Dissecting topics about the opposite sex is considered a pastime for some of us, myself included.  Even though, I can't say that I'm an expert on anything I've covered over the course of many brunches and girls' nights, I like to believe that I've acquired some knowledge -- or at the very least, a broad generalization -- about the way men think.  This said bit of knowledge is also applied come gift giving season. I've definitely refined the way I shop for gifts, especially for men.  The truth is, it's not easy.  Females have far more options, so when we're limited to just a few categories, we must shop like men in order to shop for men.

Narrowing the men's section down to just few categories and sticking with one (online) retailer is my strategy for holiday shopping.  For men, it's all about keeping things simple.  Gadgets, style, hobbies, and grooming are the categories I tend to buy things from each year, so I like to shop at destinations that generally carry all those.  Once I find a retailer and lay out my categories, I then get to shopping.

I selfishly love giving gadgets as gifts because it means I get the chance to test-drive the product.  Anything portable like a set of speakers or a keyboard make great gifts and something that he'll use.

When it comes to fashion, I like stick with essentials like soft Peter Millar button down shirts,  and go for everyday accessories like a neutral carryall bag or these Peter Millar quality wool ties.  Since this category is vast and far more personal than the others, I like to reserve these for relatives or close friends.

I love when guys have hobbies.  Whether he's a collector, a sports fan, athletic-type or loves to run his own test kitchen, once you figure it out, a hobby makes your job that much easier.

To (most) men, shampoo is shampoo, and shaving cream is... well, you get it.  So, helping a guy stock up on some grooming essentials by actually paying attention to the quality and benefits behind the products is another easy gift category.

In collaboration with Peter Millar for Nordstrom.