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03 Dec 20

A colour lover’s Christmas gift guide

AlunCallenderPhoto SophieRobinson 001 0295

 

It’s here! My Christmas round-up of gift ideas for fellow colours lovers. Finding the perfect gift for those of us who are of a maximalist spirit is pure joy. Bring on all the colour, all the pattern and all the gorgeousness.

This is also the first year that I have a gift idea offering! You can buy my online course ‘Bold Brave and Beautiful‘ interiors for a loved one and I’ll post out a gift box of goodies to them, including the online gift voucher and a handwritten note from me. The gift box includes my limited edition sketchbook as well as other goodies all adding up to a value of £50, all beautifully wrapped in this leopard print gift wrap by Petra Boase. You can purchase the gift box here.

Year on year I think we are all trying to be more mindful about how we shop and I think this year, in particular, has sharpened our focus on how we spend our money. Our high street stores and independent retailers, artists and designers have had their plans dashed by the lockdown. All the Christmas fairs cancelled and here in the UK, we continue to see some our most loved and established high street stores buckle under the strain of having their doors closed. But thank goodness for the postal service!

In this round-up, I include a mixture of gift ideas across the shopping spectrum, from favourite high street stores, online retailers to small brands and craftspeople. Sustainability is a mission that must be championed and I’m pleased to report that many retailers are using biodegradable (ie not plastic) packaging which in this online shopping age is as important as the objects themselves. But there is still work to be done and we should continue to apply pressure for businesses to do better.

But on with the colour joy, this my lovely readers is my round-up of gift ideas for the colour lover in your life. Unleash a little rainbow love under your tree this year.

1. The follow up to Conscious Creativity this workbook is perfect for those with a love of creativity or for those looking to unlock it. I adore Philipa’s talent for unbridled inspiration, Conscious Creativity, The work book: Experiment, explore, create £12.99, 5ftinf |

2.  Oh you know how I love an oversized earring, and these bejewelled beauties are sure to dazzle (and spot the ombre effect on some of the stones- nice!), Rainbow rhinestone hanging earrings, £35, & Other Stories |

3. Two things to love here. Super soft retro velour for some luxey lounging. And rainbow detailing!  Velour sweatshirt, dress blue, £60, St Bert’s |

4. We all need a little mood boost this time of year, and I turn to scent when I want to switch the vibe. With proven therapeutic qualities known to relieve stress, improve sleep, energize, balance or calm the mind, essential oils aim to contribute to an overall improvement to your well-being and I’m here for that!  Essential oils gift set, £35, FYG |

5. Who could resist that fabulous fringe! How to instantly up-level your interior with one fabulous lampshade, Grey Tiger Chinoiserie Crown Shade, £245, Abigail Hardie Home |

6. If, like me, you can never have too many notebooks, Emilio Braga has been producing these beautiful ones since 1918. They are still produced in the same handmade way, sewn and glued using techniques over 100 years old. I adore how the paper edges are sponged with a contrast colour to give a wonderful dappled effect. Emilio Braga A5 notebook, £19.50 each, Petra Boase |

7. I was overjoyed to see one of my favourite designers launch his online shop last month. A treasure trove for the magpie eye! This playful bud vase looks great with your favourite blooms or as a standalone piece, Little glass vase, £85, Matthew Williamson |

8. My husband is obsessed with his wireless speaker he takes it everywhere with him, either doing stuff in the garden or DIY. Now I can get in on the portable disco fun with this rainbow design, Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Bluetooth Waterproof Portable Speaker, in Unicorn, £99, John Lewis |

9. The Colour File has been one of my long time favourite colour loving Instagram accounts and now Martha has bought her collage work into the real world! For all your rainbow chasers out there, check out her selection of art prints and cards, A3 Art print £35, The Colour File10. As a stylist, I love a cake stand. Not just for confections its a wonderful prop for styling fruit, nuts and ornaments at this time of year and adding some height to your tablescape. So I just have to have this rainbow one to my collection.  Phoebe cake stand, £42, Anthropologie |

11. Skye McAlpine is not only a wonderful host and cook, but she’s also a fabulous colour lover to boot. Her latest book is a must for the budding entertainer, and the photography and styling is mouthwatering too, A Table for Friends: The Art of Cooking for Two or Twenty, £15.98, Amazon |

12. Can you have too many oversized rainbow-themed earrings?! Quite. I’d love to see these slipped into my stocking this year, Prism Bar & Circle Gem Inlay Statement Drop Earrings, £24 Oliver Bonas 

13.  Toiletries make a fabulous gift and I declare that soap is making a come back as it cuts back on plastic packaging and is has a wonderful retro vibe too. I love this set by one of my favourite designer makers, Purse and soap set, £18.80, Molly Mahon |

14. One thing I love to do at Christmas is make up little hampers for people as gifts. This would make the most marvellous receptacle and jolly useful too, Bolga storage basket Peppy, £35, Lola & Mawu |

15. It wouldn’t be Christmas without the moody glow of candlelight and these would make a stunning centrepiece, Two-Tone Javelin candles, £17.50 set 3, Sunshine & Snow |

16. The classic chocolate gift, I would love to see these stuffed in a stocking or added to a hamper. Its the packaging that caught my eye but Pump Street imports it’s beans direct from co-operatives and family-run farms and uses non-plastic compostable packaging so that almost makes it guilt-free right! Mini bars, selection of 6, £14.40, Pump Street Chocolate |

17. The best things come in little packages but sometimes the little package is the best bit!  Small wooden lacquer rainbow box, £110, Matilda Goad |

18. Fashion brand Kemi Telford is always on my wish list but delighted to see the riot of pattern and colour rolled out into these cute hair accessories. And an ingenious way to reduce fashion waste too! Remnant hair bows, £19.99 set 4, Kemi Telford

19. These exquisite glasses are so much more than just for drinks. I use mine as candle votive holders and mini vases too. I can guarantee they spark joy! Set of 6 Peony glasses, £89, Graham & Green |

20. This book is as likeable, relatable and as stylish as the author herself. Erica is my go-to gal for fashion advise because she keeps it real while also giving you the confidence to break the rules in order to carve out your own unabashed sense of style. Leopard is a Neutral: A Really Useful Style Guide by Erica Davies, £11.97, Amazon 

21. If having your daily cuppa is one of life’s most treasured rituals, then you might as well do it in colourful style, Mugs, £12 each, British Colour Standard |

22. Repeat after me ” I want all the patterns and all the colours, all at the same time!” Who knew you could apply this design rule to one piece of clothing but Wee Beauties have! , Lambswool knitted scarf, £58, Wee Beauties |

23. A fabulous pair of pyjamas has to be one of life’s lushest luxuries. I wouldn’t mind Santa catching me out in these, Bocas Print Lilac long pyjamas, £150, Desmond & Dempsey |

24. If you like your gifts to be useful as well as beautiful, and let’s throw sustainable in there too then I think I’ve found the perfect combination. Gomi innovate products made from plastic trash that would otherwise end up in landfills or the oceans. And it looks super cool too, Portable charger, £69, Gomi |

25. I admit, I can’t knit, but with people taking up new crafts a pace I might be tempted by this beautiful idea. A kit with just enough yarn to make your own pair of colourful woolly socks.  Mimo Mash-Up Sock Kit, £20, The Mimo Yarn Co. |

26. Ooh I do love a good cushion and my home can never have enough. But if I was to treat my home this Christmas, I’d make it something really special, super-sized, super soft and velvety and in my go-to favourite colours. Sapphire Marbled Velvet Large Square Cushion, £185, Susi Bellamy.

Please note: All prices correct at the time of posting 03/12/20.

Featured photography by Alun Callendar

 

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Forget the turkey, I’m all about the table!! It re Forget the turkey, I’m all about the table!! It really is the central spectacle of Christmas day for me and where everything comes alive, as I go all out on colour and pattern with full permission that more is more this time of year.

I love to create a real sense of occasion and for me, it is not just about formal place settings, more about making everyone feel special and welcome. Some people show their love through food, but I do it through my tablescapes. I want everyone to feel that excitement as they sit down, surrounded by candlelight, rich colour, beautiful flowers and thoughtful touches. So while others perfect their roast potatoes, I will be perfecting my place settings and hoping all that effort will distract everyone from my lack of culinary flair.

Tell me, how do you show your love at Christmas?
Five unforgettable days hosting my interior design Five unforgettable days hosting my interior design retreat with the legendary @elfennmarrakech  and my heart feels wide open. What an incredible experience to gather with such inspiring, like-minded women, all hungry to learn, create and connect, while we explored how to design homes that tell our stories, lift our spirits and spark joy every single day. Watching everyone’s confidence and creativity blossom was pure magic.
And Marrakech… it never stops surprising me. Every visit brings new treasures to discover, from hidden restaurants to gorgeous boutiques and brilliant local designers. I’ve come home recharged, inspired and brimming with ideas.
If you’re feeling the pull to join me next time, comment RETREAT and I’ll DM you the link to our January dates. I couldn’t think of a better way to kickstart the new year!

Thanks @jothornephotography  for capturing the magic 📷
AD Introducing my very first home fragrance collec AD Introducing my very first home fragrance collection for @dunelmuk, and I couldn’t be prouder. 😊 I’ve poured my heart into creating three distinctive scents that each evoke a different mood: ‘Retreat’, ‘Joy’ and ‘Wanderlust’. Because the perfect scent really is the final flourish that makes a room feel special.

Beautifully packaged, they make gorgeous gifts too. Candles are just £12, reed diffusers £18, so whether you’re creating a feeling of calm, sparking happiness or chasing adventure, there’s a scent to suit your space.

Which one would you choose first?
There was a time when I thought the big milestones There was a time when I thought the big milestones in life were meant to come in neat little packages. Rings, romance, the whole shebang. Life had other plans, and honestly, I am quite glad it did.

Because what I kept, what I built, and what I still wake up grateful for every day is my beautiful colourful home. This house has seen me through the joy and the heartbreak. It has held me, inspired me, pushed me to be braver with my creative ambitions and clearer about what truly lights me up. It is my safe place, my creative lab, my technicolour sanctuary.

So yes, some women want diamonds. I want a home that feels like pure joy.

If you feel the same, you are absolutely in the right place.

Tell me… what’s the one thing in your home that makes you feel most like yourself?
AD There’s no better time than Christmas to go all AD There’s no better time than Christmas to go all out with colour and creativity. When I lay the table, I see it as a chance to build layers of joyful, jewel-like colour that make everything come alive. In true maximalist spirit, I clash pattern and contrast tones so the table feels like a real celebratory riot.

Texture plays its part too – glistening glassware, beaded runners and flickering candlelight all add that touch of magic. I adored creating this collection for Dunelm, which perfectly captures my “more is more” philosophy. Because if there’s ever a time to embrace abundance, it’s Christmas!

So layer up the colour, the pattern, the flowers and let the candlelight do its thing. Who else is excited for Christmas?

Enchanted Garden dinner plates and pasta bowls, £8. Enchanted Garden side plates £6. Enchanted Garden serving platter, £25. Pack of 2 scalloped placemats, £12. Midnight Garden tablecloth, from £35. Wine goblet, £10. Tumbler, £8. Twisted candlestick holder, £8. All Sophie Robinson x Dunelm.
November Roundup. As winter gently settles in, her November Roundup. As winter gently settles in, heres what i’ve been up to lately.

1. Brighton seafront colour spotting.
	2.	A visit to Voysey House to see the team at @harlequin_fw.
	3.	So excited to be creating fresh brilliance with the @harlequinfw creative team Claire Vallis and @floraisabelledaly 
	4.	The Beaver full supermoon lighting up the sky spectacularly. 
	5.	I made a pact to see at least one live gig or theatre show each month. @ejthackray is a phenomenal act.
	6.	My other pact: to wake early, walk, and watch the sunrise instead of scrolling in bed. The rewards have been glorious.
	7.	A festive dash to my local @dunelmuk to stock up on Christmas decorations before they sell out. 😬
	8.	My heart spills over seeing my glorious tableware collection stocked on the shelves. I can’t wait to style it all up for Christmas.
	9.	Welcoming guests into my home for the final At Home design retreat of the year. Beautiful connections made while discovering the magic of creating a beautiful heart felt home.
	10.	A new restorative yoga class in this gorgeous barn with the wonderful @theacupuncturist .
	11.	@theacupuncturist always curates such a nurturing inspiring space as we shift into the season of rest.
	12.	The family tradition of picking our Christmas tree, a little earlier than usual this year.
	13.	Another amazing night out, dancing to @brandnewheavies with my partner in groove @shelleymariathasanholland 
	14.	Shooting Christmas at home means beautiful chaos reigns.
	15.	Fresh hair and a little sparkle thanks to new earrings from @loelandco 
	16.	Packing for something very exciting… my Interior Design Retreat at @elfennmarrakech 
	17.	A magical evening at @wakehurst_kew for Glow Wild with Mum and Arthur.
	18.	The light show was utterly spectacular this year, we all loved it!
	19.	Arrived in @elfennmarrakech  unpacked and excited to welcome our Retreat guests for a week of creativity, colour and mouthwatering design inspiration. ❤️ 
20. Sunday night Moroccan style. Lamb tagine in front of the fire. Feeling blessed 🙏
AD Decorating the tree has always been steeped in AD Decorating the tree has always been steeped in nostalgia for me. As a little girl it was the highlight of the season, helping my mum unwrap the decorations we’d made and hanging them with great care. These days I honour that same tradition with Arthur, who still insists on choosing the tree and always gets stuck in helping me decorate.

I bring out my old decorations like old friends every year, adding just a few new ones from my Christmas collection with @dunelmuk to give it a fresh look.

Here are my tried-and-true tree styling tips:
1. Always a real tree for me. Nothing beats that pine scent filling the house.
2. Warm white lights only. I actually fancied multi coloured this year but Arthur put his foot down!
3. Tinsel for sparkle. Nestle it deep into the branches so it catches the light and shimmers in the back ground.
4. I’ve used haberdashery trims as garlands this year. They add such pretty texture and something unexpected.
5. Go big with bows. A few oversized decorations add instant drama.
6. Mix in sentimental pieces collected over the years. I treasure my grandmother’s vintage glass baubles and Arthur’s early nursery school creations.
7. Finish with giant paper decorations tucked under the lower branches to fill the gap before the presents arrive.

And there she is… full of colour, sparkle and nostalgia. Just how Christmas should feel.
AD Some people want diamonds… I just want colourfu AD Some people want diamonds… I just want colourful gifts under the tree!

My top Christmas picks from my @dunelmuk collection, full of joy, colour and festive cheer. The kind of presents that make you grin before you’ve even opened them. Available in store and online but selling like hot cakes! Let me know if Santa will be popping any these under your tree this Christmas! 

Ban the beige Mugs £8, Wine glasses £10, Resin coasters £14, Twisted candlesticks £8, Six Dining candles £10, Cake stand £22, Notebooks from £5, Snug as a bug cushion £22, Joy Scented Candle £11, all Dunelm x Sophie Robinson 

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