A wishing tree prettily decorated with shoe lights and sackfuls of Christmas gifts are the seasonal offering from John Lewis
The favorite retreat of the discerning middle class shopper, John Lewis, presented their offerings for Christmas with a press show packed full of toys, decorations and festive clothing.
In the fashion stakes, it look like little girls are to be fashioned in seasonal berry shades. A double-breasted dress coat in damson, with floral covered buttons looked beautiful, as did a quirky silk shift dress covered in raspberry polka dots and a pleated collar. Prints inspired by India also crept in – perhaps suggesting that we ship ourselves there for the festive season?
Boyswear was all about country casuals, lots of chunky knitted tank tops, hooded sweatshirts. A padded gilet in bright orange layered over a stripe jersey T-shirt would be perfect for that post-Christmas dinner walk en famille. There was also plenty of plaids and checks decorating shirts – ideal for parents who celebrate their Christmas in a Celtic theme!
The toy department took inspiration from the big movie of the summer: Toy Story 3, with Buzz Lightyear figures and a brilliant Kerplunk! style game (remember that?!) that featured the little green three-eyed alians. There was also inspiration from X Factor (or Glee depending on your musical taste) with a variety of musical instruments: a cute mini grand piano, child-size electric guitar and – not for the faint-hearted – a drum set.
There was also a delightful array of pretend play toys and games to inspire your child's imagination, including make-your-own jewellery sets, a mini pink sewing machine, a gorgeous play kitchen and cupcake makers. The centrepiece was the prettily decorated wishing tree, adorned with the cutest little shoe fairy lights (think Cinderella's slippers!) and a menagerie of cuddly toys resting on the branches, including pandas, bears, camels, horses and, most excitingly, a shocking pink flamingo puppet. Rod Hull, eat your heart out!
