Decking the halls for the holidays is all about spreading cheer with an abundant dose of merriness to boot. Tinsel, garland, and string lights may rank high on our Christmas decorations list, but there is a whole host of other accents and accessories that deserve an equal amount of time in the limelight. Once you've picked out the perfect tree (be it big, small, or an alternative), it's time to take things to the next level with a vibrant selection of ornamental accouterments. Not quite sure where to start? Whether you have your sights set on the mantel or the entire house, we've compiled a handy checklist with every staple and essential you'll need to get the job done.
1. Garland
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Garland might just be one of the most versatile Christmas decorations out there. Whether it's strung on the rails of a staircase, draped along the center of the dining table, or set to trail down the fireplace mantel, it's primed to be the focal point. To further elevate it, add in eucalyptus strands for a fragrant touch or position mini votives along its curves for an illuminating effect.
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2. Ornaments
Whether you're going for a cheeky-themed tree this year or simply keeping it traditional, a few new baubles definitely deserve a spot on your Christmas decorations list. Consider DIY ornaments made of natural materials, upcycle wrapping paper or leftover scraps for origami-inspired embellishments, or stock up on vibrant knickknacks to string along the walls and windows.
Our pick: West Elm Cream Paper Ornaments (set of 4), $20
Word to the wise: The moment you begin your holiday shopping, pick up a box or two of string lights — the good ones always sell out early! Plus, you can always count on needing extras, and more often than not, last year's supply will probably have a healthy number of burst or dim bulbs.
Our pick: Pottery Barn Curtain Rain String Lights, $89
4. Holly
This winter foliage can trace its roots back to thousands of years ago, where its presence in a home was meant to serve as a respite from the winter grays. These days, we love the idea of sourcing a rich bunch of holly berry stems or any variety of winter berries and pairing them with a chic vase for a statement-worthy addition to the dining table.
5. Tinsel
Tinsel is a retro staple that makes for a surefire way to invite some much-needed sparkle to your Christmas decorations. Reshape it into tasseled gift toppers, make a vibrant photo backdrop, or simply spring it on top of garland or a wreath for a festive dose of luster. This vivid Etsy find has the right idea.
Lining the fireplace mantel with stockings is a holiday tradition as timeless as any, but just as important are the holders. This year, ditch the Command strips in favor of a seasonally themed accent piece and consider it an opportunity to further accentuate the scene with a design-forward fixture that can play double duty.
Our pick: Food52 Gingham Linen Holiday Stocking, $45
7. Wreaths
First impressions are always important, and your front door is no exception, especially when it involves a Christmas decorating idea as pretty as this. Even the most basic winter wreath will suffice in spreading an ample amount of cheer, and your boosted curb appeal will thank you for it. Now, to DIY or buy? We'll leave that up to you.
8. Tree Skirt, Collar, or Covering
Rarely do the branches of a Christmas tree perfectly fall into place, concealing the base of the tree and its heavy-duty stand. Cue the clever tree skirts, collars, and coverings. Go all out with an extravagantly patterned skirt, prop the green into a woven basket, or simply wrap a stretch of burlap along the base. The extra step will give your evergreen a polished look that will complement the rest of your space.
Our pick: MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Tree Collar, $238
9. Candles
The holidays are synonymous with entertaining, and mood lighting is always essential. Jot down "candles" on your Christmas decorations list and arm yourself with an arsenal of votives, tapers, and even a few scented options as an ode to the season. Candleholders naturally go without saying, and a sleek brass option or even something abstract can be a foolproof way to reimagine even the most standard tapers.
10. Throw Pillows
One of the easiest (read: low effort and budget-friendly) ways to refresh your space for the holidays is to swap in a handful of themed throw pillows that emulate the season's best. Think tasseled, faux fur, and even sequined if you're feeling bold. A cozy addition to the bed, sofa, or entry bench, they are a dependable way to invite an eye-catching pop of color and texture to any room.
11. Accents
Under the more general umbrella of Christmas decorating ideas, you have the decor and accessories that will take your design game to the next level. We're talking nutcrackers, bottlebrush trees, advent calendars, tree toppers, banners, and anything else that will elevate the staples with either height, texture, or color. Prop them in random nooks and crannies (think window sills, nightstands, the corner of a media stand) to spread loads of holiday cheer.
Our pick: West Elm Pure Bottlebrush Trees (set of 6), $78
