There’s no time quite like Christmas for gathering loved ones, lighting candles, and filling your home with sparkle. Whether you’re planning an elegant dinner or a relaxed family gathering, being the perfect host is all about balance — comfort, style and that touch of festive magic. Here’s your complete guide to what to wear, what to cook, and how to decorate this Christmas — Lily and Lionel style.
✨ What to Wear: Festive Looks for Every Host
As the host, your outfit sets the tone for the day — you want to look put together yet effortless, ready to serve, celebrate, and sparkle all at once.
For a statement moment:
The Nola Sequin Dress in Green is a show-stopper. Its rich emerald hue captures the season perfectly, while delicate sequins shimmer under twinkling fairy lights. Pair with gold jewellery and simple heels for an instant party-ready look. This is the dress that says Christmas without even trying.
For timeless elegance:
The Selma Lace Insert Maxi Dress in Navy offers a softer, romantic take on festive dressing. With its lace detailing and fluid silhouette, it’s made for candlelit dinners and long evenings with loved ones. Add pearl earrings and a soft up-do for that classic, graceful finish.
For a modern edge:
Prefer separates? Try the Valerie Trouser in Black — a flattering, wide-leg silhouette that drapes beautifully — teamed with the Chiva Top in Black. Together, they create a polished yet relaxed look, perfect for a Christmas Eve drinks party or New Year’s gathering. Finish with a bold lip and statement earrings to elevate the look with minimal effort.
Style tip: Hosting often means being on your feet — choose elegant flats or low block heels so you can cook, greet guests and dance the night away comfortably.
🍴 What to Cook: Comfort with a Twist
Your Christmas menu should feel generous, comforting and just a little indulgent. Start with elegant but easy-to-prepare canapés — like baked camembert with cranberry relish or honeyed nuts with rosemary. For the main event, balance the classics with something unexpected:
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Traditional roast turkey with chestnut stuffing for the purists.
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Herb-crusted salmon for a lighter, modern option.
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Vegetarian wellington bursting with mushrooms and spinach for a crowd-pleasing centrepiece.
And to finish, swap the heavy Christmas pudding for a clementine pavlova or rich chocolate yule log — both make a beautiful table centrepiece and leave guests wanting seconds.
Pair it all with spiced mulled wine or prosecco infused with pomegranate seeds for a festive flourish.
🕯️ How to Decorate: Warm, Welcoming & a Little Sparkly
Your home deserves to shine as much as you do. When decorating for Christmas, layer texture, light and natural elements to create a cosy, elegant atmosphere.
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Lighting: Combine soft fairy lights with glowing candles — they’ll flatter every outfit and make your dining table shimmer.
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Table styling: Keep your table neutral with linen napkins and add warmth through gold cutlery, vintage glassware and evergreen sprigs. A touch of eucalyptus or dried orange adds that modern, organic edge.
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Florals: Move beyond traditional red and green — think white roses, eucalyptus and winter berries for a refined, fresh look that lasts beyond the big day.
Add handwritten place cards or small gifts for guests at each setting — it’s these personal touches that make your Christmas hosting unforgettable.
🎁 The Final Touch
Hosting Christmas is about more than perfect décor or recipes — it’s about creating memories. From the shimmer of the Nola Sequin Dress to the relaxed elegance of the Chiva Top and Valerie Trouser set, Lily and Lionel pieces are designed to make you feel as good as your home looks.
This festive season, celebrate in style — with beautiful outfits, warm food and even warmer company. Because the best Christmases aren’t perfect — they’re perfectly yours.
