Jesus is born in style as Manger Chic grips nativity plays

Jesus is now being born in style as ultra competitive parents are lavishing West End budgets on their child’s nativity costume.

Once the dreaded costume department consisted of tea towels, bald tinsel and cardboard crowns, now new designer clothes are being bought specifically for the occasion.

The blessed Virgin Mary, the coveted role, is appearing draped in luxury pashmina shawls as she undertakes the trek to Bethlehem.

But don’t forget the donkey. Parents trying to boost the confidence of bit parters are spending even more dressing the donkey.

Up to £150 per costume has been totted up by Debenhams staff. Now they want parents to see sense and stop the splurge.

Spokesperson for Debenhams, Ed Watson said: “The amount of money that some parents want to spend on their child’s Nativity Play appearance would enable Baby Jesus to leave the stable and check into a five star hotel.“

“ It’s silly and we’re doing all that we can to persuade competitive parents to change their minds it is the season of good will after all.“

“Their sons and daughters will still look wonderful wearing a pair of pyjamas and a sheet rather than the latest dress or coat straight from the high fashion cat walk.”

Dubbed as Manger Chic, in store personal shoppers are being hounded by parents creating the ultimate Nativity Play makeover.

Brand new dresses, top of the range striped dressing gowns, jewelled turbans and brand new Egyptian cotton pillow cases and sheets are being purchased.

Ed Watson blames the demand for places at good schools. He said: “Parents have told our personal shopping teams that they feel they have to teach their children to excel at everything from a very young age.”

“They have to possess an exemplary CV – including, it seems, a star role in the school Nativity Play – if they want to gain a place at a coveted primary or secondary school.”

Among the most popular items bought by competitive parents are:

Brand new ivory white bridesmaid dresses costing £40 for the role of “Angel.”

New Arctic Fur throws costing almost £60 for the role of “ Sheep”

Blue Velvet dress costing £21 for the Virgin Mary.
Baker stripe Velour dressing gown costing £25 for Shepherds