Post 11 of 12 – Stocking fillers for all the family

Jeez as we hurtle head long into the festive season, we always hit that awkward situation where we’ve bought too much for one person and not enough for another. A great way to get round this is with stocking filler gifts, to bulk out that pressie you’ve gone for. See below for a whole host of inspiring gift ideas for every meme we of your family.

Soak, relax and unwind with this pair of festive bath fizzers.

Gin is the spirit of the moment, the discerning drinker’s tipple of choice. But with a gin revolution currently sweeping the world, it has never been a more fascinating – and complex – subject. The Gin Dictionary is the gin-drinker’s guide to this special spirit. With hundreds of entries covering everything from history, ingredients and distilling techniques to flavour notes, cocktail recipes and the many varieties of gin around the world.

We know that a strong beard is the pride and joy of any man’s face! Keep it in tip top condition with this luxury beard balm. It’s been scented with fresh moss and amber, and is designed to moisturise the hair while keeping it firmly in place.

Fancy a tipple? Stash this hip flask in your coat pocket when you’re out and about. It’s bound by hard-wearing canvas with a screw top so nothing spills out.

Comfy and Christmassy knickers in a seasonal love-heart bauble… a great stocking filler or even to hang on the tree.

This Christmas, if you haven’t heard of ZOG! Before you certainly will have soon. From the creators of the Gruffalo and first published in 2010 (written by bestselling picture book author Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler), Zog is the story of a young dragon learning the tools of the dragon trade — from how to fly, to how to capture a princess in distress. His own cartoon will be premiering on TV this Christmas.

Supersoft with a pom on top, this knitted beanie will cheer up cold heads and ears in an instant. Grab our matching accessories too

Merry Christmas from FatFace! Milo Moose has lost one of his Christmas presents. Embark on an adventure with Milo Moose and his friends to find the lost present. £2 from every book sold will go to the FatFace Foundation

Comfy and Christmassy socks in a bauble… A great stocking filler, or even to hang on the tree.

This gift set contains all you need for a beer-tasting party. It includes a 64 page book, 200 tasting notes, 20 beer mats, flavour wheel and bottle opener.

f these aren’t THE coolest slippers, then we don’t know what are. Give the feet of someone you love added bite with these wolf claw slippers.

Comfort in one’s underwear is of utmost importance and these Christmas “under crackers” – are great fitting boxers packaged for the perfect stocking filler.

Keep the chill off while feeling and smelling great. This warm and cosy knitted beanie comes with an invigorating body wash and spray scented with citrus, rosemary and cardamon.

The James Border Wallet adds a bit of class to your pockets, with it’s sleek leather construction. It comes with an abundance of compartments to stow away your cards, loose change and ID. It even has an embossed FatFace logo on the inside to really set it apart.

Zog is the keenest dragon in school. He’s also the most accident-prone, flying into trees and even setting his own wing on fire. How will he ever win a golden star?

Go on an adventure with Zog as he navigates his way through school; this paperback book is sure to be a favourite this winter whatever the age.

Post 10 of 12 – Wanna be Daddy Cool ? The Top 12 Toys for Christmas 2018

Christmas is for everyone, no matter if your 6 to 60. We can all share in the magic of this time if year, but there does come a point in your life when you do get far more of a kick from giving gifts rather than receiving them and seeing the joy in that individual’s face when they open it, none more so than the young. 

The DreamToys list is the most authoritative independent prediction of toys that will be the most sought after this Christmas. Selected by a representative panel of retailers and industry experts, these are the toys that will be the talk of the playground this festive season.

The full Top 10 list is as follows in no particular order;

Barbie Ultimate Kitchen

Boxer the Robot 

Cra-Z-Slimy Creations Super Slime Studio

Fingerlings Untamed Jailbreak T-Rex Playset

Harry Potter Hogwarts Great Hall

Harry Potter Wizard Training Wand

L.O.L. Surprise! Pop-Up Store

L.O.L. Surprise! Under Wraps

Laser X Twin Pac

Monopoly Fortnite Edition

“It is a huge honour each year to unveil the DreamToys top twelve list,” said Gary Grant, chair of the DreamToys committee. “We have a fantastic range of toys this year to suit every budget, with three quarters of the list under £50, representing real value for money in these uncertain times. The list is an excellent reflection of the toy industry’s dedication to innovation and ingenuity and highlights the wonder and happiness that toys bring to children and families at this time of year.“

Post 9 of 12 – Gift Inspiration for the man who has everything

Now this is probably one of THE most important of the Christmas gift guide posts, yes for the man who has everything, it could be your Dad, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, one of your in-laws or your boyfriend, but universally we all have one in our life’s and every year, we stress and worry about what to buy them. Here we go then….

There are some brands that are so iconic they can be recognised by just one feature. In the case of streetwear label A Bathing Ape, it’s the hairy primate logo. This cotton-jersey T-shirt plays host to the brand’s distinctive emblem, and this time, it’s cloaked in a Union Jack flag print (where’s the camouflage). A design exclusive to Selfridges, you can stay in keeping with the label’s aesthetic by rocking yours with camouflage-print jogging bottoms or simply just jeans.

Hovertech brings drone camera technology to all with its Hover Camera Passport. A fold-up, bag-sized drone, it liberates you to become your own personal flying photographer. Pick from still or video – once released, it’ll follow you, always keeping you in the frame wherever you are. Working with iPhone and iPad, it needs no tripod and no programming, staying steady and capturing the moment in HD, 4K footage.

Consider William & Son’s games bag your rainy-day kit. It’s filled with all of the classics, including solitaire, dominoes, backgammon and chess and also comes with playing cards, multicoloured perudo cups and dice should you fancy a spot of poker instead

Now did you know Alfred Dunhill would frequently send business correspondence from London to the South of France, and the full-grain leather cover of this notebook is inspired by those parcels. A sophisticated choice for boardroom meetings, it’s filled with gilt-edge ruled pages and has a grosgrain page-keeper.

In a covetable rose-gold hue, this Plum shot gift set by Tom Dixon presents the perfect opportunity to drink in style. A sculpted finish smooths the glasses while hold indents make for ergonomic bliss. Cut from copper plate by hand, the contrast interior begs to be filled with a favourite tipple. With four shot glasses and measure, this set is an ideal gift for the design-savvy man who has everything.

Newsflash: we’ve reached the future of tech, and it comes in the form of the Keecker entertainment robot. Five years of extensive development brought this multimedia projector into being; responding to voice commands via the associated app, it projects onto any wall or ceiling. With a 90-degree adjustable video projector and 360-degree audio, it plays your music and films anywhere in the house, moving independently from room to room.To make him feel like a true Master Ham, Juan Pedro Domecq provides all the elements to enjoy its products with this Maestro Jamonero ham set. Set contains Iberian acorn ham and accessories including a knife, apron and wooden board, what more does he need?

Wearing your favourite childhood cartoon character, literally, on your sleeve has become a bona fides trend with everybody from Loewe to Moschino getting in on the act. Ahead of its AW18 presentation, Calvin Klein,  tweeted out a call for fans to “Toon in” to the show’s live feed – we know now that the runway featured iconic Looney Tunes on pieces like this oversized wool sweater. Intarsia-knitted with none other than Wile E Coyote, it’s a surefire way to liven up casual outfits.

What would Christmas be without slippers, yes even the man who has everything and Bottega Veneta’s backless slippers are the latest take on the house’s signature ‘Fiandra’ loafers. Expertly crafted using the unmistakable intrecciato weave, this pair is made from supple storm-blue leather that’s lightly buffed to reveal a lighter navy shade at parts.

Another inspiring idea for the food lover is this lil beauty from Elektra, who have been engineering specialist coffee-making tools since the late 1940s – the label has even amassed a lengthy list of patents over the years. Made from silver-tone brass, this ‘Micro Casa Semiautomatic SXC’ model is designed with a built-in cup heater, filters, press and high-tech steaming system so you can whip up barista-level drinks. The sleek retro design will look so cool on your kitchen counter.

Don’t just walk on the wild side, but climb, ski, mountain bike, canoe, surf and even skydive. This action-packed encyclopedia from FatFace showcases the best outdoor experiences in more than 150 countries across the globe. Featuring inspiring photography, maps, interviews and expert authors, it’s the ultimate introduction to a thrilling new world of adventure. Pack his passport and a compass and get ready to conquer the planet.

Socks needn’t be boring and nobody does colour quite like Missoni. These socks have been crochet-knitted in Italy from cotton-blend with touches of wool for more insulation and a hint of stretch for flexibility. The patchwork pattern features several tones of blues and reds, so they’ll pair nicely with subdued navy or grey suiting.The breathable cotton-blend is spun with a touch of elastane to keep them spring.

Never mind the man who has everything, who wouldn’t want the LG OLED TVs which will be configured to display over 130 million self-emitting pixels, producing unmatched contrast ratio and true blacks that define OLED TV’s iconic picture quality and make true Dark Skies a reality, imagine watching the Queen’s speech with this????

Want to experience true simple luxury, try the Oliver Spencer Loungewear collection from the Great British Designer, who offers all the style and sophistication the mainline is known for – but with your downtime in mind. This ‘Farrow’ robe is cut in a relaxed fit from organic cotton patterned with blue stripes.

Post 8 of 12 – Gift Inspiration for the lady in your life

Well the big day is getting ever closer and if we haven’t purchased, probably, one of the most important gifts yet, TIME IS RUNNING OUT! Yes today’s post is offering gift inspiration for the lady in your life, whether that be Mum, Sister, friend or wife. OK not all the selected items are going to be appropriate for all of the aforementioned but we do want to inspire you fellas.

 

Now this is a gift idea that you just can’t go wrong with no matter what the relationship you have with the chosen individual. These Ted Baker Betanie Bow Detail Leather Gloves with Wool/Cashmere lining.

OK maybe not one for Nanna but describing Gucci’s AW16 collection as eccentric and colourful, Alessandro Michele demonstrates the aesthetic with these New Ace trainers. Crafted from smooth leather complete with signature web stripes, the iconic Italian brand’s Creative Director updates the classic style with an embroidered bee detail and snake-embossed metallic leather panel

Imagine finding the perfect bauble to really add that special Christmas spirit to your tree. Now, imagining opening up that bauble and finding milk chocolate coins inside! Hanging from a delicate ribbon thread, this ornament is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.

I mean you can’t seriously go wrong with Jo Malone London’s ‘Cracker Gift Set’ is one of those rare kinds that really is just as special on the inside as out. It includes miniature-sized versions of three of the brand’s coveted products – perfect for a pampering session post-festivities. The ribbon-tied, iridescent packaging will look so elegant on your table settings.

I kid you not ladies love personalisation and this gift idea shows a lot of thought. Founded by designer Annoushka Ducas MBE in 2009, her namesake jewellery label embraces the spirit of modernity. Exclusive to Selfridges only and due to popular demand, this pendant has been crafted from 18-carat white-gold with a satin finish. At the centre of this special piece, the letter is displayed, formed with 0.07 carats of micro-pave silver diamonds. Wear yours to represent your own name or of someone you  L O V E.

A rich nectarine fruit character and lingering toasty vanilla notes make this Veuve Clicquot Brut Ponsardin a popular classic. Bearing the famous ‘Clicquot Yellow’ label, this bottle is housed in a signature arrow gift tin, complete with a glittering font to mark the occasion. Once again, go the extra mile by personalising it with your hometown, a special city or the name of your favourite person for a gift to treasure long after the bubbles have popped.

This super versatile “Amelia” bag from FatFace is made from soft, supple leather, this shoulder bag comes in a slouchy shape with tonnes of pockets inside and out. The buckle fastening details are a stylish finishing touch, while the cotton lining ensures it’s strong on the inside. Wear it from on a weekend walk with the dog to a festive night out with friends.

This is what is known as a key winter piece, this fully lined wrap style coat from Jigsaw is designed with a narrow slim fit and self tie belt. Featuring two large patch pockets and a revere collar. Looks equally as good over a flowy dress or with jeans and a knit.

Smythson’s ‘Wafer’ notebook is a scaled-down version of the label’s signature ‘Panama’ jotter – so it’s perfect for stashing into your bag. Handmade in the UK, it’s constructed from metallic textured-leather to match the gilt-edged featherweight pages and has a grosgrain ribbon to keep track of recent entries. The #winning lettering stamping at the front makes it a great congratulatory gift.

OK not another one for your Mum or Gran, but this Lauren Ralph Lauren Satin and lace PJ set makes for the perfect gift for the one you love. Also, just putting it out there, maybe not suitable to be unwrapped in front of the outlaws, or potential ones.

Post 7 of 12 – TUX it up with 6 of the best Tuxedos, perfect for Christmas Party Attire

This coming Friday not only sees it being Christmas Jumper Day in aid of Save the Children, but according to research is the most popular day to hold your Christmas work’s party !!!!

Yes that one night of the year, when your told to let your head down with your co-workers, but not too much. To informally chat with your boss, but not too much. To get blind drunk and photocopy your body parts and stick the copies all over Pat from accounts desk. 

Yes the office Christmas party, can come in so many different forms. Push all the desks and chairs to the corners and get Sandra from HR’s brother in law, Alan, to bring in his decks and can play inappropriate music mixed in with a bit of Slade and Mariah. Or maybe it’s all off to the local fancy Italian for a traditional festive meal and a little too much chianti is mixed with Limoncello and Bob from IT is caught kissing Sue the receptionist under the mistletoe, ahhhh until Monday. 

Anyway enough of all that, let’s get down to the important stuff, what to wear. In past years we’ve informed you on the importance of not looking as though you’ve tried too hard and spend time labouring over your chosen outfit, but at the same time make sure you look like you care and have made an effort, which is super true and great advice. So with this in mid our advice for you this year is dress to impress ! Yes dress up, make an effort and ensure when you walk in the room, everyone looks at you for all the right reasons. The simple an easy way to do this is to Tux it up, yes wear a tuxedo, channel your inner bond and out shine the rest and we have one to suit not only every pocket but every age too. 

First up we have, get ready for it, drum roll please, M&S !!!!! I know, now this is a little diamond and is crazy light on your wallet. Old Marks & Sparks have done a sterling job on seasonal party wear this year and get in quickly before they’ve gone.

Next on the list is something a touch more expensive, OK a whole lot more, but see it as an investment piece, which if you don’t indulge too much in the mince pies and brandy butter over the Yuletide you’ll have for many years to come. This beautiful number from Hugo Boss, Classic, Cool but not Conformist.

Young or young at heart, add a bit of colour to the festivities and enter into the Christmas spirits with this burgundy two piece from ASOS.

OK so hear me out on this one, Tom Ford is a master of style, I mean he does dress 007 himself. This amazing sartorial piece of tailoring may set you back a bob or thousand, but it is worth every penny the talent Texan is definitely worth it.

Now we swing from the Classic to the Contemporary with this great example from Twisted Tailoring, formerly Noose and Monkey. But what this wonderful piece of styling also show us is, you don’t have to always team a Tux up with a shirt and bow tie, roll neck is a brilliant spin on this classic.

Finally, we’ve all seen the classic black traditional tuxedo but this twist on a classic is brilliant, from the Flintoff range at Jacamo this great Navy take will have you looking tip top wherever your Yuletide Festivities are, without breaking the bank.