When it comes to celebrity Christmas celebrations, one might envision immaculate tablescapes and Michelin-star-worthy meals. The reality, as showcased on social media, is a fascinating mix of the opulently curated and the charmingly chaotic. This year, two leading design experts were enlisted to deliver their professional verdicts on the most talked-about festive tables from the world of showbiz.
The Expert Panel's Verdict
Ryan Wenham, founder of Liverpool-based Larsen Architecture, and Jordana Ashkenazi, Founder and Design Director of Element One House, scrutinised every detail. Their mission was clear: to separate the stylish from the tacky, examining everything from centrepieces and cutlery to the all-important Christmas crackers.
The Standout Showstoppers
Former TOWIE star Lydia Bright earned the highest praise. Her green and gold colour scheme, complete with personalised place mats, was declared a designer's dream. "It’s extravagant, coordinated and completely photo-ready," said Ryan Wenham, who crowned it a definitive 'showstopper'.
Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards also scored highly for her classic approach. Her ruby red accessories popped against a beige tablecloth, with yellow plates adding a bright touch. Ryan praised her loaded dinner plate as "pure Christmas joy," noting the nostalgic feel of the vintage-style gravy boat.
Meanwhile, Stacey Dooley took a minimalist route. Her table featured little more than candles and a bowl of clementines, but the sweet family moment captured in her photo won over the critics. Ryan described it as "understated chic."
The Maximalist & The Traditional
True to his flamboyant reputation, TV designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen assembled a maximalist masterpiece. A centrepiece of red berries, poinsettias, lilies, and miniature trees created what Jordana called a "dramatic, indulgent and unapologetically theatrical" scene. The verdict was simple: Opulent.
Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden also embraced drama with a black-and-gold theme, featuring a towering glitter swan ornament. While Jordana acknowledged it was "carefully styled and visually striking," she found the amount of gold overwhelming, tipping the table from chic into excess.
Broadcaster Ruth Langsford played it safe with a traditional red-and-white setup. The experts found it "predictable but classic" – a tidy, Christmassy table that felt practical rather than inspired.
Where Festive Spirit Overruled Finesse
For some celebrities, the joy of hosting and the food itself were the clear priorities. Sophie Kasaei shared images of a warm, packed table for a large family gathering, complete with a printed Christmas Day menu. "The priority here is enjoying the food, not fussing over perfect plating," noted Ryan, giving it a warm and comforting verdict.
Similarly, former TOWIE star Chloe Sims focused on a festive feast that made Ryan declare, "I literally want to put my face in this." The delicious-looking dinner of pigs in blankets, Yorkshire puddings and turkey was deemed the true star of her show.
The Festive Faux Pas
Not every table passed muster. TV personality Lizzie Cundy's attempt, featuring Santa napkins and snowflake placemats, was criticised for being visually cluttered and lacking a cohesive focal point. Jordana's verdict was blunt: Chaotic.
The most divided opinion was reserved for Fearne Cotton's spread. While Ryan applauded her "brilliant first solo Christmas roast," Jordana was less impressed. She felt the mismatched plates and lack of decor made it look "more like a hurried Sunday roast," ultimately branding it drab.
The analysis proves that when it comes to the perfect Christmas table, there is no single formula. For every meticulously styled, camera-ready spectacle, there is a joyfully chaotic family gathering where the food and company truly take centre stage.
