Christmas Archives

Black-Owned Businesses To Support This Christmas

by Naya Quartey Thursday, December 17, 2020

With the holiday season just around the corner, checking your gift list is of the most importance. You can take care of that list with some of these black-owned businesses:

NEW YORK, NY – MAY 21: Solange Knowles attends the 70th Annual Parsons Benefit

1. Telfar– Founded by black fashion designer Telfar Clemens, this brand has quickly risen in popularity over the last couple of months. Selling out within minutes of restocking, due to its limited supply and accessibility. Their most popular item which is their bags have even been on Oprah’s favorite things list.

Image Credit: @thenubamboo

2. TheNuBamboo– This brand which was created by Jusme Kamil makes handmade bamboo earrings. These handmade bamboo earrings add a bit of style to any outfit and come in various colors, sizes, and styles. They have been seen on Kehlani in her “Open(Passionate)” music video and Jackie Aina was seen sporting them on her Instagram.

3. Loudbrand Studios– Loudbrand was founded by British fashion designer Jedidiah Duyile. It is currently being run by a team of three black women with the aim of creating fashionable and sustainable clothing. Loudbrand rose to popularity after Kylie Jenner posted a picture of herself in one of their dresses.

Image credit: @mackmoneybcs

4. MatteBrand– This black-owned business was founded by 24-year-old self-taught fashion designer and artist Brianna Wilson. Matte is a high fashion but simple clothing line that is often modeled by Wilson herself. This brand’s target audience is black women, and this can be seen in the neutral tones that are used throughout the Wilsons’ clothing line.

Image credit: @thehoneypotco

5. The Honey Pot Co.– The Honey Pot Co. is run entirely by women and was founded by Beatrice Feliu-Espada. This plant-based feminine care brand provides a healthy alternative to most feminine care products. The wide range of products are gynecologist approved and are completely natural.

Image credit: Cosmopolitian.com

6. Fenty Beauty– This beauty brand was founded by Rihanna in 2017. Fenty Beauty is most widely known for its wide and inclusive shade range. The brand includes everything from foundation to perfume and the price range of the products is accessible.

Images provided by Instagram and Getty Images

black business, black owned businesses

Christmas

The 7 Best Flower Combinations for Christmas

by Cliche Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Balls celebration christmas christmas balls

Today we want to share with you the 7 best flower combinations for Christmas. If you’re like many of the moms searching for ways to keep your kids entertained as the pandemic rages on, you’ve likely taken to frequent outdoor walks. Perhaps you’ve found that all that time in nature has been uplifting for your little ones (and yourself). That’s no surprise; science has proven time and time again that being outdoors, and more specifically, around plants and flowers, makes you feel better.

So with Christmas fast approaching, maybe you’re reconsidering your holiday design this year. Colorful stockings, red and green string lights and Elf on the Shelf might still be your holiday fixtures, but what about incorporating some Christmas floral combinations, too? It might be exactly what everyone needs to muster some celebratory energy after such a hard year. We get the best flowers from Bouqs delivery service for decorating our homes, and these are some of our favorite combinations.

1. Red Roses and Hypericum Berries

We like red roses for a floral arrangement because they do double duty: they’re richly-colored and sophisticated enough for the adults to appreciate, and simultaneously cheery and Rudolph’s-nose enough for the kids to get on board with too. We like adding hypericum berries (also known as St. John’s wort) to most of our Christmas arrangements because it reminds us of a vase-friendly version of mistletoe.

2. White Roses and Hypericum Berries

If your family is more into the color of snow than Santa’s favorite reindeer, then switch out the red roses for white and be prepared for “Do You Want to Build a Snowman” to play in your head on repeat.

3. Red Tulips and Evergreen Leaves

There’s something about tulips that is so quintessentially sweet. Any floral combination that involves these blooms is bound to make you smile. And though you may think of them as a springtime floral, red ones paired with evergreen leaves make a surprisingly festive combination.

4. Pine cones and Greenery

Photo by Nubia Navarro (nubikini) on Pexels

Okay, this one might not be “floral,” but it is fun. A few pine cones combined with greenery (think cedar and myrtle) look surprisingly stunning together.

5. Red Anthurium and Greenery

If you live somewhere tropical, or wish you did, get your hands on a combination of red anthurium (sometimes called the flamingo flower) and greenery. You’ll be singing Mele Kalikimaka before you know it.

6. Sunflowers and Hypericum Berries

Nothing about this year has been traditional, so why should your Christmas bouquet be? Take some vibrant sunflowers and pair them with hypericum berries for a cheery, laid-back holiday look the kids will love.

7. Wreath with Pine cones

If florals aren’t your thing or you have an accident-prone kid at home, a tall vase of buds may not be your first choice. A wreath is a great, harder to knock down alternative and looks extra cute with pine cones tucked in.

After such a rough year, make holiday decorating simple for yourself this year. A few artfully-placed Christmas floral combinations can have a surprising impact. And all the time you save on decorating is perfect for lounging with a glass of wine and those cookies left out for Santa.

Read more holiday articles at ClichéMag.com
Images provided by Creative Commons, Flickr, Unsplash, Pexels & Pixabay

Christmas, christmas flowers

Christmas

Five Popular Christmas Presents For Your Dog

by Cliche Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Your dog is probably one of your family’s most treasured members so today we want to share five popular Christmas presents for your dog. So during the festive season, it’s definitely the best time of the year to show your dog just how much you love them, even more than you usually do. Dogs are wonderful companions, but if you have never previously thought about buying something for them for Christmas, then maybe now is the time! Let’s take a little look at five popular Christmas presents for your dog that are both practical and fun for them and you!

HG-Fotografie / Pixabay

Fun treats – every dog enjoys a treat; but of course not all treats are good for their health or for their teeth. There are plenty of treats that are good for dogs, including chews and for the holidays, peanut butter and pumpkin can be great festive treats. There are so many tasty options available, so are you looking for long lasting dog treats? This is a great way to keep costs down and have treats that last a little longer for your pet.
photo-graphe / Pixabay

Cozy blankets – during these cold winter months, your dog can feel the slog of the bitter weather. They may spend more time indoors, exercising and snuggling up on the couch with you, so why not look at buying them a lovely cute cozy blanket that they can enjoy. Another great alternative is soft toweling and even cosy dog coats for them when they are out walking. Knitted jumpers are a cute item for your dog, they can wear them indoors and outdoors and fit snuggly, keeping them warm and cozy and can be easily washed after messy walks.
Get personal! It isn’t just humans who can enjoy having personalized items, a lot of stores online offer personalized gifts for dogs; such as dog leads, dog collars, dog name tags, enamel food bowls, dog keyrings and even a storybook to read with your dog!
Dog bed – you probably haven’t thought about buying your dog a new bed for Christmas, as toys probably take a priority, however, a new bed is also important to your dog’s physical health. Look for beds that are orthopedic memory foam beds are best for dogs bone health and this is particularly good for dogs that are a little older. Some beds are also waterproof which stops any accidents in the night or with younger puppies.
Dog carriers – this is a fun gift for both you and your dog if you have a smaller dog or puppy that you want to take around with you. Dog carriers are snuggly bags that you wear on your shoulder and you can keep your pup with you at all times. They range from inexpensive to luxury, so the choice is up to you what is the best fit for your lifestyle.

So whatever your choice is this year for your dog this Christmas, make sure it’s a cute one; with plenty to choose from above, your dog will be overjoyed when he/she rips open his gifts this year!

Read more fashion articles at ClichéMag.com
Images provided by Flickr, Unsplash, Pexels & Pixabay

dog carriers, doggie beds

Christmas

Gift Ideas for Every Budget this Christmas

by Cliche Thursday, December 5, 2019

Here are few simple gift ideas for every budget this Christmas. Bright lights, excitement and heaps of decorations. Yes, it’s that time of year again. As fun as it can be, the run-up to Christmas leaves many of us feeling overwhelmed, fretting over what to buy, and for whom. And don’t even get us started on gift budgets. If you want to give a present that’s truly from the heart, though, you’re in luck.

Simply follow our four simple suggestions to master your Christmas shopping.

Bob_Dmyt / Pixabay

Charitable donations

Though it can sometimes seem like it, Christmas is not a commercial holiday – for most of us, it remains a time for giving and sharing. If you’re strapped for cash, but still want to buy something meaningful for your loved ones, why don’t you invest in a charity on their behalf? Your family or friends will no doubt be touched by the idea. In raising awareness for a good cause, you’ll be getting into the true spirit of Christmas.

Lunch or dinner date

Engin_Akyurt / Pixabay

Whoever said that a present has to be something you open? You can always give a close friend or family member the gift of time. An invitation to lunch or dinner in the near future can be just as meaningful as a present to unwrap. How about writing down a set of dates when you’re guaranteed to be free, and presenting it in a nice envelope? Your friend or relative will likely be touched by the sentiment – and it provides something to look forward to for the pair of you.

If it’s your partner, schedule a dinner date at his or her favorite restaurant and plan an enjoyable evening where there are no distractions. Just the company of two people who care about each other. If you want to make the evening even more romantic this Christmas, consider some Holiday Lingerie from Hustler Hollywood.

Photo album

Is there anything more nostalgic than a photo album? There’s something special about being able to look through captured memories with your own hands – in a sense, doing so allows us to relive precious moments from the past. So, why not create one for a loved one this Christmas? They’re bound to love it! Just think of the hours you’ll spend reminiscing over the happy times you’ve shared together.

Why stop at pictures, though? You could always share other mementos from key points in your relationship, like journey and concert tickets. Simply decorate the album with whichever souvenirs you see fit! Wrap it in elegant paper, and you’ll give this homemade gift a sense of glamour, as well as meaning.

Very often, finding the right gift all depends on who you’re buying it for – taste, after all, is subjective. But personalize any of our suggested ideas, and your friend or family member will most definitely be delighted with their present.

Read more fashion articles at ClichéMag.com
Images provided by Flickr, Unsplash, Pexels & Pixabay

chirstmas shopping, holiday gift ideas

Christmas

Siobhan Murphy Brings The Heart to Holiday Comedy, “Merry Happy Whatever”

by Erin Tatum Thursday, November 21, 2019

It only took watching a single performance of Les Miserables as a child for Siobhan Murphy to fall in love with acting forever. In spite of being warned of the probable rough road ahead by her professors, she knew no other profession would bring her the same joy. Little did she know that she would one day be starring opposite Dennis Quaid in the new Netflix holiday-themed comedy Merry Happy Whatever, in which she plays neurotic but kind-hearted Patsy Quinn. The tension is palpable at times, but in the end, the family always comes back to each other. You can catch Merry Happy Whatever on Netflix starting November 28 (Thanksgiving)!

Cliché: When did you first know you wanted to be an actress?

Siobhan Murphy: I started acting when I was around 6, doing theatre camp on the weekends and in the summer. But when I was that little, it was just another after school activity, I’m not sure I understood something that brought me so much joy could also be what you do for a living. I do remember seeing Les Miz when I was around 10 or so and realizing the actress who played Young Cosette was my age and being instantly filled with this wash of jealousy that kids were able to do something like this, for all these people. That’s when the penny dropped and I started to beg my parents to get me an agent and headshots and all of the trappings needed to make it in the business. They waited till I was in high school to really let me go for it, but I certainly fell in love with acting when I was young.

Do you remember your first audition? How did it go?

I don’t remember what my first audition was for, probably a commercial or a music video. My first agency was also a modelling agency so I would often find myself surrounded by these stunning gazelle like women holding comp cards in the waiting room and think, “ Huh…..I don’t think I belong here.”

Probably one of the funnier commercial auditions I suffered through when I was 17 or 18 was for an insurance company and required my role to be doing yoga (which I obviously lied and said I was adept at) When I went in to audition they asked me to go through some poses, which I absolutely made up on the spot, completely incorrectly and was so out of shape my hip made this very disturbing popping sound. The casting director asked “Was…..sorry….was that your hip that just made that sound?” and I sheepishly nodded and he was like, “Oh great, that’s enough, we’ve seen enough.” Lesson there is, don’t lie in your special skills, it WILL come back to haunt you!! Or humiliate you.

What has been the best advice anyone has ever given you about acting?

I remember the head of the Theatre department at York University where I got my degree gave this big speech to the freshman class on the first or second day. He told us, “If there is something, anything at all, you like doing more than theatre, you need to go do that. This is an incredibly thankless tough business. So if you have other things in your life you love, please get up, and pursue those.” Pessimistic, right? Except, I get it. The only way one can weather the ups and downs of being an actor is knowing there is nothing else they would feel happy doing. It’s tough out there, you have to find a way to be just as tough to make it work!

Talk about your new series, Merry Happy Whatever, and your character, Patsy.

Merry Happy Whatever surrounds the Quinns, a boisterous tight knit family of 4 siblings, their respective spouses and patriarch, Don Quinn (played by the amazing Dennis Quaid). The first season follows the family over the Christmas holidays while everyone is back together at the family house and the youngest daughter has brought her new boyfriend home from L.A to meet everyone. Obviously because it’s Christmas AND it’s about family, things get….tense, but also really heartfelt. I play Patsy Quinn, the eldest daughter who’s desperate to fill their mother’s shoes since her passing a few years back. She’s a perfectionist who feels allllll the feelings a little too much, all the time. But she has a huge heart and adores her family.

What was it like having the opportunity to act with Dennis Quaid?

Intimidating at first! But he is such a charming presence and so warm, any nerves went away pretty quickly. He’s an incredible actor, so getting to watch him work up close, especially in the more dramatic scenes was truly a highlight of my career. He draws you right in and has a magical ability to make anyone well up a little when he’s getting emotional opposite you. I’m embarrassed the amount of times I got weepy doing a scene with him, he’s that good!

It’s always a little scary to meet people in your field who you’ve watched for so many years in so many amazing roles, but Dennis is truly the kindest, sweetest man and playing a family as close as the Quinns definitely brought the cast together in a way that I hope translates to everyone watching.

Why do you think dark comedy fits so well with the holiday genre?

I think the holidays make a perfect backdrop for a dark comedy! There’s this gorgeous, twinkling world of fresh snow, Christmas trees and fireplaces roaring. But the reality behind those scenes is the pressure of perfection and throwing together family members who often haven’t seen each other all year! Tensions run high, even as things look picturesque from the outside. Anytime you bring family together, things are going to get brought up, secrets revealed and people are gonna lash out. At some point, someone in a Santa hat is gonna be screaming at someone in a Christmas sweater, and if that’s not comedy, I don’t know what is.

What makes Merry Happy Whatever different from other holiday series?

I think the thing about our show that is really going to surprise people are the issues the family is dealing with. When you first start watching, it seems like a pretty traditional sitcom. But as you get closer to the family, you learn that each member is dealing with some pretty profound stuff they either can’t talk about or don’t know to fix.

I think that’s what’s really special about Merry Happy Whatever; the Quinns make each other laugh even when things are tough. I’m really proud of the stories we’re telling and the way they’re handled. I hope everyone finds an aspect over the 8 episodes they connect with. I think they will!

Do you have any favorite or funny holiday memories with your own family?

Living in Los Angeles, I now get so excited to go home for the holidays, to see all my friends and get a little blast of East Coast snow and coziness. When I was younger, it was all about the gifts (because yes, I was an absolute monster as a child), but now my favourite things are sitting in front of my parents fireplace and planning out all the meals we’re going to cook, having my friends over, sitting in out sweatpants while we make fun of each other and drink wine. Honestly, I don’t mean to sound corny, but really just being home and seeing everyone. It’s the absolute best!

Read more Celebrity Interviews on ClicheMag.com
Siobhan Murphy Brings The Heart to Holiday Dark Comedy, “Merry Happy Whatever.” Photo Credit: Vanessa Heins.

dark comedy, Dennis Quaid

Christmas

Say no to Holiday Stress With These Amazing Gift Hacks

by Cliche Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Gift buying, giving and Christmas gift-wrapping should be a joy, so why do we get heebie-jeebies when someone mentions Christmas?

The shopping malls look Christmas-ready, the shopping frenzy has started and Christmas adverts have been slowly hitting TV since the beginning of October. Are you wondering if there is any way how to make your holiday season more enjoyable than last year?

StockSnap / Pixabay

These quick holiday gift hacks will help you minimize the holiday hassle and make gift buying as stress-free as possible.

JillWellington / Pixabay

Finding the perfect Christmas present

…is not always possible. We all worry about buying our loved ones the right present, but recent studies show that up to 95% of the receivers value the thought behind the gift rather than the gift itself. With this in mind try thinking about something to celebrate the unique bond between you two, to convey you have held the receiver in mind.

Make a Santa’s list

Create a list of everyone you want to give a gift to. Think of the happiest times you’ve shared and brainstorm your ideas here. When was the time you felt connected the most and what could bring back the memory to these times? Try to think of a present as an experience rather than just a physical item.

It can either be an experience you enjoy together like a spa treatment or tickets to your favorite band or an item to celebrate your special moments.

Do you enjoy movie nights together? A set of luxuriously scented candles combined with a gourmet wine gift set will induce a charming atmosphere creating romantic memories.

MarioEppinger / Pixabay

Do you both enjoy morning pampering rituals? Seek for matching couple fragrances, there is something utterly romantic about matching scents, something that brings you together even when you are apart. There are plenty of thoughtful options, just think about their likes and dislikes.

Shop in advance

Another one of our holiday gift hacks is making sure to shop in advance. Try to plan all your presents before heading into any shops. Browsing around the shops at the busiest time of the year is very stressful. Being pushed and pulled in the crowded store does not make the holiday experience any better. Keep the Santa’s list with you when you are out running around and pick up some presents every now and then. Or…purchase them online.

Purchase online

Try to find most of the gifts online, not only to avoid the crowded shops and full parking lots but to get some special online deals also. In recent years the Black Friday has become an essential part of the holiday season and some Black Friday deals will be better than others. Seek a website where you can buy most of your presents at once.

It is said that people hate wrapping Christmas presents more than Brussel sprouts, avoid this hassle and have your presents professionally gift-wrapped in beautiful boxes while buying them online.

sweetlouise / Pixabay

The best online retailers also offer custom engraving for fragrances and beauty products to make the item even more personalized and unique.

In case you want a little cherry on top of your thoughtful presents, purchase a gift voucher so your loved one can treat herself/himself to something she or he always wanted.

Read more Christmas articles at ClichéMag.com
Images provided by Flickr, Unsplash, Pexels & Pixabay

holiday gift hacks, Online shopping

Christmas

Christmas On A Budget? No Problem, We’ve Got Holiday Shopping Tips

by Cianna Garrison Saturday, November 10, 2018

Once the month of November hits, most of us start to panic about holiday shopping. December comes fast and whether you’re a college student or a full-time employee, the amount of money we shell out during this time of year can make for high stress. Most of us aren’t rolling in dough, but that’s okay. There are plenty of cheaper options out there to make the holidays less stressful and easier on your wallet. We’ve got some holiday shopping tips to relieve some of that headache.

Holiday Shopping Tips: Surf Websites Like Ebay, Etsy, and Amazon

Yes, this is sometimes a little too obvious, but if you prefer to do your shopping in-store rather than online, you’re probably missing out on some great gift opportunities. Shopping online is one of the best holiday shopping tips, because it opens up a lot more options than simply going to a shopping mall. If you have a best friend who loves collectables, art and craft items, or unique and personalized gifts, you can find just about anything under the sun on eBay, Etsy, and Amazon.

Ebay Auctions Can Make Your Gift

If you hit the auctions on eBay, you could get lucky and score a mint condition, sealed vinyl that’s hard to find at a record store. A lot of vinyl records on eBay start on auction for cheap. I’ve found some pretty obscure ones for well under $20. There are so many unique things on eBay if you give your search a lot of thought. If you can think it, you can probably find it. Plus, eBay has their own deals section that can really helpful. Keep in mind that a lot of e-commerce deals are limited, so keep your eyes out for the good ones you can’t pass up!

Etsy Is Perfect For Unique Presents, So Long As You Search For The Cheaper Items

Photo Credit: Etsy

Etsy has just about anything in the vein of creative gifts. Got a boyfriend obsessed with Star Wars? There’s a personalized gift for that. Maybe your best friend is a pop culture freak and a huge coffee drinker. There’s a mug for that. And pins? There are plenty of unique pin sets that you probably won’t find anywhere else. It’s all about being smart with Etsy, though. Sometimes the items can get a little pricey based on the seller. Always keep your eye out for the cheaper deals, as well as the shipping costs. Some sellers offer a discount if you purchase more than one item from them, as well as a combined shipping so you don’t have to pay multiple shipping fees.

Amazon Can Be Way Cheap, Especially If You Sign Up For A Prime Trial

I’m pretty sure most of you already shop on Amazon. If you’ve already got an Amazon Prime membership, even better. If you don’t, you can sign up for a free trial of Amazon Prime at no cost and cancel before you get billed. It makes shopping on Amazon a lot easier, since a lot of items are eligible for Prime free two-day shipping. Find a niche item that your friends or family members will love. For instance, if you know a book-lover who doesn’t mind a lightly used copy of a novel, go for it. Know a cat lover? They have some hilarious adult coloring books for just about any subject you can think of.

Want To Give Someone a Cool Outing? Check Out the ‘Things to Do’ Section on Groupon

Groupon is a site that may be slightly overlooked if you haven’t used it a lot. But during this time of year, they have some really good sales, even on events. The ‘Things to Do’ section will show you Groupon deals in your area. If you take the time to sift through what offers they have, you can score a cheap price for local events and fun outings.

Do You Have Old Gift Cards From Last Christmas You Haven’t Used?

Extra gift cards? Use them to buy gifts for the holidays. Photo Credit: LaniElderts / Flickr CC By 2.0

This is something some of us may not think about, but how long has that gift card been sitting in your desk drawer or wallet, unused? How much longer do you think you’ll take to spend it? If you aren’t against the idea of using it, it’s technically free shopping money. If you’ve got a gift card you haven’t used for any retail store, now is a good time to shop the incoming sales, especially online. And the best part is, if you use a gift card, you may pay little to nothing for someone’s gift. Sort of a win-win, right?

Are You Crafty? Create Some Beautiful Handmade Gifts for Your Loved Ones

If you’re an avid crafter or artist, a great gift idea can be easily achieved if you consider a way to make a personalized gift for someone. A photo memory book for a long-time best friend, a unique piece of jewellery, a painting of their favorite comic book character, organic bath bombs—the list goes on. If you’re up to the task of creating a gift for someone, rather than buying one, it can save you a ton of money—plus, it’ll mean a lot to the person you’re gifting it to.

Read more Holiday and Christmas posts at ClicheMag.com

Christmas On A Budget? No Problem, We’ve Got Holiday Shopping Tips. Featured Photo Credit: Pixabay

Amazon, budget shopping

Christmas

10 Songs From Our Christmas Playlist

by Cliche Monday, December 25, 2017

You may have been hearing it in various places since Halloween, but now it’s finally the right time to start exclusively listening to Christmas music. It may sound like a very specific genre that could get old, but actually there’s a wide variety of artists that have put out songs for the holidays. Here’s a list of some that will make an appearance on our holiday playlist. For some other Christmas songs we love, check out our previous list here.

“Last Christmas” – Wham!

The synth opening is quintessential ‘80s, but it also draws you in to what might be one of the sadder holiday songs (but still a great one to listen to!). There are a number of covers out there, but personally this original version with George Michael singing is the best one.

“Christmas Wrapping” – The Waitresses

“Christmas Wrapping” is another ‘80s holiday gem. The driving bass line, saxophone, and the sing-spoken pseudo-rap of lead singer Patty Donahue all combine to make a really great, if not a little off-beat, holiday jam.

“Christmas Time Is Here” – Vince Guaraldi Trio

Originating from A Charlie Brown Christmas, this jazzy tune is a great piece to put on to help relax during the holiday rush. You could go with the straight instrumental version or the version with vocals, but either way you’re getting something wonderful to listen to.

“Santa’s Coming For Us” – Sia

This is a newer offering to the holiday music canon, but it fits in perfectly. Sia brings her trademark style to a really upbeat and fun track that is sure to get continued play during the holiday season.

“Carol of the Bells” – Lindsey Stirling

Another new holiday song, this time from violin virtuoso Lindsey Stirling. Here, she updates a traditional Christmas song, gives it a whole new energy, and helps it really come alive through her strings.

“Jingle Bells” – Gwen Stefani

Joining in with her own new Christmas album, Gwen Stefani puts forth a fun, jazzy version of this Christmas staple, marked with her signature vocal styling.

“Feliz Navidad” – José Feliciano

With its driving rhythm and upbeat guitar melody, this song is another one that can add some energy and warmth to any place it’s playing.

“Step Into Christmas” – Elton John

Embodying the welcoming, friendly feelings that Christmas should contain, this song provides a great message for the holiday season while still getting your toes tapping.

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Mel & Kim

This cover of the classic Brenda Lee song edges out the original because of the cute and funny interactions between Kim Wilde and Mel Smith throughout that help showcase how the holidays should be a fun time and not taken so seriously.

“Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” – The Jackson 5

The version takes the bland, nursery-rhyme feel of the original melody and brings in some funk and soul to bring a much more entertaining groove to any Christmas playlist.

Read more Holiday posts on ClicheMag.com

10 Songs From Our Christmas Playlist. Feature Image courtesy of Epic Records.

christmas music, christmas songs

Christmas

Winter Albums For When You’re Tired of Christmas Music

by Lilly Milman Saturday, December 16, 2017

If you’re like me, then that means you don’t start listening to Christmas music until the week of December 25th. Unfortunately, that also means you may run into a few moments here and there where you just really can’t think of something new to listen to. There isn’t one specific formula for what makes a good winter album. For me, anything that makes me feel warm usually does the trick. To make your life a little easier, I’ve rounded up a list of winter albums for when you’re tired of Christmas music.

For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver
Often regarded as one of the best breakup albums of all time, Bon Iver’s debut record isn’t meant for rocking around the Christmas tree. Written in a cabin in the woods of Wisconsin, this album was Justin Vernon’s way of dealing with his breakup from a longtime girlfriend and his band, all while recovering from health issues. This icy take on what it means to start anew in the midst of what feels like an avalanche is perfect for snowy days where you don’t feel like stepping into the windy, outside world.

1 2 3 4 5

big thief, Bon Iver

Christmas

5 of Our Favorite Holiday Films

by Cliche Sunday, December 3, 2017

Now that Thanksgiving is well behind us, we’re officially in the holiday season. As the temperature goes down and people look for things to do while staying indoors, what’s better than watching a holiday film? There’s so many to chose from, but here are five that we especially enjoy. For some other picks, check out our previous post on the subject here.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Yes, TV specials count as holiday movies, and this is one of the best. Based on the book by Dr. Seuss, this special takes his delightful writing and mixes it with some wonderful Chuck Jones animation and great narration from Boris Karloff to bring this tale of the true meaning of Christmas to life. While some may prefer the live-action Jim Carrey version, this version keeps the story simple and delivers its message in a more compelling way without getting bogged down in the unnecessary backstory.

Scrooged
You can’t have a holiday movie list without one of the many versions of A Christmas Carol. Instead of one of the straight-up adaptations of the story, we’re going with the 1988 version that reimagines Ebenezer Scrooge as television network president Frank Cross. It still hits the same beats but in the more modern setting of 1980s New York City. Bill Murray is great as our Scrooge stand-in and the movie is a nice darkly comedic adaptation of a story we all know. For me, the ending of this version also has a better emotional impact than that of some of the others.

Home Alone
Another Christmas comedy, and for some, maybe just as dark. The story of Kevin McCallister being left at home while his family flies to Paris, and subsequently having to ward off two burglars looking to score big from his house, may not sound like quintessential Christmas, but it’s an entertaining movie that does contain a pretty heart-warming message about family. But mostly, it’s just fun to see Kevin set up all the traps throughout his house that our unsuspecting burglars eventually fall prey to.

The Year Without a Santa Claus
Another TV special, but is it really the holiday season without a Rankin/Bass production? You could sub in whichever of the charming stop-motion specials you’d like here, I’m sure some are fonder of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town, but The Year Without a Santa Claus is the pick here for its endearing story of two elves trying to find Santa Claus proof that people still believe in him and in effect, still care about Christmas. The most memorable characters are of course Snow Miser and Heat Miser and both their eponymous songs and their back and forth with each other are really enjoyable and help elevate this special even more.

Love Actually
This ensemble piece delves into what may be the most important aspect of the holidays, love, through ten storylines that show us the different ways people love and the different forms love takes. However, it doesn’t fall into being a mass of romantic comedy tropes, instead standing out a unique romantic comedy, and one that actually has some real comedic moments. It may not be the most Christmassy movie out there, but with its holiday setting and important messages about love and connection between people, I think it counts.

Read more Holiday posts on ClicheMag.com

Our Favorite Holiday Films. Featured Image courtesy of Universal Pictures

christmas movies, holiday movies

Christmas

Jeff Michaels Releases New Holiday Single “It’s Been A Long Time, Christmas”

by Angela Mastrogiacomo Saturday, December 2, 2017

For the past five years, Boston-based singer-songwriter Jeff Michaels has released a holiday single and accompanying video. Each has been a unique look at Christmas, from “Too Cold for Santa” in 2012 to “Hey Santa (Bring Me Some Lovin’),” an effort to do no more than spread holiday cheer. This year, Michaels has released “It’s Been a Long Time, Christmas,” a simple call for the return of Christmas and the brighter days we all need.

“This song was a gift,” says Michaels. “I was working on several ideas, but nothing was grabbing me. I scrapped everything, closed my eyes, and hit record. This flowed out, start to finish.”

In a year filled with tragedies and natural disasters that have devastated so many, Michaels knew he had something special. He immediately sent his guitar and vocal demo off to his producer and songwriting partner, Chris Teffner, mentioning that he felt the song had a bit of a retro, John Lennon feel. Teffner immediately grasped the concept, and the next day Michaels dashed off to purchase a special microphone to capture the Lennonesq sound. Two days later the song—and self-produced video, was done.

“The thing that always amazes me is how fast these come about,” says Michaels. “I have to believe that projects like this are simply meant to be.”

Michaels and Teffner are no strangers to working quickly. Time and again they have produced complete songs in just a few days’ time, sending tracks back and forth between their home studios in Boston, MA and Scottsdale, AZ. Along with co-writing Michaels’s last record, Townie Paradise, the pair has built up a substantial catalog and are actively working on writing for film and TV projects. Past placements for Michaels have included songs on The Real World and Teen Mom (MTV), The T.O. Show (VH1), and CBS Sports Spectacular.

Find Jeff Michaels new Holiday Single “It’s Been a Long Time, Christmas” at iTUNES: http://apple.co/2hM1IEl

Follow on Twitter: @jmichaelsrocks
Official Website: www.jeffmichaelsband.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jmichaelsrocks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmichaelsrocks
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jeffmichaelsband

Add a Little Sparkle to Your Holidays With These Pieces

by Erin Tatum Friday, December 1, 2017

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite parts of the holidays is the transition to sparkle. November hits and suddenly we’re surrounded by glitz and glitter. It’s easy to be intimidated by such a bold trend – after all, it certainly takes a bit of confidence to walk around in a fully sequined gown. But glitter isn’t just for New York City socialites mulling over which swanky party to attend every Friday night. Everyone can casually and tastefully incorporate touches of sparkle into their wardrobe. These clothes and accessories will put you in the holiday mood… or at the very least, make your day a little brighter!

The Zest Is History Metallic Heel in Glittery Gold, $44.99, modcloth.com

This shoe gives a whole new meaning to twinkle toes. They are perfect for a holiday office party or a fun night out with the girls. Pair them with a cocktail dress and dance the night away!

Serefina Charmed Delicate Pendant Necklace, $25, anthropologie.com

This cute pendant necklace adds a personal touch to your holiday style. Personalize it with individualized charms that have special meaning to you. Not only is it an eye-catching accessory, but it doubles as a keepsake.

AEO Metallic Touchpoint Glove, $15.95, aeo.com

Stay chic even when it’s cold outside. These gloves have touchpoint fingers so you can keep cozy while scrolling through your IG feed. Ideal for those who love a bit of sheen but also love black.

Jessica Simpson Starlite Embellished Bootie, $138.95, nordstrom.com

This is by far the biggest splurge on the list, but they are worth every penny. Talk about statement shoes. The delicate pearls and punk rock glitter combine to make these booties a true showstopper for any occasion.

Vegan Suede Legging, $78, freepeople.com

Who says loungewear can’t be glamorous? These leggings combine couture and casual Friday. For when you are feeling festive, but also contemplating a three-hour nap.

Big Break Glitter Sweater, $60, nastygal.com

Effortlessly cool, this sweater shines in endless combinations of outfits. Pair it with jeans to keep it casual or elevate to date night ready with a cute skirt and tights.

Very Sexy Shine Lace Unlined Balconet Bra, $44.50, victoriassecret.com

Treat yourself to a little bit of fabulousness just for you! This dreamy bra will leave you feeling ethereal, empowered, and festive all at once. Even if it’s for your eyes only, you deserve an early present, don’t you think?

Read more Fashion articles on ClicheMag.com

Add a Little Sparkle to Your Holidays With These Pieces: Featured image courtesy of NastyGal

accessories, fashion

Older Posts

Christmas

Black-Owned Businesses To Support This Christmas

The 7 Best Flower Combinations for Christmas

1. Red Roses and Hypericum Berries

2. White Roses and Hypericum Berries

3. Red Tulips and Evergreen Leaves

4. Pine cones and Greenery

5. Red Anthurium and Greenery

6. Sunflowers and Hypericum Berries

7. Wreath with Pine cones

Five Popular Christmas Presents For Your Dog

Gift Ideas for Every Budget this Christmas

Siobhan Murphy Brings The Heart to Holiday Comedy, “Merry Happy Whatever”

Say no to Holiday Stress With These Amazing Gift Hacks

Christmas On A Budget? No Problem, We’ve Got Holiday Shopping Tips

Holiday Shopping Tips: Surf Websites Like Ebay, Etsy, and Amazon

Ebay Auctions Can Make Your Gift

Etsy Is Perfect For Unique Presents, So Long As You Search For The Cheaper Items

Amazon Can Be Way Cheap, Especially If You Sign Up For A Prime Trial

Want To Give Someone a Cool Outing? Check Out the ‘Things to Do’ Section on Groupon

Do You Have Old Gift Cards From Last Christmas You Haven’t Used?

Are You Crafty? Create Some Beautiful Handmade Gifts for Your Loved Ones

10 Songs From Our Christmas Playlist

Winter Albums For When You’re Tired of Christmas Music

5 of Our Favorite Holiday Films

Jeff Michaels Releases New Holiday Single “It’s Been A Long Time, Christmas”

Add a Little Sparkle to Your Holidays With These Pieces

Our Sponsors

Add D ClichéMag to your Homescreen!

Christmas

You may also like

1. Red Roses and Hypericum Berries

2. White Roses and Hypericum Berries

3. Red Tulips and Evergreen Leaves

4. Pine cones and Greenery

5. Red Anthurium and Greenery

6. Sunflowers and Hypericum Berries

7. Wreath with Pine cones

You may also like

You may also like

You may also like

Holiday Shopping Tips: Surf Websites Like Ebay, Etsy, and Amazon

Ebay Auctions Can Make Your Gift

Etsy Is Perfect For Unique Presents, So Long As You Search For The Cheaper Items

Amazon Can Be Way Cheap, Especially If You Sign Up For A Prime Trial

Want To Give Someone a Cool Outing? Check Out the ‘Things to Do’ Section on Groupon

Do You Have Old Gift Cards From Last Christmas You Haven’t Used?

Are You Crafty? Create Some Beautiful Handmade Gifts for Your Loved Ones

You may also like

You may also like

You may also like

You may also like

You may also like

You may also like

Our Sponsors

Add D ClichéMag to your Homescreen!