First thing’s first: What is Hygge?

Hygge (‘Hue-guh’)

Hygge is a Danish word used to define or acknowledge ‘a deep sense of well-being, friendship, contentment, happiness and warmth’, and is an integral part of the Danish way of life.

Hygge is something to be felt, not to be ‘done’ or learned, but it is the people and things around us that help enable it.

Here are five tips from the CHO Fashion & Lifestyle team on how to enhance your Hygge experiences and sense of well-being this Christmas and beyond.

1. Shoes off, candles on

Christmas is a very busy period for most of us, so embracing hygge when you’re at home is the perfect remedy. Each time you return from Christmas shopping or a day out in the chilly winter weather, kick off your shoes and light some candles. Candlelight is warm, gentle and welcoming, creating an instant cosy atmosphere that you can unwind in. Scented candles are especially good for this, allowing you to take a deep breath and enjoy the contented, relaxed sensation that hygge is all about.

2. The more the merrier

Hygge is felt especially strongly when we’re in the company of the people who matter most to us. Surround yourself with friends and family as often as possible over the winter period, even if it’s simply for a hearty meal around the dinner table or a quick coffee in the local café. This quality time and human interaction is the essence of true Hygge, and it’s priceless.

3. Knits, Slippers and Lovely Things

What we wear can affect our mood in many ways, so making sure you’re wrapped up in things that make you feel comfortable and relaxed will help you embrace hygge in the best possible way. It’s time to update your wardrobe with cosy knits, like this men’s Shipton cable knit jumper from Joules, and this Samsoe & Samsoe Maxine cardigan from the CHO Fashion & Lifestyle AW17 collection. A good pair of soft slippers is also a great shout for a super-hygge lifestyle, and these Ugg Dalla slippers are about as cosy as it gets. And there’s nothing like a touch of tartan for dialling up the hygge even further, as one of the most popular prints for winter. Add touches of tartan to your outfits with accessories like these tartan pocket squares from Barbour for a heightened sense of warmth and sophistication.

4. Hot Drinks and Blankets

At the end of a long day in the cold and chaos, make yourself a steaming hot drink in your favourite mug, wrap yourself up in a fleecy blanket and settle down for the evening. Whether you like to unwind with a book or in front of a classic film, the hot drink and blanket combo will create a wonderful sense of contentment and relaxation no matter what else you decide to do.

5. Cushions and Textiles

The addition of textured cushions, throws and other textiles to your home will create soft, inviting surroundings that you can sink into and enjoy all day long. These are great all year round, but in winter you can add some festive touches with warm copper tones and wintry designs to create a comfortable, welcoming environment; the home of hygge.

Combine these five hygge-worthy tips at home this festive season and you’ll have yourself a very merry little Christmas indeed. If you’re short of warm knits and other cosy accessories, our designer clothing collections are waiting for you over on our main website.