Less is more this Christmas
SUBTLE: PASTELS ABOUND WITH OVERINDULGENCE OUT – THE ACCENT IS ON QUALITY
‘Old-world glamour’ with elegant whites enlivened with silver or hints of gold.
Blushing pinks and subdued hues perfectly accent fresh flowers and greenery that will adorn rooms and table settings this festive season. Moving away from the excesses that have come to dominate Christmas, this year will see a more toned-down approach with emphasis placed on enjoyment with family and friends.
Anita Bloom, creative director of the lifestyle, design and retail portfolio for Decorex SA, said this year’s trends encouraged interaction and use of the outdoors, rather than introspection.
“The South African Christmas is about getting outside and enjoying the summer sun. Rather than overindulging, the trend is to make the most of everything, putting meaning into individual pieces.”
Taking a cue from the natural world, the colour experts at Kansai Plascon have identified paint trends for the festive season that are inspired by soft, natural shades. Cool colours like Mellow Blue are used with classic blush tones such as Shy Pink, as well as with pinks displaying a more lilac undertone, such as Sea Oyster. These are all grounded by striking, bold greens such as Caribbean Current and accented by rich yellows along the lines of Glorious Gold.
Specialists in SAdécor, @home, have also incorporated the emphasis on a simpler, quality narrative for Christmas and translated it into a local context.
“This year, Christmas is about celebrating together in deconstructed luxe or modern grandeur,” said Renee New, head of marketing and commercial for @ home. “The philosophy is to buy less, but buy better and create longevity with sophisticated heirlooms and memories that can be passed on.”
New suggests bringing in some “old-world glamour” with elegant whites and neutrals enlivened with oxidized silver or hints of gold. The inclusion of specially curated cutlery and crockery sets can really bring the table to life, while natural table linens complement a beautifully simple and natural wreath on the door. Greenery adds texture, as do a few delicate tea lights. This is all perfectly suited to the alfresco dining experience which is ideal for a sunny South African celebration.”
Decorex SA, have interpreted the global influences into a uniquely South African setting, outlining some of the best 2017 Christmas trends that will help you celebrate your #rhythmoflife.
“Mix the blushes with different shades of pink and white with soft touches of metal and glass,” said Bloom. “Bringing in candles with their soft light also creates a beautifully cosy atmosphere.”
This same treatment of pink is being seen with paint trends too. The Kansai Plascon Colour Team recommends combining a shade like Pink Marshmallow with a few rose gold accessories to pick up the blush undertones.
This fresh and natural trend will breathe new life into your Christmas this year as flowers and green leaves weave their way into the décor. Take a trip to the local flower market for a kaleidoscopic selection or just bring the outdoors indoors by taking fresh foliage from your garden to enliven the Christmas tables. Scatter cushions in the garden is a colourful way to bring the indoors outdoors.