18 Traditional Christmas Décor Ideas That Work Year After Year

Updated on Nov 25, 2020

Christmas tree in living room. — House of Harvee / Instagram

The holiday season is upon us once again, and it's time to start stringing the lights and pulling your Christmas tree up from the basement. And if you're a holiday décor fan, you’ve likely been itching to decorate your home even more than usual this year—probably since the first chill of October.

But there’s no need to rush out year after year and purchase bundles of new Christmas décor, even though the temptation is high—looking at you, Target. Traditional, classic décor you already own is often the most timeless and meaningful, and you won't run the risk of it not being on-trend in years to come.

Read on for 18 elevated traditional Christmas décor ideas to help you deck the halls in your home.

01 of 18

Wreath Centerpiece

Wreath on kitchen table. — Afro Bohemian Living / Instagram

Nothing screams Christmastime like pine, and this simple wreath makes the perfect centerpiece. It feels traditionally Christmas in texture and color, but modern when paired with the rest of the space's furnishings.

02 of 18

Holly Jolly Stockings

Colorful Christmas stockings. — Arbor & Co.

These stockings are sure to make you smile. A playful take on the classic red, green, and white Christmas palette, these stockings blend in perfectly with the preexisting bohemian and plant-happy décor.

Target Knit Monogram Christmas Stocking in White $15

Shop

03 of 18

Tree and Matching Shelf

This dreamy neutral space has the most gorgeous Christmas setup. The tree is adorned with coordinating neutral ornaments that complement the décor of the room, and the natural bottlebrush trees on the shelf complete the look.

04 of 18

Deck The Desk

Desk with wreath. — Ann Living / Instagram

As our WFH situation continues into the holidays, why not deck out your desk with a little Christmas cheer? This wreath is the perfect way to add a touch of evergreen to your work space.

05 of 18

Classic Tree

Classic Christmas tree. — Afro Bohemian Living / Instagram

Ornaments of Christmas’ past tend to have a special place in our hearts, whether they were from childhood, travels, or gifts. This tree covered in angels and candlesticks feels fresh yet classic and meaningful.

Balsam Hill Color Changing LED Christmas Tree Candles, Set of 20 $99 $89

Shop

06 of 18

Understated Garland

White living room with garland on mantle. — White & Faded

We love how this garland is the single pop of color in this all-white living room. Such a simple strand of green paired with burning candles really transforms the monochromatic space into a winter wonderland.

07 of 18

Tiny Tree

Small tree on mantle. — Home by Polly / Instagram

The fine details can read traditionally Christmas as well, just pint-sized. This mantel boasts an adorable reindeer and tiny tree combination that brings the classic Christmas feel atop the mantel.

West Elm LED Light-Up Tabletop Tree, Evergreen, 2' $40 $32

Shop

08 of 18

Small But Mighty

Small tree next to bust. — Brexton Cole Interiors

With such a well-styled interior, it might seem difficult to incorporate generic Christmas décor, but this tree feels made for this space. It is slim enough not to deter from the stunning walls and decorative objects, but still warms up the space.

09 of 18

Traditional Meets Neutral

Tree next to leather chair. — House of Hanes / Instagram

We love this corner display by House of Hanes that blends a chic design aesthetic with a traditional, lush Christmas tree. The neutral leather chair and black-and-white accents serve as the ideal backdrop for the evergreen tree, with the various styles blending seamlessly together.

10 of 18

Simple and Rustic

Living room with tree and garland. — Lemon Leaf Home Interiors / Instagram

The roaring fireplace, evergreen mantel, and simple Christmas tree give this living space the warmest and coziest Christmas vibes.

Tired of your old tree skirt? Try a trendy tree collar instead to cover the bottom of your real or artificial Christmas tree.

11 of 18

Star of the Show

This living room snapshot feels traditionally Christmas without sacrificing the neutrality of the space. The tree is decked out in ornaments, and the small reindeer and bottlebrush trees add touches of holiday detail throughout the space.

12 of 18

Touch of Green

Garland on headboard. — Modern House Vibes / Instagram

We love how a little hint of Christmas brightens up this bedroom. No room is off-limits for decorating, and this glowing garland atop the headboard feels like a new classic.

13 of 18

Christmas To the Max

Maximal Christmas decorations. — Thomas Guy Interiors / Instagram

If you’re going to decorate for Christmas, go all out, and use this design by Thomas Guy Interiors as your guide. This maximal design look features a tree loaded with colorful ornaments, garland draped over all the furniture, and a fresh red floral arrangement.

14 of 18

Minimalist Wreath

Simple wreath in living room. — mStarr Design / Instagram

This wreath matches the home’s décor so well it just might be mistaken for year-round wall art. The wreath's minimalist design and muted colors add a touch of holiday spirit to the space without overwhelming the neutral style with bolder reds and greens.

15 of 18

Stockings Hung With Care

Stockings hung on mantle. — Charbonneau Interiors

We want to cozy up next to this fireplace all winter. The subtle hints of Christmas tie in perfectly to the rustic decor, with neutral grey stockings and a simple pinecone garland.

16 of 18

Christmas, but Make It Glamorous

Wreath and tree in bedroom. — Brexton Cole Interiors

The Christmas décor in this glamorous bedroom feels at once luxe and classic. The tiny tree fits perfectly in the corner, and the wreath hung from the ornate mirror serves as a reminder of the season each time you get ready in the morning.

Christmas decorations can be found in every color, not just red and green. If you want to add a touch of the holidays in your bedroom, coordinate ornaments and lights with your current color scheme.

17 of 18

White and Bright

Ornate Christmas foyer. — Charbonneau Interiors

This space feels traditional yet elevated, with a tree dripping in gold accessories that lights up the white foyer. A coordinating garland cascades down the stair rail and leads to the tree for a cohesive multi-level design.

18 of 18

All is Calm

Though this Christmas tree by White & Faded is simple and understated, it is the standout feature of this white and rustic living space. The minimal approach to ornaments and lighting leaves the tree feeling natural, matching the room’s vibes perfectly.