What my 13 year old GS has requested for Christmas

If it is within your budget I would most definitely buy it for him. Why as what he would like otherwise.
He is a young man developing his own style and a luxury item is most appropriate as a gift I would have thought.

(Being brand conscious isn’t a new thing. I wouldn’t have been seen dead in anything but Levi jeans when I was a teenager)

If I could afford it, I’d buy it, because I’d want to give him what he actually wants. If I couldn’t, I’d give him cash towards it - maybe with something very little to open.

I’m afraid it’s a sad fact that teens are often very brand conscious.

I think its wise to buy them what they want, rather than what you think they should want.

It's the best use of my money, I always think.

I've lost count of the amount of worm farms, scientific experiments, books and educational games I've had to donate, over the years, so I'd rather buy something they want.

We give gc money and they can buy what they want or put it towards something. We are not poor but we only give £30 per person in cash in an envelope. Quite enough I feel as they are all quite comfortable and don’t want for anything.

Would you normally spend that amount? If so, then buy it for him. But nothing else. If you wouldn't spend that amount, tell your ds that it's out of your budget. My son was very much into labels and I encouraged a part time job so he could afford them. He grew up to still like expensive things but also is a big charity giver.

You asked for gift ideas, your son has told you.

Now you have to decide if you want to give your GS a Christmas Gift he will like and use or give him something which you think is appropriate which could remain under his bed for the foreseeable future.

If you can afford it then I can't see any problem.