Women are tricky creatures to shop for. Have you ever wandered through a department store, looking for that special gift that will put some dazzle into her day? Ever been tempted by that freaky looking electronic monkey that talks and walks and would probably give you nightmares? Have you ever thought that maybe you could get ahead a bit by combining something that you want with something that’s supposed to be a gift for your significant other?

Here is a list of things that you should not present as a gift to your girlfriend:

1. Sports Event Tickets – Unless your girlfriend is into sports and would be really excited to go, do not get tickets to sporting events. That is very selfish. Presenting a gift to someone is meant to be about the person that you’re celebrating, not about yourself.

2. Gift Certificates – This one might be a surprise to some, as gift certificates are perfect when it comes down to buying clothes or shoes, as sizes vary and it can be really hard to find the right fit for your girlfriend. On the flip side, however, gift certificates are impersonal and thoughtless. It would be okay to get a gift certificate to go along with another gift, but your girlfriend really wants to see you put some effort forward for her.

3. Clothes – This point goes hand-in-hand with point three. Don’t buy clothes for your girlfriend unless she has specifically pointed out something that she really likes (and make sure that the store has a return policy). It can’t be said how many times a man has bought clothes for his significant other and his efforts have gone into the clothing pile of rejection. She’ll smile and tell you that she loves it, but see how many times she wears it.

4. Something that You Like – This may seem pretty snobby, but think about it. If you’re out shopping for your significant other, then you should be shopping for her and not yourself. Buy something that you know screams her name and that she would absolutely love. Don’t buy something just because you like it and think that it’s cool. Chances are, she might not agree with you.

5. Concert Tickets for YOUR Favourite Band (unless, of course, she likes the band too) – The hype of just going to some random concert with you is not going to get your girlfriend excited. If you’re going to buy concert tickets with your girlfriend in mind, make sure that it’s for a concert that SHE will enjoy.

For ideas for things that you should give to your girlfriend, click here.