Looking to have some Christmas glam put on your nails? Paint Nails London tells you how

Illustrative purposes only

Beauty Club London’s in-house nail bar, Paint Nails London reveals the current hottest nail trends. Their talented nail artists have identified this season’s standout designs and shades, offering clients a glimpse of what’s set to dominate the fashion-forward nail scene up to this Christmas.

All Green Everything

“Green nails are not going away,” says Lead Nail Tech at Paint Nails London, Angie Campbell. “This season we’re seeing everything from rich olive tones to brighter, statement-making acid greens.” 

The updated take on summer’s ‘Brat Green’ brings a fresh yet unexpected pop of colour to your autumn/winter look.

Classic Black

“Black nails are making a massive comeback this season, especially as we head toward Halloween,” says Angie. “Opt for a matte black or add a glossy finish for a striking look that’s both edgy and elegant.” Black French tips or ombre designs are also great options for those who want a sophisticated twist on the classic dark mani.

Glam Goth

“Dark, dramatic shades are always an Autumn favourite,” says Angie. Deep burgundy-black nails with long stiletto tips will be popular this season, inspired by Cardi B’s iconic look. “It’s perfect for Halloween or anyone who loves a bold, daring manicure.”

Magnetic Chrome

Chrome nails are continuing their reign into autumn/winter, with magnetic, prismatic shades adding depth and dimension. “This is the trend for anyone who loves eye-catching nails that shift and change with the light,” says Angie. Shades like holographic lilac and cat-eye chrome are perfect for creating that futuristic, luxe vibe.

Seasonal Ombré

Autumn and winter brings a fresh take on ombré nails, incorporating warm, earthy tones like caramel, chestnut, and chocolate. “We’re blending warm, rich colours to create a seamless gradient effect that reflects the beautiful tones of the season,” opines the Paint Nails London team. This trend is timeless yet versatile, perfect for any occasion.

Gold Details

According to Paint Nails London, gold accents are a must-have this season. “Gold detailing adds a touch of luxury to any manicure,” the team explains. “Whether it’s gold foil, 3D charms, or shimmering accents, gold elevates your look and pairs beautifully with autumnal tones like deep reds, burnt orange, or nudes.”

Disco-Inspired Metallics

One of the season’s standout trends is the return of metallic and holographic nails. “Disco-inspired metallics bring a fun, nostalgic feel to your look,” Angie notes. “Whether you go for a full chrome finish or subtle metallic accents, this trend is perfect for those who want to sparkle throughout the Christmas party season.”

Moody Tones

“Autumn is the time to embrace deep, moody hues,” states Angie. Shades such as navy blue, dark chocolate, and rich burgundy dominate the colour palette. “These tones are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and mystery to your winter nails.”

Embellishments

For those looking to make a statement, 3D embellishments are a key trend this season. “From pearls and gems to metallic accents, autumn/winter 2024 is all about going big with your nail art,” the experts at Paint Nails London revea;. “It’s the perfect way to add personality and glamour to your nails for all sorts of  special occasions.”

Cherry Red

“Red is always a staple for autumn/winter but this season, cherry red is the star,” says Angie. “It’s a sophisticated yet vibrant shade that transitions seamlessly from day to night.” Whether worn as a full mani or as cherry red French tips, this colour is bold yet refined and perfect for the cooler months.

FACTFILE:-

Housed within Beauty Club London, Paint Nails London offers an unmatched combination of nail artistry and a stylish, social experience. 

https://paintnailslondon.co.uk

How to Create a Gluten-Free Christmas Feast: Recipes, Tips, and Drinks Pairing

Christmas is a time for indulgence, celebration, and plenty of food. But if you’re catering for gluten-free guests, or following a gluten-free diet yourself, it’s important to ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities without worry. 

Ignoring coeliac disease is not a good idea!

Luckily, with a little planning and creativity, you can put together a spectacular gluten-free Christmas feast that’s every bit as delicious as the traditional one. Below is a guide on how to create a satisfying Christmas meal, complete with perfect drinks to accompany each course.

Starter: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Gluten-Free Bread Rolls

Nothing sets the scene for a cosy, comforting meal like a warm bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. This starter is naturally gluten-free and can be made with ease. Here's what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

1 onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 litre vegetable stock (ensure it’s gluten-free)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

A pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth

Gluten-free bread rolls

Method:

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Toss the butternut squash and carrots in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.

In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until soft. Add the roasted vegetables and vegetable stock, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Use a blender to purée the mixture until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve with warm gluten-free bread rolls, buttered generously.

Drinks Pairing:

For a warm and hearty starter like this, opt for a light white wine, such as a Chenin Blanc. Its fruity notes will balance the sweetness of the butternut squash, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess. Alternatively, a dry cider adds a festive sparkle and complements the earthy sweetness of the soup.

Main Course: Roast Turkey with Gluten-Free Stuffing and Vegetables

Turkey is the centrepiece of many Christmas dinners, and luckily, it’s naturally gluten-free. However, the challenge often lies in the stuffing and gravy. But fear not, with a few clever swaps, you can keep this tradition alive while avoiding gluten.

Ingredients:

1 whole turkey (size based on your gathering)

Olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)

Gluten-free stuffing mix or homemade stuffing (using gluten-free breadcrumbs, chestnuts, dried cranberries, and herbs)

Roasted potatoes

Carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts

Gluten-Free Stuffing Method:

Preheat your oven to 180°C. Mix gluten-free breadcrumbs with chopped chestnuts, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs (sage, rosemary, thyme).

In a pan, sauté a chopped onion and a few minced garlic cloves in olive oil until soft. Combine with the breadcrumb mixture and moisten with a bit of gluten-free vegetable stock.

Stuff the turkey with this mixture or bake it separately in a greased dish.

Cooking the Turkey:

Rub the turkey with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Roast according to the bird’s weight (about 20 minutes per 450g plus an extra 20 minutes) at 180°C.

Make sure to baste the turkey every 30 minutes for a juicy result.

Serve with roast potatoes, caramelised carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts.

Gluten-Free Gravy:

To accompany the turkey, use the drippings to make a gluten-free gravy. Simply thicken with gluten-free flour or cornflour, and season to taste.

Drinks Pairing:

A Pinot Noir is a fantastic choice for pairing with turkey. Its light body and red berry flavours won’t overpower the turkey, while its earthiness complements the roasted vegetables. For something different, try a spiced apple punch (hot or cold), which brings a festive, warming touch to the table.

Dessert: Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding with Brandy Cream

Christmas pudding is the quintessential British festive dessert, but many traditional recipes contain gluten in the form of flour or breadcrumbs. Fortunately, you can make a gluten-free version that’s just as rich and indulgent.

Ingredients:

200g gluten-free flour

150g gluten-free breadcrumbs

100g suet (ensure it’s gluten-free)

200g dark brown sugar

100g raisins

100g currants

100g sultanas

50g chopped dried apricots

1 teaspoon mixed spice

Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange

1 large egg

150ml dark rum or brandy

50ml milk (dairy-free if needed)

Method:

Combine all the dried fruit in a bowl and soak in rum or brandy overnight.

The next day, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, suet, sugar, and spices. Add the soaked fruit, zest, egg, and milk. Stir until combined.

Grease a pudding basin and pour in the mixture. Cover with parchment paper and tie with string.

Steam for 5-6 hours, topping up the water as needed. Let cool and store until Christmas Day, when you can steam it again for an hour before serving.

Serve with a rich brandy cream or gluten-free custard.

Drinks Pairing:

Christmas pudding pairs beautifully with a glass of Tawny Port or sherry. The rich, fortified wine enhances the deep flavours of the dried fruit, while the creaminess of a brandy cream contrasts the intense sweetness. For a non-alcoholic option, try a spiced mulled tea.

Final Thoughts

Creating a gluten-free Christmas feast doesn’t mean compromising on flavour or tradition. With these recipes and tips, you can serve up a festive meal that everyone will love, with the perfect drinks to match. Whether you’re toasting with a crisp white wine, a warming red, or a non-alcoholic punch, this gluten-free feast will make your Christmas dinner one to remember.

Happy gluten-free Christmas cooking!

That's Food and Drink: A Guide to the Wide Range of Traditional British a...

That's Food and Drink: A Guide to the Wide Range of Traditional British a...: When it comes to comfort food, few things are as quintessentially British and Irish as a well-cooked sausage.  From hearty Cumberland sausag...

That's Food and Drink: Why Greggs is King of the High Street: A British B...

That's Food and Drink: Why Greggs is King of the High Street: A British B...: When it comes to high street staples, few names are as synonymous with British life as Greggs.  Whether you're grabbing a steak bake on ...

That's Food and Drink: A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Belton Farm Cheeses

That's Food and Drink: A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Belton Farm Cheeses: When it comes to British cheese, few names evoke the same sense of heritage, craftsmanship, and flavour as Belton Farm. Nestled in the heart...

How to Cook the Perfect Singleton Christmas Feast: A Guide for One

Christmas can still be a time of indulgence and joy even if you’re dining solo. The trick to pulling off a wonderful meal for one is all in the planning and preparation. 

Whether you’re opting for the traditional roast, or something a bit more inventive, here’s how to make your singleton Christmas feast a perfect culinary experience – all while avoiding excess stress or waste.

1. Plan Your Menu

Cooking for one at Christmas doesn't mean you need to hold back. However, it does mean you should be strategic. Instead of cooking an entire turkey, consider a turkey crown or turkey breast. Both offer that classic flavour but with far less waste. If turkey’s not your thing, a Cornish hen, duck breast, or even a beef fillet might hit the spot. Pair your main protein with the classic roast vegetables—carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. Or if you are vegan a nut roast might fit the bill.

2. Scaling Down Ingredients

The key challenge in cooking a Christmas meal for one is avoiding excess quantities of food. Use online portion calculators to help scale down your ingredients. For example, you might need just 1 or 2 King Edward potatoes, a small bunch of sprouts, or a couple of parsnips. Many supermarkets offer smaller portions of vegetables or ready-to-roast options in small packaging.

If you're roasting a bird, consider getting turkey legs, turkey crown, turkey slices or chicken thighs. These cook quickly and still give you the essence of a traditional Christmas roast without needing a whole bird.

3. Perfect Timing for a Stress-Free Day

Timing is crucial when it comes to preparing a meal that will be ready all at once. Here’s a rough timeline for a simple yet perfect roast meal:

1:30 PM: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C). Season your turkey breast or other meat of choice with herbs, butter, and seasoning. Place it in the oven to roast, checking the recommended cooking time per 500g.

2:00 PM: Prepare your vegetables. Cut your King Edward potatoes into quarters, parsnips into spears, and carrots into chunks. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and rosemary, then pop them on a baking tray.

2:30 PM: Add your potatoes and veg to the oven. If you’re making pigs in blankets, these can go in on a small tray at this point too.

2:45 PM: Boil some water and get your Brussels sprouts on the hob. They need about 5-7 minutes to soften. You can also prepare a quick gravy with stock and any drippings from your meat. Consider adding a dash of sherry for a festive twist.

3:00 PM: Everything should be ready. Let your meat rest for a few minutes while you plate up the vegetables and pour your gravy.

4. The Essentials for a Solo Feast

While it’s tempting to go all out, it’s important not to overwhelm yourself. Stick to the essentials that you really love. Here are a few must-haves to make your feast special:

Roast Potatoes: These are a Christmas staple, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Cook them in goose fat or olive oil for that golden crispness.

Stuffing: A single-serving stuffing is easy to make. Mix breadcrumbs with herbs, onions, and sausage meat, roll into balls, and roast alongside your other veg.

Gravy: Whether homemade or store-bought, gravy ties the whole meal together. Add a splash of red wine or cranberry juice to give it a festive kick.

5. Dessert: Christmas Pudding or Something Simple

No Christmas meal is complete without a sweet ending. If you love tradition, a mini Christmas pudding is perfect—just the right size for one. You can buy a ready-made pudding that takes only minutes to heat up in the microwave. Top it with brandy butter or cream.

For something lighter, consider a single-serving mousse, trifle, or even a homemade chocolate fondant. The goal is to treat yourself without overcomplicating things.

6. Leftovers: The Best Part?

Even when cooking for one, you’re likely to have a few leftovers. Don’t let them go to waste! Here are some ideas to transform them into something exciting:

Turkey Sandwich: Layer your turkey with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and a bit of gravy in a crusty bread roll.

Bubble and Squeak: Fry up your leftover potatoes, sprouts, and vegetables with a bit of butter, making a crispy bubble and squeak. Serve with a poached egg on top for Boxing Day breakfast.

7. Creating the Ambience

Just because you’re cooking for yourself doesn’t mean you should skip the festive ambience. Set the table with a proper plate, napkin, and maybe even a small centrepiece. Light a few candles, play your favourite Christmas music, and make the day feel special.

Conclusion

A singleton Christmas feast can be every bit as enjoyable as a large family gathering, if not more. You can cook exactly what you want, at your own pace, and treat yourself to a delicious, stress-free day. With careful planning and a bit of festive cheer, your solo Christmas will be one to savour.

Enjoy your meal and have a Merry Christmas!

Mixing Fantastic Vegan-Friendly Cocktails for Your Christmas Home Bar

The festive season is upon us! There’s something magical about Christmas – the twinkling lights, cosy nights by the fire, and most importantly, gathering with loved ones to celebrate. 

This year, why not impress your guests with a selection of vegan-friendly cocktails at your Christmas home bar? These delightful, plant-based drinks are perfect for everyone, whether they're vegan or not.

Here’s a selection of five must-try Christmas cocktails that are not only festive but also free from animal products, ensuring that you and your guests can sip on something delicious and cruelty-free.

1. Cranberry & Ginger Sparkler

A bubbly, refreshing drink with a warming hint of ginger – the perfect Christmas party starter!

Ingredients:

200ml cranberry juice (make sure it’s unsweetened and vegan-friendly)

2 tbsp fresh lime juice

150ml ginger beer (check the label for vegan status)

50ml vodka (optional for an alcoholic version)

Fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for garnish

Ice cubes

Method:

Fill a glass with ice cubes.

Pour the cranberry juice and lime juice over the ice.

Add the vodka if you're going for the alcoholic version.

Top it off with ginger beer, stir gently, and garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for a festive touch.

2. Vegan White Russian

This creamy cocktail, traditionally made with dairy, gets a vegan makeover while still maintaining its indulgent flair. A classic for cold winter nights.

Ingredients:

50ml vodka

25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa now offers a vegan version)

25ml coconut cream or oat cream

Ice cubes

Method:

In a rocks glass, fill halfway with ice.

Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.

Gently pour the coconut cream over the top, allowing it to float for that classic layered look.

Stir gently to combine, and enjoy the velvety texture!

3. Mulled Wine with a Twist

A warm, spiced mulled wine is a Christmas essential, but this version adds a little extra something for your vegan guests. Most wine is suitable, but double-check that it’s vegan as some use animal products in the fining process.

Ingredients:

750ml vegan-friendly red wine

100ml apple juice

50ml brandy (optional)

3 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup

2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

1 star anise

Zest of 1 orange and juice of half

Zest of 1 lemon

Method:

In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients over medium heat.

Stir and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil or you’ll cook off the alcohol).

Reduce the heat and let it gently mull for 10-15 minutes.

Strain and serve hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

4. Peppermint Mocha Martini

For coffee lovers who want a holiday treat, this cocktail combines the best of both worlds – peppermint and mocha! It’s like sipping on a festive dessert.

Ingredients:

50ml vodka

25ml coffee liqueur

25ml vegan chocolate syrup

100ml peppermint-infused almond milk (or your favourite plant milk)

Ice cubes

Crushed candy canes or dark chocolate shavings for garnish

Method:

In a shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, chocolate syrup, and peppermint-infused almond milk with ice.

Shake vigorously until chilled.

Strain into a martini glass.

Garnish with crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings.

5. Spiced Apple Cider Punch

A perfect non-alcoholic option for your guests, this spiced apple cider punch is fruity, fragrant, and warming. It’s also great as a base for an alcoholic punch if you want to add a splash of something stronger.

Ingredients:

1 litre vegan-friendly apple cider (check the label, as some ciders use non-vegan processing agents)

200ml orange juice

2 cinnamon sticks

3 whole cloves

1 star anise

A thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced

Orange slices for garnish

Ice cubes

Method:

In a large jug, mix the apple cider and orange juice.

Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger.

Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the spices infuse.

Strain before serving and garnish with fresh orange slices.

A Few Tips for the Perfect Vegan Home Bar

Check your spirits: Many spirits are naturally vegan, but some may use animal products in the filtration or colouring process. Vodka, gin, and rum are generally safe bets, but it’s always good to check. Barnivore.com is a great resource for checking the vegan status of your favourite alcohol.

Dairy alternatives: There are plenty of rich, plant-based alternatives to dairy milk and cream. Almond, oat, coconut, and cashew milk are great substitutes for creamy cocktails.

Sweeteners: Not all sweeteners are vegan – honey, for example, is often used in cocktails. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or simple sugar syrup are excellent plant-based alternatives.

Bottoms Up!

These vegan-friendly cocktails are sure to bring some Christmas cheer to your home bar. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive bash, these drinks will have everyone raising their glasses in seasonal merriment. So, break out the glasses, pour yourself something delicious, and enjoy a cruelty-free Christmas!

Happy Christmas and cheers!