If you're planning a festive gathering this Christmas or New Year, you might find the perfect inspiration in an unlikely style icon: the Duchess of Sussex. Meghan Markle's impeccably curated tablescape, featured in her recent 'As Ever' Christmas special, offers a masterclass in understated holiday elegance.
The Duchess's Signature Festive Aesthetic
True to Meghan's renowned pristine taste, the displayed table focuses on a palette of crisp white linens, accented with subtle gilded details, polished silver serving pieces, and minimalist white floral arrangements. The overall effect is one of sophisticated calm, perfectly balancing festive cheer with refined style. This look moves away from traditional, bold Christmas colours towards a more natural and timeless seasonal aesthetic.
How to Achieve the Look for Less
The good news for style-savvy hosts is that recreating this royal-adjacent look is surprisingly accessible. High street favourite John Lewis stocks almost every element needed to emulate the Duchess's tablescape, and at refreshingly reasonable prices. Key pieces that capture the essence of the style include a set of three cheese knives with distinctive copper handles and a pair of beautiful crystal champagne coupe glasses that belie their affordable price tag.
Scallop-edged cotton napkins, paired with pinecone napkin rings, expertly walk the line between polished elegance and the natural, organic feel Meghan often favours. For a final touch of quiet luxury, a hammered stainless steel ice bucket and a heart-shaped marble cheese board complete the setting.
Finishing Touches for Ambience and Safety
To perfect the display and create a warm, inviting glow, consider flameless LED candles from brands like Lights4Fun. Opt for styles with copper or foliage finishes to complement the natural theme. These provide ambient lighting and offer a practical, flame-free alternative, ideal for busy gatherings where safety is a priority. This allows the host to enjoy the party without constant vigilance.
The curated selection from John Lewis demonstrates that achieving a high-end, magazine-worthy festive table doesn't require a royal budget. With a focus on simple, quality pieces in a cohesive colour scheme, anyone can host with Duchess-level sophistication this holiday season.
