No matter what you’re getting up to this winter, we’ve chosen a few of our top tipples and paired them with a few our favourite BrandAlley products to get you in the festive spirit.
One of the most sure-fire ways to feel the magic of Christmas is a trip through a winter market and our drink of choice for this one is easy. It has to be mulled wine, doesn’t it?
Hat, scarf, jumper, bag, headband, jacket, boots
While you get perfectly lost in the enchantment of your local Christmas market, you’re bound to pick up a trinket or two so we’ve chosen a large handbag as we think you’ll need it. Team chunky brown boots with a touch of fur to stay warm, yet stylish as the nights close in and your fingers wrap around that steaming mug. Our scarf and hat options offer a bright orange hue that beside a deep brown or black is a real style statement and gives a little life to an otherwise dull colour palette. And here’s how you make your own spicy, steaming wine:
MULLED WINE RECIPE
– 1 bottle red wine
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Grated nutmeg
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 cup orange juice
- Pour the wine into a saucepan and add all other ingredients.
- Warm over a medium heat.
- Serve in heatproof glasses or mugs.
If you’re hosting, we’ve found a creative little cocktail for you to try. The cranberry addition gives that nod to the festive season but it’s light and fruity, so doesn’t sit too heavily when you’ve got all those pigs-in-blankets to get through.
Your outfit for the evening will also be important. A floor-length maxi is a wonderful option to keep you feeling warm yet glam. If you’ve had some winter sun and are confident in getting your pins out, try a shorter dress but keep the sleeves. We’ve picked out the purple accent colour as it’s a fun and bright alternative to the all-too familiar red and greens.
Coat, Maxi, Earrings, Necklace, cardigan, dress, handbag.
Once your guests arrive, here’s what you’ll need to do:
FESTIVE COSMOPOLITAN RECIPE
– 1 ½ oz. Vodka
– ¾ oz Triple Sec
– ¾ oz cranberry juice
– 1 fresh lime
1. Fill a cocktail shaker half-full with ice cubes, then pour over the vodka, triple sec and cranberry juice. Shake well, strain into a cocktail glass and serve with a squeeze of lime.
2. If you’re feeling fancy, you can grate a twirl of lime over the top, or serve with a couple of fresh raspberries.
Sometimes leaving the house is just a little too much to ask. It’s ok, we know how it is, we’ve all been there. But with the right set-up, staying in can be the new going out!
Photo frame, cushion, baubles, jumper dress, trousers, UGGs, chocolates, candle, hot water bottle
One of the most important things to do when you’ve decided to stay in, is to get everything ready before you settle down. If you are not planning on the leaving your sofa, let alone the house, for some time – then you need to make sure you have plenty of food (and chocolate) in. Nothing short of Santa falling through the chimney will require you to leave your snug, warm nest. Pop on some comfy clothes, then light a scented candle to give the room a warm glow and a calming aroma. While the kettle is boiling, dig out the Baileys, and pick your fave DVD. Climb into the sofa with a thick blanket and settle in for the night!
IRISH COFFEE RECIPE
– 1 shot of Baileys
– 1 shot of whisky
– Freshly brewed filter coffee
– 1 tablespoon whipped cream
In a heatproof glass, combine the Baileys and whisky. Top up with coffee. Add your whipped cream over the top and serve with grated chocolate over the top.
What is your favourite winter pick-me-up?
