I’m Dreamin’ of a Stylish Christmas
Martha Stewart for pingg
If you think about it, Christmas is the perfect time to show off your sense of style and design. Few other holidays in the year result in as many guests dropping in, invited or otherwise. From family to friends to neighbors, unless you’re out of town for most of the holiday season someone in one of those groups is likely going to stop by for some festive cheer. Why not welcome them in style?
Starting with a little style inspiration, take a look at these Christmas trees designed by the likes of Jean Paul Gaultier, Luis Vuitton, Hermès, and Thierry Mugler, just to name a few. It’s part of the 16th annual Les Sapins de Noël des Créateurs in Paris, where a bunch of designers put their creative stamp on the iconic Christmas tree. Trees are auctioned off (starting at 3000 euros per) and proceeds benefit the Global Fund, whose ambassador is none other than France’s First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. It’s a noble endeavor, and the trees are gorgeous and whimsical. Take this a spirit guide as you inject some style into your Christmas decorating.
About that tree: if you’re one of the growing chorus of people embracing artificial, then you should check out some of the coolest tree designs around, minus the tree. Yes, they are a little iconoclastic, and may not tickle the traditionalist quite as much, but there are eco-friendly options and are sure to generate conversation. If you’re the crafty sort, check out these lovely designs for ornaments and other Xmas-themed gimcracks and baubles to hang from said tree. You should also feel free to pilfer these modern Christmas decorating ideas for the living room, bedroom, and dining room.
If I say “Christmas Crackers”, do you wince? I understand: I’ve experienced these several times in my life, despite the fact I’m not British. But not all crackers are created equal, and Tom Smith’s luxury Christmas Crackers are pretty slick. Forget about cheap plastic toys you can’t assemble. These come loaded with things like mini mag-lites and cuff links, and their simple, understated look are sure to add a dash of style to your Christmas table setting.
Finally, if you’re still shopping, be sure to visit Fishs Eddy for many, many stylish and―dare I say―affordable gift ideas. Myself, I like the Italian Wine Glassware and the very convenient section of gifts for under $25. Big bonus: if you’re in the Boston-New York-Washington corridor you can order as late as noon on Dec. 23rd for that last minute item, and up to noon on Dec. 22nd for many other locales.
