Never before have our homes – and the comfort and serenity we find within them – held quite such significance in our lives, than they have in 2020.  

Most of us have spent this year adjusting to new ways of working, living and finding comfort in the little things which we may previously have overlooked. During this time our homes have become more than just a place to lay our heads after a long day at the office or a weekend bouncing between social engagements; they have become our workplaces, our social spaces and our refuges in which to weather the storm.  

The White Company has always endorsed making the home a haven, through opulent cashmeres, gorgeous fragrances and deluxe homeware. If ever there was a one-stop shop to perfect the luxury lockdown lifestyle, this would be it. 

What started as a range of linen cupboard essentials 25 years ago quickly developed alongside key moments in founder Chrissie Rucker OBE’s life. Having initially launched with a range of beautiful bed linens, Rucker soon expanded to encompass childrenswear, casualwear and homeware. Today, The White Company prides itself on beautifully designed, simple elegant pieces. 

As the cold of winter approaches, the pull of their luxury homeware feels ever stronger. Who hasn’t dreamed of draping themselves in a gorgeous plush throw as the nights draw in – especially when made from alpaca like this bouclé woven grey one (£350) or this alabaster chunky knit (£160).  

Of course, while many of us have spent lockdown decking out our own nests or dipping our toe into a bit of DIY or home renovation, the festive season is above all about sharing, and The White Company’s Christmas gift selection is a perfect way to show someone you love you’re thinking of them during this time – even if you can’t spend it with them. From winter spice scented candles to plush cushions and warm knits, there’s a special gift to be found for every member of your family.

Loungewear will certainly be the fashion term we think of when we consider our sartorial reaction to the events of 2020 and chances are Christmas this year will be quite different from what we’re used to, seeing us more likely to snuggle in something comfortable than slip into a sequin dress. But gone are the days of loungewear being about scruffy tracksuits and old hand-me-downs. The beautifully crafted White Company cashmere is the very definition of everyday luxury. 

This biscuit crew-neck sweater (£169) is perfect for those family members with a taste for the finer things in life. Or how about a pair of cashmere bed socks (£36), to slip into someone’s stocking and help them fight off the January chill after the festivities have faded. For the ultimate lockdown look though, who on your Christmas list is special enough to be treated to these irresistible silk pyjamas (£198) or this elegant cashmere tracksuit of hoodie (£169) and liquid wide-leg joggers (£169)? Surely, it’s got to be mum.

Not only are these timeless and classic pieces, but The White Company is dedicated to sustainability, only working with certified cashmere sourced from farms in Inner Mongolia, using a traceable and transparent textile chain as part of The Good Cashmere standard – so your most eco-conscious friends will not be disappointed.  

As for gifts for those who appear to have everything, unwrapping a candle is always a treat – a thoughtful present that not only lasts well beyond the festive season, but serves as a reminder of the special moments, the fragrance transporting us back in time. The White Company’s signature Winter fragrance was created by Rucker herself and this year the brand is celebrating 21 years since its inception. The magical combination of spicy cinnamon, rich warming clove and fresh zesty orange has never failed to please and earned it the proud moniker ‘the scent of Christmas’ among fans. Coming in a range of guises from candles in various sizes (from £20) to a diffuser (£27) and even pot pourri to infuse your home with a yule tide aroma (£16) there’s a gift opportunity for even the trickiest of customers. 

For the those seeking an all new fragrance, the Midnight collection, inspired by the magic of Venice and fireworks, is a fabulously rich and velvety aroma that combines smooth, smoky vetivert and aromatic cardamon with warming amber, spicy nutmeg and a sparkling twist of ginger to take you right through to spring.  This large multi-wick candle (£60) has a burn time of 70 hours and the electronic diffuser (£65) delivers the perfect amount of scent while adding moisture to the air. 

Whatever guise Christmas celebrations take this year, there’s never been more reason to inject some much-needed festive cheer into our homes. With glittery star baubles (£4), light-up artificial Christmas trees (from £150), to wreaths and garlands, White Company knows how to make the home wonderfully welcome and transform it into a winter wonderland whilst keeping it eminently chic. This sparkle wreath (£35) is a particular favourite, as are the irreverent feather baubles and Nordic hanging decorations. How Christmas will look for many of us remains to be seen, but we can still embrace that that festive feeling – and spread a little joy to the ones we love.