Elton John and David Furnish Share Their Holiday Traditions
Elton John literally and metaphorically owns the moniker “Rocket Man,” which he’s demonstrated at every turn with his larger-than-life persona and affinity for all that glitters. So, of course, it only makes sense that he and his partner David Furnish plan to trim their tree with rocket ship ornaments.
In particular, the icon loves the very chic rocket ship ornaments from Jonathan Adler, which are included in the couple’s Saks x Elton John AIDS Foundation capsule collection. The collection also includes more than 350 items that will get you and everyone you love in the holiday spirit with fashionable prints and luxe fabrics. The icon, who is known for his elaborate sequin-encrusted blazers and general commitment to sparkle, says that the holidays are an especially pertinent time to add a little extra glimmer to your life. Permission to sparkle? Granted.
John and Furnish took a few minutes away from the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour to answer questions about their family’s holiday traditions and to share the designer that, according to John, has the ability to knock your socks clean off.
Architectural Digest: Is there a specific piece or designer featured in the capsule collection that you love most?
Elton John: I have many. Jonathan Adler’s fun and unique designs beautifully liven up any space, and we’re thrilled to celebrate the holidays and commemorate the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s Rocket Fund with festive rocket-themed ornaments from the Apollo Ornament boxed set.
And Wales Bonner knocked my socks off with her exceptional craftsmanship and embellishments, not often seen in menswear. The creative universe she has built is one of a kind: a blend of European heritage with Afro-Atlantic flare, resulting in an illustrious cultural luxury!
David Furnish: I also find it uplifting that today’s generation is passionate about using fashion as a force for good. Ahluwalia is a leading force for multicultural representation and a brand that repurposes vintage materials in factories that employ local women and pays them fairly, and it’s fun and sexy to boot.
How would you describe your home decor aesthetic, and does that carry over into the holiday season?
EJ: David and I style our [various] homes so differently, but one thing they all have in common is that they must have items and pieces that inspire me. I collect so many things and I have to be surrounded by [them] because I get inspired musically. It doesn’t matter if it costs $5 or thousands of dollars, if you collect and love something and you have it around you for a short while or a long while, it gives off energy to you.
The same is true during the holidays. Subconsciously, the holiday spirit sinks into your whole being when you’re surrounded by holiday sparkle, like your favorite ornament or garland.
What does your holiday decor look like? Do you have any favorite ornaments for the tree?
EJ: I have many ornaments of sentimental value, many of them from my sons at various ages. However, [some] of my new favorites this year [are] the fun and festive rocket-themed ornaments I mentioned earlier, [the] Apollo Ornament boxed set by Jonathan Adler.