Reading my previous post - I left out slippers. Slippers were an acceptable gift for men or women - and particularly for women. Most were made of a thick felt-type fabric, with tops turned down at the sides - I guess you could have worn them 'up' if your feet were truly cold.
Usually men's slippers were plaid (checks), and in 'manly' colors (green/brown).
I found this old ad. The slippers I remember are like the last image, but not as fancy - no ribbon, for sure.
We seemed to have a list for gifts. Ties, socks, underwear, tobacco for a pipe, cigarettes, cigarette lighters, for men. Oh! And handkerchiefs, of course.
For a cousin living out of the country - lightweight writing paper and envelopes, and stamps.
For women - slippers, underwear (panties/bloomers), talcum powder, cigarettes, handkerchiefs, fancy soaps, lipsticks (red), mascara blocks (mix with water and brush on), powder compacts, block face powder refills for compacts, writing paper.
There was a drawer all these things went into, to be opened when needed ... and sometimes regifted when an occasion arose.
I was actually told not to be creative with my presents.
A box of Cadbury's Black Magic chocolate or 'Roses' was always acceptable. Sometimes homemade preserves or jam. Sometimes a homemade knitted scarf. A purse or handbag was also sometimes an option.
