Gifts to Say "I'm Sorry"

David Eddie provides gift suggestions for those who need to do some serious damage control over the holidays.

Writing in the Globe and Mail, David Eddie provides gift suggestions for those who need to do some serious damage control over the holidays.

FOR THE MIFFED GF

The damage: You made the (unsolicited) observation that, what with all the festivities, your GF has been “packing on the pounds,” and furthermore her new jeans “really make the muffin-tops pop.” Now she’s turned into Frosty the girlfriend.

Bad gifts: Spanx shapewear (or their more intense full-body cousin, the SlimCognito Shaping Suit). A treadmill. The latest low-carb cookbook.

Good gift: Anything that says: “I think you are beautiful/sexy the way you are.” If it's lingerie, though, don't go overboard. Remember: It's a gift for her, not you, and if you blow this, it might wind up being a gift for some other, future dude.

Hanky Panky stretch lace thong, holiday 5-pack, $98,Holt Renfrew

FOR THE HURT HUBBY

The damage: Trying to be witty at a dinner party you made a joke about your husband's culinary skills – and he's the cook of the household! Ever since, the emotional weather inside your house has been frightful.

Bad gift: Cookbook. Lemon zester. Melon baller. Kiss The Cook apron. Family chefs appreciate fresh gear, but not as presents this time of year. Too drudgery-oriented: like giving office supplies to your secretary.

Good gift: A top-drawer knife – an exception to the above rule. Chefs love their knives and it’s also a little macho. ...

Click here to read more.