When choosing the perfect gift for your boyfriend or girlfriend, countless superstitions and myths can cloud your judgment. These gift-giving taboos often prevent couples from expressing their love through meaningful presents. Let's separate fact from fiction and explore what you can actually give your partner without worry.

Không phải món quà nào cũng phù hợp để tặng người yêu

Not every gift is suitable for your loved one

The Truth About "Forbidden" Gifts

1. Cups and Mugs: Safe and Practical Despite Superstitions

  • The Myth: In Vietnamese culture, giving cups or mugs is considered unlucky due to word associations with "breakup." The fragile nature of ceramic items supposedly predicts relationship problems.

  • The Reality: Cups and mugs are safe, practical gifts that couples use daily. Choose reputable brands with quality materials, and don't let superstitions prevent you from giving useful presents.

Couples' ceramic mugs are a beloved gift 
Thoughtfully packaged ceramic mug gift set with dried flowers - a perfect example of how cups make beautiful, practical presents for your partner. Image: Sweet Gift Box (Mug, Scented Candle, Dried Flowers) by Anni Home

Bottom Line: Ceramic mugs and cups make excellent couple gifts for everyday use.

2. Handkerchief: Only for Serious Relationships

  • The Myth: Handkerchiefs symbolize separation and tears, making them inappropriate romantic gifts.

  • The Reality: Handkerchiefs symbolize commitment, promises, and fidelity in love. However, they're not commonly used in modern times.

Handkerchief is not a gift for just anyone 
Handkerchief is not a gift for just anyone

Bottom Line: Only give handkerchiefs if you're considering marriage with your partner, as they represent serious commitment.

3. Footwears: Thoughtful When Done Right

  • The Myth: Giving shoes means your partner will "walk away" from the relationship.

  • The Reality: Footwear can be thoughtful and practical gifts when you know your partner's size, style preferences, and relationship stage.

Elegant high-heeled shoes as gifts for her 
Elegant high-heeled shoes as gifts for her

Bottom Line: High-quality shoes make excellent gifts for established couples who understand each other's preferences.

>>> Learn more: Why You Shouldn't Gift Shoes to Your Partner and Unspoken Truth

4. Silver Jewelry: Elegant and Sophisticated

  • The Myth: Silver's gray color will make relationships "fade" or lose their spark.

  • The Reality: Silver jewelry is elegant, sophisticated, and holds significant value. Many couples choose silver rings, bracelets, and accessories as meaningful gifts.

Silver jewelry is, in fact, an elegant gift for girlfriends
 
Silver jewelry is, in fact, an elegant gift for girlfriends. Image: Non La Silver Jewelry by Tiệm Bạc Minh Tâm

Bottom Line: Silver jewelry makes excellent gifts for girlfriends and boyfriends when the relationship is well-established.

>>> Explore more:

5. Watches: Practical and Meaningful

  • The Myth: Watches count down the time left in your relationship.

  • The Reality: Watches are practical, meaningful gifts that show thoughtfulness. Consider mechanical watches, vintage styles, or smartwatches for boyfriends, and sleek or adorable designs for girlfriends.

Choose a watch as a gift for your loved one 
Choose a watch as a gift for your loved one

Bottom Line: Watches make excellent romantic gifts regardless of superstitions. Additionally, you can consider accessories like premium leather watch straps.

>>> Read more: Should You Gift a Watch to Your Boyfriend? Myths, Meanings, and Tips

6. Perfume: Sophisticated but Requires Research

  • The Myth: Fragrance fades away, symbolizing a relationship that will gradually disappear.

  • The Reality: Perfume is a sophisticated gift for both men and women, but requires knowing your partner's scent preferences.

Be savvy when giving perfume gifts

Be savvy when giving perfume gifts

Bottom Line: Research your partner's fragrance preferences before giving perfume as a gift.

7. Mirrors: Practical Despite Superstitions

  • The Myth: Mirrors attract spirits and bring bad luck to relationships.

  • The Reality: Mirrors are practical, meaningful gifts. Compact hand mirrors make excellent presents for girlfriends who need touch-ups on the go.

gương thêu hoa hồng

An elegant, feminine hand-embroidered compact mirror for her

Bottom Line: Mirrors are safe, practical gifts despite superstitious beliefs.

>>> Related article: Should You Give a Mirror as a Gift and Why?

What About Sharp Objects?

Sharp objects like knives and scissors are generally inappropriate gifts due to safety concerns. However, exceptions exist when your partner has specific hobbies:

  • Premium kitchen knives for cooking enthusiasts
  • High-quality sewing scissors for tailors
  • Collectible items for hobbyists

A high-quality pair of scissors as a gift for a lady who enjoys sewing

A high-quality pair of scissors as a gift for a lady who enjoys sewing

Always prioritize safety when considering sharp gifts. 

So, depending on the situation, we should avoid giving these "not recommended" gifts to our loved ones. So, what truly are the gifts to avoid?

Gifts to Actually Avoid in Relationships

Meaningless Gifts: Avoid giving random, unrelated items without any connection to your shared memories or lacking practicality.

Neglectful Choices: Steer clear of items that go against your partner's interests or things they can't use, as it may make you seem thoughtless.

Overly Personal Gifts: If the relationship is at its early stage, refrain from giving overly expensive gifts, as they can be too personal. Also, avoid whimsical gifts that don't align with your partner's preferences.

Inappropriate Accessories and Clothing: Whether it's clothing, shoes, or jewelry, only make purchases if you understand your partner's fashion style and size.

Gifts with Negative Connotations: Avoid giving items associated with sad memories or anything your partner may perceive as having negative connotations.

Be smart and sophisticated when choosing meaningful gifts 
Be smart and sophisticated when choosing meaningful gifts
 

Creative Gift Suggestions When in Love:

1. Food and Drinks:

A delicious meal or a romantic dinner, or exploring new culinary experiences, can be a great way to enjoy time together. Healthier options like tea or homemade chocolates also make thoughtful gifts.

Gift a favorite food item like chocolate
Gift a favorite food item like chocolate

2. Accessories:

Hats, sunglasses, or a stylish belt that aligns with the recipient's style can be creative gifts that show you care about their preferences. If your partner enjoys handmade items like leather wallets or hand-embroidered tote bags, Chus is an excellent place to find such gifts.

3. Handmade Gifts:

A handmade painting, pottery, or personally crafted decor can carry a lot of emotions and sentiments. If you lack artistic skills, explore the variety of handmade gifts on Chus, where we offer diverse designs and meaningful options. We offer various payment methods and nationwide delivery in Vietnam, so rest assured that your gift will be well received anywhere!

A handmade ceramic cat figurine is a fitting gift for a loved one
A handmade ceramic cat figurine is a fitting gift for a loved one
 
A hand-painted leather keychain with your lover's name engraved
 

4. Personalized Gifts:

Have you ever thought about giving your significant other a one-of-a-kind, unique gift? If so, the Personalized Gifts category on CHUS is just what you need! You can explore a wide range of gifts that are custom-designed and tailored to your specific requests.

What could be more meaningful than a unique and heartfelt gift like that for your loved one? For example, the personalized wooden cat figurine with your names engraved is sure to win their heart!

Wooden cat couple figurine with name-carved details, a perfect gift for your partner

5. Healthcare Products:

A skincare set, a nutrition book, or gym accessories tailored to your partner's lifestyle can show care and attentiveness. Rest assured, your partner will be deeply moved by your thoughtful gesture.

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Conclusion:

In love, each gift is not just an object but a vessel of emotions and feelings from the giver. By carefully and thoughtfully selecting gifts, we can create memorable moments that strengthen the bond with our loved ones. Let each gift bring significant meaning and make every moment special!