With Valentine’s Day coming up, men and women are scrambling to get their significant other the perfect gift.
Much like the holiday season, it can be difficult to know exactly what to buy the romantic interest in your life.
From anti-aging beauty products to gag gifts that don’t hit the mark, FEMAIL asked an etiquette expert all of the most insulting presents to avoid.
Whether you’re shopping for your longtime significant other or a brand new person you just started dating, gifting can feel equally difficult.
Etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts told DailyMail.com, ‘A gift should never spark discomfort or controversy.’
For couples who have just started dating, they should absolutely avoid anything that’s weight loss themed, including fitness equipment.
Even if you think your new significant other might love a Pilates class, it’s best to opt for something else that’s self-care focused, like a spa day – unless they ask specifically.
According to Lisa, who’s based in San Francisco, California, gym memberships can feel ‘insulting and judgmental.’
Whether you’re shopping for your longtime significant other or a brand new person you just started dating , gifting can feel equally difficult (stock image)
Etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts told DailyMail.com, ‘A gift should never spark discomfort or controversy’
Lisa, also known as The Golden Rules Gal on Instagram, said it’s best women avoid gifting their new beaus ‘stereotypical manly gifts,’ like ‘tool equipment when they don’t enjoy man cave activities.’
Lisa said other no nos include novelty gag gifts that they might not understand, like a World’s Worst Dad T-shirt.
As for men who just started dating women and don’t know what to get them, to avoid household cleaning supplies, which Lisa said ‘implies they need domestic help.’
Lisa also listed anti-aging products as one of the worst options, as they can send ‘unintended message about their appearance.’
For couples who have been together for ages, it can be easy to get stuck in a gifting rut.
Lisa cautioned against generic gifts, like socks or ties.
Always skip items that are something you’d buy anyway for the household, like a bread pasta maker.
Another offensive options is ‘a gift for yourself disguised as a gift for him,’ Lisa said.
For example, if someone’s S.O. hates the theatre, don’t buy him front row seats to Wicked.
Lisa said other no no’s include novelty gag gifts that they might not understand, like a World’s Worst Dad T-shirt
As for married couples, it’s still easy enough to offend – and you don’t want a V-Day gift that screams divorce (stock image)
As for married couples, it’s still easy enough to offend – and you don’t want a V-Day that screams divorce.
Lisa advised avoiding any chore-related items, including vacuum cleaners or ironing boards.
And while a one-year supply of Ozempic might be expensive, it’s still not going to be seen as a sweet present.
Low-effort gifts are another insulting category, including generic chocolates or flowers that aren’t her favorites.
Lisa said both feel ‘thoughtless and rushed.’
