Christmas season marks the end of the year and as such is a great time for friends to meet, catch up and reflect on all the year's big events and changes. As December is one of the busiest times of the year for both individuals and businesses, make sure you pencil something in your diaries well in advance to avoid having to settle for a last minute lunch at a fast food restaurant.

Food

For most people, the idea of a perfect day out involves food in some form, whether it's lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. At weekends though, there is a new form of meal that's taken the world by storm as of late. Brunch is the new meal du jour.

Usually served between the hours of 11am and 3pm, it's a meal that combines breakfast and lunch perfectly, allowing you to enjoy that weekend lie-in you've been waiting for all week and making sure you're energised for the day.

Many of the trendiest cafes serve brunch that features eggs, pancakes, bacon or fish, yoghurt and fruit, as well as coffee or tea refills.

Arrange to meet your ladies at one of the local brunch hotspots. The meal is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace and is the perfect opportunity for that all important gossip session.

Afternoon Activities

See what's going on in your local area, at galleries, shopping centres, botanic gardens, concert halls and other spaces and places. In the run up to Christmas, many businesses play host to exciting pop up events such as markets and seasonal performances and exhibitions. Go support your local community by attending one of these. You could snap up some gifts as well.

Evening Ideas

Continue your day by renewing your energy levels with a cocktail and light snack at a trendy wine bar or restaurant. Many offer seasonal deals so look into booking a table well in advance.

From there on, how about listening to a spot of live music at a jazz bar or a club nearby where the music isn't loud enough to drown out conversation. It's important to be able to continue your conversations, particularly if it's been a while since you had the chance to spend some quality time together.

Dress Code

To make the day even more memorable and enjoyable, why not settle on a dress code? Depending on where you've chosen to go for brunch or drinks, a semi-formal or even formal dress code may be required.

If you've joined the ladies who lunch club, how about a vintage dress theme? Thrown together with cardigans or blazers and trendy leather boots, styles from over the years can flatter any figure.

Alternatively, you could choose a colour scheme. Festive tones like dark red, green and gold could work well for the season.

If you're planning to spend some time outdoors, either walking from one place to another or mingling at a Christmas market, make sure your ladies winter coats are snug and stylish. This year's hits include military-inspired coat shapes, shearling trims, and asymmetric hemlines.