three easy ways to go glam for the holidays

three easy ways to go glam for the holidays - and year round

One of the fabulous things about my job is being surrounded by great design minds. With the seasonal whirlwind of decorating and entertaining swiftly upon us, I tapped west elm’s creative director of design – who is also an exceptional entertainer - Alex Bates to share her expertise and show us how to create a modern and chic mood flawlessly and easily without breaking the bank! I hope you love these as much as I do. ~@

three easy ways to go glam for the holidays - and year round

- Alex Bates, Creative Director west elm design

There are lots of ways to make your home festive and fabulous for the holidays, and reflect your personal style. This season is all about glam and metallic accents. Just like your favorite patent wedge makes every outfit feel chic, there are a few little things that will make a big difference in your home this holiday season. You don’t have to be overwhelmed and you don’t have to spend a fortune. These simple ideas will help set the stage for a stylish holiday and create a look with staying power that will last into the New Year.

Mix up glam and nature

You and your home should shine this holiday season. A small detail can make a big impression with minimal effort. Gold or silver banded glasses are an easy way to add drama when setting the table or when setting the mood for a chic cocktail party. Simple lines can mix and match with holiday patterns or you can create a whole metallic table for a more dramatic statement. In the living room, add a mirrored coffee table. It will soften the room and the table adds a sophisticated decorator touch, especially when mixed with a natural sheep skin area rug. Mix the earthy and the elegant. A large vase filled with natural Manzanita branches and hung with crystal strand ornaments makes quite the statement in a hall or on a table, and reflects candle light beautifully. Carry the festive sparkle through your home when decorating your tree and mantle. Create an all silver Christmas tree with silver and crystal garland, adding a mix of silver and white ornaments. Collect vintage ornaments and mix them in to create your own style.

**Get the look at west elm: metallic double-banded barware & dinnerware, mirror coffee table, convex drum table. Add: chandelier strands/cut chandelier ornaments, silver garlands/ornaments and a sheepskin rug.

Mix the primitive and polished

Animal prints have gotten a great makeover in recent seasons and this year, they are popping up in new styles and patterns everywhere. A little animal goes a long way, try the patterns as an accent piece in the home. Combine timeless and chic animal prints with gold metallic holiday decorations for a fun twist. A zebra stocking pairs perfectly hanging on the mantle next to a tree decorated with gold or vintage ornaments. Or toss a throw pillow on your sofa and get a whole new look anytime you feel like it.

**Get the look at west elm: zebra & leopard stockings, tree skirt and pillow covers, gold vases, tortoise shell bowls and vases.

Light up the season and your home

Last, but not least, don’t forget the lighting. Remember, lighting sets the mood of any holiday party or room so get creative and replace harsh bulbs with soft candlelight. Combine different sizes and shapes of glass lanterns in monochromatic groupings for dramatic effect over a table. Carry the look through the room with complimentary votives and candles sticks on the table or mantle. The room and your guests will enjoy a flattering glow.

**Get the look at west elm: art glass lanterns, vases and votives.

animal print stockings