There are a few things that ring in the festive period. The John Lewis Christmas ad has long been one of them, as has the turning on of the lights on Regent Street and ITV's Sunday evening showing of the Harry Potter film franchise from November onwards.
But really, nothing says it's nearly time (said in a Mariah Carey-style voice as she reclaims her throne at this time of year) like the unveiling of the Claridge's Christmas tree. Each year the Mayfair establishment throws a massive bash to celebrate the 20 foot tree, which each year is curated by a designer of the hotel's choice, being switched on.
And this year it's Sir Paul Smith who has traded in clothes-designing for bauble-creating and last night he threw a massive party in Claridge's world-famous art deco lobby and upper levels. Notable guests included Matt Smith, Martin Freeman, Himesh Patel, Will Sharpe, Nathalie Emmanuel, Christopher Kane, Henry Holland and Thomas Brodie-Sangster, who enjoyed Sir Paul’s ‘Festive Negroni’ cocktail, Laurent Perrier Champagne, and live music from The London Oratory Schola Cantorum choir.
The tree, which was designed by Sir Paul in collaboration with British artist Nik Ramage and design studio Studiomama, will be on show throughout the festive period and into the New Year.
Sir Paul Smith
Gwilym Lee
Hale Zero
Will Sharpe and Sophia Di Martino
Betty Bachz
Daniel Fletcher
Phil Dunster
Matt Smith
Callum Scott-Howells
Sir Paul Smith and Henry Holland
Susan Chardy and Jérémy Chardy
Jimmy Akingbola
Jake Dunn and Sir Paul Smith
Tobias Jowett
Sir Paul Smith and Matt Smith
Alex Lanipekun and Nathalie Emmanuel
Thomas Brodie-Sangster and Sir Paul Smith
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