Time for a Wardrobe Wake-Up: Why (and How) You Should Smarten Up Your Dress Style This Summer and beyond

Time for a Wardrobe Wake-Up: Why (and How) You Should Smarten Up YoSummer is a season of change. 

The days are longer, the mood is lighter, and the social calendar starts filling up fast. It’s the perfect time to reassess not just your schedule, but your wardrobe too. 

Whether you're stepping into a new job, looking to refresh your dating life, or simply want to feel more confident day-to-day, giving your style a smart summer update could be exactly what you need.

Here’s why you should consider stepping up your style game this summer – and exactly how to do it.

Why Smartening Up Your Style Matters

1. First Impressions Still Count

Like it or not, how you dress sends a message. A polished, thought-out look doesn’t just help others take you more seriously – it helps you take yourself more seriously too. Whether you're networking, going on a date, or just grabbing coffee with friends, an upgraded outfit can give your confidence a noticeable lift.

2. The Heat Is No Excuse for Laziness

Yes, summer’s warm. But that doesn’t mean it’s all flip-flops and crumpled T-shirts. Breathable fabrics and lighter tones mean you can stay cool and look composed. Style and comfort don’t have to be mutually exclusive – the key is choosing the right materials and cuts.

3. New Season, New Energy

Summer is a season of momentum. You’re more likely to be out and about, so why not let your wardrobe reflect that refreshed, active energy? Updating your style can be a subtle but powerful way of signalling that you’re embracing change – personally or professionally.

How to Smart Up Your Look This Summer

1. Embrace Lightweight Layers

A linen blazer or a well-cut overshirt can instantly elevate even the simplest outfit. Choose natural, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or seersucker to stay sharp without overheating.

2. Upgrade Your Basics

Tired T-shirts and faded shorts are fine for the beach – but they don’t work everywhere. Invest in high-quality basics: a crisp white polo, tailored shorts, a classic Breton stripe. It’s about refining, not replacing, your everyday staples.

3. Switch to Smarter Footwear

It’s time to give those beat-up trainers a rest. Loafers, espadrilles, or smart leather sandals can completely change the tone of an outfit. A stylish pair of shoes often makes the biggest difference to how ‘put together’ you look.

4. Add Subtle Accessories

A leather strap watch, a woven belt, or a pair of stylish sunglasses can take your summer outfit up a notch without trying too hard. Think “quiet confidence” rather than “look at me”.

5. Play With Colour – Strategically

Summer is the ideal time to break away from head-to-toe neutrals. Try pastels, earth tones, or one standout piece in a bold colour. Not only is it seasonally appropriate, but it shows you're confident enough to mix things up.

Ready to Reinvent Your Look?

Changing your style doesn't mean abandoning who you are. It’s about enhancing your current wardrobe, aligning it more closely with who you want to be, and feeling good in your skin. So whether you're aiming for a full fashion overhaul or just want to look a little less “rolled out of bed” and a little more “brunch-ready”, summer is your runway.

Now’s the time to put a bit more thought into how you present yourself – and enjoy the boost that comes with it.

Why You Should Buy the Man in Your Life a Shed for Christmas

Christmas shopping can often feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to finding the perfect gift for the man in your life. 

You’ve probably covered all the usual suspects, gadgets, cosy socks, perhaps a luxury bottle of his favourite tipple, but this year, why not think bigger, bolder, and give him something he'll truly treasure?

Yes, I'm talking about a shed. A garden shed may sound unconventional, but it’s a gift with serious potential. Here’s why a shed might just be the ultimate Christmas surprise.

1. A Place of His Own

A shed can become the sanctuary he didn’t even know he needed. Life is busy, and we all need a quiet space to retreat, tinker, or simply clear our minds. For many men, a shed can be that special retreat where they can relax without interruption. Whether it’s outfitted as a workshop, a reading nook, or even a mini-office, having a dedicated space in the garden can provide a sense of ownership and freedom.

2. A Personal Workshop

For the DIY enthusiast or budding carpenter, a shed is a dream come true. It offers a place to keep tools organised, experiment with projects, and even upcycle furniture without having to clean up immediately. Plus, having a dedicated workshop space might even mean fewer DIY bits scattered around the house—a win for both of you! Imagine how thrilled he’ll be at the idea of his own creative workspace to tackle projects, big or small.

3. An Outdoor Entertainment Hub

Sheds are no longer just storage spaces for rusty lawnmowers and spare pots. With a bit of creative setup, they can become cosy outdoor pubs, mini-gyms, or gaming dens. Adding a small bar, some comfy chairs, or a vintage record player can transform a shed into the ultimate relaxation zone for weekends and evenings. His mates will likely enjoy the space as much as he does, making it a great spot for gatherings, movie nights, or simply unwinding after a long day.

4. A Hobby Haven

If he’s got hobbies that take up more room than your home can comfortably spare, whether that’s model-making, painting, photography, or something else entirely, a shed can be the perfect haven. With a dedicated area to dive into his interests, he won’t need to pack away his projects every time he’s finished for the day. This hobby-focused space can be customised to fit his needs, from ample shelving and work tables to equipment storage.

5. More Space, Less Clutter

Let’s face it—household clutter can become a bit overwhelming, and sometimes all that stuff just needs a home of its own. A shed provides an additional storage solution that will help keep your indoor space clear and organised. Tools, bikes, gardening supplies, and seasonal items can all find a place in the shed, helping to reduce the inevitable overflow in cupboards, under beds, or in the garage.

6. An Opportunity for Customisation

There are all kinds of sheds available, from rustic wooden models to sleek, modern designs. You can even opt for a customisable shed that allows him to get involved in its setup. Many people find the process of decorating and setting up their shed as enjoyable as using it. You could surprise him with the foundation or basic frame and let him add his own finishing touches—like painting, adding shelves, or designing the interior exactly as he wants.

7. The Gift That Keeps Giving

Unlike a lot of gifts that might lose their charm after a few months, a shed is something he’ll use for years to come. Every season brings new ways to enjoy it, whether it’s sipping a hot drink inside during the winter or hosting a casual BBQ outside during the summer. It’s a practical, versatile gift that will keep bringing joy, purpose, and convenience into his life year-round.

8. It’s the Gift of Solitude and Balance

As much as we cherish our time together, everyone benefits from a bit of time alone. A shed gives him a way to have a balanced life with his own space. Without needing to leave home. 

It’s a healthy and thoughtful way to show your support for his mental well-being, self-care, and creativity. And let’s be honest, giving him that personal corner of the world can work wonders for household harmony!

Finding the Right Shed for Him

When selecting a shed, consider the size of your garden and the shed’s intended use. Think about what features will make it functional and enjoyable for him, like windows for natural light, extra storage options, or enough height to accommodate shelving. Many home and garden stores offer sheds in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, so you’re bound to find one that fits your budget and his taste.

Final Thoughts

A shed may not be the first idea that springs to mind when thinking of Christmas presents, but its benefits are undeniable. It’s practical, long-lasting, and tailored to his unique interests, making it a deeply personal and meaningful gift. 

This Christmas, give him the gift of his own space—a retreat, a workspace, or simply a corner of peace. It’s not just a shed; it’s an opportunity for him to cultivate his passions, enjoy his hobbies, and create memories in a space that’s truly his own.

To find shed retailers in your areas check local garden centres, shed retailers, etc.

These links are not sponsored but we thought they'd be of potential help or inspiration:-

https://www.oecogardenrooms.co.uk

https://www.crownpavilions.com

https://dunsterhouse.co.uk

https://www.cranegardenbuildings.co.uk

Unwrapping Joy: Unique, Quirky Christmas Gifts for him and for her

Christmas is upon us, and what better way to spread some festive cheer than by surprising your loved ones with unique and quirky Christmas gifts? 

Instead of the usual run-of-the-mill presents, let's explore some out-of-the-box ideas that will put a smile on the faces of both men and women.

Whether you're shopping for your significant other, family members, or friends, these one-of-a-kind gifts are sure to make this Christmas extra special.

For the Men:

Personalised Whiskey Decanter Set: Elevate his spirits with a custom whiskey decanter set engraved with his name or a special message. Complete with glasses and a wooden display, this gift combines functionality and elegance.

Darth Vader Waffle Maker: If he's a Star Wars fan, this Darth Vader waffle maker will make breakfast times a galactic adventure. Who could resist the allure of a crispy waffle shaped like the Sith Lord's iconic helmet?

Virtual Reality Headset: Transport him to otherworldly realms with a high-quality virtual reality headset. It's an experience he won't soon forget, and it's perfect for gamers and tech enthusiasts.

Desktop Punching Bag: Help him relieve stress and have some fun with a desktop punching bag. This quirky gift will not only provide a laugh but also offer a healthy outlet for frustration.

Bonsai Tree Kit: For a more zen gift, consider a bonsai tree kit. It's a unique way for him to tap into his nurturing side and add a touch of nature to his living space.

For the Women:

Customised Star Map: Gift her a personalised star map that captures the night sky's appearance on a special date, like an anniversary or her birthday. It's a beautiful and sentimental reminder of a cherished moment.

Morse Code Jewellery: Morse code necklaces or bracelets are a clever way to convey a hidden message or a meaningful word. Choose something that's close to her heart, and she'll love the thoughtfulness behind it.

Aromatherapy Diffuser: Turn her home into a haven of relaxation with an aromatherapy diffuser. Paired with essential oils, it's a thoughtful and unique gift that promotes well-being.

Literary Candles: For the bookworm in your life, literary-themed candles with scents inspired by classic novels can transform her reading nook into a cosy, magical world.

DIY Embroidery Kit: If she enjoys crafting, an embroidery kit with a beautiful pattern can be a delightful and relaxing way for her to spend her free time. It's a perfect gift for those who appreciate the art of handcrafting.

Plant Parenthood Kit: Encourage her green thumb with a plant parenthood kit, complete with stylish pots, soil, and easy-to-care-for indoor plants. It's a great way to bring the outdoors inside.

These quirky Christmas gifts for men and women are sure to stand out amidst the sea of traditional presents. Remember, the most cherished gifts are often the ones that show thought, care, and a dash of creativity. So, this holiday season, think outside the gift-wrapped box and make your loved ones' Christmas extra special with these delightful surprises. After all, the best gifts come from the heart.

Thoughtful and Practical Christmas Presents for Men and Women

That's Christmas will be running a feature on practical Christmas presents and gifts for men and women. And this is our introduction to this.

Christmas is nearly upon us, and it's time to start thinking about finding the perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones. 

While it's wonderful to choose presents that are thoughtful and sentimental, it's equally important to pick gifts that are practical and will be used and appreciated throughout the whole year. 

In this blog post, That's Christmas will be exploring some practical Christmas present and gift ideas for both men and women that strike the perfect balance between functionality and sentiment.

Practical Christmas Presents for Men

Grooming Kits: Men love to look and feel their best. A high-quality grooming kit, complete with a razor, shaving cream, and other essentials, is a thoughtful and practical gift. Consider adding a personalised touch with a monogram or their favourite scent.

Tools and Toolkits: For the DIY enthusiast, a set of quality tools can be a game-changer. A versatile toolkit with essential items like screwdrivers, pliers, and a hammer will always come in handy. (Also, as my wife will attest, tools and toolkits are great gifts for women too! Is this related to my wife being the daughter of a builder? That's very likely!)

Wireless Earbuds: Whether for work, working out, or just enjoying music, a pair of wireless earbuds can be a valuable addition to any man's daily routine.

Smart Home Devices: From smart speakers to smart thermostats, these gadgets can make life more convenient. They're perfect for the tech-savvy man in your life.

Personalised Accessories: A customized leather wallet, phone case, or keychain can add a personal touch to everyday items that men use regularly.

Practical Christmas Presents for Women

Cookware and Kitchen Gadgets: A set of high-quality pots and pans, or kitchen gadgets like a stand mixer or a coffee maker, can make cooking and baking more enjoyable and efficient. (And for male amateur chefs, too!)

Tote Bags and Purses: Women often carry a lot in their bags. A well-designed tote bag or a stylish, practical handbag (or a purse for our American readers) is a great gift that combines fashion with functionality.

Fitness Trackers: Help her stay on top of her health and fitness goals with a fitness tracker. It can monitor steps, heart rate, and more, making it a valuable tool for an active lifestyle.

Subscription Services: Subscription boxes, like meal kit services, book clubs, or streaming platforms, can be a thoughtful and practical gift that provides entertainment or convenience.

Spa and Self-Care Gifts: Pamper the special women in your life with spa-quality bathrobes, skincare products, or a day at the spa. These gifts promote relaxation and self-care.

Reusable Water Bottles and Tumblers: Stay eco-friendly by gifting a reusable water bottle or insulated tumbler. They're not only environmentally responsible but also practical for staying hydrated throughout the day.

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones doesn't have to be a daunting task. By selecting presents that are both thoughtful and practical, you can show your appreciation while ensuring that your gift is something they'll use and cherish. 

Whether it's grooming kits, tools, wireless earbuds, cookware, fitness trackers, or spa gifts, there's a practical and thoughtful gift option for everyone on your Christmas list. Remember that the best presents are those that come from the heart, and practicality is just an added bonus to make the gift even more special. Happy gift-giving this holiday season!

You'll find some very practical and welcome Christmas gift ideas in this previous blogpost about the top British brand, Tower:- https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2023/10/tower-makes-excellent-christmas-presents.html

Make the chaps Smell well this Christmas!

Debenhams has revealed the results of new research which show that a man's choice of fragrance alters dramatically with advancing years, resulting in men in their sixties and above selecting and piling on the strongest of scents.

The sense of smell weakens in people who are their sixties hence why older generations prefer impactful, longer lasting perfumes, often opting for classic, masculine pongs from the likes of Aramis and Davidoff.

Unlike today's man who on average begins to use cologne from the age of 14 years old, sexagenarians and their older brothers didn't grow up wearing fragrance and most men in this age group (77 per cent) claimed to only start wearing aftershave at the age of 30 years old.

Now that wearing scent is an acceptable part of everyday male grooming, it seems those born in 1951 and earlier are making up for lost time and 'splashing it on all over' with 56 per cent saying they respray three times a day, more than any other age group.

Ruth Attridge, spokesperson for Debenhams said: "No longer the fusty Steptoe or the less-than-fragrant Compo, the older generation has embraced the fragrance hall and is creating a buzz in the beauty industry.

"Choosing a signature scent can be a challenge whatever your age however, before reaching for another spritz, we'd always advise remembering that a 'man doesn’t have to try too hard'."

The older generation still has a little way to go to match up to their sons in their late twenties and thirties. Research has shown that 63 per cent of men in this age group have a 'fragrance wardrobe' of five or more scents, with men citing "mood", "occasion" and "trend" for why they experiment.

They were also the age bracket most likely to be influenced by the women in their life with 71 per cent of men claiming their wife or girlfriend has a say in their smell.

Despite their bad rap for piling on the pong, it is fresh, often unisex fragrances that are bought most frequently by men in their teens and early twenties. Bottle design and association with celebrities and sports proved major motivations for purchases in this age group.

As men reach their forties and fifties, sex sells resulting in a sales boom for the spicy and musky fragrance sector. The baby boomers have ascertained what fragrance they like and therefore spend more but buy less, investing in premium, designer brands such as Chanel, Tom Ford and Bvlgari.

Attridge added: "This research is massively important as we enter the Christmas shopping period.

"Fragrance is one of our most popular gifts for men and we can now provide further training for our fragrance consultants to help busy shoppers pick the right perfume, whether it's for your Great Uncle Bob or your image-conscious teenage son.

"We will be managing our stock levels accordingly to make sure that no one ends up with a dusty bottle of Old Spice left on the shelf year after year."