Andromeda DavisThe holidays are fast approaching, and it feels like there’s more pressure than ever this year to give the perfect gifts. While it’s true that the thought counts more than the actual present, it’s still really awkward to give (or receive) a bad, weird, or unwanted gift. With that in mind, here’s what not to buy for each zodiac sign.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
It’s not likely that Aries is going to take up baking anytime soon. They just don’t have the patience for it. Unless your Aries specifically asks for kitchen gear, it doesn’t make sense to buy them baking mixes or cutesy novelty pot holders.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
If you are a professional artisan, then by all means give Taurus a handmade gift. Otherwise, you might be met with a highly critical reception. This zodiac sign has impeccable (read: expensive) taste and little patience for amateur efforts.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Honestly, any gift that requires a long-term commitment is a bad choice for Gemini. Houseplants are likely doomed to a slow demise in their care. Puzzles end up half-finished at best. Journals get written in for only a few pages before being abandoned. You get the idea.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Cancer does not want an impersonal gift card or–even worse–cash. Their love language is all about personalized attention. Money or gift cards may also make them uncomfortable and feel pressured to reciprocate for the exact dollar amount.
Leo (July 23-August 22)
Want to annoy a Leo? Regift something that is obviously out of fashion or pick up a trinket from the dollar store. Yes, they’re divas. No, they aren’t sorry. They also don’t appreciate group or family gifts. This sign needs to be singled out to feel special.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Virgo does not want anything that makes noise, creates flashing lights, takes up space, requires time to maintain… honestly, they don’t want anything, period. Virgos lead very finely tuned lives, and giving them an unexpected or unwanted gift can throw the whole thing off. Stick to gift cards for their favorite coffee shop.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Need to shop for Libra? Get ready for a negotiation. This sign does not like surprises and believes that fairness is the highest virtue. That means figuring out a mutual budget for gifts, weighing the pros and cons of different options, and settling on something sensible. ‘Tis the season, I guess?
Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Unless you are super close to Scorpio, don’t get them anything that might damage their image. Nothing frilly, cute, or sappy, okay? Even though they might secretly like it, they’ll give you major attitude in return.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Not to stereotype, but Sagittarians are not going to enjoy a book of Sudoku puzzles. They aren’t keen on sitting still, so books in general aren’t the best choice unless it’s a title they specifically asked for. Even then, look for an audiobook version.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
Never surprise a Capricorn. They hate it. This practical-minded zodiac sign has zero interest in cheap trinkets or novelty gifts. Give them something they can use in day-to-day life or else keep your money. Bonus tip: Capricorn will be giving everyone on their list the same gift card. They buy the cards in bulk.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18)
Gifting an Aquarian any type of food is always risky. This sign often has strong opinions or dietary restrictions. They also typically have little interest in mainstream pop culture or trends, which makes shopping for them basically impossible. Make a donation to their charity of choice instead.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Pisces has probably been dropping hints about what they want for the past few months. They won’t tell you, of course, and if you fail to figure it out, you’ll hurt their feelings. However, you are usually safe to buy them something shiny, like a crystal.
Shea Lee
