Matching Christmas PJs and fake wreaths are ‘common’ says etiquette expert

Virgin Radio

16 Dec 2020, 13:53

What’s wrong with wearing Rudolph pyjamas and quaffing Cava at 9am? Absolutely nothing. However there are some traditions that are thought to be on the cheap side, so says etiquette expert William Hanson.

If you want to go down the classier route you may have to ditch a number of festive favourites, says the class expert.

Here’s a list of what screams uncouth over Christmas…

Matching pyjamas

Whether you’re 6 or 60, wear what you want in bed. In fact, pass out in your Rudolph outfit if you see fit.

William offered the advice: ”A golden rule for smart decor or taste is not to have too many things matching.

"Thus, families in matching pyjamas sets are always viewed with discreet derision.”

What about Tweed?

Christmas-inspired bedding

Wave cheerio to any Xmas bedding because it doesn’t make for a sophisticated slumber.

He says: "It's a waste of money and space. Just use what you’d normally use and be done with it."

Credit: Getty Images

Gonks

Gonks are loved by Scandinavians and Stacey Solomon exclusively, and William says you should avoid them at all costs.

He says: "I don’t even know what these are. That’s probably a good enough indicator that they aren’t smart!"

Fake wreaths

Fake wreaths are no-nos, advises William. He says: "A festive wreath on a door is totally acceptable and preferably a real one, rather than anything faux.

"Colours should be those found naturally in plants, not neon blues, purples and shocking white."

All-day boozing

William says: “To each their own but there should be enough about the day to get you through it rather than resorting to alcohol.

"Know your limits and don’t drink too much as it ruins it for everyone else. Christmas is a celebration for everyone."

Credit: Getty Images

Personalising Christmas presents

This can be a charming thought, but don’t shove names over any old tack.

William says: "Personalising a present for someone is a thoughtful touch - traditionally, engraving a pair of cufflinks or weaving someone’s initials into a new set of handkerchiefs was very smart.

"Getting their name plastered across a tub of Quality Street or jar of Nutella seems to be the new standard. But alas, is not quite the same."

Father Christmas vs Santa

Stay away from the US-inspired word Santa, he says.

"An American import (so treat with caution) but quite a good trick for sparking conversation amongst children and keeping them engaged without resorting to a screen.

"Make sure your Elf reports to the superior Father Christmas rather than the lesser Santa, to ensure a touch of class is added."