Let's be honest. Buying for men is hard. Ask them what they want and you'll get "ah, nothing, sure I have everything." Which is grand, until it's the 23rd of December and you're standing in a shop holding a pair of novelty socks.
We've a resident expert on this. Robert, my other half, is very hard to buy for, and he's also the man who models every new shirt we bring out (not entirely by choice). So everything below has been tried, tested and worn by someone who'd much rather be doing something else.
For the man who needs a good shirt (that's all of them)
If you're buying one thing, buy him a shirt. It's the gift that gets worn the most, and ours are made to last.
The Men's Country Cotton Shirt (Classic) is the dependable one. It works with jeans, chinos or a good jacket, and it's the one he'll reach for every weekend.
The Men's Country Cotton Shirt (Contrast) has a bit more going on, with a contrast collar and cuffs that give it that signature Ballybar edge. Vintage Rose is a favourite for anyone who likes a bit of colour without going overboard, and White Stripes is a sharp, classic choice. There are a few limited edition colours in there too, so if one catches your eye, don't wait around.
Not sure of his size? Check the size guide on each product page, or have a sneaky look at the label on a shirt he already wears.
For the finishing touches
The Ballybar x Pampeano Polo Belt is one of those gifts that lasts for years. It's handcrafted from Argentine leather, and Burgundy, Forest and Meadow Olive are easy wins for him that go with nearly everything.
The Ballybar Fedora Hat is handmade from 100% wool, perfect for the man who likes to look the part, whether that's at the races, a wedding or the pub on Stephen's Day. It's a gift he probably wouldn't buy himself, which makes it even better.
The Ram Neck Gaiter is made in Ireland from 100% Merino wool. It's soft, warm and easy to wear, ideal for cold mornings and a great stocking filler.
For something more casual, the Ballybar Fisherman Beanie and the Ballybar Classic Trucker Cap are easy gifts he'll actually wear.
For the man who has everything
The Heritage Crewneck is our collaboration with Ardattin Embroidery, and it's the one gift on this list that's truly his. You choose the sweatshirt colour and a rural icon, and we embroider it to order here at Coppenagh House Farm. At €60, it's a great gift with a story behind it.
If you'd rather a gift that's ready to go, The Shepherd's Set brings together pieces that all share one connection: the sheep. And if you're truly stuck, a Ballybar Gift Card never goes to waste.
A few tips from someone who's been there
- Go with a shirt if in doubt. You can't go wrong, and he'll wear it.
- Stick to colours he already wears for the first one. Next year you can push the boat out.
- Bundle it. A shirt and a belt together makes a properly thoughtful gift, without much extra effort.
Getting it there in time
To make sure your gifts arrive before Christmas, order by Friday 18th December for delivery in Ireland and Monday 14th December for the UK. Left it late? Click & Collect is available right up to Wednesday 23rd December. You can add gift wrap to any order.
If you need a hand choosing, just message us on the chat on our website. We're happy to help, and Robert's happy to offer an opinion (whether he's asked for one or not).
Happy shopping,
Ciara