December in Durbs means sunshine, balmy evenings and that unmistakable coastal buzz that signals the holidays are here.
It’s the season to gather your favourite people, throw open the doors and let the good times flow outdoors. Whether it’s a long, lazy lunch under the bougainvillea, a candlelit veranda dinner or a laid-back family braai that lingers late into the night – this year’s festive trends capture the essence of a local Summer: Fresh, tropical style, a hint of sparkle and effortless joy.
A tropical take on tradition
Forget snowflakes and fake firs, this festive season is all about celebrating the holidays our way. Think palm fronds instead of pine branches, bright tropical leaves in place of holly, and vibrant floral touches that mirror our lush Summer landscape.
To capture the coastal Christmas look, start with crisp whites and layer in bursts of turquoise, coral and gold. Glass hurricane lanterns filled with shells or sand make simple but striking centrepieces, while woven placemats and linen napkins bring in a natural, organic feel. It’s Christmas with your toes in the sand – relaxed, sun-drenched and full of local personality.
Natural and sustainable style
Eco-conscious decorating continues to shine, and it fits perfectly with the easy, outdoor lifestyle so many of us enjoy. Look around your home and garden as there’s décor inspiration everywhere. Eucalyptus, rosemary and olive branches make beautiful garlands or table runners and fill the air with a subtle, festive scent.
Swap store-bought tinsel for dried orange slices strung on twine, scatter cinnamon sticks and star anise down the centre of your table, and reuse glass bottles as vases or candle holders. The result is unfussy, elegant and sustainable – proof that less really can be more.
Luxe metallics and subtle shine
If you love a touch of glamour, metallics are your go-to. Gold, rose gold and champagne tones add sparkle and sophistication without overpowering your space. Pair metallic accents with a calm, neutral base – white linen, simple crockery and glassware that catches the light beautifully.
For extra magic, thread fairy lights along the centre of the table or fill clear vases with baubles in mixed metallic shades. Painted pinecones or palm nuts add a unique, festive touch when scattered among candles. It’s an elegant nod to the season – perfect for those long, twinkly summer evenings.
Minimalism meets coastal calm
If your December calendar is already bursting, this is the look for you. Minimalist styling is about creating a sense of calm by paring back the clutter and letting natural materials and soft tones take centre stage. Stick to a soothing palette of linen, sand, green and white, and focus on texture – smooth ceramics, woven placemats, raw wood and natural fibres.
A simple wooden table can be left bare and styled with a line of greenery, a few tea lights and hand-tied napkins. This look celebrates breathing space – exactly what we all crave at the end of a busy year – while still feeling warm, inviting and festive. If you’d like to dial it up, just add metallic candleholders or colourful glassware for instant impact.
Setting the scene
Each of these trends can easily translate into a beautiful tablescape. Here are a few quick ideas to inspire your festive table:
Natural and organic Keep it simple with a linen cloth, a runner of fresh foliage, and twine-tied napkins. Add sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a fragrant finishing touch.
Metallic luxe Combine metallic chargers, sequinned runners or slim ribbons with layered lighting from candles and fairy strings for a soft, elegant glow.
Coastal summer Use a white base with sea-glass blues, shells and driftwood accents. Add fresh flowers or succulents in clear glass jars for a breezy, beach-inspired feel.
DIY for the holiday maker
Bottle beauties
Save empty wine or juice bottles, rinse them clean, and pop in sprigs of greenery or a single flower. Cluster a few together for instant table charm – or fill them with sand and shells for a beachy twist.
Citrus garland
Slice oranges and dry them in a low oven. String them along twine with cinnamon sticks for a fragrant, golden garland. This is perfect for hanging over doorways or running down the centre of your table.
Washi-tape tags
Make personalised gift tags or place cards with colourful washi tape. They’re quick, creative and fun for the whole family.
Painted pinecones
Collect pinecones or seed pods, spray them in gold or silver, and pile them into a bowl or glass vase. Add a small name tag to each if you’d like them to double as place settings.
Greenery table runner
Gather fresh leaves and branches from the garden – palm, fern or eucalyptus – and lay them down the centre of your table. Tuck in tea lights or fairy lights for a simple, natural statement piece.
