The ultimate Christmas Tree decorations guide 2023

The ultimate Christmas Tree decorations guide 2023

If you’re looking for some great Christmas Tree Decoration ideas you have come to the right place. Every product listed is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.

The ultimate Christmas tree decorations guide 2023:

5 awesome ways to style your Christmas Tree

Not everyone in our house is the big fan of Christmas that’s often expected. This post comes from the Grinchiest member of our family. The one who’s struggled the most to find their Christmas spirit.

It’s true. I’ve not loved every Christmas I’ve ever had. But I’ve always embraced the parts that it’s easy for me to get on board with. There’s thinking up the stocking pressies for the people I love most, there’s making mincemeat for homemade mince pies, there’s the wrapping (that’s my absolute favourite part of Christmas and I’ll do a whole post on it soon), and there’s  … the tree.

Growing up we never had a real tree. It was such a treat to get my first ever real tree. The deep clean and moving furniture to make space for it. The cosy darkness as it takes up the entire bay window. And the glorious fragrance wafting through downstairs. Importantly, once the tree is in place, we decorate.

Cute dog in front of Christmas tree decorations

1. Traditional red and gold

I’ve never been one to hold with tradition. But there is something quite special about red and gold adorning a stunning, green tree. We’ve had a turbulent few years, so the comfort and nostalgia that comes with the familiar may be quite welcome this year.

I have friends who have more than one tree in their house (I have serious envy). The tree in the front room is strictly, and I mean strictly, traditional.

For your own traditional tree, you’re going to need warm white lights as your start point. 100 is fine, but 200 is even better.

200 warm white lights
RRP: £21.99
£19.79 Amazon

Ollny indoor / outdoor Christmas fairy lights

Ollny string lights indoor / outdoor use. 20m. 200 warm white LED plug in waterproof Christmas tree lights.

Low voltage (31V), safe to touch for children and pets, even after many hours. 

Next up are your medium baubles. I love glass, but I don’t have cats or tiny children to worry about. Plus, you want volume in your plain Christmas ornaments so it’s a good idea to start with a decent sized set.

Red and Gold medium baubles
£10.99 Amazon

Red shatterproof baubles

36pc 40mm Christmas baubles, with gold thread for hanging easily. Eco-friendly lightweight plastic.

Try to alternate while you’re decorating. Maybe move from red to gold and back again. Change up the shapes, baubles, bells, hearts, snowflakes. I love to use glittering stars to accompany my baubles.

PATKAW Christmas Star Pendants
£11.69 Amazon

PATKAW 6 Christmas hanging gold star ornaments

The Christmas star decorations have numerous raised dots that sparkle from a distance. 

Mini gold glitter stars bring festive Christmas spirit to your home.

Mixing your textures adds depth. Don’t be afraid of faux flowers, bows, or fabric baubles. Christmas isn’t Christmas without a few poinsettia flowers around the place.

WEKNOWU 12 Pack of Red Poinsettia Decorations
£12.99 Amazon

12 Pack Christmas artificial red poinsettia 

Diameter approx. 21 cm/ 8 inches. Lightweight and easy to store and use. 

Use on your Christmas tree, wreaths, or centerpieces.

Once I’ve filled the tree with the basics, I’ll add those special handmade items. The yoghurt pot bell from when the second child was in nursery tends to reside at the back of the tree, while the mouth-blown glass or the bauble I bought in India take pride of place for all to see.

Egyptian hand blown glass ornaments
£17.79 Etsy

Egyptian hand blown glass ornaments with 14k gold engraved stars

Beautiful Christmas ornaments formed and coloured in the ancient Egyptian method inherited over thousands of years.

The traditional red and gold tree calls for a traditional gold star on top. This is a hill I’m prepared to die on. It’s the only decoration to top off the clasic, traditional red and gold tree.

Star Tree Topper - Antique Gold Brass Cutout Detail - Rustic Handmade Christmas Tree Top Decoration
€44.65 Etsy

Antique gold brass cutout detailed star tree topper

Hand forged from brass with an intricate cut out pattern, allowing the light from your tree to shine through and cast a magical reflection.

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2. Cool blue hues (blue Christmas tree decorations)

A huge departure from the traditional, my mother-in-law (if we were married) has a cool blue and silver decorated tree. The tree itself is a Blue Spruce. You won’t find anything close to the yoghurt pot bell on her tree, no matter which of the grandchildren made it!

If you fancy a cool, classy take on Christmas, here’s how she goes about it. This tree uses cool white lights as its base. 

Ollny Christmas White Lights Outdoor Decorations
RRP: £21.99
£19.79 Amazon

Ollny indoor / outdoor Christmas fairy lights

Ollny string lights indoor / outdoor use. 20m. 200 cool white LED plug in waterproof Christmas tree lights.

Low voltage (31V), safe to touch for children and pets, even after many hours. 

There are baubles, of course. But I particularly enjoy the glass icicles and how they respond to the changing light in the conservatory.

Sea Team Clear Glass Icicles
£16.99 Amazon

Sea Team clear glass icicle drops 

Set of 36 clear glass icicle ornaments containing different length icicles. Perfect for Christmas tree decorations.

All of icicle ornaments come with pre-tied strings for you to hang them easily.

Glitter is an important addition. And the texture that comes from feathers brings softness to an otherwise sharp look. Sparkling deer, and winged angels and birds are dotted throughout the tree … These peacocks would work beautifully.

Allwins Gorgeous 12" Peacock Christmas Ornaments
£9.99 Amazon

Allwins glitter peacock clip on tree decoration

12″ long Peacock. Feathers add textural quality.Beautiful and natural.

The conservatory looks onto a stunning garden. It’s only right that handcrafted berries, flowers, and glass pine cones like these ones feature in this Christmas tree.

Hand-crafted Pine Cone Ornaments Set of 12 Glass Painted Pinecone Pendants
£15.46 Amazon

Hand-crafted pine cone ornaments 

Set of 12 hanging glass painted pine cone shaped tree decorations.

 

Interestingly, the cool blue, silver, and clear glass decorated tree is not finished with an expensive, exclusive topper. Instead, the family opts for their traditional tipsy fairy who has clearly seen many a Christmas in her top spot.

Menkind Christmas deals advert

3. Jewel tones

Opulence. Think emeralds, rubies, amethysts, sapphires. Flashes of gold, or even platinum, holding these jewels in place. Start with warm white lights. Then build in your colours, shapes, and fabrics. Jewel colours lend themselves well to velvet textures and silk chiffons, offering sumptuous luxury to your tree this year. Something of an antidote to the bombardment of news reports that we’re experiencing as I type. 

Remember those satin silk baubles from when you were little?

Vintage Green Silk Thread Christmas Baubles
£6.00 Etsy

Vintage Green Silk Thread Christmas Baubles

Mixture of green silk thread baubles, all in good condition.

 

And I think these velvet stockings add a certain something, don’t they?

 Red & Green Velvet Stocking waiting for Santa to fill them
£17.13 Amazon

Gireshome Red & Green Velvet Stockings, Diamond Quilted Embroidery.

These beautiful stockings are ready to be hung on the tree or above the fireplace ready for Santa to fill.

 

On the jewel inspired tree, you can really go to town on your showstopping glass ornaments. It’s a good choice for someone who’s been collecting tree ornaments for years. Time to dig out the ones that Aunty Jane gave you and you were never brave enough to hang them. This is definitely not a minimalist tree.

Beautiful vintage textured glass baubles in a range of colours
£61.61 Etsy

Set of five Egyptian hand blown glass ornaments decorated with 14 kart gold.

Beautiful Christmas ornaments formed and coloured in the ancient Egyptian method inherited over thousands of years.

 

For the final flourish on the jewel tree, it really should be a crown. I’ve long been a fan of Gisela Graham ornaments and this snowflake tree topper is the perfect crowning glory for our yule jewel tree.

Gisela Graham Christmas Gold Snowflake Tree Topper
£11.99 Amazon

Gisela Graham Christmas Gold Snowflake Tree Topper.

This pale gold snowflake would look striking on top of a tree and would complement the jewel tones from the other decorations.

 

Menkind Advent Calendars

4. Pretty pastels

I can’t lie, I am tempted to switch things up for a pretty pastel tree this year. Pastels strike out against the dark UK winter in a way that feels quite rebellious. I’ve seen this work well on both artificial and real trees. If you’re going artificial, consider white to set your pretty pastels against.

A 7FT/2.1M White Classic Xmas Tree. Realistic Snow Branches
£30.99 Amazon

A 7FT/2.1M White Classic Xmas Tree With Realistic Natural Snow Branches

Classic snowy white Christmas tree perfect for showing off your most dazzling xmas ornaments.

 

If you’re sticking with your real tree, maybe spray some snow on your branches.

A tin of fake snow
£7.74 Amazon

Decorative Christmas Snow Spray Premier (150ml)

Spray snow can be a lot of fun. Use it on your tree, on decorations, or even on your windows.

 

For the pastel tree I’d either go back to the cool white lights, or I’d try out pink or blue ones – depending on whether I’d got more pink or more blue in my pastel ornament collection.

Fairy Lights WISD 200 LED 13M Low Voltage
£18.99 Amazon

Special dual color designer fairy lights with 8 different light patterns

 200 LED, 13M low voltage Xmas Lights.

 

Speaking of ornaments, pastels are a favourite at Sass and Bell. These ones put me in mind of slow globes.

Sass & Belle Pastel Stars Mini Baubles - Set of 12
£11.60 Amazon

Sass & Belle Pastel Stars Mini Baubles – Set of 12

 These pastel baubles are totally cute and would look great on a snowy Christmas tree.

They also have these gorgeous pearly ones.

Sass & Belle Mini White Irridescent Baubles - Set of 12
£10.37 Amazon

Sass & Belle Mini White Irridescent Baubles – Set of 12

These white irridescent baubles are totally awesome and would compliment the other cute Sass & Belle baubles.

A good old fashioned candy cane is fun on any Christmas tree, but pink candy canes really are next level if you’re leaning hard into the pastels this winter.

Christmas Concepts® Pack Of 6-13cm Glitter Candy Cane Christmas Tree Decorations (Baby Pink & White)
£7.99 Amazon

Christmas Concepts® Pack Of 6-13cm Glitter Candy Cane Christmas Tree Decorations (Baby Pink & White)

These festive candy cane decorations are sure to brighten up your Christmas tree this Christmas!

Pastels are light, fun, and easy. The same could be said for those delectable macarons that scream luxury and frivolity. So what better to add to the pastel tree than these perfect macaron ornaments?

Gisela Graham Single 5cm Pastel Glass Macaron Christmas Tree Hanging Bauble Decoration
£6.49 Amazon

Gisela Graham Single 5cm Pastel Glass Macaron Christmas Tree Hanging Bauble Decoration

These are so much fun. I need them in my life.

If I do go for the pastel tree this year, I’m going to add in some rose and peony heads to bring me right back to summer. Between the sweets, the macarons, and the blooms, I’m sure to feel transported to warmer times.

Artificial Flowers Combo Pink Fake Roses Champagne Peony for DIY Wedding Party Baby Show Centerpiece Home Decor (Pink)
£24.99 Amazon

Artificial Flowers Combo Pink Fake Roses Champagne Peony for DIY Wedding Party Baby Show Centerpiece Home Decor (Pink)

A box of artificial flowers composed of artificial flowers of different color types that complement each other.

I might throw in a pompom garland or two, for softness and warmth. Spiky tinsel is not for me.

Pastel pom pom garland,pastel rainbow felt ball garland
£5.00 Etsy

Pastel pom pom garland, pastel rainbow felt ball garland.

This lovely pink, peach, yellow, mint, blue and purple pom pom garland is the perfect decor for your pastel Christmas tree.

And atop the pastel tree would have to be something with wings. Something truly extra. Possibly a little bit kitsch.

Large Fairy Tree Topper - Pink
£20.00 Etsy

Large Fairy Tree Topper – Pink

Our beautiful wire Fairy Doll will make the perfect gift for anyone.

They are a great addition for someone looking for something bespoke and made with love.

Menkind Christmas deals advert

5. All out kitsch

Speaking of kitsch, I’ve really saved the best for last here. I’ve had a kitsch tree collection growing for many years now. For a long time I didn’t have a single classic bauble. No tinsel (as above, it’s just not for me). On my tree you’ll find anything from little burlesque corsets with feather and ribbons, to handmade felt gingerbread people made with my children. There’s a Christmas bee, a t-rex in a tutu, and a flamingo in fairylights. These are interspersed with some more classic seasonal nods like sprayed pine cones, pretty toadstools, and carved holly leaves. There are also many christian elements like angels, stars, a tiny wooden stable, and some wise people. On my kitsch tree it’s really a case of more is more.

Our kitsch Christmas tree, 2016, decorated with multi-coloured lights and an array of handmade and shop bough decorations
A dinosaur, a flamingo, and a hand made penguin on a kitsch Christmas tree

For your perfectly imperfect kitsch tree, you have options. As you can see, I’ve used multicolour lights on mine before now …

Ollny Multi-Colour Christmas Tree Lights
RRP: £21.99
£19.79 Amazon

Ollny indoor / outdoor Christmas fairy lights

Ollny string lights indoor / outdoor use. 20m. 200 Multi-Colour LED plug in waterproof Christmas tree lights.

Low voltage (31V), safe to touch for children and pets, even after many hours. 

… but I prefer the way that warm white shows up the myriad colours in my ornaments. The choice is yours and there’s no such thing as ‘too much’ on a kitsch tree.

For the really fun ornaments like my t-rex and flamingo, you simply must look in Paperchase.

A super fun T-Rex baking a cake Christmas Tree decoration
£10
Paperchase on Amazon

Paperchase Cooking Dino Hanging Christmas Tree Decoration

A dinosaur for your decorations who can mix- never mind what he matches when he’s such a statement! As well as a loop to hang up, he has his own fabric chef’s hat and apron, a metallic pudding bowl and a crimson velvet ribbon.

Will I be able to resist the narwhal?

Paperchase Silver Glass Narwhal Hanging Christmas Tree Decoration
£8
Paperchase on Amazon

Paperchase Silver Glass Narwhal Hanging Christmas Tree Decoration

A firm favourite for anyone with a penchant for sea creatures, our glass narwhal is a unique addition amongst the Christmas classics. Blue and silver streaks adorn the glass outer layer for a striking finish.

or the retro deer collection?

Paperchase Retro Deer Christmas Tree Decorations - Set of 3
£15
Paperchase on Amazon

Paperchase Retro Deer Christmas Tree Decorations – Set of 3

You don’t need a forest for these darling deers to live – only your Christmas tree and some tinsel! They have expressive eyes and ears and ribbon collars, complete with baubles and gold loops for elegant hanging.

Our kitsch Christmas tree wouldn’t be complete without the things we’ve made together as a family. Last year Santa got the youngest two a felt kit to sew their own Star Wars characters, they’ve said I can make the trickiest one. Guess what’s being added to our tree this year? Kits like these Polar Animals Sewing Kits make such fun presents.

Polar Animals Sewing Kit for Kids - These would look great as decorations on a kitsch Christmas tree
£22.99 Amazon

Polar Animals Sewing Kit for Kids

Stitch and glue your own polar animals friends with our adorable arctic polar animals sewing kit. Each craft kit is made from quality felt craft materials. The plastic needles are safe for kids. All things are stored in an eye-catching package. Perfect for Winter birthday crafts and inspiring creativity. 

The winter gonks would double for the pastel tree if we decided to go down that road this year.

eBoutik - Set of Two Pink Christmas Plush Gonk's
£12.99 Amazon

eBoutik – Set of Two Pink Christmas Plush Gonk’s

This set of two pastel pink Gonk plush ornaments with knitted hats are perfect decorations for the living room, fireplace, kitchen countertop, dining table, and so on. 

In keeping with the utter randomness of the kitsch tree we’ve come to love, I could be tempted to upgrade our classic gold star to an understated festive sloth on top of the tree for 2022.

Festive Sloth Tree Topper - Felt Sloth Christmas Decoration
£15 Etsy

Festive Sloth Tree Topper – Felt Sloth Christmas Decoration

Add the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas tree this year with a fun and festive sloth Christmas tree topper!

What say you?

Well, I guess that wraps up our ultimate Christmas Tree decorations guide 2022. We hope that you’ve enjoyed it and feel inspired for decorating your tree this year.

Merry Christmas!

 

Best Advent Calendars 2023

Best Advent Calendars 2023

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN CALENDAR

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If you are looking for the best advent calendars 2023, to countdown to Christmas, then you’ve come to the right place. Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.

Best Advent Calendars 2023:

It’s time to start the Countdown to Christmas

Let the countdown to Christmas begin! Advent calendar season is almost here and we don’t know about you, but we’re getting excited for winter, cosy nights, log fires, stocking filler planning, and Christmas movies – Christmas truly is a magical time of year. Even though it’s not quite Christmas yet, it’s never too early to start thinking about the best advent calendar you’d like to have this year.

We’re here to help you choose your festive door-opening wisely this year, whether it’s a chocolate calendar, a boozy one, or even a Dr Who advent calendar. With everything that’s going on in the world right now, your advent calendar should bring you joy every day. If you’re looking for a luxurious gin calendar, one filled with skincare must-haves, or even a cult favourite that’s still available, we’ve got you covered.

Looking for something specific, jump to the section now.

Menkind Advent Calendars

Chocolate and Sweets Advent Calendars

Who says you have to wait until Christmas Day to indulge yourself during the holiday season? Why not have a delicious festive countdown with a fabulous chocolate advent calendar.

Lindt Milk Chocolate Advent Calendar, 160g

Lindt Milk Chocolate Advent Calendar, 160g

Bring home the magic this Christmas with the Lindt Teddy Advent Calendar.

£6.39 Amazon
Galaxy Christmas Chocolate Advent Calendar 2022

Galaxy Christmas Chocolate Calendar 2023

If you like Galaxy chocolate, then this is the ideal Advent Calendar, and at a reasonable price.

RRP:£2.79 
£2.00 Amazon
Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Chunks Advent Calendar, 258g

Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Chunks Calendar, 258g

The ultimate Christmas advent calander for Cadbury dairy milk fanatics.

RRP:£5.99 
£5.00 Amazon
Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Chunks Advent Calendar, 258g

Thorntons Continental Advent Calendar, 280 g

24 individual chocolates fill the calendar in milk, white and dark chocolate.

RRP £26.29
£25.35 Amazon
Ferrero Collection Advent Calendar

Ferrero Collection Advent Calendar

Discover the Ferrero Collection Advent Calendar with 25 delicious pralines: Ferrero Rocher, the velvety coconut Raffaello and seductively dark Rondnoir.

RRP:£15.00 
£10.00 Amazon
Anthon Berg Chocolate Liqueur

Anthon Berg Chocolate Liqueur Calendar 2023

The Anthon Berg Christmas Advent Calendar 2023 for Adults is the grown up way to countdown to Christmas.

£26.99 Amazon
Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar by Cocoba

Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar by Cocoba

Enjoy a tasty hot chocolate each day for 24 days

£49.00 MenKind
Personalised Retro Sweets Advent Calendar

Personalised Retro Sweets Advent Calendar

It’s a personalised advent calendar full of delicious sweets!

£13.00 MenKind
Harry Potter Jellybean Advent Calendar

Harry Potter Jellybean Advent Calendar

It’s a 24-day Harry Potter Jellybean Advent Calendar! Officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise

RRP £20.00
£15.00 MenKind
Menkind Advent Calendars

Advent Calendars for Kids 

LEGO 76404 Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2022

LEGO 76404 Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2023

For many people Harry Potter is the ultimate Christmas movie franchise, and opening Lego every day in the lead up to Christmas is super fun for children and adults alike.

RRP:£29.99   
£24.99 Amazon
Lego City Advent Calendar

LEGO 60352 City Advent Calendar 2023

This LEGO City Advent Calendar 2022 features 5 minifigures from the LEGO City: Adventures series, a Santa Claus minifigure and fun mini builds.

RRP £21.99
£16.99 Amazon
Star wars lego advent calendar

LEGO 75307 Star Wars™ Advent Calendar

Includes 7 LEGO Star Wars characters, among others The Mandalorian & the Child (Grogu), affectionately known as Baby Yoda, in festive outfits

£41.37 Amazon
Dr Who Advent Calendar

Doctor Who TARDIS Advent Calendar 2023 - by Eaglemoss Collections

Celebrate every day of the holiday season in true Doctor Who style, with this spectacular advent calendar! 

£49.99 Amazon
Thomas Advent Calendar

Fisher-Price Thomas & Friends MINIS Advent Calendar 2023

Driving trains is harder than it steams! But you can practice in the run up to Christmas with this Thomas & Friends MINIS advent calendar featuring 24 miniature engines and other railway vehicles. 

£20.99 Amazon

Fidget Advent Calendars for Kids

The Christmas pop toy set is packaged in an exquisite paper gift box. The gift box is divided into 24 parts, corresponding to the countdown of 24 days before Christmas.

£17.99 Amazon

Boozy Advent Calendars – Gin

Craft Gin Advent Calendar

The Very Merry Gin Advent Calendar by Craft Gin Club & Phillip Schofield

All gins have been handpicked by Craft Gin Club’s experts, perfect for any gin lover! 

RRP £99.95
£84.96 Amazon
Blue Tree Gin Advent Calendar

Premium Gin Selection Christmas Countdown

Beefeater Gin, Edinburgh Gin, Warnerrs Gin, JJ. Whitley Gin and Many More Premium Brands, By Blue Tree.

£69.99 Amazon
Gin Time Advent Calendar

12 Days of Gin Clock

Get a new gin for each of the 12 days of Christmas. Bottles sit in an actual working clock.

£89.00 MenKind
Craft Gin Advent Calendar

Craft Gin Advent Calendar 2022 Edition

By Drinks by the Dram | 24 Wax Sealed Gin Miniatures, 43.3% ABV. This Craft Gin Advent Calendar explores gin from some of the best smaller producers in the industry.

£74.95 Amazon
Blue Tree Gin Advent Calendar

Gin Advent Calendar by Blue Tree Gifts

A Christmas Countdown with a Premium Gin behind each door by Blue Tree Gifts.

£100.58 Amazon
MenKind gin cracker advent calendar

The Flavoured Gin & Gin Liqueur Advent Cracker

It’s an advent calendar full of gin. InGINious!

£149.00 MenKind
Menkind Advent Calendars

Beer Advent Calendars

Brewdog - Advent Reloaded

BrewDog 2022 Sustainable Beer Advent Calendar - 24 Beers Included

Featuring 24 freshly brewed beers for Christmas 2022 straight from our Aberdeenshire HQ, this year’s advent calendar has 4 exclusive brews and 9 new beers alongside some of our greatest hits.

£53.15 Amazon
Blue Tree Gin Advent Calendar

Beer Advent Calendar 2022 - 24 Beers Included

Ideal for beer lovers with a fantastic selection of different beers.

£79.99 Amazon
Star Wars Beer Advent Calendar

Star Wars Original Stormtrooper Beer Advent Calendar – Only at Menkind!

It’s an advent calendar full of gin. InGINious!

RRP £49.00
£45.00 MenKind

Seven Bro7hers 2022 Beer Advent Calendar

SURPRISE MIX OF 24 CRAFT BEERS: This advent calendar includes a range of different beers from the 7 Brothers current range as well as including exclusive advent calendar beer and different 2022 new specials! Look forward to opening a mix of flavours of our hand crafted beer every day. The calendar has a selection of at least 16 440ml cans and a mixture of 330ml cans.

Seven Bro7hers advent calendar
£65.00 Amazon

HAVE A BERRY CHRISTMAS: Whether you gift this calendar or keep for yourself to enjoy we can guarantee this calendar will get you in the festive spirit with a range of hand crafted beers which we are sure you will love. Whether they are enjoyed on the day the calendar door is opened or you choose to save them to share the mix of beers with friends and family the choice is completely up to you! This product contains some beers which are not suitable for vegans.

 

 

 

Menkind Advent Calendars

Pet Advent Calendar

Brewdog - Advent Reloaded

Woof Club Naturals GIANT ADVENT CALENDAR for Dogs - 100% Natural large MEAT TREATS!

PLUS 2 x Woof Club Training Treats SUPER VALUE Bundle.

TOTALLY UNIQUE – The most beautiful giant advent calendar for dogs ever! No biscuit treat here, just meat!

£34.99 Amazon
Blue Tree Gin Advent Calendar

Advent Calendar for Dogs with Bow Tie and Bandana

Dog Advent Calendar with Dog Safe Chocolate and Delicious Dog Treats.

£10.99 Amazon
Star Wars Beer Advent Calendar

Pets Purest Advent Calendar UK

Healthy Festive Treats: Let your pets join in on the festivities this Christmas with their very own advent calendar. Filled with one of our best selling treats – our 100% natural chicken nibbles. Suitable for both dogs and cats!

£9.99 Amazon

Cat Advent Calendar 72g For Cats 2022 Bundled With Dreamies Treats Cracker 120g

😸 Your cat is part of the family too, so why not let them count down the days until Father Christmas arrives!

Seven Bro7hers advent calendar
£13.99 Amazon

😸 These delicious treats will help get your cat get into the festive spirit and they will certainly look forward to getting a treat every day in the lead up to Christmas!

😸 Making a great stocking filler, the Dreamies Cat Christmas cracker is filled with Catnip and Turkey and Salmon flavoured Treat Packets.

 

 

 

 

Menkind Advent Calendars

Cheese Advent Calendar

Cheese Advent Calendar 2022 | Merry Cheesemas

Cheese Advent Calendar 2022 | Merry Cheesemas

Christmas is right around the corner… Praise Cheesus! The perfect countdown to Christmas for all foodies and cheese lovers has made a return!

£39.99 Etsy
Ilchester cheese advent calendar

Ilchester Cheese Advent Calendar

24 Delicious Cheeses Inside!

£20.00 Etsy
Menkind Advent Calendars

Traditional Advent Calendars

The Art File Christmas Advent Calendar. Secret Garden.

The Art File Christmas Advent Calendar. Secret Garden.

This large traditional Advent Calendar is suitable for any age. A non-chocolate advent calendar

£9.99 Amazon
Nativity advent calendar

Nativity Advent Calendar

This beautiful handmade, wooden nativity advent calendar is the perfect way to countdown to The birth of Christ!

£51.02 Etsy
Snow scene advent calendar

Traditional Advent Calendar Christmas Snow Scene - Glitter Finish 24 Doors

Traditional Advent Calendar – No Chocolates! 24 Doors – image behind each door

RRP £6.95
£4.95 Amazon
The Art File Christmas Advent Calendar. Secret Garden.

Santa Checks His List Advent Calendar

Large traditional Advent Calendar suitable for any age. A 24 door non-chocolate advent calendar

£7.99 Amazon
Nativity advent calendar

Silent Night Advent Calendar

Traditional Christmas Advent Calendar & Postal Envelope

£4.99 Etsy
No room at the inn Christmas advent calendar

No Room at the Inn Advent Calendar (Countdown to Christmas)

Beginning December 1 open a window each day during Advent to count down to Christmas.

 

RRP £6.99
£5.99 Amazon

Why was Christmas banned in England?

Why was Christmas banned in England?

Why was Christmas banned in England is answered in the excellent Making of Oliver Cromwell. Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a small commission.

Why was Christmas banned in England? The Making of Oliver Cromwell explores this and much more about the life of Cromwell
Scores 4.4 from 166 ratings

The Making of Oliver Cromwell is the first volume in a pioneering account of Oliver Cromwell—providing a major new interpretation of one of England’s most complex and fascinating historical figures.

Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), the only English commoner to become the overall head of state, is one of history’s great figures, but he wasn’t loved by all. He was both brave and devout, as well as cunning and self-serving. 

Why was Christmas banned in England?

The 25th of December was a public holiday in the first half of the 17th century, and all businesses were closed. People flocked to special church services, and public spaces were decked out in holly, rosemary, and ivy. Dancing, singing, drinking, and gift-giving were all part of the festivities. Roast beef and mince pies were popular holiday fare. But in 1647 Christmas was banned in England, a ban that lasted for nearly 20 years, and sparked a Civil War.

The Puritan government imposed the ban in 1647 because they believed Christmas was being used as an excuse for drunkenness, promiscuity, gambling, and other forms of excess. They also saw such celebrations as being too closely associated with Catholicism at a time when Catholics were viewed with suspicion at best, and hated and persecuted at worst. Whilst the 1647 Christmas ban was one of the longest, it wasn’t the first Christmas ban.

In 1640, Presbyterians in Scotland made Christmas illegal.

In January 1642, Parliament passed and King Charles signed legislation establishing a monthly day of prayer, repentance, and fasting. Such days were not uncommon in the Early Modern World; when times were tough, communities and even nations were frequently asked to spend such days fasting and praying in the hope of Divine intervention to end their troubles. The last Wednesday of each month in England and Wales was set aside for this purpose by law in 1642.

When was the first Christmas ban?

The first Christmas ban was enacted in 1644. It coincided with Parliament’s monthly day of prayer and fasting in the hope of bringing the war to an end, and a specific ordinance was passed to emphasise this. Church services were cancelled for that day. Given that the ordinance was issued only a few days before Christmas, the country was torn apart by Civil War, and Parliament had little control over much of the country, it was unclear how many people carried it out.

In 1645, Parliament passed a new ‘Directory of Public Worship,’ intended to replace the Book of Common Prayer and lay out a new form of worship for the Anglican church. It stated that special services or celebrations for Christmas, Easter, and other such festivals were no longer to be held.

Did Oliver Cromwell ban Christmas?

No, not really. There was a ban, but it was imposed by Parliament. Cromwell’s role was minimal at best. In fact, Cromwell was crucially absent from Parliament when the key ban was passed; He was under threat of arrest at the time for supporting the army in their pay protests.

The outright prohibition came in June 1647, when Parliament passed an ordinance prohibiting Christmas, Easter, and Whitsun festivities, services, and celebrations, including domestic festivities, with fines for noncompliance – though they also instituted a monthly secular public holiday (the equivalent of a modern bank holiday) instead.

Puritans regarded Christmas as a Pagan festival and claimed that the 25th of December was not mentioned in the Bible. They enforced the Christmas ban, requiring all shops and markets to remain open and many churches to remain closed in order to hold a Christmas service.

The public reacted violently to the ban, causing disruptions across the country. Canterbury was one of the worst hotspots, with violent looting and rioting breaking out the first Christmas after the ban was imposed.

He was devoted to his cause as a legislator, and ruthless as a soldier. Cromwell’s speeches and writings outnumber those of any other English ruler before Victoria, and those seeking to understand him have usually taken him at his word.

Ronald Hutton separates fact from fiction in his remarkable new work. Cromwell quickly rose from obscure provincial to military victor as he pursued his devotion to God and solidified his Puritan support base. Hutton reveals a man who was both sincere in his faith and purposeful in his dishonesty—and reveals the inner workings of the man who has baffled biographers for centuries.

The Christmas ban, like most Commonwealth/Protectorate legislation, was repealed with the Restoration in 1660. Over the last 350 years, the ban, its effectiveness, and Cromwell’s association with it have all become part of popular mythology.

12 Great Christmas Books for Kids

12 Great Christmas Books for Kids

Every one of these 12 Great Christmas Books for Kids has been carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.

12 Great Christmas Books for Kids

From literary classics like Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to contemporary works you may not yet know. We’ve compiled our list of 12 great Christmas books for kids we know they’ll love.

1. First on our list is a story that we’ve all loved as a family. Our kids love it and we’ve no doubt your kids will enjoy it just as much.

The Jolly Christmas Postman by Janet Ahlberg & Allan Ahlberg (1991)

It’s Christmas Eve and the Jolly Postman has the very important job of delivering festive greetings to all the fairy-tale characters. Join him on his rounds and take a peek at the cards and presents he delivers. There’s a get-well-soon gift for Humpty Dumpty, a special note from Mr Wolf to Red Riding Hood, and four more surprise envelopes. The fun rhyming verses and charming illustrations will delight all ages.

Recommended reading age: 3-5 years old

2. Second up is Clement C Moore’s Twas the Night Before Christmas. Clement Clarke Moore (July 15, 1779 – July 10, 1863) was an American writer and Professor credited and widely considered the author of the Christmas poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas“, first published anonymously in 1823. Since then this well loved poem has been printed many times over and has often been in the New York Times Best Sellers lists.

The Night Before Christmas – the classic edition, by Clement C Moore

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

This absolute classic is responsible for many of our modern ideas of Santa and was a considerable influence on the writting of Twelve Feasts of Christmas

Recommended reading age: 3-5 years old

3. Third is one for slightly older kids. The Christmas Pig by J K Rowling. This is a heartwarming, page-turning adventure about one boy’s love for his most treasured possession, and how far he will go to find it. A tale for the whole family to fall in love with, from one of the world’s greatest storytellers.

The Christmas Pig by J K Rowling.

One boy and his toy are about to change everything…

Jack loves his childhood toy, Dur Pig. DP has always been there for him, through good and bad. Until one Christmas Eve, something terrible happens – DP is lost. But Christmas Eve is a night for miracles and lost causes, a night when all things can come to life… even toys. 

Recommended reading age: 7-11 years old

4. Number four, despite all of the close contenders, is my all time favourite Christmas book for kids, and adults for that matter. Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

When Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843, he created an everlasting gift to the world, capturing the essence of the Christmas season’s love, kindness, and generosity. It is a timeless classic, and the uplifting magic of the story is as powerful today as it was when it was first published.

Recommended reading age: 9+ years old

5. Fifth is a new Christmas book that is from the #1 New York Times best-selling duo Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers. This hilarious interactive book has letters, games, ornaments, a poster and even a pop-up Christmas tree – perfect for the festive season!

The Crayons’ Christmas by Drew Daywalt  (Author), Oliver Jeffers (Illustrator)

‘Tis the season for all of us to write our Christmas wish lists. But everyone knows – even the Crayons – that the best presents are the ones that you give. In this unique book, readers join in as Duncan, the Crayons and their families celebrate the festive season. With real, folded letters to pull from their envelopes and read, games, press-out ornaments, a poster and a pop-up tree, this book is the perfect gift

Recommended reading age: 3+ years old

6. Six makes our list as much for the beautiful illustrations as the story. Dasher is a wonderful story about a young doe who dreamed of freedom. She escapes her pen and follows the North Star far away from J.P. Finnegan’s Traveling Circus and Menagerie, but can she save her family?

Discover the magical story of Dasher, Santa’s very first reindeer, in a Christmas gift-book to treasure year after year.

Dasher is a little doe with a wish in her heart. She spends her days with her family under the hot sun in a travelling circus, but she longs for a different life.

Matt Tavares’ beautifully illustrated and evocatively told story bristles with all the magic of the festive season.

Recommended reading age: 3-6 years old

7. Seventh on our list is a lot of fun. With a lot of similarities to Twelve Feasts of Christmas it is understable why we are such big fans.

When Granny gets a sprout stuck up her sneezer, the whole family goes ABSOLUTELY CRAZY as they try to unwedge the veg from her nose. But the more they help, the more Granny yelps and the more festive foods disappear.

Recommended reading age: 4-7 years old

8. Number eight is a great book for the youngest readers. Start to encourage reading with this fun interactive board book. Lift the flaps to find out what Santa has sent in this fun Christmas book from the bestselling creator of the preschool classic, Dear Zoo.

Dear Santa by Rod Campbell

Toddlers will love lifting the flaps to open the presents and find out what Santa has sent. Will he send the perfect present in the end? With gold foil cover, flaps to lift on every page and a touch-and-feel surprise ending, this festive favourite is the ideal Christmas gift or stocking filler for preschoolers.

With bright, bold artwork and a simple, engaging text, Dear Santa by Rod Campbell is sure to delight young children – and the chunky board book format and sturdy card flaps make it perfect for little hands. 

Recommended reading age: 1-3 years old

9. There’s an Elf in Your Book (Who’s in Your Book?) makes it into our ninth spot. A festive interactive adventure from bestselling author Tom Fletcher!

GOLLY GUMDROPS . . . A LITTLE ELF HAS FOUND THEIR WAY INTO YOUR BOOK!

What does Elf want?
Oh! Just to see if you’ve been naughty or nice this year!

Elf will ask you a few simple questions to find out. And surely there won’t be any tricks to try and get you to be naughty . . . will there?

Hmmm, this could be quite a tricksy little elf. You’d better keep your wits about you if you want to make it on to Santa’s Nice List!

A fantastically fun and uniquely interactive treat from the creators of There’s a Monster in Your Book. Discover a wonderful new Christmas tradition in a book to read again and again.

Recommended reading age: 3-5 years old

10. When talking about Christmas Books for Kids we need to include the ultimate origin story. This version of the Christmas story will help children to experience the magic of the first Christmas.

Experience the magic of the first Christmas in this illustrated board book, an ideal introduction to the nativity story for young children.

The Christmas Story tells the tale of the first Christmas a long, long time ago, when the baby Jesus was born. The sky is filled with angels and a bright new star that tells the shepherds and the three wise men that someone very special has arrived. There’s no room at the inn but Mary and Joseph, and sleeping baby Jesus, are warm and cozy in the stables.

Colorful illustrations and engaging text bring this classic story to life for new readers.

Recommended reading age: Baby-5 years old

11. Where’s Wally? Santa Spotlight Search – The spotlight search is back with a fabulous festive edition! Search for Wally on every page, but good luck, he’s not always easy to find.

Ho-ho! Wally, his friends and hundreds of busy Santas are getting ready for the festive countdown. There’s so much to do from shopping in the department store, to helping in the toy factory, baking holiday treats and loading the sleigh – but they still find time to party! For extra sparkle as the excitement builds there are bonus searching games to complete on every page. It’s jingle bells all the way!

Use the paper spotlight-searcher as a magic torch to illuminate six scenes buzzing with busy Santas. With bonus games on every page!

Recommended reading age: 3-5 years old

12. Our final Chistmas Book for Kids is a fantasy classic from the master, C. S. Lewis’s. This version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Chronicals of Narnia) has beautiful illustrations by Tudor Humphries. Whilst some may not consider this to be a true Christmas story, it features Santa and for us it makes the list.

A picture book retelling of C. S. Lewis’s classic story The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, abridged for the youngest fans! Introduce them to the magic of Narnia with this picture book featuring illustrations by Tudor Humphries.

Now younger children can share the magical experience, entering into a world of enchantment that will forever lure them back. Four adventurous siblings step through a wardrobe door and into the land of Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter–but never Christmas–cursed by the power of the White Witch. Only Aslan, the Great Lion, can reverse her wicked spell.

Recommended reading age: 4-8 years old

Christmas Jumpers

Christmas Jumpers

This Christmas Jumpers post contains product that are carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Christmas Jumpers

Christmas jumpers – Designs brought to you by the creators of Twelve Feasts of Christmas as well as some unique, fantastic designs from our colleagues at PopGear. All of our Twelve Feasts products are made from organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy powered factory.

If you are looking for something specific then use these links to jup to the right section.

Men’s Knittwear |Men’s Christmas Hoodies |Kid’s Christmas Hoodies |

Men’s Christmas Knittwear

Sometimes a little ‘to me, from me’ pre Christmas gift doesn’t hurt – and these fantastic brand new designs are the kinds of purchases you’ll thank yourself for.

WWE Ultimate Warrior Knitted Jumper

WWE Ultimate Warrior Adults Knitted Jumper - £21.99

This official piece of WWE merchandise features The Ultimate Warrior himself on an officially licensed mens knitted jumper. 

WWE Macho Man Randy Savage Adults Knitted Jumper

WWE Macho Man Randy Savage Adults Knitted Jumper - £21.99

This official piece of WWE merchandise features The Macho Man himself, Randy Savage on an officially licensed mens knitted jumper. This men’s officially licensed knitted jumper comes in a regular fit with long sleeves and a crew neck.

Harry Potter Hogwarts Christmas Adults Knitted Jumper

Harry Potter Hogwarts Christmas Adults Knitted Jumper - £22.99

This piece of official Harry Potter merchandise features the iconic Hogwarts school from the classic Harry Potter saga on an officially licensed knitted jumper. This men’s officially licensed knitted jumper comes in a regular fit with long sleeves and a crew neck. 

Disney The Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Face Adults Knitted Jumper

Disney The Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Face Adults Knitted Jumper - £23.99

This piece of official Nightmare Before Christmas merchandise features the iconic Jack Skellington from the classic Tim Burton movie on an officially licensed knitted jumper. 

Marvel Comics Hero Icons Adults Knitted Jumper

Marvel Comics Hero Icons Adults Knitted Jumper - £23.99

This piece of official Marvel merchandise features Icons of the Avengers on an officially licensed men’s knitted jumper.

Star Wars The Mandalorian The Child Christmas Adults Knitted Jumper

Star Wars The Mandalorian The Child Christmas Adults Knitted Jumper - £22.99

This piece of official Star Wars merchandise features The Child aka Baby Yoda from the instant classic Disney+ show The Manadlorian on an officially licensed knitted jumper.

Menkind Christmas deals advert

Men’s Christmas Hoodies

Sprouts - Spoiling Christmas for everyone - Men's T-Shirt £19

Make every day an amazing day with this brand new “Sprouts spoiling Christmas” – Men’s T-Shirt. Even better, this product is made with 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy-powered factory. Required for every wardrobe, this tee is the perfect all-year-rounder. Order yours before 1pm now for rapid delivery when you choose Priority shipping (UK only).

Prepping for Christmas - Men's Hoody

Prepping for Christmas - Men's Hoody £40

Make Christmas cool with the newest addition to our collection – the “Prepping for Christmas” – Men’s Hoody. Best of all, this product is made with 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy-powered factory. Ready to ship now with UK fast delivery available when you order before 1pm and choose Priority shipping.

Snow man sweatshirt

Pitod Snowman Sweatshirt - £75.00

Elevate your style with this unisex eco sweatshirt. The sweatshirt has a chic, crisp look and will go great with both casual and more dressed up outfits. Made of organic and recycled materials, this sweatshirt is durable, comfy, and extra soft.

Men's star wars hoodie

Star Wars The Mandalorian The Child Sketch Adults Pullover Hoodie - £22.99

This piece of official Star Wars merchandise features The Child aka Baby Yoda from the instant classic Disney+ show The Manadlorian on an officially licensed men’s hoodie.

Pitod unisex Christmas jumper

Pitod Christmas Sweatshirt - £75.00

Elevate your style with this unisex eco sweatshirt. The sweatshirt has a chic, crisp look and will go great with both casual and more dressed up outfits. Made of organic and recycled materials, this sweatshirt is durable, comfy, and extra soft.

Get in my tum - Men's Hoody £40

This epic “Get in my tum” – Men’s Christmas Hoody is sure to put a smile on your face throughout the festive season. Best of all, this product is made with 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy-powered factory. Available today with same day shipping.

I love sausage rolls - sweatshirt

I love sausage rolls - Men's Sweatshirt £35

Start the festive season off right with this awesome “I love sausage rolls” – Men’s Sweatshirt. And what’s best, it’s been printed using low waste technology by a certified organic company in the UK. Grab yourself one today before 3pm to get UK fast delivery.

Santa Claus is coming to town - Men's sweatshirt

Santa Claus is coming to town - Men's sweatshirt £35

Our Christmas classic “Santa Claus is coming to town” – Men’s sweatshirt is back! And best of all, we only use natural materials in our products and renewable energy is used throughout our supply chain. Available today with same day shipping.

Sprouts spoiling Christmas - Men's Hoody

Sprouts spoiling Christmas - Men's Hoody £40

Our brand new “Sprouts spoiling Christmas” – Men’s Hoody is a great addition to your winter wardrobe. And even better, it’s printed on demand in a renewable energy powered factory. Order yours before 1pm today for next day delivery when you choose Priority shipping (UK only).

Kid’s Christmas hoodies

You asked, we did. Our “Get In My Tum” – Kids hoodie is back! This product is made with 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy powered factory. Available from £24

Sprouts - Spoiling Christmas for everyone - £24

Designed to become one of your new favourites, the “Sprouts – Spoiling Christmas for everyone” – Children’s Hoody is a must-have. And what’s best, we only use natural materials in our products and renewable energy is used throughout our supply chain. Ready to ship today with UK rapid delivery available when you order before 1pm and choose Priority shipping.

Marvel Comics Classic Avengers Sketch Kids Pullover Hoodie - £11.99

Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and Hulk make it out of a vintage comic book and straight into your kid’s favourite stack of winter wear, with this pullover hoodie. A piece from the Marvel official merchandise, this Avengers hoodie is designed to make a fan happy. 

Prepping for Christmas - Children's Hoody

Harry Potter Gold Foil Potter 07 Kids Pullover Hoodie - £29.99

If you are searching for a unique christmas or birthday gift for a Harry Potter superfan, look no more. This Harry Potter Category can be a great present for your friends and family who loves Harry Potter. 

Disney Mickey Glitter Pose Girls Pullover Hoodie - £13.99

This piece of official Disney merchandise features a glitter Mickey Mouse design on an officially licensed girls cropped hoodie. This girls officially licensed pullover hoodie features long sleeves and a regular fit.

Disney Minnie Heartfelt Girls Pullover Hoodie - £29.99

If you are searching for a unique christmas or birthday gift for a Disney superfan, look no more. This Disney can be a great present for your friends and family who loves Disney.

Star Wars Kids Knitted Jumper

Star Wars Stormtrooper Up To Snow Good Kids Knitted Jumper - £19.99

This piece of official Star Wars merchandise features a festive twist on the classic Stormtrooper helmet from the epic Star Wars saga on an officially licensed children’s knitted jumper.

Marvel Comics Avengers Assembled Kids Pullover Hoodie - £24.99

This Pullover Hoodie is made from 80% Cotton / 20% Polyester and is available in a print. It is designed for boys & girls and is machine washable only.

I Love Sausage Rolls - Children's Sweatshirt £19

Add a splash of festive fun to your day with this cool “I Love Sausage Rolls” – Children’s sweatshirt. And even better, it’s printed on demand in a renewable energy powered factory. Get this delivered to you with next day shipping when you order before 1pm and choose Priority shipping (UK only).

Prepping for Christmas - Children's Hoody

Prepping for Christmas - Children's Hoody £24

This awesome “Prepping for Christmas” – Children’s Hoody is sure to put a smile on your child’s face this Christmas day. And even better, it’s been printed using low waste technology by a certified organic company in the UK. Ready to ship today with UK fast delivery available when you order before 1pm and choose Priority shipping.

Menkind stocking filler advert

Women’s Christmas sweatshirts

Love rad prints and organic cotton softness? Then this “Prepping for Christmas” hoody is perfect for you. And even better, this product is made from 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy powered factory. Grab yourself one today before 3pm to get UK fast delivery. Available from £40

Elves - Women's Crew Neck Sweatshirt

Elves - Women's Crew Neck Sweatshirt £35

Introducing this new Elves – Women’s Crew Neck Sweatshirt from our latest collection. And best of all, it’s been printed using low waste technology by a certified organic company in the UK. Grab yourself one today before 3pm to get UK rapid delivery.

I love sausage rolls - Women's Crew Neck Jumper

I love sausage rolls - Women's Crew Neck Jumper £35

You asked, we did. Our “I love sausage rolls” – Women’s Crew Neck Jumper is back for Christmas! What’s best, this product is constructed from 100% organic cotton and printed in the UK in a renewable energy-powered factory. Order yours before 1pm today for fast delivery when you choose Priority shipping (UK only).

Sprouts spoiling Christmas - Women's Hoody

Sprouts spoiling Christmas - Women's Hoody £40

Make Christmas day an amazing day with this brand new “Sprouts spoiling Christmas” – Women’s Hoody. And best of all, it’s been printed using low waste technology by a certified organic company in the UK. Available today with worldwide shipping.

Women's Christmas Bear sweatshirt

Pitod Christmas Bear Sweatshirt - £75.00

Elevate your style with this unisex eco sweatshirt. The sweatshirt has a chic, crisp look and will go great with both casual and more dressed up outfits. Made of organic and recycled materials, this sweatshirt is durable, comfy, and extra soft.

Christmas triangle sweatshirt

Pitod Happy Christmas Triangle Sweatshirt - £69.00

Elevate your style with this unisex eco sweatshirt. The sweatshirt has a chic, crisp look and will go great with both casual and more dressed up outfits. Made of organic and recycled materials, this sweatshirt is durable, comfy, and extra soft.

Sprouts spoiling Christmas - Women's Hoody

Harry Potter Glitter School Emblem Adults Pullover Hoodie - £38.99

If you are searching for a unique christmas or birthday gift for a Harry Potter superfan, look no more. This Harry Potter can be a great present for your friends and family who loves Harry Potter.

Our products are made in partnership with Teemill. Read below for more information about our products.

Organic Farming

Organic cotton is better for the producers and the ecosystem in which it is produced. Instead of more toxic pesticides and fertilisers, co planting and insect traps are used along with the special ingredient – cow poo. It encourages biodiversity and leads to the extra soft feel of our products.

Less inputs also means less water, but even organic cotton is still a thirsty crop. So where you grow it matters. The fields that grow the organic cotton for our products are in the North of India, where the monsoons fill reservoirs that supply almost all the water needed.

  • Rain water, co planting, insect traps and cow poo
  • GOTS certified organic

Processing

Organic cotton looks like a little bit of cotton wool bursting from a dry flower. The petals and seeds need to be removed before it can be spun. Harvested organic cotton is taken to ginning plants by camel or by truck. From there the raw material is separated out into the useful fibres which are sent to be spun. The waste seeds are pressed into cakes which is sold for organic cow feed. Vegetable oil is squeezed out last for use in food products. Every part of the plant is used.

Cotton farmers get a price for their cotton which is guaranteed by the regional government. Great quality batches get higher prices as ginners compete for the best stuff.

  • Energy in
  • Cow food out

Water clean enough to drink

Wastewater from dyehouse effluent is a major source of pollution in the clothing industry. Where Teemill products are dyed, the water is recovered, cleaned and recirculated. After settling and skimming the water is filtered using reverse osmosis and distillation. This is basically sucking up water through really fine sand over and over, then boiling it.

Salt is added back in so that the dye adheres and all the cruddy mulchy stuff left over is dried out and used for road markings. About 95% of the water is recirculated and recovered.

At the end, the water coming out of the filters and going back round to be reused again is crystal clear, literally clean enough to drink. Once it has been cleaned it is then used at the input for the next batch. It is a closed loop system.

  • Recirculated water
  • Clean, filtered and reused
  • Wastewater is drinkable

Making Products

Our products are made in a factory where the spinning, dye, weaving, cut and sew are integrated. Vertical integration leads to cost savings which can be reinvested in the facilities. This means that the environment is clean, light, modern and positive, like the Teemill factory in the UK.

Our reputation for consistent quality is a large part down to 21st century manufacturing principles at this stage and the fact that people and product don’t travel along a complex supply chain.

That also makes it easier to ensure compliance, and this factory is audited for a wide range of social and sustainability criteria. The plant is powered by renewable energy.

  • SA8000 Certified (Social Accountability audit)
  • GOTS certified
  • Renewable Energy power

Renewable Energy

Throughout our supply chain renewable energy is used. In the UK Teemill own a solar farm and power manufacturing operations with renewables. In India, the factory owns two wind farms and a 150kw PV array. Renewable energy is affordable, reliable and something we are committed to using.

Within the factory machine-to-machine communications technology allows Teemill to dynamically turn equipment on and off only when it is needed, balancing our manufacturing demand with on site generation.

Real-time printing

We develop technology at their factory to improve all aspects of t-shirt printing. This includes working on lower impact inks, software, machinery and automation technologies. It enables us to make products in real time. At the factory, products are only made after they have been ordered – there is no waste.

The efficiency and productivity gains from tech balances the cost of more sustainable materials. Tech is how all this is made affordable.

  • High-tech, low waste
  • Certified GOTS organic
  • Open access technology

Packaging

By 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. This is bad. Instead of plastic packaging, we use a rip and splash-proof mailer bag made out of paper. Big orders come in cardboard boxes, with paper-based tape.

  • Funky paper wrapping
  • Recycled material stickers
  • Plastic free packaging

Our Circular Economy

Every year 100 billion new items of clothing are produced while a truck full of clothing is burned, or buried in a landfill every second. Slowing fast fashion down a bit won’t fix it. But when we take the waste material at the end, and make new products from it at the start, it changes everything. That’s what we’ve done.

Our products and packaging produced by Teemill are made from natural materials, not plastics. Every product is designed to be sent back to Teemill when it is worn out.

Teemill makes new products from the material they recover, and the cycle itself is renewable. Our products can be returned and remade again and again and again.

A pure material makes remanufacturing possible, and means products that are softer, and harmless to the environment.

  • Products designed to be remade again
  • No plastic, just organic cotton
  • We remake new products from material