I can’t wait to share this year’s most exciting trends for dressing up your home! The holidays are all about warmth and joy, and nothing sets the mood like a beautifully styled centerpiece.
Remember that viral Home Depot design everyone loved last season? It’s still a showstopper—so popular that it keeps selling out! If you missed it, don’t worry. I’ve found some budget-friendly LED string lights that create the same magical glow.
This season, I’m loving nostalgic themes mixed with bold, maximalist touches. A recent Instagram reel I saw demonstrated stunning lighting techniques—simple yet transformative. Stay tuned as we dive into these inspiring looks!
1. Sparkling Fairy Lights for a Magical Glow
Nothing transforms a space faster than twinkling lights—here’s how to nail the look! If you missed out on Home Depot’s viral LED setup, don’t stress. I found affordable string lights with the same wow factor.
Budget-Friendly LED String Lights
These dupes have three modes: warm white, multicolor, and a dazzling sparkle setting. Perfect for mimicking that high-end glow! I wrapped them vertically on my artificial tree—no gaps, just seamless radiance.
How to Layer Lights for Maximum Impact
For depth, mix two sizes:
- Micro fairy lights: Base layer for subtle shimmer.
- Larger bulbs: Adds bold pops of brightness.
Pro tip: Use a power strip to avoid overload. Safety first, sparkle second!
2. Icicle Ornaments: A Frosty Elegance
This year, icicle ornaments are stealing the spotlight with their frosty elegance. Whether you prefer sleek glam or cozy rustic vibes, these pieces add instant winter charm. Let’s explore the best ways to style them!
Glam vs. Rustic Icicle Styles
For a modern look, try David Lawson Design’s crystal baubles. Their reflective surfaces catch every light, perfect for contemporary spaces. Prefer warmth? Rust and Trust’s natural wood icicles bring earthy texture with real pine resin “frost” details.
Savvy Heart took it up a notch by hanging 200+ icicles in a cascading curtain. The effect? Pure drama! My personal hack: layer tinsel strands behind them for extra shimmer. It’s an easy upgrade that wows.
Pair these with a flocked christmas tree for the ultimate winter wonderland. The soft white branches make the icicles pop, creating a cohesive design. Trust me—it’s a must-try trend!
3. The Timeless Charm of Bows and Ribbon
There’s something undeniably charming about bows and ribbons—they instantly elevate any holiday setup! Whether draped around your christmas tree or adorning garlands, these accents bring warmth to your home. This year, I’m obsessed with creative twists on classics, like House 1924’s fabric bows and Studio McGee’s velvet designs.
DIY Oversized Bows from Old Sheets
Turn spare bedsheets into 24″ statement bows for under $3 each! I followed House 1924’s tutorial—just fold, knot, and fluff. Satin sheets create glossy bows, while burlap adds rustic texture. Pro tip: Use wired ribbon edges for shape retention.
Cost-Effective Ribbon Alternatives
No fancy ribbon? No problem. Repurpose silk scarves or gift wrap strips for a luxe look. For a playful touch, try Chris Loves Julia’s striped bowtie technique—it’s a game-changer! Learn more about how to decorate with ribbon like a pro.
Velvet ribbon adds instant luxury (hello, Studio McGee vibes!), but don’t overlook burlap for farmhouse charm. Mix widths for depth—2.5″ for bold bows, 1″ for delicate accents. You’ll be amazed how these DIY touches transform your space!
4. Neutral and Earthy Tree Decor
This season, I’m embracing cozy neutrals for a warm, inviting holiday home. Think gold-finished wood beads from The Lilypad Cottage paired with Studio McGee’s paper ornaments—understated yet stunning.
Mixing Gold, Brown, and Ivory
Stick to a muted color palette for harmony. Dried citrus slices and cinnamon sticks add warmth, while Eye for Pretty’s linen ribbon and jute twine keep it organic. Pro tip: Layer rattan stars (Target’s Threshold line has affordable options!) for texture.
Organic Textures to Try
Chunky knit collars are this year’s “ugly sweater” trend—cozy and playful! But learn from my salt dough fail: skip the glitter overload. Instead, try:
- Wood bead garlands: Perfect for rustic charm.
- Velvet ribbons: Adds a touch of interior design luxury.
- Felted wool balls: Kid-friendly and soft.
For more inspiration, explore these holiday home styling tips. Trust me—neutral doesn’t mean boring!
5. Vintage and Homemade Ornaments
There’s magic in mixing old treasures with new memories—let’s craft a story together! This year, I’m obsessed with homemade ornaments and vintage finds that make our space feel uniquely ours. Inspired by The September Chronicles, we turned our playroom into a whimsical wonderland with kid-crafted masterpieces.
Preserving Your Family’s Legacy
Heirloom ornaments deserve extra love. A light coat of clear acrylic spray seals fragile pieces for more years of joy. My grandmother’s handwritten date tags (1947!) still hang proudly—tiny time capsules of holidays past.
Kid-Friendly DIY Magic
Macaroni angels are a rite of passage! Here’s our foolproof glue-and-glitter method (warning: it’s messy). For toddler-proofing, Command hooks keep the tree upright during “helpful” decorating sessions. Pro tip: Skip the glitter—it’s still in my couch.
Bo Bedre’s mismatched ornament gallery wall is genius. Cluster vintage baubles in shadow boxes for a chic display. Pair them with farmhouse Christmas decor for cozy contrast.
Whether it’s salt-dough handprints or homemade ornaments from last year’s road trip, these touches turn your space into a family scrapbook. What stories will your ornaments tell?
6. Maximalist Tree Decor: More Is More
Who says less is more? This season, I’m embracing the magic of maximalist holiday styling. Inspired by Town n Country Living’s layered tinsel techniques, I discovered that doubling down on sparkle and texture creates pure joy. Here’s how to nail the look without overwhelming your space.
Bold Combinations That Work
My favorite experiment? Pairing oversized bows with brass horn ornaments and a feather boa garland. Sounds wild, but the mix of metallic and soft textures is stunning! Another win: emerald and magenta baubles clashing intentionally for a vibrant, artsy theme.
Pro tip: Skip scented ornaments. I learned the hard way after a cinnamon overload left my living room smelling like a bakery gone rogue.
Before & After: The Visual Impact
A sparse setup feels elegant, but a loaded display delivers drama. Try these steps:
- Start with lights: Wrap them densely for a glowing base.
- Layer tinsel: Use two colors for depth (silver + gold is timeless).
- Cluster baubles: Group 3–5 ornaments together for focal points.
Remember: Maximalist decor isn’t about chaos—it’s curated joy. If it makes you smile, it belongs!
7. The Tinsel Comeback
Tinsel isn’t just for grandma’s attic—it’s the star of this year’s trends! Designers like Kelly Elko are pairing mercury glass with shimmering strands for a luxe look, while The Makerista leans into vintage charm. Gone are the days of cheap, shedding strands; today’s versions are chic and intentional.
Modern Takes on a Retro Classic
Remember 1950s lead tinsel? Thankfully, today’s PET plastic versions are safer and shinier. French Country Cottage nailed it with a tinsel curtain backdrop—just layer strands vertically for drama. Pro tip: Weave garlands tightly to prevent shedding (my 2019 floor cleanup trauma speaks volumes).
Pet owners, listen up! After a $300 vet visit (thanks, curious pup), I now hang tinsel high. For a fresh twist, try ombré gradients—House of Jade’s gold-to-copper blend is stunning. Who knew a retro staple could feel so new?
8. Bold Red and Burgundy Accents
Rich, bold hues can instantly elevate your holiday setup—here’s how to style them right! Inspired by Zara Home’s velvet ribbon collection and Craftberry Bush’s berry clusters, I discovered the magic of deep reds and burgundy. These shades add warmth and drama without overpowering your space.
Festive Ribbon and Ornament Pairings
Marry cranberry hues with matte black ornaments for a modern contrast. Wire-edged ribbon rosettes add dimension—just twist and secure with floral wire. My fail-proof color ratio? 60% red, 30% metallic (gold or copper), and 10% contrast (like sage green).
Pro tip: Test ribbons on a hidden spot first. I learned the hard way after a burgundy dye transfer stained my white garland! For a fresh twist, try crimson paired with sage—it’s unexpected but *pure magic*.
- Texture mix: Velvet ribbons + glossy baubles.
- Unexpected pair: Crimson and sage green.
- Safety check: Always test dye transfer.
9. Dark and Moody Christmas Trees
Forget traditional red and green—deep, moody tones are stealing the spotlight. This trend brings drama and sophistication to your home, perfect for those craving a bold holiday look. Inspired by Hello Flora UK’s inky foliage sprays and Lindi & Russ’s navy velvet bows, I’ve fallen hard for this elegant twist.
Deep-Toned Ornaments and Garland
Create depth with charcoal-dipped pinecones or Craftberry Bush’s blackened mercury glass. My custom spray-painted ornaments (mix matte black with a hint of metallic gold) add just enough contrast. For texture, try:
- Velvet ribbons: Navy or burgundy for luxe appeal.
- Metallic leaf accents: Annie Schlechter’s brass touches elevate simplicity.
- Battery-operated candles: Safe flickering glow without fire risk.
Pro tip: Layer your garland with eucalyptus sprigs for organic contrast. The mix of moody and natural creates a balanced, unforgettable vibe!
10. Coastal-Themed Tree Decor
Bring the beach indoors this season with a coastal-inspired holiday setup! Jenny Wolf’s blue-and-white Hanukkah fusion proves this look works for any celebration. I love how it blends breezy charm with festive sparkle.
Nautical Colors and Natural Elements
Stick to a crisp palette: think cerulean glass baubles and ivory ribbon. Driftwood star toppers add rustic contrast, while sea glass ornaments mimic ocean hues. For texture, try Pernille Loof’s coral branches—just nestle them between lights!
My favorite DIY? Fishing net garland from rescued beach materials. Soak nets in vinegar to soften, then weave with twinkle lights. Pro tip: Use sealed shells to avoid saltwater damage. Unsealed ones can leave residue on your interior surfaces.
- Driftwood accents: Sand down edges for safety.
- Sand-dollar place settings: Pair with navy linens for cohesion.
- Natural jute rope: Twist into minimalist garlands.
This theme turns your holiday home into a serene retreat. Whether you’re landlocked or seaside, that coastal color palette feels effortlessly joyful!
11. Woodland Wonderland Inspiration
Step into a rustic dream with woodland-inspired holiday magic this season! I’m obsessed with blending earthy textures like pinecones and plaid for a cozy yet elegant vibe. Inspired by Charm’s vintage mercury glass accents, this look feels nostalgic and fresh.
Pinecone Preservation with a Festive Twist
Bake pinecones at 200°F for 30 minutes to remove sap—then toss them in cinnamon for a warm scent. Cluster them with beaded garland for a rustic-chic mantel display. Pro tip: Add a spritz of clear sealant to keep them intact for years!
Plaid Ribbon Weaving How-To
For a plaid ribbon garland, cut strips in varying lengths. Weave them vertically through trees or drape horizontally on stair railings. I used Inspired by Charm’s buffalo check ribbon—it’s thick enough to hold shape but soft for draping.
Emily Henderson’s wooden ornament forest inspired my DIY version:
- Beaded garland: Thread wooden spheres with twine for organic texture.
- Faux snow owls: Nestle them among branches for whimsy.
- Mercury glass: Reflects light like frost-kissed leaves.
This theme turns your space into a serene woodland escape. Whether you’re layering garlands or scattering pinecones, nature’s simplicity always shines!
12. Mixed Metals for a Luxe Look
Who knew mixing metals could create such show-stopping holiday magic? Sanctuary Home Decor’s tri-metal flocked tree proved even skeptics wrong—their rose gold, platinum, and silver combo went viral for good reason. I used to stress about matching finishes until designers like Athena Calderone showed me the beauty of intentional clashes.
The Perfect Metal Ratio
After trial and error, I landed on a 3:2:1 formula: dominant gold tones (60%), cool platinum (30%), and silver accents (10%). This balance keeps the look cohesive without being matchy. Pro tip: Use hammered metal ornaments to diffuse reflections—their textured surfaces add depth while softening the shine.
DIY Copper Star Topper
For a handmade touch, twist copper wire into a geometric star. I followed Lone Fox Home’s tutorial using 14-gauge wire from the hardware store. The warm metallic pairs perfectly with cooler tones below—just secure it with floral wire wrapped around the treetop.
Word to the wise: avoid this trend in sun-drenched rooms. My south-facing bay window turned last year’s display into a disco ball effect by noon! For ultra-luxe appeal, add mercury glass votives at the base—their subtle glow ties everything together beautifully.
13. Ombré and Disco Ball Trends
Mirror balls and velvet bows? Yes please—this trend combo is pure magic! Inspired by Tatertots & Jello’s mirror ball installations, I discovered how to blend retro sparkle with modern elegance. The secret? Layering textures and playing with light for show-stopping dimension.
Ombré Magic with Pantone Strips
Create a seamless gradient using Pantone color strips—it’s easier than you think! I followed Danielle Daly’s velvet bow technique, grouping shades from ivory to deep plum. For mini ornaments, cluster them by hue at varying heights. The result? A waterfall effect that feels luxe yet effortless.
Disco Drama Done Right
Mini disco balls aren’t just for parties—they’re holiday gold! Hang them in uneven clusters for reflective charm. My pro tip? Use a $15 rotating motor (Amazon’s plug-in kind) to send light dancing across your walls. Just avoid placing them near windows unless you want a laser show at noon!
Three must-try techniques:
- Glitter-free zones: Opt for sealed acrylic balls to skip the cleanup nightmare.
- Mixed textures: Pair mirror balls with matte velvet ribbons for contrast.
- Light testing: Preview your setup at night to adjust sparkle levels.
Fair warning: This trend is addictive. After my first disco ball strand, I may have ordered 50 more. Who says you can’t bring Studio 54 home for the holidays?
14. Vertical Ribbons for a Unique Twist
Move over, garland—there’s a sleeker way to dress up your space this year. Inspired by Pretty in the Pines’ plaid ribbon cascade, I discovered how vertical draping adds height and drama. It’s perfect for small spaces or when you crave a modern, clutter-free look.
Skip the Garland, Try This Instead
Wired-edge ribbons are your best friend! Here’s how to nail the waterfall effect:
- Military-style folds: Crisp, angled pleats add structure. Fold every 6 inches for a tailored look.
- Material matters: Satin glides smoothly, while mesh adds volume. For a quirky twist, repurpose old neckties—their patterns shine!
- Yardage formula: Tree height (ft) x 2 = total ribbon needed. My 7-footer used 14 yards with scraps for bows.
Pro tip: Secure ribbons with floral wire, not tape. My first attempt left sticky residue on the tree—lesson learned! For a unique touch, layer two ribbon widths (2″ and 1.5″) in contrasting colors.
This technique turns basic ribbon into a statement. Whether you’re channeling rustic charm or modern glam, it’s one of the easiest decorating ideas to transform your space.
15. Ski Lodge Coziness
Let’s transform your space into a snug retreat with ski lodge charm! Inspired by Inspired by Charm’s snowy palette, I mixed burgundy baubles with snowflake-printed ribbons for a woodsy yet elegant vibe. The result? A holiday haven that feels like a fireside escape.
Texture Layering Secrets
Start with a faux fur tree skirt—it’s instant warmth! Layer knit stockings over the branches for a tactile twist. My favorite hack? Buffalo check ribbon woven vertically mimics a cozy flannel blanket.
DIY Mulled Wine Ornaments
Fill clear baubles with cinnamon sticks and dried orange slices. A drop of clove oil makes them smell like a winter cabin. Pro tip: Seal the opening with hot glue to avoid spills (learned that after my first batch leaked!).
- Antler picks: Nestle faux versions among branches for rustic flair.
- Hot cocoa station: Style mugs on a tray with peppermint sticks and mini marshmallows.
- Beaded garland: The Lilypad Cottage’s wood-and-glass mix adds organic sparkle.
Whether you’re dreaming of Aspen or just craving that cozy vibe, these touches make your home feel like a snowy retreat. Now, who’s ready for cocoa?
16. Your Tree, Your Masterpiece
Forget Pinterest pressure—your home deserves a look that feels authentically you. Trends come and go, but your christmas tree should tell your story. Ours is a glorious mess of handmade macaroni angels and heirloom ornaments—proof that joy outweighs perfection.
Snap photos of your creations! Years later, you’ll treasure those candid shots more than any staged moment. Need ideas? Stay tuned for my gift guide—packed with finds to elevate your holiday decor.
Our family’s “ugly beautiful” tradition (think glitter disasters and lopsided bows) reminds me: the magic is in the memories. I’d love to see your masterpieces—tag me or drop a comment below!
However you celebrate this year, make it yours. Now, who’s ready to create something unforgettable?