Usually I don't condone watching Christmas films until December but films seem to be in and out of cinemas so quickly nowadays and I didn't want to miss this one, so I went to watch it last night.

I think there's a lot of pressure for Christmas films to do well because there are so many classics to compete with but for me, this one didn't live up to the hype. If you're expecting it to be another Love Actually or The Holiday you will be disappointed. However, there were some good bits..

George Michael's songs obviously play a huge part in the film and I love his music so I can't fault the soundtrack. There's also a few heartwarming scenes that remind you of the meaning of Christmas - the importance of helping people, not holding grudges and surrounding yourself with the people you love. The casting was good. Emilia Clarke is infectiously likeable and I feel like her character is very relatable; we can all learn something from the journey she goes on throughout the film (I know I've definitely been guilty of avoiding an issue because I'm scared of the possible outcome) It's also quite rare for someone to have not experienced some sort of family drama or problems at work so I think most people will understand her character's actions. There are also a few laugh out loud moments and the occasional cheesy/cringey interaction, which is obviously expected in a Christmas film.

I just felt like it wasn't really that Christmassy. Apart from the scenes in the Christmas shop and the odd decoration on the street, there aren't many references to it being Christmas time. I didn't come away from watching it and think "I can't wait to start wrapping presents or putting the tree up". Something was missing but I can't put my finger on what it was. I also predicted the twist at the end. If you saw the tweets about the trailer when it first came out, you'll probably be able to guess what it is as well. I think if you've already worked out the ending (the song lyrics kind of give it away..) it probably doesn't have as much of a shock factor, so I didn't cry. But there was definitely a lump in my throat!

Although I won't be rushing to watch it again, overall, it's a nice, easy watch and it's a good start to the Christmas season!

A few years ago, if you'd said to me "put on a cardigan and some checked trousers" I would have refused and probably would've said something along the lines of "No thanks, I don't want to dress like a long lost relative of Wallace from Wallace and Gromit". Fast forward to 2019 and I own multiple cardigans and like a moth to a flame, I'm instantly drawn to anything and everything in a checked print.

I'm not entirely sure where this obsession has come from. Maybe it's because it makes me feel nostalgic as both of my Grandads did wear things very similar to this and it reminds me of them. Or maybe it's because there's just something really classic about the two simple elements put together. Either way, this is a trend that I am 100% on board with.

Outfit details: Cardigan and trousers - Primark Top and boots - New Look Bag - A boutique in France