Twinkle in the Dark

Here's some last minute Christmas inspiration and styling advice. Instead of feeling beaten down by the longest nights ever, I decided to use it to my advantage. After all, black reads opulence, sophistication and mystique. Also, the way green foliage stands out on black background... Pure perfection. Now for the advice:

1. Be bold with the foliage. Exaggerate. The bigger, the better. Create a forest inside your home. Mix moss, eucalyptus, pine, cypress, ivy, pussy willow, fern... Whether you're creating a centrepiece for the mantel, dinner table or the window, make it lush and enjoy the ambiance. The divine scent is a bonus.

2. Think about layers and textures if you're keen on mastering the Art of Cosiness. Sheepskin (or faux fur) throws, woolen/knitted blankets, velvet cushions and linen tablecloths in neutral hues will evoke a sense of calm.

3. Regarding fairy lights, use only warm white. (Those tiny, clustered ones look particularly magical.) I mean, do whatever you prefer, but if classy Christmas is what you're going for, avoid using more than one colour. Plus, the warm white lights will match the candelight. And you NEED to have a lot of different-sized (non-toxic) candles for what is a winter night without that comforting, flickering flame!