John Galliano designs first Christmas tree
Designer John Galliano has this year designed a Christmas Tree for Claridge's in London, complete with a leopard. Daisy Lowe was among the celebrities at the cocktail reception to launch the unique festive decoration. Photos: Getty Images
Wednesday December 02 2009
John Galliano, the celebrated designer and creative director of Christian Dior, is more accustomed to designing haute couture gowns for the likes of Gwen Stefani, Dita Von Teese, and Sharon Stone. But this Christmas, for the first time, he has turned his talents to creating a designer label Christmas tree - certainly one of the first-ever to come complete with a 'leopard'.
The Dior Tree, a 20ft high creation in papier-mâche, paper and polystyrene, was erected in Claridge's in central London.
The tree, which takes its inspiration from icy snow scenes, mixed with a tropical twist, dominates the hotel’s lobby. It is painted in white and metallic blue and perched among its branches are a handmade leopard, several parrots and a dragonfly.
"I am thrilled that Dior is collaborating with Claridge's this Christmas," said John Galliano. "I love to visit Claridge’s when I am in London, particularly at this time of the year – and I hope to bring a twist to the traditional tree. I want to combine the festive with the innovative, the spirit of Dior with the beauty of Claridge's, and create something spectacular that will inspire the perfect start to the season!"
The Dior tree was officially launched last night at a cocktail reception, which also featured a display of 20 vintage gowns from the Christian Dior archive, hand-picked by Galliano.
The Dior tree will remain in Claridge’s lobby until Twelfth Night, January 6th.
- Hilary Alexander
© Telegraph.co.uk
