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Partners
- Perfume, chocolate and shoes are popular items to give partners on romantic occasions.
- In some cultures, these items carry negative connotations and lovers are advised against buying them as gifts.
- For Valentine's Day, we look at the other items gift-givers are advised against buying and the reasons why.
- For more lifestyle news, go to the News24 Life front page.
When Valentine's Day rolls around, all anyone can think of is sweet gestures, thoughtful plans and what gifts to buy, but there are also some things you should avoid gifting if you're the kind of person who believes in superstitions.
An old commonly held belief has found new life among younger people on social media under the term "shoe theory" as they discover the long-held belief that you should not gift your significant other shoes.
From South Africa to China and even in the United States, the belief advises against shoes as a gift because they symbolise an invitation for your partner to walk away from the relationship.
According to TikTok content creator Angela Chan, the term "shoe" in Chinese sounds similar to other words linked to bad luck. Chinese culture avoids many things believed to be tied to bad luck.
Locally, some cultures believe in giving your partner money after they buy you shoes as a gift as the symbolic gesture of "buying" the shoes can be used to counteract bad luck.
For Valentine's Day, we look at the other items gift-givers are advised against buying and the reasons why.
@angela.chaan here is what i’ve been taught about The Shoes Theory growing up #theshoetheory #holidayshopping #chinesetheory #chinese #chinesetradition #chinesebelief #angelachaan #culturalappreciation #funny ? original sound - angela chan
Perfume
This highly coveted and popular gift has a negative connotation that few people know.
Some cultures consider perfumes to carry negative energies that can impact a person's energy field and overall well-being.
READ MORE | Bedroom rules that could save your relationship
Additionally, those who believe in zodiac signs state that each sign carries a unique aura, and an incorrectly selected fragrance may not align with your partner's energy.
Similar to the belief about gifting shoes, some cultures think that gifting perfumes can cause the relationship to fade in the same way a scent does.
Watches and clocks
A watch or clock is another commonly gifted item that may bring bad luck to a relationship.
Per Vedic astrology from India, time is associated with the planet Saturn, and when Saturn is afflicted in one's kundali (horoscope), it can lead to obstacles, delays, and troubles in life.
Times of India reports that gifting a clock or watch to your partner can signify the end of the relationship, as if time stands still.
Sharp objects
Sharp objects, like cake knives for weddings and anniversaries or cooking knives for partners who enjoy their time in the kitchen, are also a no-no in Asian cultures. Sharp objects - when given as gifts - are thought to bring danger to the receiver.
