This time of year brings me joy, but it definitely has to be on my own terms. The level of glitter, jingle and boundless cheer each of us needs to feel festive is completely subjective. And, call me stubborn, but I don’t like having seasonal timings dictated to me, so it’s no wonder that when chocolate Santas start to appear on the supermarket shelves in mid-August, my blood pressure skyrockets.
Due to the vagaries of the publishing industry, this, our special festive issue, lands a few days before the start of November, and so as not to send you all into a similar existential spiral caused by premature Xmasification, we’re keeping the Christmas crazy to a rather light touch this year.
That said, it still includes plenty of gift ideas – from stocking fillers at varying price points to the most luxe pieces for those who really deserve a treat (even if that is just you). Plus, dedicated minimalist Kristina Dam reveals how she uses decorations in an understated way at home.
What's everyone reading?
As this is a double issue, it spans the entire party season, from Thanksgiving, if you celebrate that, right through to pre-Christmas cocktails, the big day and its aftermath, and ringing in the New Year. As such, we wanted to focus on all things entertaining and hosting the best events ever. We’ve snappily titled it our ‘How to wow’ special, and that’s what it will help you to do, with stylish aplomb, thanks to invaluable advice from the hippest arbiters of hot-ticket events, got-to-get-into venues and those who know what’s what when it comes to the chicest collectible tableware.
We’re also not short on sparkle, thanks to our annual section dedicated to lighting, including the latest innovations, desirable drops of new products and some of our favourite interior designers reveal the illuminating icons they go back to again and again.
Homes, as ever, are the backbone of the magazine, and this issue sees spaces speaking to the season, such as an ultimate party pad and an alpine chalet transferred to the mountains of Australia, then there’s a moody rethink of an Irish farmhouse and abodes filled with colour and charm in London and Milan. While the selection is varied as ever, as well as being truly individual, they all share a real sense of sanctuary.
Perhaps more than any other time of the year, and this year more than before, our homes need to work as havens from the turmoil on our doorstep and further afield. Wherever you find yourself sheltering as 2024 comes to a close, I hope where you are and who you’re with brings you joy and peace. See you all in ’25!
