FESTIVE INSPIRATION
For some, a subtle dusting of seasonal twinkle is enough, but for many of us this time of year offers the perfect excuse to go above and beyond, with larger-than-life wreaths, fabulous baubles in rainbow shades and sparkly lights on every surface – we’re gearing up to go big and go bold
CANDY CANE
Charming, sweet and with more than a twist of kitsch, the candy cane has long been synonymous with the festive season and, with its distinctive red and white stripes, provides the perfect Christmas colour palette. Add some frothy tinsel, pretty baubles and giant shiny decs for an extravaganza of a tree that looks almost good enough to eat!
Dusky Pine pre-lit Christmas tree, from £250; supersized candy canes, £25/three; light-up firework tree topper, £19.50; swirl baubles, £35/four; sparkling stars baubles, £40/12; supersized red and silver baubles, from £28 each; red glass baubles, £18.50/21; tinsel garlands, £40 each; hanging snowballs, £45/12; Dusky Pine pre-lit wreaths, £75 each; festive snowflakes and candy stripe giftwrap, both £16.50/10m; supersized silver sparkle ribbon, £14.50/25m; voile red wired ribbon, £16.50/20m; Let It Snow ribbon, £12.50/20m; all Cox & Cox
OPULENT TONES
Set a table fit for a feast by layering together delicious berry shades, such as deep reds, dark pinks and luscious purples, for a rich and warming backdrop to the sparkle of candlelight reflected in glassware and soft metallic finishes. Tempt your guests with panettone, figs and plates of gleaming fruit. Complete the look with greenery from the garden for a feeling of natural abundance.
Villia tablecloth, £34.99; mango wood candleholder, £19.99; Living Jewels crockery, from £8.99; Mikasa Diseno cutlery, £44.99/16-piece set; Villia napkins, £9.99/two; Majestic wine glasses, £14.99/four; panettone, £6.50; all Dobbies. For similar ceramics, try H&M Home. For a similar wall paint, try Pompadour emulsion, £55/2.5L, Edward Bulmer Paint. For similar foliage, try Oka
LUXE WRAPPING
The best finishing touch to any tree is the all-important pile of gifts beneath. Get creative and choose giftwrap that complements your style and colour palette, and add ribbons in a mix of velvets and satins. For a truly personalised touch, finish off with sprigs of holly or handpainted gift tags.
Royal Fairytale Crown Robin and Peacock Feather giftwrap, both £6/10m; Gold Kraft giftwrap, £8/10m; Royal Fairytale King Santa giftwrap, £4/4m; pre-lit Hampton spiral potted tree, £499; Royal Fairytale peacock bauble, £7; Royal Fairytale dragon bauble, £12; all John Lewis & Partners
A SHOWSTOPPI NG CENTREPIECE
The tree is dressed and the presents are wrapped but what about a spectacular focal point? Placed on a stand or suspended from the ceiling, simple green wrea
