The star of the show?

Typically viewed as one of the more traditional symbols of Christmas, the star is now so much more than just a tree topper. Simplistic and sleek, or rattan and sturdy; flashing or static, the star is a Christmas décor essential that is guaranteed to nova go out of style.

Whether you opt for an icy white or burst of colour, you can find plenty of inspiration in our style guide. Here, you will find our latest products, stylish statement pieces, and useful hints and tips courtesy of Caroline over at @HomeSweetBabe on Instagram. So, sit back, get cosy and soak up all things festive.

Christmas Lights and the Celebration of Christmas

Although of course Christmas began as a religious celebration, today, celebrations take on many different forms, across more than 160 countries worldwide and by billions of people. Some traditions we still carry out today, such as putting up Christmas lights and decorations, were originally based around the nativity, but more recent practices are often more secular. Red, gold and green are still the most common colours at Christmas, and these do have religious significance however. It’s hard to imagine a Christmas, as we know it today, without wreaths and garlands, twinkling fairy lights and depictions of Santa, snowmen and reindeer. Lights have moved from the living room, throughout the house, and are increasingly used outdoors, along with various other decorations. There is some uncertainty about the precise date and origin of the use of Christmas trees in the home, but the first recorded use was that of fir trees decorated with apples in Strasbourg in 1605. The first recoded use of candles on trees was by a Silesian Duchess in 1611 and, of course, it’s from this tradition that the practice of decorating our Christmas trees with fairy lights began. Since the 19th century, Christmas trees in the home became commonplace and it’s now rare to find a home without one.