When you think of Christmas decorations, your mind probably floods with images of kitschy mismatched ornaments, '80s-style red and green tinsel, twinkling rainbow lights, and a giant inflatable Santa on your front porch. Sho. However, you don't necessarily have to go overboard with his OTT decorations to get in the holiday spirit. Thankfully, for minimalists like us, there are plenty of creative and fun ways to decorate for the Christmas season without sacrificing the calm, cohesive feel of your home.
Now, I know what you're probably thinking. If you're planning to decorate your tree this year, you probably already have it decorated. But that doesn't mean it's too late to incorporate some last-minute minimalist touches into yours. Keeping in mind that most trees will remain standing even after the New Year, why not make your tree as beautiful as possible now?
We spoke to minimalists about how they're decorating their Christmas trees and bringing some festive spirit into their homes this year. If you prefer a sleek, simple look, take note. Here are some ideas for Christmas decorations.
1. Get inspired by nature
(Image credit: Vanessa Lentine. Design: Pure Salt Interiors)
What better way to easily decorate your Christmas tree at home than to decorate it with decorations inspired by nature? Incorporate natural elements into your tree, according to Thomas Trust of @rustandtrust The room transforms into a forest-like haven. “I like to decorate my Christmas tree as if I stumbled upon it somewhere in the woods,” he says. “Natural yet glamorous, minimal yet special!'' The tones of wood, metal, some glass, and brass are things I'm always drawn to. ”
Nature-inspired decor is a mainstay of Scandinavian Christmas decor ideas, as is minimalist decor, and Alicia Quiles of @thecomforthouse agrees. “For the past few years, I've been inspired by Scandinavian Christmas decorations that mostly include simple greenery and natural elements like birds, pine cones, and dried oranges,” she says. Alice explains how the natural decor blends seamlessly into the home's interior. “My minimalist, nature-inspired approach to Christmas decorations pairs well with the antique and vintage pieces we have in our home.”
And if you want to add a more personal touch to your minimalist Christmas tree, Mary Maloney, founder of Bee's Knees Interior Design, suggests finding your own ornaments. The simple yet beautiful decor is easy to spot when you step outside. “Go to your backyard and find some winter berries for decoration. They have a nice pop of red,” she says. “Add some pine cones to your windowsill for added texture. Evergreen cuttings are long-lasting and add a really nice scent.”
2. Use a cohesive color palette
(Image credit: Studio McGee / McGee & Co)
Choosing a minimalist color palette that blends seamlessly with your home's interior will give your Christmas tree a classy, sophisticated, and cohesive look. There's something undeniably calming about a palette of soft colors that all blend together beautifully.
Kashi Shikunova of YAM Interiors decorates the tree with a selection of matching ornaments that complement the interior of the home. “As a minimalist, it is very important for me to create a harmony between the Christmas tree and the interior. The decorations should be soft grays and natural tones to complement the interior, and introduce bright single colors to evoke a festive atmosphere. ” she explains.
“I like to use decorations that work in harmony with each other. The shapes and colors speak to and complement each other, creating a calming atmosphere without overloading the tree.” When it comes to lights, I always Use warm white colors and avoid multicolored flashing lights. Simple warm white lights maintain a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. ”
3. Inject some fun and glamor
(Image credit: Lindy Galloway)
Just because you're aiming for minimalist Christmas decorations doesn't mean you can't add playful touches to your tree and let your personality shine. Kelly Vasquez, founder of Kelly Vasquez Design, decided to ditch the tree altogether this year in favor of unique, personalized wreaths. “This year, I opted for a wreath instead of a tree, with white Christmas lights hanging from a traditional evergreen wreath,” she explains.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures on your wood. Texture is a hallmark of minimalism. Traditionally, minimalists focus on texture and texture instead of color. Thomas explains that this year he decided to play with metal materials. “I lean toward mixed metal, using a lot of muted brass and silver to create a rustic feel. Metals feel old, inherited, and special. I think it gives a very luxurious look when distressed. I also like the way it sparkles when the light hits it!
Alicia is blending different textures and ornaments on her tree this year, putting her own spin on this year's ribbon trend. She says, “Instead of bright red ribbon, opt for earthy mustard and burnt orange velvet ribbons, and accessorize with simple wreaths and sprigs of mistletoe.
Finally, paper is also a beautiful material with a minimalist feel. Paper garlands and white lanterns made from plain white paper create a rustic and calming atmosphere. “I also love the look of a simple paper star garland and mercury glass balls on the tree,” Alicia says.
Three minimalist tree decorations
gold metal christmas ornament
Set of 7 Christmas lanterns
wooden bead hanging christmas ornament