CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

Holiday decorating is a fun time to celebrate a special occasion and to create new memories. Yet, amid the merriment, it’s vital to remain mindful of potential decorating mishaps that can pose serious risks to your safety and the well-being of your loved ones.

Raf Michalowski, an interior design expert at Meble Furniture, has outlined common holiday decorating mistakes that can unexpectedly lead to dangerous situations.

1. Lighting Lots of Candles Too Close

Candles can instantly transform the feeling of any space with their soft, flickering glow.

Not only do they immediately add a sense of cosiness and serenity to any holiday setting, but they can also be a nice way to provide an ambient light to your settings.

However, they can also be incredibly dangerous if not handled with caution, for instance lighting too many candles and doing so with them placed too closely together.

Candle accidents around this time can be attributed to candles placed too close to flammable materials, from furniture to holiday decorations.

The expert suggests to keep candles away from any other objects and never leave them unattended. For an even simpler and safer alternative, consider switching to battery-operated candles.

2. Picking the Wrong Tree

The debate over artificial versus real Christmas trees is age-old, but the type of tree you choose is only part of the equation. 

“If you’re opting for a live tree, it’s essential to check the freshness of your tree before taking it home.

Any tree that starts to rain a hail of needles when you move it could be a sign of dryness, which makes it susceptible to fire hazards. 

Before placing your live tree, put it in a stand with water and cut a couple of inches from the trunk for better water absorption. Artificial trees should be fire-resistant for added safety,” says the expert. 

3. Overloading Extension Cords

Extension cords are commonly used during the holidays to reach outlets for decorations, trees as well as all the technology running throughout the festive season.

However, overloading extension cords with multiple devices can lead to overheating and potential electrical fires. 

It’s best to be mindful of the number of devices connected to a single extension cord and avoid daisy-chaining them together. 

The expert suggests opting for extendable cords that can go the length of your room or more if need be.

4. Placing the Tree in the Wrong Spot

When finding the perfect place for your Christmas tree, anything near radiators, vents, heaters, or fireplaces can accelerate its drying process, posing a significant fire risk. 

“If you’re short for space, it’s recommended to position your tree at least three feet away from any heat source to ensure its longevity and safety,” the expert recommends. 

5. Choosing Poisonous Plants

For pet owners and parents of young children, the choice of holiday plants is crucial.

Some seasonal favourites such as amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar and poinsettias, can be harmful to pets. It’s best recommended to keep holiday flowers and greenery away, or use artificial plants instead.

6. Using Unsafe Decorations

Your holiday decorations can also pose threats. 

“Glass ornaments may shatter and cause injuries, while ribbon, strings and tinsel used for wrapping presents and decorating the tree can potentially become choking hazards. 

If you have babies, young toddlers, or pets prone to investigation, it might be best to avoid using tinsel and glass ornaments on the tree or keep them out of reach,” says the expert. 

Given that the term ‘nightcap’ typically refers to an alcoholic tipple, it’s easy to assume that alcohol is a good sleep aid. While it can make us feel more sleepy, and often help us get to sleep more quickly, in fact, it’s more likely to induce poor and disturbed sleep quality, and thus make us more tired the next day.

Alcohol is a depressant, which suppresses the central nervous system, and causes the brain activity to slow down. All types of alcohol – beer, wine, cocktails, liqueurs, and spirits – have this effect. In large quantities, alcohol makes us feel relaxed and dozy, with a sedative effect that makes going to sleep more akin to passing out.

When we consume alcohol, it gets absorbed into our blood stream through the stomach and small intestine. Liver enzymes metabolise the alcohol, however, as this is a slow filtration process, if we have consumed a lot, it can mean that we have high levels circulating in our blood stream for some hours.

Alcohol can suppress Rapid Eye Movement during the first two sleep cycles, which can create an imbalance of slow wave sleep and REM sleep, which in turn creates shorter sleep duration and more sleep disruptions.

A hangover is often a combination of dehydration and sleep deprivation, so we may also wake during the night needing to urinate, rehydrate, take painkillers, or from feeling too hot or nauseous. In addition, those who are prone to snoring can usually testify that the problem is worse after they have had a drink.

ALCOHOL AND SLEEP DISORDERS 

When we’re finding it hard to fall asleep, or stay asleep, it can be tempting to think that a drink will solve the issue. In truth, alcohol is often counterproductive to our overall sleep health and sleep hygiene. 

INSOMNIA

Adults who drink to excess often suffer from sleep issues such as insomnia. Unfortunately, sleeplessness and alcohol can exacerbate each other and create a vicious cycle, and there is a link between alcohol abuse and chronic sleep disorders.

SLEEP APNEA

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterised by abnormal breathing, choking noises, and loud snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is caused by a complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway by the throat muscles. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain cannot properly signal the muscles that control breathing. As alcohol relaxes the throat and mouth muscles, it can exacerbate such breathing issues. 

When to see a GP? If you can’t get to sleep without alcohol, or if you suspect you have sleep apnea, seek urgent medical advice. Sleeping medication should never be mixed with alcohol, as it can be dangerous. 

WHY CAN’T I SLEEP AFTER DRINKING?

You might wonder, does alcohol help you to sleep? But when we are under the influence, sleep is more likely to be shallow, fitful, and fragmented. Even a glass of wine can have a rebound effect, which is caused by the release of excitatory glutamate after the alcohol has been metabolised by the liver, which can cause us to wake easily in the night. 

HOW TO SLEEP BETTER AFTER DRINKING ALCOHOL?

Had a bit more to drink than you intended? If you’re prone to insomnia after drinking alcohol, try these hacks to help mitigate some of the worst effects.

– Have a high fibre snack to help regulate the body’s absorption of the alcohol – here are some dream recipes to help you get some decent shut-eye

– Make sure your bedroom is a comfortable, cooler temperature 

– Empty your bladder before bed

– Have a small glass of water before bed and keep one nearby in case you wake up with a thirst 

– Take milk thistle – a supplement that can support liver function 

According to recent statistics, 58% of men in the UK visit a barber on a regular basis, a 16% increase compared to the previous year. The so-called “Barber Boom” can’t be dismissed, with the industry now worth an estimated £1.5 Billion.

Andrew Vassiliou, Director of Chris & Sons – the UK’s leading hair and beauty supplier – explains why barbershops are growing in popularity and what this means to the High Street.

“There’s been much talk about the death of the British High Street as people flock to the internet to buy clothes, tech, and food. But hair cuts are a necessity you can’t just order for next-day delivery.

This growing demand for barbers is a positive sign for the UK High Street, highlighting that even in the digital age, people still value in-person services. Barbershops are attracting new customers to local shopping districts, contributing to the life of the High Street.

Men’s grooming is on the rise, with men showing more interest in their appearance. Barbers offer a range of services to help men look and feel their best. 62% of British men say they are interested in men’s grooming products and services, a 4% increase from last year.

While traditional hair salons often cater to both men and women, they may not offer the same level of expertise in men’s haircuts and styling. Barbers, on the other hand specialise in men’s hair, and offer a variety of services that are tailored to men’s hair needs, such as fades, shaves, and beard trims. 

The friendly and welcoming atmosphere of barbershops is another factor in their popularity. Barber shops are often seen as a place where men can relax and socialise while getting their hair done.  This sense of community is something that many customers value, especially in the era of digital interactions. According to a 2023 survey by Treatwell, 72% of British men say they enjoy the social aspect of going to the barbershop, whilst 68% say they feel more relaxed after a trip to the barbershop.

However, the popularity of barbershops may pose challenges for some existing High Street businesses. Traditional hair salons, for example, may face increased competition. Adaptation is vital for any business; some hair salons have successfully embraced the trend by diversifying their services to include elements commonly found in barbershops, like tailored grooming packages for men.

Ultimately, the growth of barbershops signals a broader shift in consumer preferences towards experiences and community interactions, which can be a positive for the High Street. To stay relevant and thrive in this changing landscape, businesses should consider offering unique and personalised experiences that appeal to the modern consumer.”

Expio, a genuine trailblazing men’s clothing brand standing at the forefront of pioneering materials and manufacturing processes, pushing the boundaries of what’s attainable in performance apparel.

Founded by Ben Mears in 2020 and with 20+ years of creative apparel experience. He has worked for companies such as YSL, Tommy Hilfiger, and North Sails in Italy. He has an extensive tailoring background and his comprehensive performance sportswear knowledge and passion for sustainability form the pillars of Expio.

Alongside Expio, Ben works on regenerative, traceable and accountability projects for several international businesses. Ben has completed business sustainability management training with the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Sustainable Leadership.

By fusing style, sustainability, and innovation, Expio creates performance clothing that empowers individuals to make conscious choices without compromising on quality. Through pioneering materials and manufacturing processes, Expio aims to set new industry standards and lead the menswear revolution towards a more sustainable and responsible future.

Expio is setting new industry benchmarks with its pioneering use of materials that not only enhance performance, but also prioritize sustainability. By harnessing the power of bio-nylon derived from castor beans and Optim Performance wool developed in collaboration with The Woolmark, the brand crafts outerwear that strikes the balance between comfort, durability, and environmental consciousness.

One of the key differentiators of Expio is its revolutionary manufacturing process , or the Stitch-less Stealth welding technique, as they like to call it. This innovative approach not only enhances the durability and waterproof capabilities of the clothing but also eliminates the need for traditional stitching, reducing material waste and resource consumption. Expio is the first and only brand to use this new technology, ushering in a new era of manufacturing.

“Our aim is to design uncompromising garments that encompass style, performance, and sustainability. These garments are crafted with a conscious understanding of the importance of sustainability while also being able to withstand the elements at the highest level. Not only are they physically durable but also emotionally resilient.” said founder, Ben Mears. 

Expio’s mission extends far beyond the confines of fashion. The brand aims to rebalance the clothing industry’s impact on the world by creating performance clothing that is both exceptional and conscientious. Through mindful decision-making and a deep understanding of social and environmental issues, Expio hopes to make a lasting positive impact on the planet.

Iconic skateboarding brand Santa Cruz turns 50th this year, making them one of the longest standing, consistently running skate brand globally. Known for their Screaming Hand design and Classic Dot designed by the legendary Jim Phillips.

The brand have been an inspiration throughout fashion, streetwear and skateboarding since 1973!!!!

Santa Cruz Skateboards has been an industry-leading manufacture of board sports lifestyle products for 50 years. Established in 1973, Santa Cruz defined a generation with eye-popping graphic and innovative products that continue to resonate with tastemakers, professional riders and younger generations. Their graphics are some of the most iconic in skateboard history. Santa Cruz is Mecca for skate and surf culture and they’ve been here to define the look and feel of these sports since the beginning.

Captured by the brand slogan, ‘From the beginning, til the end,’ and the special 50th edition of Jim Phillip’s screaming hand, this momentous anniversary revisits the core of the brand which is planted in the foundations of skate culture. Throughout the years, Santa Cruz has championed riders such as Eric Dressen and Steve Alba who have designed and reworked iconic artworks that are still best sellers today. Being central to the skate community, Santa Cruz has continually provided a platform to both well-known and emerging artists; this year we have worked with Shepard Fairy (OBEY GIANT) and Jeremy Fish to name a few. Whilst celebrating the past, Santa Cruz also looks ahead to another 50 years of supporting skateboarding through innovation and creativity.

Alongside seasonal versions of the iconic Classic Dot and Screaming Hand Santa Cruz welcomes back legendary team riders Christian Hosoi and Micke Alba with reissues of their most sort after graphics. Well known for strong illustrative graphics Santa Cruz’ European apparel line also offers a complimentary cut and sew collection of elevated skate wear consisting of heavy weight shirting, knitwear, jackets and the must have baggy denim.