whistle stop tour through its bestsellers – think the facial fuel face wash, shave cream, daily moisturiser and post-shave soothing cream.

Amazon

A cookbook brimming with tempting NYC-inspired dishes, New York Cult Recipes cosplays as a stylish coffee table book. From BLTs and ultimate cheeseburgers, to cinnamon rolls, giant cookies and indulgent New York cheesecake, expat Marc Grossman pays just as much attention to the city’s culinary delights as it does the neighbours they originated from.

Fortnum & Mason

For dad’s with an interest in vino, Nyetimber’s classic cuvee should be top of the gifting list. The Sussex vineyard is the forefront of the English sparkling wine movement. Its bestselling classic cuvee – a delicate blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot menuier – has collected numerous awards over the years. A bottle is the next best thing if they missed out on its exclusive private vineyard tours (dubbed the Glastonbury of the wine world).

The London Sock Company

A good pair of socks might not sound like the most exciting purchase, but these merino wool ones make a strong case for investing in the basics. They’re soft, lightweight and comfortable, with a smart ribbed finish that works just as well with office trousers as it does with jeans. Available in a range of classic colours, they’re a practical gift that won’t go unused.

Barbour

In ol’ Blighty, you’re going to need an umbrella – that’s a-given. That said, not all brollies are created equal, and your corner-shop-panic-purchase has nothing on this tartan number from Barbour, complete with curved wooden handle and robust construction.

Master of Malt

In expert Becky Paskin’s review of the best whiskies, Nc’Nean organic single Scotch whisky came out on top. “The nose is achingly inviting with aromas of juicy ripe peaches and apricots, sour green apples and overripe wild strawberries dripping with thick honey.” Ideal for gifting, Becky added that “it’s truly a whisky with heart.”

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Assouline

Assouline’s range of hardback books is gorgeously imagined, with an edition for every interest and interior. This vintage car issue is a particularly nice gift for an automobile-obsessed man. Tracing the history of cars through curated imagery, they’ll enjoy hours leafing through its pages.

Le Creuset

Anything from Le Creuset feels like a real treat, and the French brand’s cafetiere is perfect for coffee lovers. Elevating their brew breaks, the stoneware cafetiere boasts a 1l capacity. The enamelled surface and stainless steel knob are luxurious but also ensure the French press’s longevity. Plus, it comes in various colourways, from the brand’s classic volcanic orange to ivory, black, mustard yellow and deep teal.

Bose

Bose’s new wired earbuds are for people who want a premium listening experience while also looking stylish: the sound quality is excellent, the noise cancellation is surprisingly good, and their knot-free cables make this feel like an upgraded take on the wired trend.

Horace

Horace is an emblematic name in the grooming business for good reason. Home to some of the most unforgettable fragrances in the game, Horace’s online shelves are full of punchy and subtly seductive scents. My personal favourite? The Oud Rose; floral, woody, green.

Chelsea Peers

Nothing says “festive” quite like a splash of tartan. Or, in this case, two types of tartan. Done out in a rich and cosy organic cotton, this long pyjama set from Chelsea Peers makes a compelling case for getting comfortable and ignoring the social demands of your seasonal calendar.

Abercrombie

Listen, every wardrobe needs a nice hoodie. Loungewear really doesn’t have to be scruffy, and with a decent investment, it can comfortably leave the house as part of a put-together look. Case in point, this Abercrombie ‘Essential’ hoodie is aptly-named and easy to wear.

Edition

Bring five-star hotel luxury home with Edition’s signature candle. Housed in a sleek black glazed vessel, its room-filling fragrance blends Sicilian bergamot, green tea and cedarwood with rich black tea, smoky, citrus and floral notes. A chic gift for design lovers and fragrance aficionados alike.

Aspinal of London

Aspinal of London has long been synonymous with dapper men. The heritage brand’s small leather goods deserve every accolade, combining timeless materials and finishes with customisable touches – tailor-made for gifting.

Le Labo

From matcha to santal 26, Le Labo scents have risen to cult status. When it comes to scenting their home, this discovery set of three candles lets your giftee try three bestsellers – and the brand’s recognisably minimalist packaging is a stylish addition to any space. Developed with a high dose of fragrance oils, the santal 26 is a musky, vanilla blend, while palo santo 14 is sweet and woody, with the ambroxyde 17 offering a clean and fresh fragrance.

Shrig Shop

David Shrigley’s quirky, maximalist prints can add instant character to an abode. The Chaos measures 60cm x 80cm, boasting a high-quality matte finish. The art piece and typography create real impact when mounted on a wall.

Harrods

The collaboration between POLSPOTTEN and La Marzocco is a match made in retro kitchenware heaven. Inspired by La Marzocco original coffee machine from 1927, this set of four ceramic cups boasts a glazed, speckled finish in clashing primary colours. Just as nice for display as to sip coffee from, the artisanal cups are perfect for design lovers.

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CDLP

In my time as a menswear expert, there’s no pair of boxers a man loves more than a CDLP pair of boxers. Cut with a mid-rise waist and regular leg, these boxers cut a versatile silhouette, sealed with their signature logomaniac waistband.

Jimmy Fairly

Sunglasses might not feel like the go-to present for the coldest months of the year, but just because the mercury plummets doesn’t mean the sun hides away. Geometric but uniquely flattering, Jimmy Fairly’s ‘Idro’ sunglasses provide sun protection and style in one swift hit.

Smythson

Reader, I am a sucker for stationary. And, if your giftee is anywhere near as nerdy as me, they’re sure to fanboy over a Smythson leather notebook. Bound in British calfhide, Smythson has a range of rich notebooks in different designs, but my pick of the lot is this Jade croc-embossed number.

Aesop

As with all Aesop’s formulas, this duo comes beautifully packaged in a stylish yet pleasingly minimalistic bottle. The cleanser’s gentle formulation of orange, rosemary and lavender effectively cleans hands without drying them out, leaving palms soft and nourished. The fragrant formula boasts a citrus, woody and herbaceous scent that lingers long after use.

Stubble & Co

Does this backpack look familiar to you? It should. Worn by Tom Hiddleston in series two of The Night Manager, this roll-top backpack looks good, does good, and has garnered over twenty-thousand positive reviews on the Stubble & Co site. If it’s good enough for 20,000 strangers, it’s good enough for gifting.

Instax

Whilst Instax polaroid cameras are nothing new, this Mini Evo camera demands more than a second glance. Combining the benefits of polaroid and digital cameras, this model offers you both options, with the ability to capture your visuals as either an instant physical print, or as a digital image you can save to your smartphone.

Marshall

Featuring the iconic Marshall signature, you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who wouldn't want this speaker sitting on their shelf. The Emberton III has a clean, stylish design and surprisingly big sound for its size. Not only does it look fantastic, the bass is also punchy, and the battery life is excellent, with 32+ hours of playtime. It’s easy to carry around, and being dust and waterproof means it works well at home or on the go.

CultBeauty

If you’ve heard of Le Labo, it’s likely that you’ve heard it hyped and re-hyped by your most city-dwelling friends and peers, with a rich reputation that stretches from NYC to London. An indulgent gift bound to go down a treat, The Noir 29’s multifaceted and zesty scent is unparalleled in the likes of luxurious fragrances.

G H Bass

The only thing better than a pair of black loafers? A pair of chocolate brown loafers. Specifically, G.H.bass Weejuns loafer in all their lush leather glory. Part of the brand’s heritage moccasin range, this pair is hand-sewn, light, cushioned and easy to wear.

Desmond & Dempsey

If you’ve not heard of Desmond and Dempsey pyjamas and robes, I’m proud to be the one to induct you into their decadent world. A perfect gift for the older, comfort-loving man in your life, this dressing gown might cut a relaxing fit, but it’s elegant enough to lounge about – and even answer the doorbell – in.

Dr Martens

Dr Martens’ take on the classic brogue feels a little less stuffy than traditional smart shoes, with the signature chunky sole giving them an edge. Smart enough for the office but still cool enough to wear with jeans at the weekend, the polished black leather makes them a versatile wardrobe staple.

ProCook

This ProCook knife set combines quality with a sleek and sophisticated design. Complete with a magnetic wood block, the five-piece set includes a paring, utility, chef, bread and carving knife. Equipping them for every type of meal prep, the timeless designs feature contoured ash wood handles, while the point is made from X50 stainless steel.

Paragon Studios

Who knew a pair of boxing gloves could be this stylish? If your giftee is a keen boxer, or wants to take the sport up, Paragon Studio’s design are crafted from durable cowhide leather with double stitching throughout. For extra comfort, the gloves boast triple layer foam padding.

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Oura

The Oura ring has quickly become an icon in the realm of health tracking, and deservedly so. Available in your choice of six metal tones, the Oura is worn on any finger you like to track sleep, fitness, readiness, stress, and heart health to help your giftee move through life with ease and information.

Rains

No one in fashion talks about how hard it can be to get a waterproof, action-ready jacket that actually looks good. Well, Rains fulfils that brief to perfection. Combining a 90s-inspired bomber shape with a performance jacket, this Lohja jacket is, in Rains’ words, ‘weatherproof comfort with a bold expression’.

Carl Friedrik

Being a grown man and travelling in a tote bag is just, quite simply, not a good look. What is an irrefutably fine look though, is a Carl Friedrik holdall such as this one. Ideal for one or two nights away from home, this Weekender bag is spacious but refined, carrying all your essentials in security and style.

Ninja

The Ninja luxe cafe mini plus espresso machine is a foolproof means to barista-quality coffee at home. An ideal appliance for beginners who appreciate a well-roasted coffee, the machine’s presets and automations take the guesswork out of making coffee, rivalling a pod machine for ease of use. Rustling up a wide range of drinks, from Americanos and long blacks to ice coffees, lattes and cappuccinos, it’s a luxury gift they’ll enjoy for years to come.

Dalmore

For dram-loving men, Dalmore’s newest 18-year-old expression in its cigar malt range is bound to impress. The signature reserve combines chocolate orange, dark fruit and spices for a warming winter drink.

Barbour

A Barbour waxed jacket is a gift for life. Equipping them for wintery dog walks, hikes and strolls, the Scottish heritage label combines timeless style with hardy craftsmanship. The Beaufort is as classic as you can get, with a black waxed weather-proof finish, signature tartan lining, and an enveloping funnel neck fastening.