Five Holiday Decor Trends Defining Festive Homes This Year

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This holiday season, interior design trends are shifting away from synthetic brightness towards textures and palettes that evoke nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of enduring quality. Designers are embracing looks that feel less manufactured and more collected over time. Here’s a breakdown of the five key trends shaping festive homes this year.

The Return of ’90s Christmas Nostalgia

A revival of the 1990s aesthetic is taking hold, emphasizing cozy, laid-back Christmas decor. Think flannel stockings, gold accents, and abundant evergreen garland—but without the overly polished look. Designer Meredith Page notes that this trend prioritizes depth over synthetic cheer, focusing on materials that feel enduring rather than mass-produced.

To achieve this look:
– Incorporate velvet ribbons or pillows for texture.
– Use tartan and plaid throws or wrapping paper.
– Introduce deep chestnut and chocolate hues for an equestrian-inspired touch.

Embracing the “Little Women” Aesthetic

Inspired by American Christmases of the 1860s, this trend centers on natural elements and homemade touches. Designer Devon Tobin highlights the importance of texture—fresh greens paired with wool, linen, and wood—to create a warm, cohesive look that feels authentic rather than overdone.

Key elements include:
– Foraged greenery (magnolia leaves, pine sprigs)
– Dried orange and cranberry garlands
– Pomanders

Sourcing directly from nature is encouraged.

Quiet Shine: Subtlety Over Sparkle

This year’s approach to shine favors refinement over gaudiness. Instead of glitter or high-gloss finishes, designers suggest using materials that naturally reflect light: old glass, mercury, or warm-toned bulbs. The emphasis is on restraint; a few well-chosen ornaments or simple lights can make a significant impact.

Mixing Polished and Patinaed Metals

The traditional mixing of silver and gold takes on a new dimension this year, with a focus on contrasting polished surfaces against aged or patinaed pieces. This creates an inviting, intimate atmosphere that feels timeless and avoids typical holiday kitsch. The combination evokes a nostalgic lodge aesthetic.

The Dominance of Deep Evergreen

Deep green is emerging as the defining holiday color, offering a grounding sense of calm in a typically chaotic season. Designers suggest keeping the palette tight, using an actual evergreen tree as a guide. Pairing deep greens with earthy browns enhances the organic feel, and incorporating scents like cedar or pine can further amplify the effect.

In conclusion, the dominant trends for this holiday season are rooted in authenticity, texture, and a rejection of overly synthetic displays. By leaning into nostalgia, natural materials, and subtle elegance, homeowners can create festive spaces that feel both inviting and enduring.