There’s a joke about death and taxes as the only two guarantees in life; well, I have another one: I will always have some opinions and strategies regarding holiday decor when December rolls around!
Yes, it’s that time of year once more. The autumnal harvest season is officially over with the passing of Thanksgiving, and we go full steam ahead into the holidays and deep winter. It’s an exciting time of year for color specialists, homeowners, and, surprisingly, even commercial property owners. It’s the time of year when we all have permission to let every design impulse run free. The holiday season allows all of us to say, well, heck, let’s try that style for one month. Let’s get crazy with our holiday decor this year!
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Festivus for the rest of us, there are endless ways to decorate for the holiday season, including the New Year. With this article, I wanted to share some of my favorite holiday decorating styles. Don’t feel like you need to be locked into one or the other; decorate in whichever way inspires you! But don’t sacrifice balance and harmony; that’s my only holiday decorating rule.
For those who gravitate towards sleek, minimalist interior design, modern holiday decor celebrates simplicity and sophistication. The color palettes here typically lean on monochromatic tones—think whites, silvers, and blacks accented with a pop of jewel-toned blue, emerald, or even blush pink.
The key to modern styling is restraint. Tree ornaments might include geometric shapes or clear glass baubles, while strings of fairy lights cast a soft, ethereal, Christmas-in-the-city glow. Wrapping paper in solid metallics or muted tones with clean, white, and red ribbons maintains the understated aesthetic.
While traditional garland may not work well in this setting, try a wall-mounted wreath made of eucalyptus or pampas grass. For smaller city dwellings, a small, asymmetrical tree or a cluster of contemporary tabletop trees can create a festive vignette without overwhelming the room.
This approach is perfect for those who appreciate a clean, uncluttered look with a touch of holiday magic; It’s where festivity meets modern taste!
Classic holiday décor is about nostalgia, warmth, and tradition. This style is rooted in a rich palette of reds, greens, golds, and whites. Think candy canes, stockings by the fireplace, and a towering, lush green tree adorned with an array of ornaments that tell a story, not to mention Ralphie’s Red Rider BB-Gun!
You should consider texture when incorporating Americana design into your classic holiday displays. Texture plays a significant role in creating that quintessential cozy, classic vibe. Chunky knit stockings, plaid table runners, and velvet tree skirts all work together to evoke a sense of comfort and joy. Twinkling string lights bring warmth to the tree and garlands, while the occasional pop of whimsy—like nutcracker figurines or a playful Santa—adds a touch of charm.
Hanukkah, too, can embrace the warmth and charm of classic Americana while honoring its unique traditions. Incorporate a rich palette of deep blues, golds, and whites, complemented by warm, cozy textures like knit blankets, patterned table runners, candles to add sparkle to your home, and, of course, velvet throw pillows.
Be sure to incorporate handmade or family heirlooms. Classic Americana style thrives on the personal and sentimental, so don’t shy away from showcasing your children’s (or grandparents’) crafts or decorations passed down through generations.
This style is one of my favorites and is often underused. New England is steeped in historic architecture, landmarks, and design styles. Much of what we think of when we picture traditional, classic, old-tyme Christmas decor comes from America’s roots on New England cape shores and backcountry; it’s truly an era out of a Charles Dickens novel, which is why it’s perfect for holiday decorating!
New England Traditional décor blends history and elegance. This style often features a muted, earthy palette of cranberry red, forest green, and cream, accented by natural elements like pinecones, magnolia leaves, and berries.
Wreaths and garlands in this style are often lush and sometimes mixed with fresh fruit like oranges or pomegranates, inspired by Colonial traditions. Candlelight plays a significant role—window candles or brass candlesticks create a warm, golden glow that’s inviting and sophisticated.
Glass ornaments, vintage-inspired baubles, and satin or silk ribbons provide the cherry on top! Finishing touches include silver or gold serving ware, formal linens, and a classic centerpiece featuring greenery and gilded accents.
This approach suits those who want historic, understated luxury and the charm of timeless traditions. It also translates beautifully into New Year’s Eve decor. The classic colonial New England palettes and tableware can be slightly modified with gold, silver, champagne bottles, and even disco balls to make it feel like a midnight celebration! It doesn’t take much effort to bring out the New Year’s Eve colors and transform your spaces for the year’s final holiday.
The beauty of holiday decorating is that it’s as much about tradition as innovation, so believe in yourself and create something that makes your home glow with inspiration. Have a wonderful, happy, and healthy holiday season!
