With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, the holiday season is officially upon us, which means it’s time to deck the halls once again. But with so many different design options to choose from, how do you decide which decor scheme is right for you?

Whether you go trendy or timeless, the truth is that each style will bring something merry and bright to your holiday home.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between contemporary and classic festive home decor, and help you decide which approach best fits your style, goals, and spirit this holiday season!

Classic Holiday Home Decor

Classic holiday decor is all about tradition. Think timeless colors like red, green, gold, and silver paired with vintage ornaments, wreaths, and stockings. Classic styles are often inspired by family heirlooms, nature, and nostalgic holiday memories. Here’s why you might want to embrace a classic look for your holiday decor this season:

#1 Timeless Appeal: Traditional decor never goes out of style. It’s often rooted in cultural traditions and familiar symbols that evoke warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. Whether it’s the red and green color scheme, the iconic Christmas tree with twinkling lights, or the scent of pine filling the air, timeless decorations instantly create a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

#2 Annual Consistency: Because classic decor tends to stay consistent, it’s easy to build on your collection of holiday decorations year after year. This means that you can invest in high-quality pieces that last for generations, making it a great choice for those who enjoy creating family traditions you can recreate every 12 months!

#3 Subtle Sophistication: Classic decor often emphasizes simple elegance — instead of going overboard on flashy decorations, the focus is typically on clean, beautiful details. Picture a luxurious table setting with white china, gold accents, and fresh greenery, or a Christmas tree adorned with delicate ornaments and soft lighting.

Looking for places to buy traditional Christmas home decor and trinkets? Check out our roundup of the best holiday markets in DC right here.

Classic Look Ideas:

• Traditional red, green, and gold color palette
• Vintage-inspired ornaments
• Simple greenery like wreaths and garlands
• Elegant candle arrangements
• Classic plaid patterns on pillows and throws

Discover the best of DC this holiday season. Read more about how to celebrate the season in style right here.

Trendy Holiday Home Decor

Trendy holiday decor focuses on timely design trends, often incorporating new materials, colors, and styles that reflect the year’s hottest looks. Trendy decor can feel fresh, exciting, and unique, making it the ultimate choice for those who want to reach for something bold each holiday season. Here’s why trendy decor could be the way to go:

#1 A Fresh, Modern Twist: Trendy decor allows you to embrace the latest color schemes, materials, and patterns that have defined the year’s style. From metallic accents to bold jewel tones and minimalist designs, you can experiment with the year’s most exciting trends on the most magical stage. This style gives you the opportunity to stay current by creating a holiday ambiance that’s fashion forward and welcoming at the same time.

#2 Flexibility: Trendy decor is often more flexible than classic pieces, allowing you to change things up each year. Whether it’s switching from sleek monochromes to vibrant pastels or swapping out traditional wreaths for something more avant-garde, trendy decor lets you continuously reinvent your holiday aesthetic without being tied to a specific look.

#3 Expressive and Playful: Trendy decor encourages creativity and individuality. You can mix and match patterns, embrace bold color choices, and try out unexpected elements like oversized ornaments or fun, quirky details. It’s all about expressing your personality and having fun with your decor.

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Trendy Look Ideas:

• Bold jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby
• Metallic accents (think rose gold, copper, and silver)
• Geometric shapes or minimalist tree designs
• Whimsical and non-traditional ornaments
• Personalized or DIY decorations

Trendy vs. Classic: How to Find the Right Balance For You

Choosing between trendy and classic holiday decor doesn’t mean you have to pick one over the other. In fact, many homeowners these days are finding ways to fuse both styles into their festive designs. By combining the warmth and timelessness of classic decor with the excitement of trendy accents, you can create a home that feels both stylish and nostalgic all at once. Here are a few tips for striking that perfect balance:

– Mix Classic and Trendy Elements: Consider starting with a traditional base, like a green Christmas tree or a classic red and gold color scheme, then add trendy accents like metallic ornaments or an unconventional tree topper. This way, you get the best of both worlds without compromising on either style!

– Layer with Trendy Accents: If you prefer to lean into classic decor but still want a touch of modern flair, add trendy accessories. For example, a traditional wreath can be paired with a metallic ribbon, or a classic mantel can be adorned with contemporary candles or abstract ornaments.

– Seasonal Trends and Timeless Pieces: When you invest in trendy items, make sure they’re versatile and can complement your classic pieces for future holidays. Choose decor items that are unique yet adaptable, so you can enjoy them for several years without feeling like your home’s design is stuck in a specific year.

At the end of the day, the decision between trendy and classic holiday decor comes down to your personal style and what makes you feel the most festive. Whichever direction you embrace, the most important thing is that your holiday escape reflects your unique personality and makes you feel at home during the most wonderful time of the year!

Planning a move? Get in touch with our team directly by calling us at 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.