The mantel is one of the most significant yet underused corners for winter decor in the home, so when we see a beautifully-decorated one, we take note.
Such is the case with Christina Aguilera's mantel, which strikes the perfect balance between Christmas-appropriate and all-around fall/winter-ready. The white fireplace is accessorized with flameless pillar candles, while a festive wreath hangs above.
What I love about this look is how simple and customizable it is. Christina has opted for only a couple of candles, but you can add extra for a layered look, while the wreath can easily be swapped out for a less Christmas-forward one.
Christina Aguilera for her 45th birthday dinner. pic.twitter.com/GIjBrdflGqDecember 19, 2025
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If you're worried about safety or wind blowing out real candles, opt for flameless ones, like these, which flicker like natural flames.
Luxury candle brands and fashion houses have been debuting candle configurations that, in true avant-garde fashion, are designed to serve as their own base entirely – no candlesticks required. Terrain has followed suit. Style it solo, or add a few pins across the surface for a little glitz.
Here's a wreath that can stay hanging well past the Christmas season. With its frost-effect branches and winter-green color scheme, this wreath is a classic winter decor detail that can enhance any window, wall, or door.
To complete the look, place this Foraged Red Berry Pine Wreath atop a mirror above the mantel. This simple pairing amplifies the wreath’s presence, giving the fireplace a grand, statement-making feel.
No mantel feels complete without a candle. This twisted taper holder works beautifully on its own or paired as a duo at either end of the mantel for maximum impact.
Christina's mantel shows just how much impact a single candle can have. This one is ideal for creating a cozy evening atmosphere, though honestly, it looks just as charming in daylight.
According to design experts, there are plenty of ways to dress a mantel up or down for the holiday season and beyond.
'Personalize the mantelpiece by hanging the traditional stockings filled with gifts,' Interior designer and decorator Ryan McDonough suggests. 'You can use framed family photos on top of the fireplace, along with Christmas cards. To enhance the cozy ambience, you can place a few candles between the cards. Just be careful not to overcrowd the mantelpiece, as sometimes less is more.'
Ryan continues, 'However, be careful with paper decorations and stockings. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources and avoid using real candles unattended.'
This is yet another reason to invest in flameless candles, like the ones Christina has. For a classic, cream pillar candle, Pottery Barn has a range of sizes at reasonable prices, while these traditional, green sticks from Terrain are an excellent pop of color. As far as wreaths go, if you're looking to keep yours up beyond the holiday season, this winter cedar wreath from Lulu and Georgia is a great pick for the early months of the new year.
