As far as we’re concerned, there’s something inherently nostalgic about holiday decor. We mean, why buy a brand-new cookie jar or batch of ornaments every season when you can conjure the joy of Christmases past with items you’ve owned for decades? However, if you’re looking for a way to spruce up your “same old” stuff and want to keep the old-fashioned charm intact, here’s your sign to have a Ralph Lauren-inspired Christmas.
At this point, you’ve probably seen “Ralph Lauren Christmas” all over your social media feeds—and for good reason. On the runway, Ralph Lauren is known for deftly bridging the gap between “elevated” and “everyday.” Meanwhile, on the homefront, the style’s use of rich colors and plaids does the same all while evoking the allure of a bygone era. And when peppered with pine needles, tapered candles, and brass accents?
While most buzzy styles may require you to decorate from scratch, the Ralph Lauren Christmas trend is different. According to Kim Colwell, an interior designer based in Los Angeles, it’s possible to work with what you have. “The process of discovering the innate qualities within each client is the most profound phase of designing a concept that is solely for them,” she explains. “The more deeply personal each detailed design decision is, the more warmth the home emits.”
If you want to bring the trend into your holiday decor, but have no idea how to start, we have you covered with this step-by-step guide to mastering Ralph Lauren Christmas. You may already have these ingredients lurking in your festive fripperies, but we also added some shoppable options should you need a restock.
Highlight a Time-Honored Piece
Lean into the trend’s time-honored vibe by showing off something vintage. “I like to begin by knowing what pieces from their existing collection have sentimental value,” Colwell says. “Each design decision has the ability to express aspects of their personality that tell the story about their life, sense of humor, and heart-centered expression.” If you don’t have something that was passed down from generation to generation, you can always pick up something from your favorite vintage store or Etsy.
Throw in Some Texture
A little bit of texture is an easy, effective way to make a space feel inviting. Fortunately, there’s no one way to weave this trend into your holiday decor. You’ll find plenty of homebodies who will incorporate lush garland, while others will cover their Christmas tree in velvet bows. Who knows? You might even find a few committed decorators who do a little bit of both!
Go for the Gold
Burl Ives might’ve sung about silver and gold, but when it comes to your holiday decor, it’s all about that Midas touch. Unlike nickel or chrome, there’s something about brass that feels warm, welcoming, and a slightly old-fashioned. While lacquered details like a bell or candlestick holders will modernize your setup, unlacquered brass with a touch of patina will be a welcomed blast from the past.
Let There Be Light
It’s really not up for debate: Mood lighting always makes a room. Any other time, table lamps or scented candles would be suitable choices; however, tapers have a timeless quality that feel so fitting for this merry time of year. For a look that’s as polished as, well, a Ralph Lauren photoshoot, select tapers in an accent color of your tartan. The forest green option from Rebecca Udall complements the throw blanket without being matchy-matchy.
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