The main problem with Christmas decorations is that they are a collection of – whatever didn’t break last year, a couple of new bits you picked up whilst out shopping and an old box full of random, unrelated, brightly-coloured objects and a spot of tinsel. The result looks like the aftermath of a catastrophic explosion in a Christmas gifts shop. That is why there is one rule and one rule only – decide on a theme and stick to it. And it should then be applied to absolutely everything – ideally, including wrapping paper. And remember, however tempting it may be, never sneak the odd bauble into a display just because you can’t think of anything else to do with it.

 

Themes

You can choose any theme you like, but here are some themes you could follow:

Choose one or two colours only, such as white and silver, but use a variety of textures. Mix shiny with matt, as well as plain and heavily patterned decorations. White and silver is a classic, but subtle Christmas combination that has the advantage of a wide selection of decorations to choose from.

If you want something a little bit different, why not go for the tartan look. Get a large piece of tartan cloth and cut off long strips of different to make into generous bows and attach them to the Christmas trees and wreaths. You can also wrap them around white linen napkins for the Christmas dinner table.

 

Decoration tips

Now you have decided on your theme, here are a few tips on how to make the most of your decorations:

 

  • Use brown paper and string with white labels, to wrap presents and tie the smallest ones to the tree.
  • Bring in ivy from the garden as a garland for the stairs.
  • Group a selection of old silver or glass vases, candle holders together on the table, rather than dotting around the home- this makes the setting look generous.
  • If you have a balcony or garden view, use old candles or night lights in glass holders outside. Place in groups to liven up the dark afternoons.
  • You can put candles in the middle of a wide vase if you pour uncooked rice or sand in first, so the candle can stand on its own.

 

A selection of designer Christmas products.

Finding designer Christmas decorations is surprisingly difficult, but there are some out there. They don’t have to be all plastic and shiny. Below are some links to some of the more unusual and elegant products currently available on the market. There are the beautiful wreaths from The Real Flower Company, some gorgeous table decorations from The White Company, luxury crackers from Selfridges and a paper tree from Conran Shop. And, if you need some inspiration for wrapping up all those pressies that sit under the tree, just take a look at Jane Mean’s fantastic gift-wrapping sets. Lastly, if you want something a little more bespoke, there’s always Not On the High Street’s personalised Christmas decorations.

Hopefully, that should get you sufficiently inspired to create your own designer Christmas.

Here’s to a wonderfully stylish Christmas and New Year

From all at Homesite.