Gorgeous Ideas for a Festive Table
Content editor
Nabeela Saghir
Cosy Christmas
Lean into the warmth of the season with a tablescape that feels both festive and comforting. Start with a crisp white tablecloth for a clean, wintry base, then layer in rich evergreen foliage to bring depth and a naturally cosy feel to the table.
Add soft metallic accents – think brushed gold candle holders or vintage-style napkin rings – to catch the light without overpowering the space. Decorative serving dishes in ceramic or stoneware can add to the sense of warmth and texture.
Keep each place setting inviting with elegant crockery, tactile linens, and gently patterned glassware. A small sprig of festive foliage or a velvet ribbon tied around a napkin adds a thoughtful finishing touch – understated, seasonal, and effortlessly cosy.

Festive Flourishes
For an elevated take on festive styling, embrace rich materials, tonal depth and a hint of drama. Start with a deep-toned tablecloth – think charcoal, forest green or navy – to anchor the look. Add high-shine accents like polished brass candlesticks or mirrored trays to reflect candlelight and heighten the mood.
Layer in texture for impact: velvet napkins, gloss-finished coasters and sculptural glassware bring a refined, tactile edge to the table. Place settings should feel intentional – stack fine china with bold, decorative side plates, and add gold or matte black cutlery for contrast.
Keep the centrepiece sculptural – clusters of baubles, metallic foliage or a sleek arrangement of column candles create a look that feels luxe, modern, and well-balanced.

Merry & Bright
Bring a sense of nostalgia to the table with a festive look that’s bold, characterful, and full of charm. Start with a vibrant foundation: a patterned tablecloth or block-colour runner sets the tone. Layer in classic retro pieces like geometric salt and pepper shakers to nod to the era without feeling overly themed.
Mix bright, clashing tones like cherry red, teal or mustard, balanced with crisp white or metallics. Think coloured glassware, mix-and-match crockery, and details like patterned napkins or ceramic candle holders in playful silhouettes.
For the final flourish, add a strand of colourful string lights draped along the centre or twisted around serving pieces to bring in a warm, nostalgic glow. It’s all about embracing charm, colour, and a slightly kitsch sense of fun – with a polished finish that still feels intentional.
Published 9.11.2025