For the past few weeks, I’ve found myself surrounded by a delightful flock of swans—ornaments, figurines, and even food. (It feels like a refreshing change from the Christmas bow overload!) There’s something timeless about swans, and their magic seems to echo the charm of the Victorian era, when they were a beloved motif in holiday traditions.
Back then, swans embodied grace, purity, and the serene beauty of the season. They were prized additions to Christmas trees, dining tables, and even holiday cards, often adorned with frosty accents or nestled among sprigs of holly. Revisiting this elegant symbol feels like a gentle reminder to embrace the season’s quieter, more meaningful moment.
Perhaps swans are making a comeback in holiday decor, or maybe I’m simply tuning in to their timeless beauty. Either way, their graceful presence has brought a touch of Victorian magic to my Christmas this year.
Christmas Card by Madame Treacle
Pop-up crowns via The Shop Floor Project
A party hosted by Tory Burch with catering by Acquolina Catering (image via Carlos Mota)
Polly Fern Christmas windows
Veronique Chauvet papier mache swan for Chateau de Chinon’s Christmas Banquet
Queen of Swans aka Susannah Garrod
Swan Fairisle Knit Cardigan via Kitri
Lucy Wayne ‘Swan’ giclée prints via Domenica Marland
Notes on the Swan Service by Meissen
