Holly, ivy, bells, baubles and of course Santa himself plus elvin entourage; the design cues for Christmas packs are universal – and actually, not that unwelcome. But every year, a few brands break ranks and embrace something a bit different. This year has been no exception. Here’s my five best themes of what’s out there for the 2014 festive season.
1) Giftables
Obviously a no brainer, but a few years ago you could only get a small selection of gifting sets. This year, giftables have bloomed. From beauty, to gardening and cooking, there are gift packs galore this year, in baubles, retro illustrated packs. Add the fact that many retailers, including Selfridges and Asda, are personalising gifts online, and I’m ashamed to say, you name it, I want it, purely for the packaging.
2) Xmas jumpers
The past few years have been all about wearing your funniest, silliest, sometimes sexiest and often cheapest, Christmas jumper. This year, that trend has transcended wool and acrylic to go large on food. We’ve noticed brands and retailers alike introducing chocolates, cookies, cookie kits – not to mention a Christmas jumper-shaped cake pan – on shelf. No doubt it’ll go even bigger this time next year.
3) DIY Christmas
From Gingerbread houses and cookies to baubles and self-infusible gin, everyone is tapping into DIY gifts. Crafting is on the increase, with ready-mixed ginger bread mixes (just add butter and syrup) from the likes of Laura Ashley, through to homemade cake mixes, it’s all about the jars.
4) Chocolate Sprouts
The contentious sprout can divide Christmas dining tables, so to make eating your "greens" fun, M&S introduced the chocolate ‘sprout’ last year. This year they’ve “sprouted” up everywhere. I think online retailer’s Not on the high street execution is the best however.
5) Scandi-style Illustrations
The Scandi-style of cute, retro illos has been all over cards and wrapping for a few years now, this year, it’s made an appearance on packs too, with Benefit working it to the max.
