Date Published: 02/07/2007
St. Patrick's Day (March 17) is the one day of the year when everyone is a wee bit Irish. Some people don't like to dress up at all, while some go all out, sporting bright green duds from head to toe. We here at Consumer Guide believe in a happy medium when it comes to the wearin' o' the green -- keeping it festive yet stylish. Check out these great clothing and gift ideas for a fun St. Patty's Day.
 Irish Shamrock - 14K Gold Filigree Charm - from LACharms.com |
Although we typically think of a four-leaf clover as bringing luck, it's the three-leaf shamrock that is associated with the luck of the Irish. Legend tells us that the shamrock's three leaves were said to represent the Holy Trinity by St. Patrick himself. Sporting shamrocks on St. Patrick's Day is as much a tradition as wearing green. These cute and tasteful shamrock charms look great suspended from a simple chain. Or, for the well-dressed Irishman, these shamrock cufflinks are a festive -- yet understated -- accessory.
As legend has it, those who don't wear the green on St. Patrick's Day can expect to be pinched by a leprechaun, a mischievous Irish sprite. But as leprechauns are scarce these days, your family and friends may take it upon themselves to do the job! To celebrate properly (and stay safe from pinches), wear a green shirt, hat or tie on March 17. Here are some ideas to get you started. And remember, though green clothing comes in all shades from dark to pale, bright green works best for satisfying leprechauns -- and for avoiding good-natured pinching from your friends.
Now that you've got your outfit planned, it's time to decorate your home for St. Patrick's Day. Depending on where you live, March may or may not have ushered in spring-like weather. But even if the temperature is still quite wintry, you can make your home seem warm and inviting with a shamrock-themed welcome sign or lights. A lucky Irish plant is sure to invite good fortune into your garden as well.
Get creative with St. Patty's crafts
Next, it's time to dress up the inside of your home. Get into the spirit with these fabulous St. Patrick's Day decorating kits. You might be so inspired that you decide to throw a St. Patrick's Day party to show them off. If you do, we suggest serving your guests corned beef and cabbage with shamrock ice cream sandwiches for dessert. Delicious!
Give a fun and unexpected gift
Unlike Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and Father's Day, St. Patrick's Day is not usually associated with gift-giving -- so much the better to surprise your loved ones with a thoughtful present on March 17. They won't be expecting it, but they're sure to appreciate it. For grown-ups, consider an Irish music CD, either traditional or contemporary.
 The Daniel O'Donnell Show by Daniel O'Donnell |
And for children, one of these sweet St. Patrick's Day books is sure to get their eyes (Irish or otherwise) a-smilin'.
