Oh Lanvin Christmas Tree!!! Of All the Trees Most Lovely!!!

Fashion posh hotel Claridge's unveiled its Christmas tree decorated by Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz,replacing John

Galliano, on Tuesday November 22.According to Monsieur Lanvin, Christmas 2011 is set to be a bit Downton-Abbey-meets-70s-nostalgia.

The Alber fairy on the top of the tree with its more traditional star

The tree is twinkling with multicoloured baubles (many of which have been handmade in the Lanvin atelier in Paris) garish lights and glittery love-hearts. Elbaz himself is the Christmas fairy – a miniature puppet of the bow-tie wearing designer with sparkly wings sits atop the tree. Round the bottom sit more posh and slightly tipsy-looking puppets clad in silky Lanvin with presents scattered around them. A Claridge's maid completes the scene, sporting pearls and a feather-duster giving the scene a Downton vibe.

Lanvin dolls from the Christmas display

"The concept of the Christmas Tree decoration is to create an installation that carries the spirit of Lanvin, an infusion of tradition and modernity at the same time," Elbaz said. "The tree is to emanate and bring heartwarming joy to all who work and stay as guests at Claridge's hotel: It's my way to wish them a very Merry Christmas."

"We are thrilled to welcome Mr Elbaz this year to spread the Christmas magic in our iconic lobby," Claridge's general manager Thomas Kochs added. "It is simply wonderful to see this talented designer decorate the tree in his whimsical style. The House of Lanvin and Claridge's are synonymous with longstanding tradition and timeless glamour, and we are sure to bring the Christmas magic alive this festive season."

www.guardian.co.uk