nordic christmas decor, a lesson in simple style

Most of you know that I am obsessed with all things Italian, but what you probably don't know is that I am actually in awe of Nordic style, specifically Norwegian.One of my dearest friends in Italy is actually Norwegian and she brings me Norwegian shelter and cooking magazines for me to pour through in Italy all summer long. She's the best. Here are some Nordic Christmas images I am crushing on...Simple black and white with warm wood spotted on Norwegian Blog: Gastbloggare.Julekake recipe from Sweet Paul Magazine.A recipe for Butterbredels found on French Blog: b comme bon.More lovely images from Norwegian Blog: Gastbloggare.Love this simple and stunning advent wreath featured on Style me pretty.A gorgeous trough of greenery and candles from Vibeke Designs.Beautifully decorated cookies from Polish blog: Baker Lady.This beautiful*** clean*** simple*** earthy*** rustic*** style is what really inspires me. The saying "less is more" is hard to achieve for most but Norwegians seem to do it so effortlessly.I can't talk about Norwegian style without mentioning one of my favorite Norwegian stylists, Sweet Paul. Paul's stylish sensibilities and plain old good taste are a refreshing look on the horizon. In an era where everyone is replaying ideas and crafts on their blog with few new ideas to share, Paul is a fresh style/idea trailblazer. He's a style viking in my eyes. Check out his magazine, Sweet Paul, right here.