Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Her: Amazing Designer Presents Under $200

By Esther Jang First Posted: Dec 20, 2013 09:03 PM EST

Men tend to procrastinate and put things off until last minute when it comes to gift shopping. But they can't be completely blamed since women are often particularly tricky for them to buy for. So here are some stylish suggestions that will make you a lovable Santa this year.

1. You can't ever go wrong with cashmere

Do you know her size? Find it out and while you're at it, learn her favorite color, too. Then go to one of these stores below (listed by price) and get her a nice crew-neck sweater or a cardigan. It's not the most creative or imaginative gift in the world but it's safe yet classic.

- If you want to wow her: Brunello Cucinelli

- If you're looking for something more affordable: J. Crew or Kate Spade

- If you're running on a tight budget: Uniqlo or Madewell

2. Gift wrapping is much more important than you think

Many say what's inside is all that matters. Wrong. A well-wrapped present pretty much will hint that what lies inside has been chosen with the same care. Even if you're a lousy wrapper, you can always ask the salespeople to wrap the gift for you, in the most fancy way possible with extravagant wrapping paper and sparkly ribbons. However, for women, as cliché as it sounds, it's really the thought that counts. So you might want to rough it up a bit so it looks slightly as if you did the wrapping yourself, and don't forget to write a heartfelt and sincere note along with the gift.

3. Women love jewelry

It doesn't necessarily have to be expensive or even real. Getting a piece of costume jewelry makes a sweet gift for your hard-to-impress sisters, aunts, and cousins. But think carefully before choosing a ring or a necklace since women tend to be pickier about these prime pieces of jewelry. On the other side, a brooch or a hairpiece can make a safe yet statement-making accessory. Get either a flower or a butterfly, which are among the favorite designs -- birds even more so.

4. Repeating means future-proof

So you have no idea what to get her for this year's Christmas. Not to worry. Do you remember if she liked what you got for her last year, or even the year before? A great solution is to make an almost everlasting Christmas present tradition. Whether it's an expensive Hermès scarf or some exotic yarn, presenting different versions of the same lovely thing every Christmas will certainly save you from countless hours of anxiety, as long as she liked it in the first place.

5. Perfume is risky

When it comes to picking out a scent, it is an entirely subjective matter. It is best to avoid it, unless you pick one of her established favorite ones, which can be boring. In fact, stay far away from getting any type of beauty products. Getting a perfume can send a wrong message of "I think you smell horrible," while getting a lotion can mean, "I think you need to moisturize."

6. Don't pay in full

Shop smart. You must remember that there is no reason to pay the full price, since your last-minute approach can be timely overlapped with the January sales, which have already started. Look out for Christmas sales because, if you're lucky enough, you might be able to get a nice gift for only half of the original price.

7. Say no to electronics

This rule applies to girlfriends and wives. Blenders, hair appliances, cameras, games consoles, and even tablets; no matter how much you know they would rock her world, do not be tempted. Technology is never romantic.

8. Get personal

Getting traditional monogrammed items can be considered as more personal and thoughtful, which will certainly make her feel more special. Get her initial and decide on the colors and the font, and have it designed on wallets, totes, key rings, charm bracelets, or even soaps.

Is she dreaming of a stylish Christmas? Check out these designer Christmas gifts under $200.

1. Mesh balconette bra, $26, briefs, $11.20, Stella McCartney at Net-a-porter

2. Girlie stuff wash bag, $123, Anya Hindmarch at MatchesFashion

3. Zebra shadow-print iPhone 5 case, $27, DVF at MatchesFashion

4. Veloutine 100 denier tights, $63, Alaia at MatchesFashion

5. Floral Cap, $50.13, Kenzo at Farfetch

6. Detroit motor tee, $44, John Varvatos at MatchesFashion

7. Crocodile-embossed Card Holder, $160, Smythson at Mr. Porter

8. Croc-effect glossed-leather iPhone 4 sleeve, $150, Miu Miu at Net-a-porter

9. Checker lips-print tank top, $116, Markus Lupfer at MatchesFashion

10. Printed mesh pouch, $54, Kenzo at Net-a-porter

11. Cut out leather belt, $80, Carven at MatchesFashion