How many can you tick off your list? …
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You opted for an ‘undressed’ Christmas tree …
The micro trend for an understated tree has been embraced by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Aniston and Michelle Pfeiffer. Naked trees are devoid of any usual decorations like baubles or ribbons, with minimal lights. The vibe is simple and sophisticated – fuss-free, our favourite theme at this time of year.
You have more than one tree …
On the other end of the spectrum, Google Trends reveals that searches for “Christmas tree in the bedroom or kitchen” have surged. Hotels are also working this trend with trees in some suites, in addition to public spaces (above at The Westbury). If you have guests staying, this might be a nice surprise to add to their room along with Christmas stockings, interesting reading material and other hostess treats.
You are skipping classic Christmas desserts …
Millennials are driving the trend for lighter, non-traditional desserts in lieu of classic Christmas cake, pudding or mince pies. We hope trifle makes the cut! Even chef Neven Maguire served up a festive Mulled Berry Pavlova on his Christmas at Cashel series on RTÉ, which recipe we’ll be trying this year.
You bought your pet a gift …
As if the list wasn’t long enough, many pet lovers now buy toys for their pooches and feline friends. Perhaps it’s because there are so many cute gifts on offer, from durable chews to matching family jumpers and toys. I recommend TK Maxx for chic coats and toys in M&S (pictured is the Percy Pig pet toy, €8.25). The rise in pet gifting chimes with the plethora of luxury pet products as research shows that nearly a third of owners prioritise their pet’s happiness over costs, spending €500 annually on luxury pet items!
You put a bow on it!
Bows truly come into their own during the festive season. From ribbon-adorned garments to tablescape essentials or whimsical accessories, this trend will never go out of fashion. Designers from Simone Rocha to Marc Jacobs have all embraced bows this season, while Aquazzura’s classic velvet pumps are a pared-back way to embrace the look. Even the Princess of Wales recycled a red Alexander McQueen coat by adding a giant (Jigsaw) bow to her look.
SEE MORE: 10 Sublime Party Dresses You’ll Wear This Christmas And Beyond
You’re sporting a party tux …
A well tailored party tux can be dialled up with heels, but looks great with loafers too. Some of the best buys are Jigsaw’s navy or red velvet suits with satin detailing (channelling Tom Ford’s Gucci heyday), Mango’s black tuxedos and M&S dark green iterations. Recycling the pieces with jeans or a skirt can brighten up your January as well. I’m hunting the Reiss sale for the teal Parisa flared velvet suit.
You’ve cleared the diary to watch The Split Barcelona
Fans of Nicola Walker will have earmarked this two-part special on BBC One on December 29 and 30, or BBC iPlayer. More than two years after the season 3 finale, writer Abi Morgan presents a sequel to the popular drama series which follows the Defoe family to Barcelona for a family wedding. As befits a family of divorce lawyers, expect plenty of drama and ‘will they, won’t they’ scenarios between Hannah (Walker) and her ex-husband, played by Stephen Mangan. (I personally wish Hannah got together with Christie, played by Barry Asthma, but watch this space). After the show, expect an uptick in bookings to Catalonia’s wine region where the drama was filmed and also the usual attention on Hannah’s enviable wardrobe. That’s our Twixmas viewing sorted!