Cool modern magic

Upside down trees: you'll either love them or hate them

© John Lewis

Don't sacrifice style this Christmas. Swathe your home in crisp silver and white. Here's how.

1. Choosing your tree

'I choose a real blue spruce tree because it holds its needles, smells Christmassy and its full branches can take the weight of all those baubles,' says interior design expert Andrea Maflin. But, if you can't get hold of the real deal or want something you can bring out year after year, there are some fun faux alternatives like this reversible upside down Christmas tree (£75) from John Lewis. Upside down trees are like marmite – you either love them or hate them – so expect it to be a source of debate. Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below. Whatever you choose, simple colour themes for decorations, like silver and white, create a fresh, modern look.

Sequined Ball Wreath Silver/Gold
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2. Jewels for the tree

Glass baubles add subtle glamour to a tree and glimmer as they catch the light. Evoke crisp winter days with these mercury glass baubles (£10 for set of four) from Lombok. Their sparkling surfaces make them look like little droplets of ice.
Set of 3 Bevelled Mirrored Stars
£115
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3. Deck the halls

Don't neglect the entrance of your home. ‘It's the first place that you will receive your guests so it should make a bold statement,’ Andrea insists. Set the glamour factor by hanging a shining silver or white wreath on the door, like this sequined ball wreath (£70) from Heal’s. 'In the hall, hang bunches of foliage tied with satin ribbon to mirrors or pictures for a festive welcome'.
Mini Baubles Set
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4. Reflective surfaces

Use scintillating silver to heighten the festive mood of your rooms – any object with a shiny surface will reflect colours and candlelight to spectacular effect. For maximum wow factor, place these bevelled mirrored stars (£89) from Graham & Green next to a cluster of candles. They’ll give off a deeply atmospheric glow.
Snowdrop garland
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5. Pots of fun

For eye–catching decorations on a budget, fill large glass or silver vases with mixed baubles. Opt for chic rather than gaudy, with a combination of glass, silver and white balls. ‘Add some fairy lights in too to give it that extra Christmassy effect’, advises interior designer Ben Huckerby. Fill a glass bowl with this mercurised mini baubles set (£6) from notonthehighstreet.com..
Noel Letter Silver
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6. Dazzle when dining

‘Create a strong centre piece in your dining room with a long garland or a wreath adorned with fresh or artificial flowers,’ suggests Andrea Maflin. For an effortlessly elegant table display, wind this snowdrop and mistletoe garland (£26) from Bloom around silver candlesticks.