my mil used to ask me what i wanted for my b'day. i'd say "there's a cute cotton nightgown in town, with pretty trim. it's yellow and sleeveless. it would be nice and cool for summer." i would get beige and brown pajamas.
eventually i started returning them. eventually she got the hint, and gave me gift certificates. (she wanted her son back. only child.)
the worst present is any present that isn't what you really have your heart set on. especially if it's within reach. especially if someone knows.
who knows why people do this. passive aggressive, is my 2 cents worth.