There’s no wrong way to
decorate for the holidays. Perhaps you’re a traditionalist, favoring greens and reds. Or maybe you like to be a little different, opting for a black tree adorned in purple and teal. You might prefer all one color, such as all silver or pink. Or you may prefer the subtle tone-on-tone craze of beige and cream, often accessorized with ample doses of burlap.
With so many different options, you may feel a little overwhelmed with holiday decorating. But don’t worry — we have several ways to help you find the inspiration you need to find your color palette and make your home sparkle this season.
Match Your Existing Decor
Not sure where to begin? Look around! What color scheme does your home have? Do you tend to favor a specific color? Look at your sofa, your throw pillows, or your favorite rug. Think about what drew you to those items.
If you tend to select warm colors, then a tree done in gold or red might be ideal. If you prefer soft, subtle tones, then a tree done in silver and white might be the right choice. Choose ornaments and decor that will complement your space.
Fabric could also be an inspiration. Do you have a blanket that you adore? How about a throw pillow? Use the colors in an item you love as the starting point for your holiday decor. If you’ve found a stunning tablecloth, make it the focal point of your room, using colors that coordinate with that tablecloth to bring out its beauty. Use those colors throughout your home (like accent pillows and candles).
Use Gift Wrap as Inspiration
Go shopping for gift wrap! You’ll need it anyway, and the one you choose could be the inspiration for your holiday color scheme. If you tie your home décor to the paper you’ll use to wrap gifts, you’ll have an Instagram-worthy space in no time.
You can use the wrapping paper as décor in unexpected ways, as well. Wrap some picture frames, add a bow or ribbon, and hang “presents” on the wall. Or, create a centerpiece using leftover wrapping paper and ribbons. When the holiday season is over, you can simply dispose of the wrapping paper, making this a
practical and inexpensive way to decorate your home.
Look at Your Ornaments
Do you have an ornament you love? If not, see if you can find one! Looking at ornaments may give you an idea of what you like and don’t like.
Once you’ve found an ornament, choose your color scheme from it. Did you select a pale pink ornament with silver accents? A red and green checked ornament? Is it silver and purple? Design your decor around this stand-out piece, then give it a prominent spot on your tree (or add it to a bowl of ornaments on your coffee table).
Popular Color Combinations
If you’re still not sure what you want your color palette to be this holiday season, draw some inspiration from common color combinations. Here are some great ones to help you create your personal holiday décor style:
- Red and Green: Embrace the classic holiday spirit with red and green. Use vibrant red ribbons and lush green garlands to decorate your staircase or mantle for a traditional yet lively look.
- Red and White: Capture a winter wonderland vibe by pairing red accents with crisp white backgrounds. Think red berries in white vases or red candles on a white tablecloth for a bright and festive setting.
- All White: Create an elegant and serene atmosphere with an all-white theme. Incorporate white lights, faux snow, and porcelain ornaments to evoke a snowy landscape indoors.
- Any Color and Gold: Add a touch of luxury by combining any color with gold. For instance, teal and gold can bring a regal feel to your tree decorations or table settings.
- Any Color and White: Pair vibrant colors with white for a fresh and modern look. Consider using navy blue accents with white dishes and linens for a nautical-inspired holiday table.
- Any Color and Silver: Add shimmer to your holiday décor by mixing any color with silver. Purple and silver ornaments can create a sophisticated and glamorous tree.
- White, Blue, and Silver: Dive into a frosty theme with this cool color palette. Use blue and silver baubles along with white fairy lights to transform your tree into a magical ice castle.
- Ivory and Brushed Gold: Opt for understated elegance with ivory and brushed gold. Decorate your dining table with ivory linens and gold-rimmed dinnerware to impress guests with a touch of sophistication.
- Sage Green, Ivory, and Pewter: Bring a natural and earthy charm with these muted tones. Sage green wreaths combined with pewter candle holders can create a warm and inviting entryway.
- Bright Purple, Blue, and Green: Infuse vibrancy and fun into your décor with this playful combination. Use these colors in ornaments and stockings to liven up a family room.
- Icy Blue, Lilac, and Silver: Create a serene atmosphere with icy blue, lilac, and silver. These colors are perfect for bedroom decorations, creating a peaceful retreat.
- Autumn Tones of Beige, Brown, Golden Yellows, and Rust: Transition seamlessly from fall to winter with these warm tones. Decorate your living room with rust-colored throws and golden yellow cushions for a cozy feel.
- Forest Green, Burgundy, Gold: Achieve a rich and opulent look with forest green, burgundy, and gold. These colors work beautifully for a formal dining room setting with gold chargers and burgundy napkins.
- Primary Colors such as Red, Yellow, and Blue: Inject a sense of whimsy and nostalgia with primary colors. Use these in children’s play areas or for crafting DIY ornaments that pop with color.
- Muted Tones of Pale Beige and Cream: Keep it soft and subtle with pale beige and cream. These colors are ideal for creating a calm and neutral backdrop in any part of your home, especially in minimalist settings.
Of course, you can mix and match colors any way you like. The best thing about holiday decorating? It’s never too much, and there are no rules! Go ahead — mix green and gold or peach and silver. Use your favorite color as your starting point, and don’t be afraid to try something non-traditional.
