Expert Advice

5 Ways To Modernize Your Holiday Decorating

By Cristina Cleveland

modern christmas holiday decorating

To me, there is absolutely nothing cozier than a glittering Christmas tree with childhood ornaments, stockings hung on the mantel, and rich velvet ribbon dressing the whole house. I feel warm just thinking about it. One day when I live in a Nancy Meyers home, I may decorate that way, but at this moment in my life I’m on the hunt for ways to make my home feel festive during the holiday season without abandoning the modern look I’m into right now. Because I live in a studio loft, I also have to be extra mindful of my limited storage for these items during the rest of the year. Here’s how I’m embracing the holiday season in a modern way this year.

modern christmas holiday decorating

Eucalyptus – I’ll always love a traditional balsam wreath, but eucalyptus has a muted green palette that fits right in with neutral color tones. Another benefit to this understated wreath is that it won’t feel totally out of season the second Christmas passes. If you don’t have a mantel or focal point to hang a wreath, garnish a dresser or bookshelf with a eucalyptus garland instead.

Winter artwork – If you live in a place that never snows (hello, Texas!), artwork of winter scenes can help set the tone. This ski school print by Gray Malin almost looks like abstract art from afar, and I like that its white and bright colors won’t feel out of place in warmer seasons.

Candle votives – I remember some similar candle votives to the ones above being in very high demand at last year’s Camille Styles white elephant gift exchange! This mix of traditional architecture with city skyscrapers is a fun take on a winter cityscape.

Firewood piles – This minimalist firewood tower is the perfect accessory for a streamlined mantel. Now if only I had a fireplace to justify this purchase!

Magazine rack – This DIY leather magazine strap has to be one of the simplest DIYs in history, yet it looks so bespoke. Customize your display by hanging your favorite glossy magazines each month.

*Photo by The Faux Martha, olive & eucalyptus wreath Food52,  Ski School print Gray Malin, leather sofa Overstock, house votives Urbania, DIY eucalyptus garland Homey Oh My,  DIY leather magazine rack burkatron, woodtower Raumgestalt  

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