Christmas Style

Rating:
Summary: An unusual holiday decorating book
Review: "Christmas Style" is rather unusual for a Christmas decorating book. (And as a librarian, I've seen tons of them!)

The first 2/3 of the book could be called "Christmas themes". Each 2-page spread shows a different theme. Each theme features pics of a lovely tree demonstrating that theme. Surrounding this, there are smaller pics of supporting decorations - centerpieces, mantle swags, oranments, etc. - that support the theme. The themes are sometimes classic ("country warmth"), sometimes sophisticated (like the "decadent design" theme which features black and silver), and sometimes whimsical (like the themes based around silver screen movie actresses). Many are unusual. All are well done and inspiring.

The last third of the book covers practical things - selecting real and artificial trees, tree setup, lighting, using ribbons, bows and fabric as decoration, how to hang garland, types of ornaments, tree toppers, etc. (the list goes on).

This book has a great combination of inspiration combined with practical advice.


Rating:
Summary: fun stuff
Review: The first half of the book is pictures of the author's work. Each tree has a theme. Some are beautiful, others like the Southern Tree and the Wetern Tree are hideous. If you walk into a home and see a copy of their Cher tree, put your coat back on and run for your life.

The second half is worth the price of the book. It tells you and shows you how to buy the best possible artificial tree, how to create a snow effect on the tree, how to actually make those gorgeous bows and how to arrange the garland. All the decorating tricks that you've admired on other people's trees are here.

Rating:
Summary: Beautiful Photos, Some good information
Review: The pictures are absolutely beautiful. I doubt many of us will make over our dining rooms into a winder wonderland or have such lavish homes to decorate. I kept thinking that my toddler would eat the snow or my older son would use the branches as a sword. That didn't stop me from oohing and aahing over the pictures. If you use the book as inspiration it is great. Think smaller -- maybe use the ideas to decorate your mantle or for a centerpiece. Of course, if you have a grand entry hall and a sweeping staircase or a lavish dining room then this book is a must for you.

What separates this from Ruby and Begonia's Christmas Style (also beautiful photos) is that this book contains some useful information toward the end. It covers how to select an artificial tree, how to put up lights, how to make bows and several other holiday topics.