Feature
A Very Lilly
Christmas
Each year, Michelle Donato turns her home into a dazzling winter wonderland, infused with a generous dose of colorful joy courtesy of Lilly Pulitzer.
- Kate McDonald Kester
- Fred Lopez
For many, Lilly Pulitzer embodies a vibrant and playful expression of individuality, but for Michelle Donato, it’s a joyful way of life. As Lilly herself famously said, “Anything is possible with sunshine and a little pink.”
With her signature kaleidoscope of bright colors, bold and whimsical patterns, and iconic shift dresses, Lilly Pulitzer has defined American resort wear for more than 65 years. Michelle fondly recalls the first time she encountered a Lilly piece: “It was a skort and top set,” she reminisces, her smile lighting up the room. “I had just moved to Florida from Ohio, and I was captivated by its vibrant colors. I wanted it so badly, but I couldn’t afford it. That moment became a defining experience for me—I worked hard to make it mine, and that determination has stuck with me ever since.”
Achieving dreams takes dedication and effort, and like Lilly, Michelle found the courage to chase her passions and make a statement wherever she goes. As you drive through her charming neighborhood, lined with oak trees and earthy-toned homes, one bright turquoise Key West–style house pops against the horizon. In the driveway sits a stunning Tesla wrapped in a custom Lilly Pulitzer print—a vivid, playful splash of color that perfectly reflects Michelle’s exuberant spirit.
Inside Michelle’s home is an delightful celebration of creativity and passion. Every room brims with personality, where every detail harmonizes to create an atmosphere that feels uniquely hers.
Her front office, affectionately known as “Michelle’s Closet,” is a true love letter to Lilly Pulitzer. Every square inch of her collection is thoughtfully curated, showcasing Lilly treasures from across the decades. From vintage delights to rare one-of-a-kind pieces, from holiday sparkle to bright activewear, it’s all there, inviting the delightful question: “How would one wear it all?”
“Since high school, I’ve never wanted to wear the same thing twice,” Michelle shares. While we all have our cozy staples—those comforting “emotional support” outfits—Lilly gives Michelle the electric colors and confidence to seize each day with flair. “I attend countless Lilly events and always want to stand out. That desire inspired me to start designing my own clothing,” she explains. With a keen eye for creativity, Michelle collaborates with local seamstresses to craft custom Lilly pieces. “I’ll find a fabric or pattern I love and create a design that feels uniquely me.” Some of her creations have even gone viral! A standout moment was when she and her husband donned matching Lilly outfits for last year’s Kentucky Derby—each piece meticulously designed by Michelle herself, a vivid celebration of her love for whimsy and style.
I was incredibly lucky to win a one-of-a-kind gown featured in the March issue of Palm Beach Illustrated!
A collection 20 years in the making has culminated in Michelle’s ultimate dream come true. “Last year marked Lilly’s 65th anniversary, and we traveled to West Palm Beach for a live auction. I was incredibly lucky to win a one-of-a-kind gown featured in the March issue of Palm Beach Illustrated,” Michelle says.But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Along with this extraordinary gown, Michelle has the unique opportunity to design her own Lilly print and a custom dress with the Lilly team—an unforgettable moment in her fantastical fashion journey.
Michelle’s home is a vibrant source of joy for her and her family, but one season elevates holiday cheer to dazzling new heights: Christmas. During these magical months, the spirit of the holiday fills every corner, transforming their home into a festive wonderland.
“Christmas mixed with Lilly brings a whole new level of joy for me,” Michelle beams as she glides through her beautifully adorned home. With more than 40 themed trees, stunning garlands, dazzling displays, and twinkling lights, her decorations rival those of any luxury hotel in Central Florida. “When I have an idea, I have to see it through,” she adds, her passion for design and creativity truly taking flight. “I wanted to ensure that each tree was unique, telling its own story while capturing the magic of the season.” Each detail reflects her vibrant spirit and love for the holidays, creating an enchanting atmosphere that delights everyone who visits.
With an abundance of imaginative themes, Michelle has truly outdone herself, each one thoughtfully crafted to reflect what holds the most significance for her family.
The Grinch Tree, adorned with playful green ornaments and whimsical touches, captures the mischievous spirit of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale. Bright red accents and twinkling lights evoke the warmth of the holiday season, reminding everyone of the joy of giving and the magic of a heart that grows three sizes.
The Disney Tree is a magical spectacle, featuring beloved characters from Michelle’s favorite films. From shimmering Mickey Mouse ornaments to sparkling fairy lights, this tree brings the enchantment of Disney to life, transporting guests to a world of imagination, nostalgia, and childlike wonder.
Next, the French Bulldog Tree is a delightful tribute to her beloved pets. Adorned with charming canine ornaments, paw-print garlands, and chic Parisian touches, it’s a playful nod to her love for these adorable companions.
The Harry Potter Tree is a charming homage to the wizarding world, filled with enchanting decorations like miniature wands, house colors, and golden snitches.
And, of course, the Lilly Tree is a vibrant explosion of color and pattern, showcasing Michelle’s love for Lilly Pulitzer. Dressed in bright pinks, vivid greens, and electric blues, it features Lilly-themed glass ornaments that shimmer in the lights, reflecting the designer’s signature style. This tree embodies Michelle’s personality, a colorful celebration of her passion for fashion and her boundless spirit.
Together, these themed trees create a delightful tapestry of holiday cheer, inviting friends and family to gather and revel in the season. Each tree is not just a decoration; it’s a cherished piece of Michelle’s life story, filled with memories, laughter, and the warmth of togetherness.
For many, decorating might be a casual Saturday affair or a family weekend project. But for Michelle, it’s an elaborate two-week extravaganza that calls for an all-hands-on-deck approach. “When I have help, it goes fairly quickly, especially with our roller system for the trees,” she explains. Instead of wrestling with heavy boxes, they simply roll the trees out of above-garage storage and into their festive positions, making the process both efficient and enjoyable.
“I start decorating early enough to truly enjoy the season,” Michelle shares. “There have been years when I got so caught up in perfecting every detail that I felt I missed out on quality time with my family and the festivities. That’s something I never want to experience again.” By giving herself ample time to decorate, she ensures that the joy of the holidays shines through, allowing her to savor each moment with loved ones.
“To me, being cheerful means embracing your authentic self and living in a way that brings you joy,” Michelle says. While Lilly may not be in everyone’s closet, we all have a passion that speaks to our hearts. Take a page from Michelle’s book: Live fully in the moment and surround yourself with the things that ignite your happiness.
