We need to think of an Instagram caption, stat
The Christmas season is all about traditions, whether it’s wearing matching festive pyjamas à la the Kardashians, or swapping presents on Christmas Eve rather than the big day itself like the Royals do.
Diane Von Furstenberg shows off her work
One London tradition that we’ve grown to love is the annual unveiling of the Christmas tree at Claridge’s. The legendary hotel has been inviting distinguished guests to design its Christmas tree for nine years now, and following Karl Lagerfeld’s barnstorming upside-down creation in 2017, this year’s tree has been designed by legendary fashionista Diane Von Furstenberg.
Furstenberg has named the creation a ‘Tree of Love’ and Claridge's says it is inspired by her 'passion and strong belief in the power of love, symbolising life and nature.' The striking six-metre sculpture is coloured with a blue iridescent lustre and shimmer, while it is adorned with over 8,000 hand-painted silver leaves and glass spheres. There’s also the addition of 150 hand-blown glass hearts to add to the tree’s romantic feel.
The view from Claridge's staircase
Although it’s very pretty (and we’re sure a pose underneath it will rack up plenty of likes), the tree is more than just Insta-fodder, and is actually pretty meaningful. Significant decorations to look out for include the addition of six different silver-leafed animals, which can be found dotted around the bottom of the tree and resting in its branches. Among the animals are an owl (which represents knowledge and wisdom), a dove (which symbolises peace), and a horse (which reflects the qualities of strength and endurance).
The idea of the tree is that everything is derived from the universe and the tree winds its way upwards towards the heavens (otherwise known as the lobby’s ceiling) from its roots. A celestial backdrop and zodiac signs fully encompass the tree, as a final touch to its, ahem, roots in love and nature.
The ideal selfie spot
In her ‘Tree of Love’, Furstenberg has also included important, symbolic words that have long been part of her mantra, including ‘peace’, ‘harmony’, ‘knowledge’, ‘freedom’ and ‘wisdom’. Commenting on the tree, Furstenberg said: 'Claridge’s is my favourite hotel in the world and my home in London. I was so excited to be invited to create its legendary annual Christmas Tree. My tree is "The Tree of Love", celebrating all aspects of love and life.'
You can nab a selfie under the tree by paying a visit to the lobby at Claridge’s throughout the festive season…time to start thinking up those captions.