Let’s just forget the recession for a while. Let’s also hold our thoughts as far as terror is concerned. Let’s stop thinking about everything negative for the moment and find at least one reason to be a part of the festive season.
What is it that we want this Christmas? Peace, harmony and lots of love? But some goodies won’t be a bad idea, right? So here’s our list of what you should pick up for yourself and your family this festive season.
Dress up
Clothing brands are geared up for the season with some exciting creations. Let me Be, a women’s brand, for instance, has unveiled its Christmas collection, full of reds, whites and greens, and has created magic with rich fabrics like silks, satins, wool and fleece.
There’s a hint of embellishments with precious stones like diamonds and pearls (yes, you heard that right), accompanied by a whisper of sequins and lace. Puffed sleeves, pleated necklines with classic cuts and a liberal use of motifs ensure that there’s sophistication along with an element of play. Rs 5,000 onwards, at Ensemble and Amara.
Say it with cards
We underestimate the impact of greeting cards on people. No, I don’t mean run-of-the-mill cards that you can pick up from Archies. Gorgeous hand-paper ones are available (including those in recycled paper). With so many do-it-yourself books also on the shelves (my personal pick: Cheryl Owens’), try creating your own cards at home.
If you’re lazy, run to Anandz Creations in New Delhi, where card-maker Anand has created some wonderful designs with brass, jute and recycled products (Rs 95 for one). You can even frame one of these and mount it on your wall. Another favourite is Himanshu Verma’s New Greeting Card Project, an annual feature that brings forth art on greeting cards. This time, the focus is on artist Ishan Khosla and you can pick up cards for Rs 150 each.
It goes without saying that you should also pick up cards by NGOs like CRY, Tamanna and the Blind School Association. By the way, check out Dilli Haat where Dastkaar is showcasing Christmas baubles made in Nepal. Rs 50, for a papier-mâché bell.
Hampers & goodies
What’s Christmas without plum cakes, mince pies and turkey? I’ll make sure to stuff my refrigerator with some delectable offerings at hotels like the MBD Radisson in Noida. Besides chocolate and goodie hampers, I’m keen to check out a huge, edible gingerbread house that will come alive with colourful candies, sugar icing and bits of chocolate at the hotel.
Boutique chocolatiers in different cities are also busy creating chocolate hampers, brownies and cakes. Christmas Plum Cake at MBD Raddison is for Rs 950 plus taxes. Prices for chocolate hampers vary, but on an average, will be around Rs 550 for 250 g.
Setting the table
It’s also time to visit some of the fabulous stores to buy gifts for your home and for your loved ones. Villeroy & Boch, for instance, is offering Ivoire, cups and saucers, that can be combined with numerous accessories in various materials and designs, to create individual table ensembles.
The crockery comes in shades of delicate ivory and each piece is has relief work, accented by gold edgings. Go ahead, buy these beautiful pieces and make your Christmas special. Rs 73,000 for a set of six.
