From thoughtful gifting to Italian festive getaways, chalet‑inspired experiences (in London) to quintessentially British days out, this week’s hotlist is filled with all sorts of hot‑chocolatey goodness.
Whether you’re inspired to book a twinkling Christmas getaway to Lake Como, or enjoying a cosy alpine‑style chalet in Chelsea – from bustling city lights to peaceful winter escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to feel festive in the countdown to Christmas. And if you’re just getting away from it all to the sun, this is one brand you’ll want to carry for effortless glow.
GIFT FROM HERE Boden
USE THIS Ilia Beauty
This season, I’ve been reaching again and again for Ilia — not for heavy, made-up glamour, but for that effortless, lit-from-within glow – one of the reasons Ilia makeup has quickly become a standout in the clean-beauty world. What I love most about Ilia? With skincare-infused formulas like the Super Serum Skin Tint that blend seamlessly into the skin, Ilia enhances your complexion with a dewy, radiant finish — a perfect match for the “no-makeup makeup” trend. Products such as the creamy Multi-Stick and Soft Focus Blurring Blush deliver soft, buildable colour and luminosity, adding warmth and dimension without heaviness. Whether you’re heading out for a party, or enjoying some winter sun, this brand’s effortless glow-boosting formulas make achieving a fresh, skin-first look easier than ever — marrying performance with a radiant, natural finish that feels right for the season. Clean ingredients, breathable textures, and that soft, healthy finish that make an everyday routine feel like self-care.
TAKE THE FAMILY HERE Cliveden House Festive Afternoon Tea
VISIT THIS Ralph Lauren Holiday Experience
This holiday season, Ralph Lauren has given London’s Chelsea district a touch of cinematic winter magic with The Ralph Lauren Holiday Experience on Sloane Square (and across major cities from Seoul to Tokyo Midtown to West Hollywood) — and it’s quickly become one of the capital’s chicest festive destinations. Running until 24 December, the installation transforms the square into a snow-dusted, mountain-inspired scene straight out of a holiday film, with a rustic wooden barn at its heart hosting wreath-making, artisan cookie decorating and even a charming Father Christmas visit. Ralph’s Coffee pops up alongside with steaming mugs of hot chocolate, mulled wine and seasonal treats like s’mores cookies and gooey brownies, offering a cosy respite from a brisk Chelsea stroll. The Holiday Shop curates coveted gifts — from classic Polo Bear collectibles to timeless winter knits — while the Ralph Lauren Giving Tree invites visitors to celebrate loved ones in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
ENJOY A FESTIVE WEEKEND HERE Palazzo Venezia, Como, Italy
Think Lake Como is only for summer? Think again. This Christmas, the lakeside city sparkles with new festive appeal — and the opening of Palazzo Venezia, the first five-star hotel in Como to join Villa d’Este La Collezione, gives you the perfect reason to visit. Set in a stunning 19th-century palazzo overlooking Piazza Cavour and the shimmering lake, the hotel blends classic Italian and Venetian elegance with bright, serene rooms and suites just steps from historic streets and winter walks by the water. Paired with access to nearby Villa d’Este’s legendary amenities, including its iconic floating pool and Sporting Club via seamless land and lake transport, as well as the legendary winter calendar — from live jazz nights and wine dinners to Christmas Eve and New Year’s celebrations — this destination makes for a magical holiday retreat where Italian tradition meets festive flair.
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