Dear Mary: How can I reassure a ‘terribly common’ host?

From Nicky Haslam
Q. Being considered something of a guru on the subject of things common, can you advise me how to finesse the host or hostess who asks, challengingly, ‘I suppose you think my twinkling decorations/strings of cards/mulled wine/sushi/antler headband/children are terribly common?’ A wan smile won’t suffice.

A. Say, ‘Yes I do. You’re so clever to be in the vanguard. Common is the new chic.’

This is an extract from the Christmas issue of The Spectator. Subscribe here.