I’m an etiquette expert – the signs you live on a tacky street this Christmas & why blow-up Santa is the worst
IT’S that time of the year when Christmas fanatics go all out on decorations and light up the street with the most festive ornaments they can find.
We may be in the midst of an energy crisis, but that doesn’t stop some of us spending thousands turning our homes and gardens into a vibrant winter wonderland.
But when does our passion become a problem, and what’s really acceptable in our neighbourhoods this Christmas?
Etiquette expert Laura Ceccherini-Windsor is here to give us guidance on what’s acceptable on our estates, and how to spot the tackiest street in the suburbs this festive season.
“The quintessential British Christmas decorations are the tree and the poinsettias, the crackers, the stockings and the candy canes,” says Laura. “And you can’t forget a sweet little snowman and the star to put on top of the Christmas tree.”
Traditional decorations have come back into fashion, with silver, gold, red and green at the heart of our displays - but in some neighbourhoods you’ll see more eyesores than elegance.
Read more on Christmas decor
“It’s a good idea to opt for decorations which bring out beauty rather than completely obliterating it,” notes Laura.
“Some streets follow the same style, using tasteful wreaths, silver lights and little Christmas trees on either side of their front doors.”
On other streets you’ll find a much more garish and tacky selection, including blow-up Santas, moving and even musical displays that light up the front lawn.
“Gaudy decorations are sometimes a sign of insecurity and low self-esteem,” she explains. “A confident person doesn’t need to brag or keep up with the Joneses to make an impression upon their neighbours. But it’s all about taste, and less is ALWAYS more.
Most read in Fabulous
“Having a tacky blow-up Santa on your lawn isn’t very nice to see, but it does show enthusiasm - they’re happy, positive and want to celebrate Christmas.”
We’re all guilty of annoying our neighbours throughout the year, but Christmas is a time of goodwill and conflict is a no-no, says Laura.
FABULOUS BINGO: Get a £20 bonus & 30 free spins when you spend £10 today
“There are far worse things in the world than a few eyesores on next door’s lawn. Avoid an argument and be patient - it’s only a few weeks after all.”
While there’s no limit to what we can enjoy this season, there are a few unspoken rules Laura says we should consider.
“Let’s stay away from any colours reminiscent of Halloween - the black and orange shades can give the impression that you’re a Scrooge,” she claims. “You need to have real talent to put together beige and monochrome in a festive way - but it can be done.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about perspective. What one person deems beautiful, another will consider awful - just take the season in your stride.”