Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have been chosen by Claridge’s to design its 2013 Christmas tree, and we can expect a Sicilian-inspired spectacle.

Taking traditional Christmas tree elements, the designers plan to bring their heritage Italian aesthetic to London, using handmade Sicilian puppets, festive glasses baubles and the colours of southern Italy.

For Dolce and Gabbana, it is a chance to celebrate their Italian roots: “Our Christmas tree isn’t only a celebration of Christmas as we celebrate it in Italy, but it’s also a tribute to the artisanal Italian tradition, the same that we love to export worldwide with everything we do,” said the duo.

“When we think of London, we always think of Claridge’s and its typically English atmosphere, which fascinates us and makes us fall in love with the city every time as if it were the first.”

The entire structure will stand at 6.8 metres and will be transported over from Italy and erected over night by Claridge’s staff to greet guests as they descend for breakfast on the morning of 26 November.

This the fourth year that the luxury Mayfair hotel has collaborated with a fashion house to collaborate its Christmas tree. Dolce & Gabbana follows in the footsteps of John Galliano and Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz.

(Source: Vogue)