Last minute Christmas gifts for him

Chances are, if you’ve left it this late in the game to buy something for ’im indoors, you’re scanning the shelves of your nearest Boots’ gift-set aisle with more grim determination than the Terminator rather than taking advice from a newspaper column.

But, in the interest of providing some assistance, there are some general rules of thumb about what men do and don’t want, and some perennial sartorial mainstays that never go out of style. It’s hardly a breaking news flash, but I’ve yet to meet a guy who relishes a pair of Rudolph socks on Christmas day, which leads us nicely to…

Socks

These aren’t always a dud, but steer clear of the patterned novelty varieties that litter the shelves this time of year. They might provide jollity for five minutes on Christmas morning, but that wears off pretty rapidly. Instead opt for ones in a fine cashmere in either standard dark shades or one solid block of colour.

Sartorial services

A few clicks, a voucher whirring out of the printer, and you’re done. There are few things that makes a man feel like some sort of Edwardian gent-about-town than having his own bespoke shirt made.

It’s the item that most men rely on as a linchpin of their daily wardrobe, so it’s worth having one crafted to their exact proportions and choosing the varied nuances of cuff proportions and collar shape. It’s also just a great experience.

Drake’s offers a bespoke service while British institution Turnbull & Asser’s tailor-made shirting starts at a minimum of six for ￡270 with over 1,000 fabrics and 20 monogram options.

Quality cashmere

The idea of a “nice jumper” might seem as exciting as the post-Christmas-lunch nap to the dulcet tones of Walking in the Air, but if you’re in a tight spot, good quality cashmere is a no-brainer.

Brunello Cucinelli, the Italian designer, is the so-called King of Cashmere, and his sweaters are more sensory experience than perfunctory cover-up, while Luca Faloni creates low-key hoodies in butter-soft cashmere for elegant indoor lounging.

Grooming products

Gift sets can smack of impersonality, but with the decline of the beard this year – reports show a rise in shaving products where previously they had declined as the fulsome hipster look took hold – a handsome shaving kit will always be appreciated.

Opt for the more traditional varieties from old school establishments such as Geo F Trumper or D R Harris for a gentlemanly approach to morning ablutions.

20 best grooming products for men