'Tis the season when sparkle arrives in shed loads, faces grow friendlier with the promise of Christmas and fairy lights twinkle over London streets.
From the candle to burn to the pop-ups we're relying on for our Christmas shopping, here are 12 things to have on your radar this December.
... recipes from Big Mamma Cucina Popolare.
The team behind the stratospheric Gloria Trattoria and Circolo Popolare have released a new cookbook just in time for Christmas. Fusing the contemporary with traditional Italian cooking, it features more than 120 of the recipes that have secured Big Mamma's status as one of the most exciting restaurant groups of the day. Whether a gift for yourself or wrapped up for a loved one under the tree, see winter through with steaming plates of pasta, burrata and beyond.
... The Interiors Boot Sale.
Calling all vintage and antique homeware magpies, The Bible of British Taste, Tat London and a group of other creatives have joined forces this month to host a an exclusive interiors sale in Primrose Hill. And it's not your average antiques fair - those involved will be selling their own accumulated possessions - so you can expect to find exclusive, adored treasures that come with a story as you browse.
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... Taylor Wessing Photographic Art Prize, National Portrait Gallery.
The annual leading photographic portrait prize returns to the National Portrait Gallery, where works of photography's heavy hitters are hung next to that of the relatively unknown. An inspiring celebration of the very best in contemporary portrait photography from around the world. The exhibition of fifty-seven works features all of the prestigious prize winners including the winner of the £15,000 first prize.
... Little Women.
On the 150th anniversary of Louisa May Alcott's classic coming-of-age tale Little Women, Lady Bird director Greta Gerwig takes on the story for a fresh big screen adaption. With an all-star cast - think Emma Watson, Laura Dern, Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet and Meryl Streep - and an Oscar-nominated director, make time for the March sisters this Christmas.
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... In Barrie knitwear.
From tartan cardigans and lavish roll-necks to trompe-l'oeil cashmere denim and 3D stitched logo sweaters , heritage cashmere brand Barrie fuses unbeatable craftsmanship with contemporary flair. The brand was bought by Chanel in 2018, and now a two-storey boutique has opened in Mayfair's Conduit Street.
... Timothy Han 'Heat of Darkness' Candle
Londoner Timothy Han is achingly cool. Inspired by classic literature, he makes gender-free fragrances in exclusive batches he calls 'editions'. The new 'Heart of Darkness' Eau du Parfum is inspired by Joseph Conrad's novel, and this time it comes with a candle that's being snapped up by all of London's coolest tastemakers. Watery green floral notes give way to the scent of dark woods and damp moss, infused with hints of burning coal and amber. A winter delight.
... in Nkuku's Danoa Giant Baubles.
Forget gaudy glitter and tinsel tat, these oversized baubles from Nkuku are the elegant answer to Christmas decoration. Made from recycled glass, the deep black, burnt amber and gold pieces will make for an atmospheric focal point on your tree.
... at Stoney Street, Borough Market.
Healthy eaters and hygge-chasers remain firmly in love with Alex Hely-Hutchinson's 26 Grains in Neal's Yard. Now, she opens her second restaurant, Stoney Street, in the heart of Borough Market. At the helm of the kitchen is Henrietta Inman (of Yardarm in Leyton), who will be cooking up delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners to the delight of London's trendiest diners.
... John Booth x Caran d’Ache alternative Christmas card workshop.
Embrace the unconventional this Christmas with a one-off workshop from luxury stationary brand Caran d'Ache, hosted by London-based illustrator, ceramicist and textile designer John Booth. Guests will be able to design their own Christmas cards, wrapping paper and gift tags in John Booth's signature bold and prismatic style, using the best of Caran d’Ache’s lauded drawing and painting tools. Two hours of colourful, creative festivity.
... Christopher Kane's More Joy Pop-Up Shop, Shoreditch High Street.
Following the sell-out summer capsule, More Joy is back with a limited-edition winter drop, available at a brand-new pop-up space on Shoreditch High Street. From 'SEX' baubles and china mugs to cashmere blend throws and silken pyjamas, the space is fashion's answer to the Christmas market stall. Made to celebrate the joy of staying in.
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... Augustinus Bader.
Augustinus Bader is the luxury skincare brand that's been the most rhapsodised about secret in the beauty industry this year. It's wowed beauty buffs and celebrities the world over, with Victoria Beckham going as far as to collaborate with Professor Bader for her first foray into skincare. With 'The Rich Cream' (retailing at £205 for 50 ml with smaller sizes available), you can forgo all other skincare steps post cleansing - it's a one-stop shop to miraculously rejuvenated, glowing skin.
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... The Measure of Our Lives: A Gathering of Wisdom by Toni Morrison
'We die', said Toni Morrison during her 1993 Nobel lecture. 'That may be the meaning of life. But we do language. That may be the measure of our lives.' Foreworded by Zadie Smith, this moving treasury of quotations from Morrison's work takes its name from this quote. A speical keepsake for her devoted readers, or a rousing introduction to her work for first time readers.
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