'Better versions of....' gifts

[OMGitsnotgood]

I mentioned on another Christmas thread that one approach i take to gifts, particularly for my difficult to buy for DH, is to buy higher quality/more expensive versions of things he needs/likes but wouldn't buy himself.

For example, Sloggi pants instead of M&S; a bottle of wine that costs £15 instead of the usual £8; Charbonnel and Walker hot chocolate instead of Cadburys.
My DDs often ask for more expensive toiletries than they buy for themselves.

So thought I'd start a thread where people could either share what upgraded versions of everyday things you are planning on buying or have made successful gifts in the past. Or you can ask for recommendations for upgrades.

For example, men's socks (because if DH didn't get them for Christmas he'd be walking around in threadbare socks) I usually buy some that 'look good quality' from TKMaxx but I would like some suggestions for brands that are particularly good quality, more expensive than M&S (but not crazy money as some I've seen recommended on MN!)

Obviously not just restricted to Christmas presents, works for other gift buying occasions too.

Having bought Calvin Klein boxers in the past I tried John Lewis organic cotton ones for the men in the family and they were voted by far the comfiest boxers. Second Nordic socks they are warm and last well.

Bamboo socks, with related animal design - cute and charity linked . Fits my ‘independent’ shopping focus.
https://www.thegreenhouseripon.com/shop?page=2

My student DDs appreciate Caledonia tights that they would never pay for themselves.

My BF bought me a Jo Malone reed diffuser which smells devine.

oh I didn't mean 'no M&S' - after all they aren't exactly cheap - just specifically underwear wanted something better than their everyday stuff. Even if that is M&S's better stuff. I love Florentines, will add to my list of things to buy for me the family treat stash

Lanx socks are a hit in our family. I think they sometimes do 3 for 2 offers.

If you want quality socks, Pantherella is the name to look for. British made since the 1930s. They have the toes made in a unique way which genuinely makes them more comfortable. Bloody lovely!

Personally, I prefer their Florentines to the Fortnum and Mason ones (I know this is likely controversial) I shall likely get some later now as yum..

I would be thrilled to get a pack in my stocking or as a small gift from the kids.

Great idea for a thread. I do this a lot especially as the DC get older. I mostly just do it via extensive browsing at TK Maxx, both in person and online. I did PJs last year - FCUK and M&S autograph for my DSs and some Dior dupe silky ones for DD

Ortigia is great for soap. I love this box- it’s utterly beautiful. (Expensive obv.)

https://www.ortigiasicilia.com/uken/catalog/product/view/id/1173/s/green-assorted-box-9-glycerine-soaps/category/27/

This is a great idea. DH is impossible to buy for because he only owns things that he absolutely needs and replaces it like for like when it's done, so buying him anything else is surplus and doesn't get looked at. Upgrading his current stuff is a great idea. For him this would be some quality gym gear instead of shit from sports direct, or a better water bottle.

Thanks for the idea OP!

On the florentines fortnums are my fave dark choc but M&S blond ones are absolutely delicious

I do this too, especially as my DCs are now adults. Last Christmas I bought DD some Nobody's Child pyjamas after a recommendation on here and then we got her some Ugg slippers for her birthday. She'd never buy them for herself so make great presents.

Bamboo socks were my favourite gift last Christmas. So soft and comfy. They weren't even meant for me, husband got them from SIL, but too small. 😁

Anyone have suggestions for nice bath oil?

I'd like a suggestion for men's socks which will stand up to someone with very rough heels. My partner's heels just seem to wear away socks in no time (he does exfoliate but still)

Thanks OP, this will be a very helpful thread

Fab idea. I LOVE fancy tea towels. The kind that are actually attractive but I’d never justify £15 each on.

Neon candles and diffusers instead of next.

Whispering angel rose instead of M&S.

Charlotte Tilbury lip oil instead of boots.

Jo Malone bath oil instead of the sanctuary.

Has he tried one of [[Scholl Velvet Smooth Electronic Foot File, Pink
https://amzn.eu/d/1dggsJr?

I love a nice soap. Crabtree & Evelyn were my favourite, but they've gone bankrupt and massively reduced their range. I've been given Nesti Dante more recently.

Sorry, I messed up the link but I think it still works.

I think he needs to address the problem with the feet. else most socks are going to wear? Foot file as already suggested and something like O'Keefe's Healthy Feet

For nice chocolate, I wait til right before the occasion then choose individual chocolates from a posh chocolate shop. No pralines or plain ones to bulk up the box (even expensive ones often have this) and they're guaranteed to like every flavour.

Chanel nail polish https://www.chanel.com/gb/makeup/nails/c/5x1x7/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwusunBhCYARIsAFBsUP9jZKJFvCXZvIhTXhKjjdQBJEmVL77jQpf9AhWQObCZYxcy0yfG4aAhr6EALwwwcB

Socks from the London sock exchange - cute and quirky in great colours.

thelondonsockexchange.net/

Oh, more ideas

Lip balm - Kiehls for men (non shiny), Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream stick, Eve Lom kiss mix for women

Fortnum's do some fab non- food items too. I want this to replace an old Gordon Ramsay Plane Food one which has been much used www.fortnumandmason.com/fortnums-picnic-hamperling-bag-eau-de-nil

Garden tools, I love everything on this site, and they also stock Nesti Dante Botanico soaps which are lovely www.dancoopergarden.com/collections/garden-tools. Also keep an eye on his Christmas page for the most fab Christmas decorations (he gets new stock in September)

Shampoo & Conditioner eg Pureology (it's hard to go back to normal stuff afterwards though)

Dyson hairdryer

Pukka tea Christmas tin wholefoodearth.com/p/red-festive-tea-selection-pukka-30-sachets

T shirts, socks and gym wear from Bam clothing

Great idea for a thread. I've always thought xmas and birthday should be a time for little luxuries you can never justify buying for yourself! Yet still I have piles and piles of gifted Boots/Sainsburys/Avon body butters I'll never use 🙄