The backdrop to your Christmas feast sets the scene, whether for elegant winter whites, full festive merriment or just a hint of seasonal sparkle. This week we round up nine table linens to adorn your table and wow your guests, plus three quick tips for festive tablescaping.

Main image: H&M

Mrs Alice


White & Gold Laurel Placemats, set of 4, £84
Xmas Table Linen Mrs Alice Laurel Placemats

These beautiful placemats from Mrs Alice are delicately embroidered in gold with scalloped edges. They have an heirloom feel and are great for a festive touch for those who love a calmer, minimal palette. Buy them here.

Angela Mugnai


Caramelle Table Set, £149
Caramelle Table Set

Angela Mugnai’s aptly named Caramelle table set comes in a sweet candy cane stripe - a classic that isn’t overtly festive and could be used just as effectively for summer al fresco feasts. Buy it here.


Late Afternoon


Garden Stripe Tablecloth, £150
Garden Stripe Tablecloth

Another timeless stripe, this laidback cotton/linen blend in smart green and red ticking would make the perfect simple backdrop to bold ceramics. Pull it out year after year. Buy it here.


ZARA Home


Checked and Embroidered Tablecloth, from £49.99 to £69.99
Xmas Table Linen Zara Home Checked And Embroidered Tablecloth

Perfect for Christmas festivities, this gingham tablecloth is embroidered with branches around the edge.Buy it here.

Emma Bridgewater


Hawthorn Berries Linen Blend Tablecloth. £90
Xmas Table Linen Emma Bridgewater Hawthorn

A colourful print from Emma Bridgewater, this tablecloth makes a great foundation to a fun, family table. Buy it here.

John Lewis


Mountain Foliage Tablecloth, £35
John Lewis & Partners Mountain Foliage Rectangular Tablecloth, White:Silver, 320 X 180cm Copy

A subtle choice, this all-white cloth is woven with silver thread, scattering winter foliage across your table like new fallen snow. A great option for those with statement ceramics that need a simple backdrop to allow them to take centre-stage. Buy it here.


Marks and Spencer


Cotton Rich Tartan Tablecloth, from £14
Cotton Rich Tartan Tablecloth Copy

One for those looking for a cosy, winter feel, this rich berry red tartan cloth has a charming, nostalgic feel to it. The perfect backdrop to midwinter feasts. Buy it here.


H&M


Washed Linen Tablecloth, £35
Washed Linen Tablecloth

This deep, jewel-coloured linen doesn’t scream festive yet still feels opulent. Artfully rumpled, it’s the perfect choice for a relaxed Boxing Day brunch. Buy it here.


The White Company


Star Embroidered Cocktail Napkin, £20
Star Embroidered Cocktail Napkins – Set Of 4 Copy

If you’re hosting Christmas drinks, these star embroidered cocktail napkins offer a hint of twinkle on a classic, crisp linen square. Beautiful in their simplicity. Buy them here.


Three Tips For Festive Tablescaping



Tonal Palettes


Pick a colour palette of a singular colour in multiple tones (think berries, or evergreens) for a modern look that immediately feels pulled together and then add one metallic element for some seasonal sparkle.

Add Height


Once your table linens and flatware are artfully placed, it’s time to think height. Whether a floral arrangement, tall dinner candles or decorations, do create a central focal for instant impact.

Layer Up


When considering each place setting, layer up your linens, tableware and decorations for a beautifully curated finish. Start with a placemat, then layer on plates, napkin and finish with a fun flourish, either a hand-written name tag, sprig of something from the garden or little gift. Use contrasting textures but keep your colour palette tight so it all sings together.

By Lydia Mansi
December 2021

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