Holiday decor is so special and joyful, it sparks nostalgic memories and gives an opportunity to create new traditions. Part of the reason it feels so special is you only bring these pieces into your home once a year. They are up for a few weeks and then they are again resided to the attic for another 11 months. So how do you make this temporary decor work with the interior design style you have going on in your home all year round?
Of course, cohesiveness is important, and ensuring your Christmas decorating ideas don't clash with the rest of your home is key. But you still want there to be something extraordinary about your holiday decor, because that's the whole point right? It's a balance, and we asked interior designers how they get this balance right in their own homes.
How to make your holiday decor work with your interior design style
'Above all, remember that your holiday decor should reflect you. If your home leans modern, skip overly traditional pieces and opt for sleek, geometric ornaments. If your style is more eclectic, mix in vibrant or whimsical holiday accents that showcase your personality,' explains designer Nina Lichtenstein.
'By letting your home’s design guide your seasonal decor, you can create a look that feels authentic, intentional, and undeniably yours. When done thoughtfully, holiday decorating isn’t about transforming your home into something else – it’s about elevating what’s already there, layering in seasonal joy without losing the essence of your space. With these tips, you can create a home that feels festive, stylish, and unmistakably you.'
1. Keep the colors consistent
'Here's the thing about Christmas decor. There's something so charming about it not going with the rest of your non-holiday decor. There's a ton of joy in that visual chaos,' says designer Emily Henderson. 'However, as a designer, I do love a harmonious design too. The easiest way to do that is a complementary color palette. Keep your decor colors consistent with your home colors and you're set.'
Nina Lichtenstein agrees that a cohesive color scheme is key to ensuring your holiday decor at least somewhat aligns with the rest of your interior decor. She suggests, 'Take a look around your space and note your dominant colors. Is your home filled with warm neutrals, soft pastels, or bold jewel tones? Rather than introducing entirely new hues, incorporate holiday decorations that align with or complement your existing palette..'
'For neutral spaces, opt for metallics like gold, silver, or champagne, paired with natural greenery,' she continues. 'For colorful homes, choose holiday accents in analogous shades (colors close to your palette on the color wheel) for a cohesive look. And for minimalist aesthetics: Keep it simple with monochromatic decor or understated white and natural elements like pinecones and birchwood.'
2. Reflect your personal tastes and the festive spirit
'Rather than striving for meticulously matching decorations, prioritize creating a space that reflects your individual style and personality,' suggests designer Kati Curtis. 'Embracing a mix of colors, textures, and styles adds depth and character to your decor, making it truly your own. Remember, the beauty of holiday decorations lies in the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke, and there's no better way to achieve that than by creating a space that is authentically you.'
'However, there are some simple guidelines that will help you from going overboard with the Christmas kitch!' she adds. 'By incorporating elements such as natural materials, white lights, and sentimental objects, you can create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere that reflects both the festive spirit and your personal taste.'
'Natural Materials: Incorporating natural elements like evergreen branches, pinecones, and winter berries can add a touch of rustic charm to your holiday decor. Consider using natural wreaths, garlands, or even topiaries to infuse your space with a fresh feel that complements any interior design.'
'White Lights: White Christmas lights are classic and can help create an elegant look that blends well with any decor. Whether you drape them over your Christmas tree, wrap them around stair railings, or use them to highlight architectural features, white lights provide a warm and inviting ambiance that complements various design styles.'
'Sentimental Objects: Infusing meaningful objects can add a personal touch and create a sentimental connection to the festivities. Display cherished family ornaments, handmade crafts, or heirloom pieces that evoke special memories and reflect your unique style. Incorporating these objects into your holiday decor can make it truly special and reflective of your personality.'
3. Have a similar thread throughout
'Consistency is key to making your holiday decor feel intentional. Repeat similar elements throughout your home to tie everything together,' suggests Nina. 'For example, if your living room has brass accents, choose brass-toned ornaments or candleholders for your holiday decor.'
'If you’ve incorporated festive greenery in one room, such as Christmas wreaths, garlands, or potted mini evergreens, echo it in others. This repetition ensures your decor feels cohesive rather than scattered.'
4. Layer in decor that enhance your existing interiors
'I like to incorporate pieces that represent winter in its purest and most timeless form. Think fresh evergreen branches, balsam, juniper berries, and cypress paired with subtle accents of warm browns, nutmeg, and burgundy to bring in a touch of festive cheer,' explains designer Becky Shea.
'But it’s important to strike a balance,' she adds. 'You never want your holiday decor to overwhelm your existing space. Instead, focus on layering elements that enhance your home’s natural style and create a warm, welcoming ambiance. For example, adding greenery to your mantels, swapping out lighter throw pillows for cozy wool or velvet ones, or integrating candlelight into your dining setup are simple ways to blend holiday charm with your existing aesthetic.'
Nina agrees, 'Texture is a subtle yet powerful way to add depth and seasonal interest without overwhelming your space. Consider your existing materials –whether it’s sleek leather, soft linen, or rustic wood – and bring in holiday decor that enhances those textures.'
'Pair wool stockings and chunky knit throws with cozy, farmhouse-style interiors,' she suggests. 'Introduce shimmering fabrics, like velvet ribbons or sequined accents, in a modern or glam space. And use raw, organic elements like wooden ornaments and woven baskets in boho or nature-inspired homes.'
5. Find holiday motifs that align with your interior style
'I am a big proponent of blending holiday decor with your existing interior design! Think about the colors and design motifs you use the most and choose holiday accents that align with those or contrast with them in an artful way,' suggests Kathy Kuo.
'For example, if you love French country decor, try filling French country stoneware crocks with holiday greenery and trimming your tree with French-inspired birds and ribbons.'
6. Elevate the everyday pieces in your home
'There’s no need to completely clear out your everyday decor. Instead, look for ways to layer holiday touches over your existing setup,' suggests Nina. 'Replace everyday throw pillows with festive ones in complementary colors. Swap your dining table centerpiece for a seasonal arrangement using the same vase or tray. Add fairy lights to your bookshelves, mantels, or even existing plants for a bit of sparkle.'
'And try to incorporate pieces that feel personal and meaningful, tying them back to your existing design,' she continues. 'Your home tells the story of your life, and your holiday decor should be no exception. Display heirloom ornaments on a garland rather than your tree for a fresh take and incorporate handmade or locally sourced pieces for authenticity and warmth.'
7. Don't worry about everything matching perfectly
'Remember, your holiday decor doesn’t have to perfectly match your everyday aesthetic,' says designer Jennifer Davis. 'This is the time to truly decorate with what brings you joy! Whether it’s a kitschy village, glitter ornaments, or a mix of sentimental favorites, let your holiday decorations reflect the warmth of the season. After all, the holidays are about creating joy and celebrating in a way that feels uniquely yours.'
The key takeaway definitely seems to be if you decorate for Christmas in the way do you the rest of your interiors – with your own personal style at the forefront – your holiday decor will naturally fit in with your home. And if it doesn't? That's totally okay too.
