Walking in a Winter Wonderland

As soon as the clock strikes 00:01 on December 1^st it seems that Christmas decorations are being put up left, right and centre. If the thought of seeing a house covered head to toe in flashing lights fills you with an ever-growing Scrooge type feeling then don’t worry there are hundreds of alternative ways to decorate your home other than the dreaded red and green tinsel!

Whether you’re busy ordering a turkey, buying presents or figuring out how on earth you’re going to house all those guests and you don’t have time to scout about for the Christmas decorations then don’t worry as we’ve put together a failsafe list of beautiful adornments that are not just quick fixes to getting into the festive spirit, but are pieces that will look good all through winter, and in some cases all year round!

‘Black and Gold Tassel Garland’ and ‘Assorted Black and Gold Pinwheel Decorations’ both from Rockett St George

These decorations are a really great way to vamp up your home for the holidays without going overboard. The tassel garland is a modern alternative to tinsel and both sets of decorations add a touch of sophistication and simplicity to your home, allowing you to steer clear of the stereotypical tinsel and glitter. They’re perfect for a last minute festive spruce or for an impromptu gathering or party.

Usually when we hear the words Christmas and decorations in the same sentence we do not immediately think of understated glamour, but there are some beautifully elegant decorative pieces out there at the moment that will enhance the existing elegance of your home instead of demolishing it with garish colours.

‘Ultimate Beaded Star’ from The White Company

This star from The White Company is minimalist elegance and minimal effort. If you’re not big on the bling, this is the perfect piece as it isn’t overtly festive and can be incorporated into an already existing scheme and can be the subtle hint needed for an understated, laid back Christmas look.

‘Evensong Lanterns’ from Anthropologie

Another way to create a festive atmosphere without using traditional Christmas ornaments are with these stylish Evensong Lanterns from Anthropologie. They are a beautiful way to create a welcoming ambience in your home and will look just as lovely all year round.

If you’re panicked about having all those extra guests come to stay this year, the best way to relax is with a nice glass of wine and where better to keep those extra bottles you’ll be in need of this Christmas than with a lovely portable wine rack like this one from Oka Direct.

‘Pyramide Wine Rack’ from Oka Direct

Another stunning addition is this Bamboo Tray from Oka Direct, ideal for passing around cheese and crackers or coffees, and is a great item that can be used over and over again in everyday life when Christmas is over.

‘Bamboo Tray’ from Oka Direct

Centrepieces for the table at Christmas are a great way to set the tone, and having some wonderful candle holders can make your style mark without being over the top.

‘Aristocratic Animal Tapers’ from Anthropologie

I absolutely love these Animal Tapers, they remind me of Wind in the Willows, something that I always used to watch as a child every Christmas, and they will make gorgeous table decorations that are the perfect combination of fun and sophistication for everyone at the dinner table to enjoy.

For a contemporary feel to the table, Houseology has some excellent candle holders, that are suitable for all year round use as well.

‘Design House Stockholm Lotus Hurricane Lantern’ from Houseology

‘Eichholtz Okhto Black Candle Holder’ from Houseology

The hurricane lantern is perfect for those who love all things minimal and contemporary and the black candle holders would look magical dotted around a table, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

These eye-catching pieces from Anthropologie are beautiful and the metallic element creates a glamourous festive spirit.

‘Dipped Mercury Glass Hurricane Lanterns’ from Anthropologie

Hopefully we’ve given you not only a few ideas about how to decorate your home this holiday season, but some lovely decorations for all year round, as a beautiful home is for life, not just for Christmas!