If you’re like me, you love to decorate your home for the holidays – it’s a beautiful tradition. But have you ever considered if your decorations are on theme with your space? Do they look ‘organic’ to your decor or totally incongruent? Most of us use the same items year after year. But maybe this year it’s time to take inventory and make some updates. Done correctly, your holiday décor will integrate so perfectly, you’ll almost want to keep it on display all year! Here are some suggestions to help you get started:

What is your home’s style? Is it contemporary, traditional, eclectic, Bohemian or country casual? Most of us have a blend that falls under transitional, but if your home is definitely one distinct style, be true to it, even at holiday time. It means being discriminating. Look at each element. Does it truly fit?

What works with your home’s style? Holiday decorations are remarkably diverse today. It’s time to re-assess. If your home is traditional, green and red may actually be perfect: a classic Christmas tree, green garland, etc. But if your home is contemporary, go for silver, white and a minimalist approach. If it’s Bohemian, experiment with homemade decorations and ‘crafty’ pieces. If it’s Victorian, add antique items, glass balls and ornate centerpieces.

What’s on trend in holiday decor? Your home welcomes lots of guests during the holidays. There’s no better time to showcase your creativity! Here’s what’s new:

• Black & White. This is gorgeous in a contemporary home. Focus on the white; you don’t want to be macabre. Black should be used sparingly, perhaps combined with metallics. A white wreath on the door, black and white bows on the tree and black and white gift wrap. In a more traditional home, pair it with red.
• Theme. If you are passionate about a hobby or style, incorporate it into your holiday décor. My friend is a musician and decorates his tree exclusively in musical instruments. The giant nutcracker (pictured above and perfect for the foyer) inspires me to fill my home with nutcrackers of all sizes, perhaps blended with a ballet theme. Maybe you adore cats or old movies. They all make fun themes that are perfect for the holiday season. Always apply sparingly of course.
• Outdoorsy. This is my favourite look. A real tree is a must, perhaps decorated in cranberries, popcorn and hand-me-down ornaments. Wreathes are made from real spruce and fir. Candles are abundant. The mantel hosts real branches, twigs, pine cones and holly berries. Bright red apples are décor elements. This can work beautifully in any theme, but best suits country casual or eclectic.
• White. So serene! For a country theme, go natural with lots of greenery, homemade accents and lace. For contemporary, stay pure, blending with ivory and touches of green.
• Bling. A little sparkle is always appropriate during the holiday season. Go glamourous with a Great Gatsby theme! Mirrors, crystal, silverware – include all your sparkly treasures to reflect light. White twinkly lights throughout your home will enhance the glow.
• Pastel. Pale pinks, purples and blues can be gorgeous. Choose one colour you love and incorporate it with traditional holiday colours. Blue has been a seasonal favourite for many years. Choose complementary shades and embrace it fully in your home this year!

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