Beyond Red & Green: How to Master the Top 3 Designer Christmas Trends

As an interior designer, I get to see all the emerging trends, and this year’s holiday season is serving up some truly inspiring looks. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, there’s a style for you. Here are the three decor trends I'm loving right now, and how you can bring them into your own home.




1. Grandeur and Abundance: The Ralph Lauren Maximalist Look

This is the season to embrace a "more is more" philosophy, taking inspiration from classic, luxurious styles. Think of it as a rich, layered aesthetic where sophistication meets abundance.

  • Color Palette: We’re moving into deep, luxurious jewel tones. Think navy, rich burgundy, and emerald green as your foundation. Crucially, mix these with glamorous metallic accents, gold is your best friend here, providing that high-end detailing and shine.

  • Key Decor Elements: The Maximalist trend is all about texture and layering. Incorporate rich fabrics like velvet and satin, and don't hold back on the ornaments or the tinsel, yes, tinsel is making a comeback! Oversized bows and extravagant displays complete this bold, over-the-top look.

  • The Designer Tip: To keep the look cohesive and expensive (not cluttered), stick to a refined color scheme. Use different materials and sizes, but keep the core colors consistent.

 

2. A Cozy Throwback: The Traditional Nostalgic Christmas

The second major trend is a heartfelt return to tradition, evoking all those comforting childhood memories. This isn't just about red and green, it’s about creating an atmosphere of warmth and sentimental value.

  • Color Palette: The foundation is the classic, bright red and green, but with a modern twist. Mix in silvers and golds for a classic metallic element. This palette feels familiar and bright.

  • Key Decor Elements: Nostalgia is the theme. Dig out those vintage-inspired pieces like ceramic Christmas trees and classic styles like nutcrackers. Texture is key to cozying up the space; look for natural elements like dried fruit garlands, spices, and comforting, rich fabrics like velvet and wool. Bowmania is also part of this, with bows appearing on everything from wreaths to trees.

  • The Designer Tip: Modernize this look by focusing on quality over quantity for your main pieces, or by introducing a slightly deeper, more sophisticated shade of red or forest green. Candlelight is essential for ambiance, creating a truly warm and inviting glow that sets a festive, cozy mood.

 

3. Understated Elegance: Classic Gold and White Textured

For those who prefer a cleaner, more refined look, the soft and muted palette paired with luxurious texture is the perfect trend. It’s elegant, calming, and versatile.

  • Color Palette: The look centers on soft, muted tones. Think gentle shades like champagne, cream, dusty rose, and sage green. These are all about creating a calming atmosphere. These soft tones are then elevated by the sophisticated touch of metallics—specifically gold, copper, and bronze.

  • Key Decor Elements: This trend is all about texture and layering. Use materials like linen, rough fabrics, and matte or brushed metallic finishes. The idea is to mix and blend these surfaces for a rich, layered effect that avoids being too shiny or stark. The natural and organic elements, like pinecones and wood, pair beautifully with this calming palette.

  • The Designer Tip: To make this trend feel rich and not washed out, embrace a variety of textures. Use different sheens on your gold accents—some matte, some glossy—and layer natural elements over cozy textiles like wool or felt. This is also a fantastic trend for creating a cohesive look with themed trees, where you build the entire look around this one serene palette.

 

From maximalist glam to quiet elegance and cozy tradition, there’s a stunning Christmas trend for every home this year. Ready to bring your favorite look to life? Click on any of the mood boards below to instantly shop the decor elements and start designing your most beautiful holiday yet. Happy decorating!

 
 
 


 

Hi! I'm Sarah

By combining style + function, I can help you create a home for your family that is both lovely and livable.

 

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