Decorating for the holidays can be a daunting task, and finding the right balance between festive and tasteful can be a challenge. To help you navigate this seasonal dilemma, we’ve sought advice from some of our favorite designers. These experts have shared their go-to holiday decorations, ranging from sentimental family heirlooms to clever finds from popular retailers like Anthropologie. By incorporating these timeless elements, they effortlessly infuse their homes with a holiday spirit that feels personal and inviting.

Desiree Burns of D Burns Interiors recommends adding a personal and meaningful touch to your decor. She suggests using Christmas tree ball ornaments collected from different countries during travels. Each ornament tells a unique story and represents a cherished memory, making them not only beautiful decorations but also thoughtful holiday gifts. This approach allows for a blend of aesthetic appeal and sentimental value, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the festive season.

Evergreen Garland and Turned Wood Candles

Anne Sage, co-founder of Rue Magazine and Light Lab, shares her love for evergreen garland as a go-to holiday decoration. She emphasizes the simplicity and impact of evergreen garland, describing how it instantly transforms any space into a festive setting. While she used to opt for real garland in areas like the kitchen window and dining chandelier, she decided to invest in faux garland to eliminate the hassle of pine needles in her food. According to Sage, choosing faux garland was the best decision she ever made, and she proudly advocates for the “faux game.”

Additionally, Sage advocates for buying timeless basics in large quantities instead of acquiring many individual, one-off items. She expresses her preference for having versatile pieces that stand the test of time, allowing for flexibility as personal style evolves. One example she provides is her collection of turned wood candle holders, which she uses in abundance down the dining table or grouped on an entryway table. These items may not explicitly scream “holiday decor,” but when illuminated, they contribute to the magical ambiance of the season.

Architectural Menorahs

The individual, who identifies as Jewish, expresses a love for architectural or sculptural Menorahs as a preferred holiday decoration. Highlighting the variety of incredible Menorah options available, they appreciate the beauty of the Menorah both as an artistic piece and as a symbolic, meaningful centerpiece in the Jewish faith during the Hanukkah ritual.

Emphasizing the potential for Menorahs to become heirlooms passed down through generations, the individual encourages finding a Menorah that suits one’s home and personal style. They acknowledge that, unlike disposable items, Menorahs are enduring pieces that hold unique significance for each family. Ultimately, the goal is to select items that are special, timeless, and meaningful to create a holiday atmosphere enjoyed by the entire family.

Candles and Glassware

As the holiday season approaches, the individual expresses a passion for table decoration, emphasizing the love for adorning the table with beautiful candles and glassware. Their approach to holiday decor is characterized by an enthusiasm for excess and a belief in the mantra “more is more.” Encouraging a personal and dramatic touch, they advocate for unleashing creativity and letting imagination run wild.

The individual offers insights into their design philosophy, highlighting the importance of scale in table decoration. They favor the use of large, oversized candlesticks paired with smaller objects, creating a harmonious balance of details and personality. A beautiful centerpiece, whether in the form of candlesticks or a large ceramic bowl, is deemed a worthwhile investment that can be utilized year-round. The versatility of such pieces is emphasized, as a simple change in candle color or bowl contents can instantly transform the ambiance for the holiday season.

Mercury Glass Trees

For a timeless and winter-themed touch, the individual decorates their mantel each year with a trio of mercury glass trees. Acquired during their time at Anthropologie, these decorations evoke a sense of winter without leaning into traditional holiday colors. The advice is to choose decorations in whites, blues, and silvers, steering away from the typical red and green. Mixing in elements like wood and garland adds a festive touch without being overly specific to the holidays.

Plenty of Wreaths

Expressing a love for wreaths, the individual sees them as a symbol of holiday cheer. The suggestion is to invest in a few quality wreaths that can complement various themes. Whether it’s ornaments commemorating special moments, a versatile tree topper, or core pieces that can be used repeatedly, the emphasis is on selecting items that bring excitement and joy year after year.

Stunning Tablescapes

Beautiful tablescapes are highlighted as a perfect way to blend sentimental dinnerware with new accents like holiday-themed salad plates and napkin rings. The recommendation is to incorporate live or high-quality faux greenery for a fresh and inviting look. Keeping the decor ‘evergreen,’ the advice is to choose items that can stay up beyond the holidays, such as winter-themed touches like greenery, trees, shimmery objects, candles, votives, and winter-inspired jars and vases. The tip is to shop early to secure desired items.

How about this refined and nuanced approach to holiday decor? For those aiming to evoke a sense of seasonal spirit without overwhelming their space, strategic choices are key. Kelsey Haywood, the designer behind haywoodmade, shares her professional tips for achieving a subtle and sophisticated holiday look that seamlessly integrates with your aesthetic. Instead of loud and overt holiday statements, Haywood emphasizes the importance of selecting and displaying items that convey a festive ambiance without dominating the overall decor.

Commit to a Color:

Embrace a deliberate color scheme to convey holiday vibes subtly. Rather than opting for multi-colored and overtly festive items, choose a specific color that complements your existing decor. Haywood suggests red, especially ruby reds or wine colors, for a festive touch. Alternatively, whites or golds can create an elegant, wintery atmosphere. Patterns, like checks and stripes in white, red, and black, can add sophistication without overwhelming the space.

Go All Natural:

Incorporate natural materials and real greenery for a timeless and uncluttered holiday look. Fresh flowers or greenery, such as a live garland, offer a high-impact yet effortless option. Haywood recommends using local floral shops and choosing options like eucalyptus, boxwood, or long-needled pines. Not only do they add a festive touch, but they also provide a pleasant pine scent.

Don’t Add—Swap What’s Existing:

Avoid clutter by opting for swaps instead of additions. Change out existing items such as pillow covers, throws, doormats, and tea towels with holiday-themed alternatives. By integrating holiday decor into your existing items, like Ursula Carmona’s candle display swap, you can maintain a cohesive look without overwhelming the space.

Embrace the joy of the holiday season by infusing your home with a mix of classic, sentimental decorations and fresh, unexpected ideas. November 1st marks the day to retrieve your storage bins filled with beloved holiday décor, but this year, consider trying something different and inviting. If traditional red and green or shiny bows don’t resonate with you, explore these inspiring ideas straight from designers. From unique color schemes to unconventional decorations, this list offers fresh and unexpected holiday decorating ideas that will bring tidings of joy to your home, creating a perfect blend of tradition and novelty. Deck the halls with creativity and make this holiday season truly memorable.

Embrace Your Home’s Features

Enhance the charm of your home by working with its existing features, suggests designer Reena Sotropa. Instead of replacing everyday accessories, transform them into holiday décor. Group similar items like pillar candles or pottery collections to create instant impact. Utilize spaces like the fireplace hearth or mantel, adapting them for a festive touch while maintaining the character of your home.

Try a Nontraditional Twist

Embrace a bit of unconventional creativity during the holiday season. Experiment with hanging ornaments on potted plants or incorporating festive elements into unexpected places. Don’t be afraid to deviate from the traditional and perfect; sometimes, a touch of humor or imperfection can add character. For instance, turning a hopelessly tangled set of twinkly lights into a decorative statement under a glass cloche.

Keep It Simple and Neutral

If your home has a minimalist aesthetic, maintain that vibe during the holidays. Opt for simple and neutral decorations that complement your existing style. Fresh greenery, understated holiday décor, and sparingly decorated trees can seamlessly blend into clean and minimalistic spaces. Let the simplicity of your décor enhance the beauty of your home.

Try a Bare Tree

For those who appreciate a natural and minimalist aesthetic, consider letting your Christmas tree stand alone without ornaments or bows. This simple approach not only saves time but also creates a tree that’s perfect for minimalists. Embrace the beauty of the tree itself and let it be the focal point of your holiday décor.

Splash in Unexpected Color

Break away from traditional color schemes and infuse your holiday décor with unexpected and personalized colors. Designer Reena Sotropa encourages incorporating your favorite colors and personal design aesthetic into your holiday decorations. Explore festive and non-traditional color combinations that harmonize with your existing furniture, fabrics, and wall coverings, creating a uniquely vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Add Minimalist Pine Branches

The trend of minimalist pine branches has gained popularity, offering a chic and subtle way to bring holiday cheer into your home. Instead of a full tree, arrange minimalist pine branches on a shelf or in a vase. This understated approach to greenery captures the essence of the season without overwhelming your space.