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.
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