CHRISTMAS is literally just around the corner now, and it is down to the last minute shopping. However, if you're still agonising over what to get for him or her, then here are a few ideas to help you in your struggle.

I'm sure a lot of women will relate to not having a clue what to get the men in her life at Christmas. It can be just as hard shopping for your father or brother as it can the boyfriend or husband. But one thing every man needs this winter is a lovely warm coat. As I'm sure you've noticed, the military look is very much in. It is official; men love military. And we love to see them in it. New Look stock a vast range of military jackets for both men and women. The snug Military Pocket Jacket is just what he needs on those cold days; the jacket's high neck will help to shield him from the biting winds. The jacket is fully lined and has four large pockets, so hands are sure to have somewhere to hide from the cold. The jacket comes in either black or charcoal, and is a complete bargain for the reduced price of only £26.99.

As well as military, the checked pattern is also a hit this winter. Again, New Look have some very cosy but cool jackets in for Christmas, including the Checked Woolly Jacket, which comes in tartan style print with ribbed hem and cuffs to keep out the cold. This is a gorgeous coat that offers a stylish alternative from the military look.

Trust me, it's not only the men who want to get their hands on these coats. That's why Debenhams are stocking up on the 'Natural and Grey Checked Coat'. This coat combines the checked pattern with military style, giving us the best of both fashionable worlds. The beautiful double-breasted coat from Rocha. John Rocha has full length sleeves and a neat collar to lock the cold out. The eight paired buttons keep in with the military look, and is, again, fantastic at only £21.60, after being reduced from £90.

Next on the list are the 'Voi Jeans Maradona Zip Jeans' from Bank. These come in a dark indigo wash, with zip pockets and engineered creasing, which make these jeans the stylish must-have for any man up on his fashion. If these are a bit too fancy for your man's taste, why not go for the pure and simple Indigo Coated Twister jeans. These can be found in Topman at £40, and are so practical in that they will protect him from the elements and still look great.

Topshop offer a selection of trousers and leggings for women, which will ensure we look our best whilst keeping warm this winter. The Navy Ankle Leggings are plain and simple at £12, and do the job of providing extra protection from the chilly winter air and go fabulously with skirts, dresses, or just for wearing underneath trousers when it gets really cold. The 'Skinny Faux Leather Panel' trousers are mega cool and a little bit quirky for £38.

I could tell you all about the ultra smart Leather Brogue shoe from Topman, or the more casual 'Ask the Missus Glide Plimsole' from Office for men at just £15. I could also mention the raunchy red Truffle Court shoe from Office, or the new 'UGG Australia Adirondack' tall boot for those with a big budget. Sure, these shoes all look fab at a party and can be great in the snow, but we know what we really desire at Christmas, man or woman. That's right; a comfortable pair of slippers. For the men there's the 'Homeys Homeys Slipper' from Office. We're going to end up getting him slippers anyway, so make it stylish with these black and white freeze, extra grip slippers for £24.99. For the ladies there are the 'Bedroom Athletics Marilyn III' slipper-boots, which come in cream, mocha or chocolate. These furry wonders are the ultimate in Christmas comfort, and at only £20, it's hard to say no. So say yes, and treat her this year.

It can be very hard knowing what to buy for loved ones, and when you have decided, who knows whether they're going to like it or not. But, if you look hard enough and in the right places, I'm sure you will stumble across that perfect shoe, coat or t-shirt that will make this holiday sparkle.