Christmas decor trends and predictions

Christmas décor, like all home décor, changes and evolves as time passes. While the changes are often gradual, sudden societal change can influence décor trends more abruptly. In the summer, I was interested in this idea, and I looked into how Christmas décor has been affected during pivotal moments in our history. I found that how we observe Christmas reflects the state of our world. And 2020 certainly was a year of change. I took cues from the past to decipher this year’s Christmas décor trends and predictions. I hope you enjoy browsing through my take on this year’s top trends.

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Why wait until now to post my Christmas décor trends and predictions? I wanted to validate these ideas with what retailers and design experts are saying. In our modern age of online shopping, abundant choices, and diverse people, there will likely never be one single trend that dominates Christmas décor. And thank goodness for that. Rather, there are several popular décor trends to explore. I’m also not saying that everyone should decorate according to the trends. Sometimes the most rewarding and meaningful decor has nothing to do with trends.

The overarching theme this year

The overarching theme for Christmas décor this year is one of creating a magical place at home. As more people are staying home, working from home, and homeschooling, it makes sense to make our homes as cozy, festive, magical, and exciting as possible. Many people will be forgoing large gatherings, trips, and festive outings in favour of staying home. As a result, the home will have to serve many roles this holiday season- a comfortable, nurturing place, a place for work and learning, a place for family celebrations and virtual celebrations, and a vacation/holiday outing replacement.

I’ve heard many people say that they’re going “all out” on décor this year. I think it will be a year where people want that feeling of abundance and comfort. Whichever décor trend is chosen, I think people will be making a big effort this year with décor both indoors and outdoors.

The Quintessential Christmas

Many of us desire for this Christmas to be like the ones we remember. We want Christmas to be an escape from the messy reality of this year. To do so, we conjure up images from Classic holiday movies, Hallmark movies, and days gone by. As such, the precise décor scheme will vary from person to person. For some, it may mean decorating in the style of the Glamour Age, or in a Victorian Style, or in an abundant modern farmhouse style. Whichever style is chosen, there will be grand gestures, such as a very large tree or abundant ornaments, as well as great attention to detail, such as a cozy blanket on every chair or a carefully planned tablescape.

The Handmade Christmas

Handmade is a huge trend this year. With the increased time at home, many are discovering or re-discovering crafty past times. Not only are people making more crafts and décor themselves, but they are seeking out handmade and unique products from local crafters and online marketplaces like Etsy. Chunky handmade blankets, pillows, and tree skirts are more popular than ever. Handmade and personalized tree ornaments are a favourite this year. And we are incorporating handmade items into more than just textiles and tree décor. Pottery dishes, handmade wreaths, hand-poured candles, and unique wall hangings and wall art are all finding a place this holiday season.

It also feels good to support local businesses and artisans in a year that has been a financial challenge for many.

Global Style

There has been a cultural awakening this year and many will want to embrace this with their décor. Hopefully, this is not a trend, rather something that sticks around permanently. Holiday décor may include pottery or textiles from our own culture or from other cultures. Part of this cultural awareness is recognizing the importance of purchasing equitably sourced products where the makers are properly renumerated and truly benefit from the sales.

Farmhouse Christmas

Farmhouse Christmas décor is going strong this year as it brings us all the warm and cozy feels. It is welcoming and reminiscent of a simpler world. What does farmhouse Christmas décor look like? Check out my post, How to get the Modern Farmhouse Christmas Look. To sum it up in a few items- flocked Christmas trees, buffalo plaid, baskets, chunky candle pillars, knitted fabrics, and wood signs.

Blinged-out front lawn displays

I think there will be more extravagant outdoor displays this year, as it is a way to communicate with the outside world and connect to our neighbours. Many will want to create a sparkly winter wonderland, while others will go for colourful and cute to bring a smile to passersby. Husbands may feel more comfortable in the realm of outdoor decorating and it can be a family affair to plan and set up a creative holiday display.

Candles and lights have always been a symbol of hope and that’s something we all need right now. From a simple candle to a house full of lights, there will be a focus on shining a light this Christmas.

Unexpected elements

There are some unexpected twists to holiday décor this year, including citrus theming and dark colours like navy blue or black. I think that pretty much anything goes and this is a move towards being unique and expressive in your home décor.

What’s trending in Christmas trees

Flocked trees will still be popular, though I’m seeing a return to more natural-looking trees. These include real trees, and faux trees replicating less common Christmas tree species. The trend for multiple trees is even stronger this year. Since we’re spending more time at home, tree decorating is an activity in itself. You might consider having different themed trees in your home, and perhaps letting each family member have their own tree to decorate (even just a small one). All-white trees are also making a comeback, as they are nostalgic and reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s.

Tree skirts and unconventional trees

Unconventional tree skirts are becoming the new norm. These include chunky blanket skirts, wicker tree collars, hammered metal tree collars, and wood crates or metal buckets used in place of tree skirts.

An alternative to a tree is a tree tapestry or wall hanging.

What’s trending in tree ornaments

My Christmas décor trends and predictions would not be complete without a discussion of what’s new and trending in tree ornaments. I’m seeing a ton of new and innovative ornaments this year as well as the resurgence of some old favourites. These are some of the new and irresistible ornaments I’m seeing this year:

• Light-up ornaments
• Laser-cut or detailed pottery ornaments
• Fuzzy snowball ornaments
• Mice ornaments
• Gingerbread house ornaments
• Space-themed ornaments
• Deep navy blue and black ornaments
• Quirky ornaments like ice cream cones and skis
• Flocked ornaments
• Nutcracker ornaments

I have to admit that I’ve already purchased some snowball ornaments and deep navy ornaments. I really want some gingerbread house ornaments- or maybe I’ll DIY them!

Vacation replacement

So, how exactly are people looking to fill the void of holiday travel this year? There is a big trend towards in-home experiences. If we can’t go out and do all the fun things, let’s see how many we can recreate at home. For movie lovers, it may mean creating a home theatre. Families are bonding over puzzles, craft boxes, and outdoor neighbourhood activities. As the temperature dips and the snow arrives, there will likely be a lot more people participating in outdoor winter activities like skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Creating a chalet-style cozy space to come in from the cold could be as simple as placing decorate baskets of wood by the fireplace with ample blankets and creating a hot chocolate bar.

Virtual gatherings have become a more accepted part of daily life and people are looking for ways to make their gatherings special and unique. Having a lovely backdrop, like a beautifully-decorated tree or holiday feature wall is a fun way to decorate for a virtual party. We’re really enjoying craft kit parties and parties with modified board games.

Summary

Thank you for reading about my Christmas décor trends and predictions. I’d love to hear how you are decorating differently this year! Love Christmas decor? Check out some of my other posts.

My Favourite Free Christmas Printables

Farmhouse Christmas Front Porch Decor in 20 Minutes

5 Steps to a Gorgeous Christmas Tree

10 Gorgeous Neutral Christmas Trees