The one Christmas tradition every family thinks is so cute but is actually tacky, according to an etiquette expert
A NUMBER of Britain’s beloved Christmas traditions are actually tacky, according to an etiquette expert.
From tinsel on the tree to cheesy jumpers, there are plenty of festive rituals that us Brits simply love – and there’s some we love to hate.
But there’s one Christmas tradition that’s tackier than them all.
A quick scroll on Instagram in December will throw up countless families posing in matching red and green pyjamas – mums and dads included.
If you’ve been known to do this, it might not be the festive flex you might think it is.
New research shows that a whopping 29% of Brits families posing in matching Chrimbo pyjamas tacky. And one etiquette expert is inclined to agree.
“Matching-anything is a little tacky,” warns Laura Windsor, Bridgerton’s Etiquette expert.
Her only stipulation for making it acceptable is ensuring “you are not wearing pyjamas ALL day” and at some point actually dress up for the occasion.
Another festive ick that 23% of Brits can’t stand is people leaving the dinner table to smoke.
Even the strictest of quitters may enjoy a cigarette (or two) during the festive period. But it could turn off your guests if you get up between courses for a puff.
“If you are dying for a cigarette, try and exercise a bit of self-control and wait for a course to finish,” Laura scolds. “Preferably towards the end of the meal.
“If you do leave the table to smoke or vape, be aware that the smell will linger on your person.
“So, take care to wash your hands, have a mint or use a mouth spray before returning to the table.”
Laura also warned Brits to steer away from discussing politics at the dinner table this Christmas, because 28% of guests find this tacky.
“It’s one of those timeless no-nos that does nothing but stir up trouble, especially at the table,” she says.
“Christmas is a time for merriment, spreading joy and hope to those around you.
“Venting your opinions on such a subject can easily offend your fellow diners and dampen celebrations.
“The most important etiquette rule especially around Christmas is treating others as you would like to be treated.
“The conversation should be upbeat making others around you feel comfortable and at ease.”
The research, conducted by online retailer Haypp, also found that 32% of Brits cringe when someone puts tomato ketchup on their Christmas dinner.
And 20% of people find it icky when a guest turns up hungover on the big day following a night of debauchery on Christmas Eve.
Most popular Christmas specials
- Doctor Who: A Christmas Carol – 2010
Starring Matt Smith and Karen Gillan, The Doctor and Amy Pond have just one hour to save a crashing spaceship on Christmas Day before it’s too late.
- The Office: Christmas Party – 2005
Office boss Michael Scott is determined to liven up the Christmas party and keep it from slipping into boredom.
- Gavin and Stacey: A Special Christmas – 2019
The Shipmans and Smithy head to Barry for Christmas. Uncle Bryn is in charge of the Christmas dinner and Smithy welcomes his new girlfriend to the group.
Downton Abbey: Christmas at Downton Abbey – 2011
Downton Abbey throws a Christmas party, but rising tensions and John Bates’ arrest cast a shadow over the celebrations.
- Gavin and Stacey Christmas Special – 2004
The Wests travel to Billaricay for Christmas, but Gavin and Stacey have some news to tell the family and it doesn’t go down as smoothly as they hoped.
- Modern Family: Undeck the Halls – 2009
Claire and Phil choose to cancel Christmas for their kids, Haley, Alex, and Luke, while Mitchell and Cameron take Lily to visit Santa.
Friends: The One With the Holiday Armadillo – 2000
Ross decides he wants to teach Ben about Hanukkah when the costume shop runs out of Santa costumes.
- This Is Us: Last Christmas – 2016
Jack and Rebecca have an unexpected reunion with an old friend, while Kevin, Randall, and Kate navigate their own holiday challenges.
- The Office (UK) Christmas special part two – 2003
Tim’s world is turned upside down when Dawn stops by the office. Despite Gareth’s stern warning and Keith from Accounts offering some advice, Tim gets his hopes up again.
- Downton Abbey Christmas Special – 2015
Mary attempts to mend her relationship with her sister as Edith’s secret continues to pose a threat. As Henry adjusts to his new roles as a husband, finding his place at Downton proves to be more challenging.
- Black Mirror: White Christmas – 2014
Matt and Potter share an unusual Christmas meal together while confined to a remote cabin on Christmas Day, exchanging stories about their past lives in the outside world.
- Outnumbered Christmas Special – 2012
The Brockmans host a Christmas party, but Pete is far from thrilled. Ben eagerly volunteers to help with preparations, and Pete ends up stuck in the bathroom with Jane after the door handle breaks off.
The Office (UK) Christmas special part one – 2003
David has been struggling in his career but tries to reconnect with his former employees, as he seeks validation. Tim still has feelings for Dawn, as all eyes are on them as they reconnect at the Christmas party.
- Friends: The One With the Girl From Poughkeepsie – 1997
Monica is struggling to stand up to her kitchen staff, so she hires Joey to fire him in front of them to show authority. Chandler tries to set Rachel up with his colleague.
- Outnumbered Christmas Special – 2011
The Brockmans hope to get away for the holiday over Christmas, but their grandad falls ill – and an emergency trip to the hospital puts their festive plans on hold.