Galliano's Christmas

While browsing through Vogue online I couldn't help but to stop and stare at the pictures and the video of the installation of John Galliano's amazing X-mas tree at Claridge's.

                                                     Galliano's sketch of his Christmas tree design.

JOHN GALLIANO is returning to Claridge's as he designs the hotel's Christmas tree for the second year running. Having been inspired by the ocean, Galliano's 2010 Under the Sea festive creation is made of sparkling silver leaves, pink coral, sea horses, fish anemones, starfish and jellyfish.

"The majestic beauty of Claridge's Art Deco interiors never fails to inspire me. I am thrilled to be invited to create a new tree for Christmas at Claridge's," says Galliano of the collaboration. "I wanted to create an underwater fantasy and have mixed pink corals, seahorses, anemones and jellyfish, all glinting like gem stones, swimming amidst the silver leaves. I hope we create something as sumptuous as its setting and this inspires a truly luxurious escape and a very festive season at Claridge's."

"Following Galliano's spectacular tree last year, we simply could not resist to see the new design which will keep London talking throughout the season," Thomas Kochs, Claridge's hotel manager tells us. "Both Claridge's and Dior are synonymous with timeless glamour and impeccable heritage and we look forward to celebrating the festive season together."     By Ella Alexander

                                 John Galliano's Dior Christmas tree in the foyer of Claridge's 
                                                                    © Rex Features

An elegant white creation that stemmed from the base of the hotel's sweeping foyer staircase, stalked by icy blue leopards along the way, the tree was shown off in all its festive glory to a fashion crowd.

Once you've done all the shopping why not experience the delicious and sophisticated Claridge's Festive Afternoon Tea. 

                                Claridge's Festive Afternoon Tea. Photographed by Paul Raeside

Comprising a selection of sandwiches (including Scottish oak smoked salmon on sour dough bread, organic egg mayonnaise and, organic cucumber and rocket with cream cheese on onion bread), apple and raisin scones with clotted cream and Marco Polo jelly and French pastries, add to the mix Christmas cake and stollen cake, not to mention a glass of Champagne. Yummy, yummy!

Visit www.claridges.co.uk for further information.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!