I've always been a fan of decorating with nature and with what we already have at our disposal. I also believe that a home can feel warm and welcoming and look elegant without going to great costs. A large bowl of fruit is not simply to be eaten, but can serve as an element of decor that is not only visually appealing, but one that is aromatic as well. The orange, while springlike because of its bright citrus color is perhaps the perfect fruit to have at the home at Christmastime. As a child, there was always an orange at the bottom of my stocking, so this fruit also bears a bit of sentimentality and nostalgia. The vibrant sphere is as elegant as it is simple. Mix orange varieties for different sizes and hues - toss in some clementines and kumquats if you desire. The magnificent tree seen above, featured in ElleDecor, is adorned with small clementines. Below dried orange slices make the perfect ornaments. You'll see images of oranges, both fresh and dried, to help inspire. Whether mixed with greens on wreaths, on bannisters, or in bowls as centerpieces, as ornaments or garland, I hope you too will come to see the orange in a whole new light.

For a very accurate and detailed recipe on how to dry oranges, click here.