5 of the best: Alternative advent calendars
As the festive season approaches, don’t dismiss the excitement that the advent calendar brings. The last few years have seen the humble chocolate calendar transformed with treats suitable for everyone, from miniature bottles of gin, to tasty tea infusions and the dreamiest beauty products around.
Read on to discover our top five alternative advent calendars that will brighten each day in the countdown to Christmas. These have a habit of selling out fast, so don’t hesitate too long, or you might miss out…
Say it with love
Stationery lovers everywhere, this one’s for you. Swedish label kikki.K has designed a chic advent calendar filled with goodies, ranging from a blush-pink pen to gold desk accessories, and even a scented candle to create a little desktop ambiance. With a suitably Scandi black and gold aesthetic, this calendar deserves pride of place in your home. Buy it for yourself here at £90.
Do it yourself
The gift that just keeps giving, the Zinc Village Advent Calendar from Rowen & Wren features a charming festive village scene, with 24 individual drawers that can be filled as you wish. This beautiful calendar takes influence from traditional Nordic decorations, and is designed to be enjoyed in the home, year after year. Opt for chocolate coins and homemade sweet treats, or get creative with mini gifts that will delight. Shop the Village Advent Calendar here, for £62.
Put the kettle on
Renowned for truly delicious infusions that combine unique flavours, the Bluebird Tea Advent Calendar will transform your morning cuppa in the countdown to Christmas. Taking inspiration from the holiday season, blends include festive favourites such as Spiced Clementine, Mrs Claus’ Raspberry Prosecco, Gingerbread Chai, and even Christmas Cake! Revamp your tea routine this Christmas by shopping Bluebird’s Calendar here, with a price tag of £36.
Enjoy some ‘me time’
Treat yourself to Cowshed’s deluxe Advent Calendar for the ultimate beauty indulgence. This particular calendar is filled with 24 beauty essentials, designed to pamper your hands, hair, face and body in preparation for the party season, and to help you unwind afterwards. From the Wild Cow Bath Oil to the Soothing Cow Body Lotion, each door provides a miniature Cowshed product for you to enjoy. It’s already out of stock at John Lewis, but you can still buy it here for £90.
Tipple your fancy
With a very merry Christmas in mind, Drinks By The Dram have introduced their Ginvent Calendar, containing a different 30ml sample of gin behind each of the 24 doors. The sample bottles are the perfect size to mix yourself an evening G&T, or indulge in a festive cocktail. If gin isn’t your thing, they also offer a Scotch whisky, rum or bourbon version. Available at Harvey Nichols, shop the collection here from £135.