Christmas chic preparing the house

Christmas 2021

Whilst wishing to be positive after last year’s restrictions, it now looks like this year’s celebrations will also be some what muted. Does this really matter?.
No, because like everything else in life, you do your best, carry on and enjoy every moment of the holidays.

New Tradition.
I have always adored the smell and beauty that a fruit bearing, cinnamon and fresh holly wreath can bring to a door. After watching YouTube videos on preparing, creating and building a wreath I set off to Holland Park with the dog.

My first homemade wreath. Why its taken me 55 years to attempt I have no idea but I am already looking forward to preparing next years.

The tree.

Shopping.

Its a tradition which begins with a visit to local outside seller. This year an eight foot spruce, narrow with lots of top branches. Essential for all 187 baubles.

Lets go.

A ladder at the ready, the blank canvas will eventually take on 6 sets of lights. Traditionally I like to play Sinatra or Elvis Christmas songs when decorating ..with a glass of bubbles.

Favourite ornaments.

Its a tradition to buy a new decoration every year. The baubles I purchased in New York over the years are my favourites. The Paddington bears are reminders of my childhood and the Harrods ornaments hold memories of the 7 years I worked in the store.

2021 Reflections.

The Beatles were a huge part of my life. I have met Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and Yoko Ono. Growing up I spent hours locked away spellbound by their music together and future solo projects. If you follow me on Instagram you will already be aware of my visit to Abbey Road and excitement around the new Let it be album and Get Back film.

Beatles memories

From Abbey Road a reflection of years waiting around outside. The Yellow submarine a whimisical reminder of innocence, adolesence and childhood.

Faberge baubles.
I have been a member of London’s V&A museum for many years. In November a new landmark show opened celebrating the tale of Faberge’s cherished trinkets and amazing eggs. These two tree decorations will in future years allow me to reflect on the joy and beauty all around us. Covid is here but there is also history, art and a future.

Time to relax.

The shopping is finished and the cards are posted. Omicron dominates the news, both my local high streets have 5-hour waits for booster jabs. I close my eyes and remember Christmases past before viruses when the biggest concern was finding the nut roast. Below are two pictures from a Christmas lunch …we are in dark times but we all have the ability to sparkle. The way we dress or present ourselves has never been more important.

2022 Fasten your seatbelts.

On a personal note I would like to thank everyone who has read my blogs or visited my website. One year on from launching Chic50style, it has been a journey of discovery, a rollercoaster ride for those of you that hung on through the ups and downs I am extremely grateful.