Cheap Christmas Gifts for a Wife

You can find nice gifts for your wife without blowing your budget.

While you may not relish the idea of buying your wife a cheap Christmas gift, you can take heart knowing that cheap does not always mean tasteless. There are a plethora of cheap presents to choose from that won't look cheesy or as though you intentionally cut corners. With an ounce of imagination you can turn cheap into treasure for your better half this Christmas.

Idea Book

Present your wife with an idea book. Purchase a three-ring binder with several dividers and pocket folders included. Label the folders "Gifts", "Home Decorating", "Gardening" and other titles that match her interests. She can insert magazine pages with information on craft ideas into the folder pockets to implement around the house on a rainy day. She can also tuck fabric swatches into the decorating ideas folder with a note that may read, "curtain fabric". The idea book is a hands-on gift she can use for years to come.

Favorite Magazines

Place a stack of her favorite magazines under the tree this year.

Purchase three or four of your wife's favorite magazines for less than $25. She might pass over high-end decorating, fashion and architecture magazines due to the cost of the publications. Pick these up for her and wrap them in an elegant bow to present to her at Christmas. Tuck a flavored tea packet underneath the bow so she can can sit back and enjoy sipping on tea while relaxing with her new magazines.

Cozy Gifts

Treat her to a pair of expensive socks or gloves that are still kind to your wallet.

Drop a ten spot on a pair of whimsical socks. Your wife may welcome this small luxury. A nice knitted toboggan with a daisy on it or a pair of gloves with wild, zebra striped faux fur may also suit her fancy. If she loves shoes, but you can't afford to keep her in all the latest styles, buy her spats instead. Spats, a shoe accessory that covers the instep and ankle, were popular in the 19th century. They have made a comeback and add a chic look to any outfit and come in a large variety of colors and fabrics for less than $25.

Time for Bed

Create a basket of gifts your wife can enjoy every night before bed. Fill the basket with a calming CD she can slide into the stereo just before going to sleep. You can pick one up at most dollar stores along with the basket itself. Other items you can buy for a buck include a sleep mask, candles and candle holders. Don't forget the hand massager you get to use to roll the tension out of her neck for a good night's sleep while she enjoys the soothing sounds of the CD and fragrant candles.

References

• Better Budgeting: 63 Gifts for Under $10
• Shoe Blog: Spats