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festive

Christmas is approaching and yes, we are very excited about it and no, we’re not one bit ashamed.

We are more than ready to embrace the days of listening to Last Christmas on repeat, the tacky Christmas jumpers and cosy nights by the fire with Home Alone playing on the telly.

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It is called the most wonderful time of year for a reason.

We stand proudly with the people who are ready to celebrate the festive period in July. Are we a little crazy? Maybe… but science says people who start decorating for Christmas (can we put the tree up now?) are actually a lot happier than the Scrooges of the world.

Psychoanalyst Steve McKeown told Unilad, "In a world full of stress and anxiety, people like to associate to things that make them happy, and Christmas decorations evoke those strong feelings of the childhood.

"Decorations are simply an anchor or pathway to those old childhood magical emotions of excitement. So putting up those Christmas decorations early extends the excitement!" 

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Is it a little bit early to be taking the decorations out of the attic? Maybe, but the Christmas spirit is infectious.

And now that we have the science to back us up we won’t feel guilty about it.

So for the Grinches out there, who complain whenever they see selection boxes in their local Tesco store or roll their eyes when they see the fairy lights appear on Grafton Street, don’t be such a Bah humbug.

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With the end of summer and the beginning of autumn comes a change in scenery, and a change in our food palettes to accommodate the soon-to-be festive season.

Despite the cold weather, one of the best things about the winter has to be the food. Gourmet meals, culinary masterclasses and a cosy setting are all on the menu of Taste of Dublin's new event.

The festive edition is set to run from November 28 to December 1 in the RDS, and is modelled on a similar winter food festival in London. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The winter version of Taste of Dublin will have fewer sessions (six over four days) but will feature huge indoor square footage and a comfortable experience.

While 32,000 flocked to the Iveagh Gardens in June, 18,000 attendees are expected over the festive four days. What does this mean? More room to manoeuvre around and get the best views of masterclasses.

Entertainment, food and more will be housed inside the RDS, Merrion Road, for the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

From November 28 until December 1, 2019, get inspired in time for Christmas.

Fifteen of Ireland’s top restaurants and food experiences will be present in this winter wonderland, ready to serve up a selection of over 50 dishes for audience members.

A packed line up of cooking demos, drinks masterclasses and live entertainment are all in the works, with 30 top chefs warming up the kitchen.

Taste of Dublin's summer festival has taken place in the capital for the last 14 years, and is now building on the hype and success just in time for the cold weather. Food is the perfect warm-up, we say.

Inspired by Tesco Finest, we can't wait to sit in on the beautiful baking shows, food and drink sampling with Ireland's top brands and enjoy the live musical entertainment.

Indulge yourself in all things food and book your tickets for Taste of Dublin: Festive Edition online here before they sell out. 

Dont worry: We won't be judgemental like Ginny Weasley if you eat your way through the RDS:

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December may be a week away, but it's fair to say Christmas party season is already in full swing.

And as well as being synonymous with shifting the wrong person and waking up with a pounding head, it's also the time of year when you go big or go home on the manicure front.

While you may opt for muted shades throughout the rest of the year, the festive season gives you carte blanche to go batsh*t crazy with those nails of yours.

If you're only dying to mix it up, but have found yourself stuck for some inspiration, worry not, because we've got you covered.

1. Doing it right.

2. What more can we say? 

3. Oh, yes. 

4. Nailed it. 

 

#xmasnails by Gemma! #xmas #festivenails #snowflakenails #rednails #glitternails #sparklenails

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5. Almost too cute to handle.

 

Fun nails!#biosculpturegel #nailtechlife #festivenails #tistheseason

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6. Lovin' the matte finish. 

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‘Tis the season to gather with family and friends amidst the twinkle of vibrant lights, the warm crackle of a fireplace, and the nostalgia of red or green décor.

But with that hectic pace of the holidays just around the corner, this doesn’t give you much time to plan and execute the perfect seasonal soiree.

So whether you’re hosting an office social for your co-workers or a laid-back evening with your closest friends, these last-minute ideas will ensure a festive party atmosphere that’s both merry and bright—without the added stress.

Backyard Bonfire Roast Party

As the weather cools down and the daylight hours shorten, it’s an ideal time to huddle around a firepit with the people you love.

Host a bonfire in the backyard, complete with outdoor games, torch lights, cosy blankets and seasonal noshes.

For a sweet tooth option, provide the fixings to roast s’mores and simmer a batch of crockpot hot chocolate.

Or if you want to serve an entire meal for the guests, Midwest Living recommends hearty winter staples like fondue or chilli that can be enjoyed around a roaring flame.     

Tacky Christmas Jumper Party

What is the reverse of a swanky gala with a black-tie dress code? The obvious answer is a tacky sweater bash, and for this event, the quirkier your guests deck themselves out, the more hilarity will ensue.

So the choice is yours—either keep it G-rated, or make it adult only with jumpers that scream “naughty list.”

You can even reward the person, whose attire is the most outlandish, with a Christmas-themed mug and Starbucks gift card to savour a holiday drink (while rocking that sweater, of course).   

Around the World Potluck Party

If you’re curious about how other cultures show off their holiday spirit, then a global inspired celebration is an exciting way to find out.

Invite guests to prepare traditional foods which represent Christmastime all over the world and host a potluck where everyone can sample these unique, exotic dishes.

This streamlines the menu planning, so you can focus more efforts on other memorable touches such these decorations from various countries for an ambiance that’s culturally diverse and authentic.

Holiday Cookie Exchange Party

Since just about every person breaks out their oven mitts and dusts off their cookie recipes this time of year, it’s the perfect occasion to gather your loved ones for a cookie exchange.

Bake a few dozen seasonal treats, and request your friends or family do the same. Then invite the whole crew together to nibble on each other’s creations, swap their favourite recipes, and bring home a selection of these holiday desserts.

To pull off the ultimate cookie exchange, Good Housekeeping delivers some hassle-free ideas.

No matter how you decide to celebrate the holidays, these creative and festive themes are sure to enchant your guests and make them feel all the warmth this season has to offer.

Even if you’re short on time, there is no reason you can’t still host a meaningful experience for those you care about—and maintain sanity in the process.

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Since the moment the clock stuck midnight on October 31, the Christmas season is upon us.

Well, some people argue that December is the only month allowed for the Santa hype train to leave the station, but we totally disagree. The Christmas tunes are blaring, ChristmasFM is almost back up and running, and the greatest jumpers are already in stores right now.

Finding the funniest, most glamorous or just plain ugly Christmas styles can be a tricky task. We've only gone and done you the favour of finding all the best ones. Thank us later, a Christmas card will do. Or maybe some mulled wine and mistletoe?

THE EXCITEMENT.

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1. The drinking game jumper

First up, we've got an actual drinking game in woolly jumper form. There literally is nothing else as magical. Tipsy Elves have gifted us with this joy, order it from Amazon for €45 and you'll be the life of every festive party. 

They even have the rules for the game printed on the back so you won't forget, and it comes with six balls for you and your pals. Hint: the bulls eye results in the entire party drinking. Good luck with that one…

2. The Jesus jumper

Up next, we have a Jesus Christ birthday jumper from Uppers and Downers, the current price is €59.

To be fair, the Christian holiday is supposed to be celebrating the religious day of Jesus' birth, so the fact that his face is on a jumper isn't unheard of.

It is most definitely unconventional however, especially seeing as he is sporting a birthday hat, a red balloon and a dove. To each their own, we say.

3. The Tupac tribute

Next, we've got an actual Tupac Christmas jumper. We didn't think it was possible either, but Tipsy Elves have only gone and done it.

Get your official "Only Santa can judge me" jumper for €35.50 from Amazon, and rest assured you will be the talk of the hip-hop town.

The resemblance between Tupac and Mr. Claus is uncanny… sort of…

4. The gin-lovers jumper

Gin lovers, this one is going to rock your world. Not On The High Street have released an exclusive Christmas jumper dedicated to a stunning gin pun.

GINgle Bells: we truly want to shake hands with whoever thought of this as a Christmas jumper concept, it's pure GINius.

It won't break the bank either, the website are releasing it for just €37, excluding shipping from the UK.

Get on this one ASAP, we have a feeling plenty of Bombay Sapphire, Cork Dry and Hendricks fans will be racing to purchase it..

5. The glow in the dark jumper

This next festive fashion piece looks pretty normal at first glance. That is, until the lights go off. The white material turns fluorescent green and the red material reverts to black, so there will be no difficulty in spotting you once night falls.

Yes, Jolly have legitimately created a GLOW IN THE DARK Christmas jumper. For an absolute steal as well; it's only €32.

If you are desperate to light up the party, this is the one for you. 

6. The Brexit jumper

This next offer is tongue-in-cheek with a heavy dose of politics: Teespring have created a jumper based around Brexit. Seriously.

It's currently priced at €32.16, and has already gained traction online due to the controversy of the UK situation.

Will you be that person at the Christmas party who has one glass of mulled wine and engages in serious political debate throughout the night?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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7. The Make Christmas Great Again jumper

This next one is yet another political figure reference, wear it if you dare.

Yes, someone genuinely took it upon themselves to design a jumper around Donald Trump. As if his face doesn't bombard us in every other domain…

Cloud City 7 appear to want to stoke some light-hearted Christmas cheer through a dash of controversy, for just €31 (delivery not included.) Keep the change, ya filthy animals.

 8. The Game of Thrones jumper

We are MAJOR fans of this next one, inspired by Game of Thrones, of course.

Funky Christmas Jumpers online are releasing this magical themed jumper for just €44.99

The twist on the classic phrase 'Winter is Coming' has us GASPING for Christmas (and the final ever season of the show, no biggie). 

We recommend try building a Jon Snow-man to match the jumper, just' a thought.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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9. The selfie jumper

The next joyous jumper we discovered is also from Funky Christmas Jumpers, and is about as millennial as they come.

A JESUS SELFIE jumper has indeed been created. Even more absurd, a COUPLES JESUS SELFIE jumper.

Stop the world, we're getting off.

10. The Tesco Value jumper

Last but not least, the Tesco Value Christmas jumper.

For those Christmas fans who want to keep things on the cheap, this offering is perfect for you.

We wonder if Supervalu, Dunnes Stores, Lidl or Aldi will release their own versions? Competition is healthy, folks.

There you have it, 2018's latest and greatest Christmas jumpers.

Grab yours in time for December you can wear it 25 days straight, that's our plan. 

Which will you choose? Happy shopping, gals.

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Some of you 'Bah, Humbug' folk will be over the moon after hearing this statistic.

Christmas music is a divider for many people, some are blasting it the second the Halloween decorations come down, and others would sooner go deaf than hear a single note of Deck the Halls.

Clinical psychologists have now claimed that listening to too much Christmas music at an early age negatively impacts your health. This could 100% affect some of us little elves.

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According to psychologist Linda Blair, listening to Santa Claus is Coming to Town” on repeat could actually have a bad result on your brain. I mean, once it gets stuck in your head it's essentially impossible to get out.

"Music goes right to our emotions immediately and it bypasses rationality. Christmas music is likely to irritate people if it’s played too loudly and too early."

"It might make us feel that we’re trapped – it’s a reminder that we have to buy presents, cater for people, organise celebrations." Stressful, in other words. Like doing all of your Christmas shopping on December 24. 

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She told Sky News: “People working in the shops at Christmas have to tune out Christmas music because if they don’t, it really does stop you from being able to focus on anything else."

“You’re simply spending all of your energy trying not to hear what you’re hearing.” Read it and weep, all you festive gals

Music psychology researcher, Dr Victoria Williamson backed this research up, explaining the ‘U-shaped relationship’ between the amount of times we hear music that we like and our ‘subsequent reaction to it’, writes Cosmopolitan.

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She says the first few renditions of the Christmas playlist can put people in a great mood, but after a while it can wear you down.

All those carols and lyrics talking about Santa and mince pies seem more annoying when you're actually trying to concentrate, there's no denying that.

Marketing professor Eric Spangenberg has studied the effect of holiday music in retail settings, claiming to NBC that slow tempos slow shoppers down, meaning that they will stay in shops longer whereas fast-paced tunes can rush customers through stores much quicker. 

Hmm, seems legit.

With only 54 days until Christmas, there's plenty of negative health effects about to come our way from the onslaught of festive tunes.

Good luck out there, fam.  

Feature image= Instagram/@thegrinch

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Okay – Okay, we know that it's September and talking about Christmas is forbidden.

BUT – we have stumbled upon the perfect Christmas aroma and we couldn't help but share the magic.

Stick on some Wham! and a Santa hat because as soon as you smell Jo Malone's 2018 festive fragrance, the Christmas craic will be brought back.

Photo credit: Jo Malone

This season you'll need the divine White Moss & Snowdrop Cologne.

As soon as you spray it, you'll be reminiscing of open fires, Christmas dinner and the glamorous parties.

If it was socially acceptable to bath in it – we would. However, a candle version is also available, so we'll probably treat ourselves and our Christmas guests to the gorgeous scent.

Photo credit: Jo Malone

Jo Malone has even gone one step further to create the most decadent wrapping – so pretty that you can even hang it on the tree.

Taking inspiration from those sparkling baubles, you'll be blown away with the glitter and glam of this year's Christmas Collection.

Indulge your loved ones this year, with some of our faves picks such as the Cologne Collection Pomegranate Noir and the Christmas Ornament.

Or if you have a healthy budget, you'll be the envy of pretty much everyone with their advent calendar or customised Christmas Cracker. 

Photo credit: Jo Malone

For those who fell in love with Jo Malone's Orange bitters – you're in luck.

The divine perfume is back and due to popular demand, they've also unleashed the winter fave in candle form.

If you're hosting Christmas drinks, the candle will be perfect festive mood setter and will hit all the right notes as your guests sip their Christmas cocktails. 

Photo credit: Jo Malone

All of these beautiful Christmas aromas will be available from Brown Thomas on October 23 and the advent calendar will launch on November 1.

So save the dates in your calendar as we suspect these will be a massive hit.

And, if anyone has me for Secret Santa – I'm not gonna bother hinting, I'm telling you now I want something from Jo Malone's Christmas range.

 

Feature image credit: Instagram/Jo Malone

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We know Christmas is six months away, but we can’t help but feel the tiniest bit excited about this upcoming Netflix movie.

Last Christmas, we were completely obsessed with the popular and incredibly cheesy Netflix film A Christmas Prince. We must admit we tuned into the film more than once over the festive period.

We’re sure you’re going to adore this year’s Netflix original Christmas flick The Princess Switch, starring High School Musical alum Vanessa Hudgens and Nashville star Sam Palladio.

The romantic comedy is all about a Duchess and a commoner who trade places when they realise the uncanny resemblance between them. It sounds like The Parent Trap sprinkled with Christmas cheer and set somewhere a lot more glamorous than a campsite.

However, things get complicated when they both fall in love with men who have no idea who they really are.

Vanessa treated fans to a glimpse of the movie on her Instagram account. She shared a photo with co-star Sam Palladio in full costume.

 

A post shared by Vanessa Hudgens (@vanessahudgens) on

She captioned the photo: “Did someone say a royal wedding? That’s a wrap on THE CHRISTMAS SWITCH. coming to you this holiday season on Netflix.”

The Spring Breakers actress added: “I’m so excited for you guys to see this one.”

Vanessa may have mixed up the title of the movie, but we cannot wait to see her in the Netflix festive flick.

The film may not be released for a couple of months but we’re already daydreaming of cosying up in front of the fire and tuning into The Princess Switch.

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Let's be honest, in recent weeks the vast majority of us will have wondered which member of our social media circle would announce that their partner got down on one knee to the sound of Fairytale of New York.

With Christmas Day and New Year's Eve vying for poll position in the festive proposal stakes, there are few of us who won't be posting congratulations messages on at least one of our social media platforms over the next week or so.

But whether you're a die-hard romantic or loathe the idea of a social media engagement, you'll be hardpressed not to shed a tear over this festive proposal with a twist.

Uploaded to Twitter by Music1996Man, the footage tells the story of one couple's journey back to each other.

"My parents were married for more than 20 years, divorced, fought a lot, went to work on themselves. Years later, they start dating and as of yesterday, this happened," he wrote. "Congrats Mom and Dad! True love always finds its way back around."

And with more than 745,000 likes in just three days, it seems Twitter's regular cynics have decided to back off this festive season.

Now excuse us while we weep into our Stephen's Day gin.

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Hoodies, jumpers, and sweaters: the Christmas presents that give back too. 

Sure you buy them in good faith for the significant male other in your life – but you also know full well that in time you'll be helping yourself to those very same wares.

And why not – don't you look dashing in an oversized geansaí? Sure he wasn't even using it at the time.

With that in mind, we've set eyes upon these below gems from Jack Jones (as available right now on JackJones.com)

We reckon all of them would seriously impress on Christmas morning. That you know they'd fit nicely over your own festive jim-jams is merely a happy coincidence. 

Here's our pick of the crop…

Baseball Neck in grey, €40;
Sky Captain in navy, €40;
Originals sweatshirt, €35.

 

Plus a few things just for him (go'wan so)…

Vintage Co cap, €20;
Originals grey t-shirt, €15;
Panel cap in navy, €20.

 

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Buying presents for the lad in our life isn’t exactly a walk in the park.

If we’re not marching into town obediently to buy them something they’ve explicitly asked for (and where’s the fun in that?) we’re standing over the likes of Call Of Duty in a state of confusion.

So to help you actually enjoy Christmas shopping for the prince of your heart, the apple of your eye, here are seven pretty awesome ideas:

1. A glamping trip

This is a great one, because you, ahm, get the benefit of it too. For a present that’s a bit out of the norm, book a cosy, romantic night’s stay for two in one of Ireland’s many glampsites (that’s a glam campsite to you and me).

2. A new skill

Look at you trying to change your man! We joke, we joke. If your fella has always wanted to learn a new skill, be it a language, something technical, or even a new sport, make it happen by buying him an evening course as a Christmas present.

3. Something… nostalgic

Is your boyfriend a big LEGO fan? Was there a computer game he loved as a child? Or did he always want a model of the Millennium Falcon for Christmas, but never got it? Do a bit of digging and you could surprise him with a much loved item he won’t be expecting.

4. A new ‘do

If your guy has been considering trying out a new hairstyle, why not gift him with a voucher for a hip salon? And if the voucher feels too impersonal, you can add in some cool hair products for him to open on Christmas morning. We love the supercool, retro packaging of the Pomp & Co. range – and it’s Irish.

5. A personalised print

If your boyf is the arty, sentimental type, he would love a quirky drawing of the two of you as a pressie. Check out Etsy or Not On The Highstreet – there are heaps of illustrators on there that you can commission to make your own unique print.

6. The gift of fitness

Is your fella mad into fitness? There are heaps of different ideas you can play around with here, like some personal training sessions or a specialised bootcamp, or if you’re feeling more flush, a gym membership for the year.

7. Something leather

Gifting quality leather goods is a no-brainer for a fashion-conscious chap. They useful, stylish and they last forever. Our top picks? A leather hold-all, a nerd-chic leather satchel briefcase, or if the funds are low, a washbag.

For more info on Pomp & Co’s s**tcool range of hair products and toiletries, head over to the website here.

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With Christmas just around the corner and party season practically upon us, it's time to get geared up for the most glamorous time of the year.

While this season is all about luxe velvet and unicorn sequins, it's also prime time to pull that little black dress out of the wardrobe and get your money's worth.

fashion beyonce christmas beyonce knowles mtv style

And as extravagant as this season's collection of party dresses may be, the accessories are to die for.

A great accessory has the power to transform any outfit, and we're proving this by spicing up our fave LBD with some of this season's most fabulous adornments.

For this style challenge, SHEmazing! opted to hit River Island – it's affordable and there are loads of festive-appropriate steals there at the moment. 

HULU christmas magic sabrina the teenage witch christmas spirit

1) Sequin sista 

A sequin bolero is a power piece that just screams 'PARTY!' This number will add instant festive appeal to your basic LBD, and will perfectly complement your fabulous glittery garments.

Dress, tights and shoes; SHEmazing!'s own

Silver Sequin Bolero, River Island, €60

2) Gatsby glam

If you invest in one accessory this season, make it a faux-fur tippet. Draped over one shoulder, it adds an instant air of luxury to any festive frock. Team with a chain-strap handbag to channel that classic Gatsby glamour. Who said all-black was boring?

Black Faux-Fur Tippet Scarf, River Island, €30

Black Glitter Mini Chain Bag, River Island, €25

3) Silver belle

Metallics are having a major moment this Christmas, and statement silver jewels will transform your basic LBD into a real festive treat. Start with a statement bejewelled choker, complement with a cuff, and finish the look with a matching clutch bag. Shine bright like a diamond! 

Silver Glitter Soft Foldover Purse, River Island, €20 

Silver Crystal Embellished Bracelet, River Island, €17

Silver Tone Embellished Pave Choker Necklace, River Island, €25

4) Gold, pom-poms and faux-fur 

While Christmas may be about the gold, frankincense and myrrh; party season is all about the gold, pom-poms and faux-fur – and little pops of this season's luxe textures can really amp up the 'wow' factor! Accessorise your LBD with a pom-pom choker and a glitter-encrusted box-bag, and voilá; a fresh, cute and quirky take on a classic look.

Gold Glitter Mini Chain Bag, River Island, €25

Pom-Pom Choker, River Island, €10 

The 'silly season' serves up the perfect opportunity to experiment a little, and the most important thing is that you have fun with your festive gear!

Happy outfit-planning, ladies!

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