Our general rule for gift shopping for the holiday season is that the earlier you wrap things up, the better. Planning ahead would’ve made the lead up to the big day a lot less frantic. But if you’re reading this, chances are you have left it a little late. Luckily, our edit is filled with the kind of thoughtful ideas that you can count on to impress even the trickiest of recipients, from a luxurious wash bag for the well-travelled loved one to the always-needed winter warmers.

We’re likely to spend most of our time between Christmas and New Year going from our couch to our bed and back to the couch again. So, anything that makes the holiday den that bit more comfortable, or more stylish, is guaranteed to appeal. Start with something that serves the very purpose of snuggling up in that in-between period, such as a soft cashmere throw or cushion. Opt for a gift that brings style and entertainment in equal measure – you can’t go wrong with standout tableware or dinner party-friendly speaker. Or there’s always James Bond’s legendary Aston Martin DB5 (in collector’s miniature size, of course)…

Consider these gifts the best of the best. Big-impact objects that are instantly memorable. Who wouldn’t want a nine-piece watch winder with a fingerprint-accessible door? Or a handcrafted walnut globe, to help them decide where to travel next? You can find them – and more Wish List wonders – in this edit.

Let’s be honest, a great sweater is probably the best thing you can give – and receive – in winter. A cashmere or wool navy crew neck is pretty much the definition of “fail-safe”, with the potential to become the most reliable staple in any wardrobe. If you feel like jazzing things up, however, our edit covers a broad remit – from modern twists on argyle styles to fuzzy cardigans and colourful sweaters. You’re bound to find something they’ll be delighted to unwrap. And then wrap up in.

The most memorable gifts aren’t always the ones with the heftiest price tag. Going all-out with grand gestures is a lovely idea in principle, but who wouldn’t like to get to the other side of the holidays without breaking the bank? Besides, the gift suggestions in this edit aren’t just accessible – they’re the kind of presents that will end up getting used the most, from stylish hosting essentials all the way to the mandatory scarves, gloves and socks.

Good things – the best things, even – really do come in small packages. But buying jewellery or a watch for someone else is quite the challenge, and we’re not just talking about the price. This will require having your recipient’s taste down to a tee. Knowing their lifestyle, how they dress and which metal they most often wear will help you whittle down your options. Classic pieces such as a signet ring, a slim chain necklace or a timeless dress watch from Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre or Vacheron Constantin will suit most tastes, but particularly those who favour smarter dress codes. For the more adventurous, don’t shy away from Oris or NOMOS Glashütte’s colourful timepieces. Or symbolic pendants from the likes of Foundrae and Sydney Evan.

Unwrapping sportswear can come as a bit of a surprise, but it can be the ultimate motivator to get back into an active routine after a lounging marathon over the holidays. There’s something for every sports guy at MR PORTER – from running essentials by ON and Satisfy to the perfect companions for their next outdoors adventure. And if their ideal pre-NYE plans don’t exactly comprise getting back into the gym, they’re sure to appreciate some luxe sweats.

One of the best things about the holidays are the get-togethers – parties, late dinners, cocktails and last-minute drop-ins. We all know that one person who finds joy in getting everyone together and ramping up the competition. We guarantee that with one of these gifts, you’ll secure yourself a spot on any games night guest list.

If you’re looking for the kind of gift that you won’t have to keep a gift receipt for, then a little luxury in the accessories department may be your best bet. You don’t have to have their style down to a tee, nor their measurements – all you need is a timeless bag, a handy cardholder, a belt they can wear every day or a fit-all pair of sunglasses.

Shoes are definitely something for the confident gift-giver – they require you to know your recipient’s style at least a bit, and certainly their size. Deciding whether they sit on the smarter or more casual side of the spectrum should make things a little easier. Here, we’ve attempted to round up the footwear that should please any style-discerning guy, including suede loafers, low-profile sneakers and plenty more of our current favourites.