Unique Gift Ideas for Finicky Girlfriends - 10 Tips on How to Buy the Right Gift

1. Never buy your girlfriend an appliance for the house. The only way that this may be passable is if you are buying her a top of the line vacuum, but as a rule, if it is something she has to use to clean or cook, don't buy it as a gift.

2. Make sure that the gift you buy is really for her and not just something you saw and thought was cool and want for yourself. A vibrating back massager may be an exception to the rule, but be careful not to choose something too masculine.

3. Listen to your girlfriend for clues as to what she wants. Women tend to hint around what they want and if you listen you can find it out. Take the time to do your research by pointing out items in windows that you pass, but keep it casual. Don't spoil the surprise.

4. Spend some time alone brainstorming about what she likes. If she loves her dog, you may want to buy leather gifts for women with an ornamental rendering of a dog on it. And as corny as it sounds, if your girlfriend is really nuts about her dog, a matching outfit, like a matching cap or scarf that she wears during walks will provide you with a HUGE win!

5. Tip five is to know her style. Even if you are going to buy her something cliché such as jewelry, you should still make sure it matches her style and taste for jewelry.

6. Don't be afraid to talk to someone who has been close to her for years. As long as this person keeps your secret, the help will be valuable. This gift will then make your girlfriend realize you put serious time and effort into her gift.

7. Tip seven is to be sensitive to her battles. If you know she is trying very hard to lose weight, do not buy her expensive chocolates. This is bound to make her feel bad and possibly be mad at you. Support her goals with your gift and you'll both be happier.

8. Above all, be original. Don't just go for chocolates, flowers and jewelry. Think about what she enjoys and think of something she would never expect from you, and then buy it.

9. And when all else fails, you should ask her what she really wants. Make sure she understands you do not want her to give you exact gift ideas; you just want her to point you in the right direction. If she starts getting upset, explain to her that you tried thinking of some things but you did not feel they were perfect for her. Give her some funny stories about your shopping failures so she will know that you just want hints.

10. The last tip is to keep it fun. Do not get too worked up about finding the best gift. As long as you make sure that you think about your choices from your girlfriend's perspective, and put plenty of love into the process, she is bound to love it. If she does not, the good side is that she will probably give you enough ideas that you can use for the next time.