We asked 3 interiors mavens about their Christmas decorating style
From an eclectic mix to classic colours, there’s lots of festive inspiration to be had.
As an interiors lover, one of my favourite things about the festive season is seeing how everyone decorates their home, from friends and family to those who I follow online. It’s so interesting to see different approaches and styles, and there’s often amazing ideas to nab for your own home.
That’s why we’ve asked three women with an incredible eye for interiors about how they decorate their own homes at this time of year.
Amber Clery, Amber + Willow
With a self-described Christmas style as “eclectic and ever-changing”, Amber says she doesn’t stick to a theme when planning her seasonal decorations. “I definitely go for a more colourful look than understated and neutral. I tend not to go too traditional with green and red decor, but I can’t resist candy cane stripes and Nutcracker soldiers at Christmas. I can’t get enough of bows this year – our tree is covered with them!”
Some of the most special decorations she has are ones that have been passed down from family, or ones she has bought at Christmas fairs.
Foliage is also important to her festive decor. “I absolutely love the smell of fresh eucalyptus and have it everywhere this time of year. An oversized wreath for the front door from The Foliage Florist is also a must! I love to create a wintery branch display with some ribbons, baubles and fairylights.”
Decorating is a family affair in her home. “The kids absolutely love decorating, they’ve been dragging stuff out of the attic for weeks (I wonder where they get that from!). With Home Alone or ‘Rocking around the Christmas Tree’ playing in the background, of course.”
The table is a focus for Amber at this time of year. “Eating with family at Christmas is an occasion to be celebrated and cherished so it’s all about going big and making a fuss because, why not?” This year, she’s loving ruffles, velvet bows, candy cane stripes, and Italian spatterware.
Helle Moyna, Nordic Elements
True to her characteristic pared-back style, Helle’s approach to Christmas is simple and natural. “I use a lot of natural foliage when decorating for Christmas,” she says.
“Branches of various pine sorts and eucalyptus in vases of different sizes and heights. I mix in lots of candles again in different height holders and large paper stars leaning against the mirror on the mantle.”
She always buys a real tree. “I have collected my Christmas decorations over many years keeping to a theme of gold, silver, clear glass and white – a simple classic look that complements the beauty of the tree.”
When it comes to the Christmas table, she takes a similar approach, focusing on natural elements and simple pieces.
“My table is dressed in white linen, and for decorations I use a mix of low vases with fresh foliage, Helleborus, various cones and lots of tea lights and white candles in glass or metal holders. I keep everything low for easy conversation across the table and allow all the various platters and bowls to be placed on the table without having to move the decorations. I tie a stem of eucalyptus in a ring and use it as a napkin ring adding a lovely festive scent to the table.”
Eilish Rickard, Eilish Rickard Interiors
Her approach to seasonal decorating, Eilish explains, is “more about creating an atmosphere than adhering to a specific theme. Our home transforms into a haven of ‘cosy glam’ through the twinkly lights, shiny baubles and sparkling decorative accessories I have collected over the years.”
Lighting is also an important element of her festive decor. “I make it a ritual to light up the rooms with the soft glow of candles and lanterns dotted around on gold trays. Personally curating the festive vibe, I love dressing the mantelpiece and dining table with fresh foliage and tall tapered candles.”
One of her favourite elements every year is the wreath on her front door.
“It’s more than just decor – it’s a symbol that captures the whole Christmas feeling. Seeing it all lit up as I arrive home brings me instant joy. The staircase garland and the mantlepiece garland are also among the key players in my Christmas decor ensemble. The rich, deep green hues combined with the gentle twinkle of lights infuse the entire house with a magical ambiance.”
The ritual of decorating the house involves the whole family. “It starts with a trip to pick the perfect Christmas tree with hot chocolates, and once we’re back, it’s all hands on deck. We turn the Christmas music on full blast and transform the house into a festive haven. It’s a total whirlwind, but by the end of the day, our home is brimming with festive cheer, complete with a beautifully decorated tree and we all had a hand in creating it together.”
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