Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Is a gift from the opposite sex (non-Mahram) halal to accept and use, knowing that the person who gave the gift had an interest in the the one who received the gift? For instance would some cologne or clothing be considered haram to use in this example, and thus render one’s salat invalid?
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful, and all blessings and peace upon our master Muhammad, his Folk, Companions and those who follow their noble way,
If there is no possibility or fear of fitna (current or potentially in the future), and there is an appropriate reason (such as the person doing you a big favour, or they are the friends of one’s deceased mother, for example), then there is nothing wrong with this. One should assess the situation, and proceed with wisdom and clear thinking.
Please also see related answers on gender interaction. in Islam:
The Islamic Social system and implications on gender interaction.
Maintaining ties of kinship: Interaction with relatives who are not cautious in mixing with non
And Allah knows best.
Wassalam,
Faraz Rabbani