The pavements of Manhattan become a graveyard for tired and drooping Christmas trees as early as today. One of the first to jettison hers every year is Vogue’s famously perfectionist editor-in-chief Anna Wintour who simply refuses to tolerate the clutter of fallen pine needles a moment past Christmas Day.
While you may be reading this relaxing in your new gifted PJs – and rightly so – New Yorkers have already moved on, as we discovered when we flew out on Boxing Day a couple of years ago and were taken aback to discover almost every trace of the festive season already gone. Christmas? That’s so yesterday! We’re busy, busy, busy. But someone should tell them they’re seriously missing out.
For me, this cosy post-festive haze is one of the most magical times of the year. And, done right, it can also be one of the most chic. Start your days slowly in silky pyjamas and fluffy slippers – or my new favourite, fur-lined Birkenstocks. If Santa was feeling particularly generous, some cashmere trousers with trainers might be motivation enough to get you off the sofa. Add a long puffer coat, a warm cashmere beanie and you’re ready for a stylish stroll to the pub.
Indulge in long baths with a favourite book – or YOU magazine, of course – and why not put on a detoxifying face mask while you’re at it? Time seems to move slower between Christmas and New Year, giving you a great opportunity to take stock of your wardrobe. If you’ve got any energy left after all that Christmas buying, you could grab some quality basics in the sales. I much prefer to shop from my sofa than join the frenzy on the high street. But how to avoid making a mistake purchase and instead find one or two bargains that will last? Remember these rules before you hit the checkout…
– Rather than frantically searching at random, start by compiling a wish list –bookmarking things you really love – before the sales actually begin. Then keep your fingers crossed and hope these items go on sale.
– Stay true to yourself – and don’t be swayed by the size of the discount. You’re not suddenly going to transform from a minimal dresser to a bohemian or squeeze your size 39 feet into a 37 just because the shoes are half price.
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Check your 2022 social calendar and think about major upcoming events. The sales are a great opportunity to pick up a special dress with big savings, avoiding that last-minute panic buy at twice the price when the event eventually rolls around.
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