As the holiday season rolls around, you might find yourself reaching for the same box of Christmas decorations you’ve used for years. However, some of these holiday decorating habits might be feeling a bit outdated. It’s time to step into the present and modernize your Christmas aesthetics. Here are 14 Christmas decorating habits that might be due for a refresh.
1. Overdoing the Tinsel: The Glittery Overload
Tinsel was once the go-to decoration for filling in those bare spots on the tree. But these days, it often feels like a glittery overload. Instead of using tinsel to dress your tree, consider opting for a more refined look with a few well-placed ornaments and a stylish tree topper.
Not to mention, it’s also more environmentally friendly to skip the tinsel. Most tinsel is made from plastic, which isn’t biodegradable. So, let’s save the planet and our Christmas trees from the tinsel overload.
2. Multi-Colored Lights: The Rainbow Christmas
Multi-colored lights can be a striking sight, but they can also make your home look like a rainbow explosion. If you’re going for a more modern look, consider using white or warm toned lights. These can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and they complement almost any other holiday decor.
Additionally, according to a study published by the Association for Computing Machinery, warm white lights are more energy-efficient than their multi-colored counterparts. So, you can save on your energy bill while still keeping your home festive and bright.
3. The Red and Green Monotony: Lack of Modern Color Schemes
While red and green are traditional Christmas colors, they can feel a bit monotonous after a while. This year, consider experimenting with different color schemes. For instance, you could try a minimalist look with neutrals and metallics, or make a bold statement with a monochrome theme.
As suggested by Martha Stewart, you can also incorporate non-traditional colors like pink, teal, or gold into your holiday decor for a fresh and modern look. The key is to find a color scheme that reflects your personal style and the aesthetic of your home.
4. Overstuffed Stockings: More is Not Always Better
There’s a common misconception that the more gifts you can stuff into a stocking, the better. However, an overstuffed stocking can often result in a chaotic mess. Plus, it’s not about the quantity of gifts, but the thoughtfulness behind them.
Instead of trying to fill every inch of the stocking, focus on selecting a few meaningful gifts. And remember, sometimes the best gifts come in small packages. A well-curated stocking can be much more meaningful and exciting than one that’s overflowing with random items.
5. Inflatable Lawn Decorations: The Bigger, the Not Always Better
While inflatable lawn decorations might seem like a festive way to celebrate the holidays, they can often look tacky and overdone. Plus, they can be a nightmare to set up and take down. Instead of going for the biggest inflatable Santa you can find, consider opting for more subtle and tasteful outdoor decorations.
Think about incorporating a mix of greenery, lights, and smaller decorations to create a festive and inviting outdoor space. You don’t need a giant inflatable to make a big impression. A well-decorated porch or front yard can be just as festive and much more stylish.
6. Traditional Christmas Villages: The Overcrowded Mantelpiece
Traditional Christmas villages can add a nostalgic touch to your holiday decor. But if your mantelpiece is starting to look more like an overcrowded cityscape than a cozy Christmas scene, it might be time to scale back. Instead of displaying every single piece in your collection, consider selecting a few of your favorites.
Remember, a Christmas village should add to the holiday spirit, not dominate your entire living room. A smaller, more curated display can make a much bigger impact and leave room for other festive decorations on your mantelpiece.
7. Popcorn Garland: The Edible Decor
Popcorn garland is a classic Christmas decoration, but let’s be honest, it can be a bit of a hassle to make. And if you have pets or small children, it can also be a choking hazard. Instead of spending hours threading popcorn onto a string, consider opting for a different type of garland.
There are so many beautiful and unique garlands available these days, from twinkling lights to felted wool balls. Not only are they safer and easier to hang, but they can also be used year after year. Plus, you can snack on the popcorn while you decorate instead of stringing it up!
8. Plastic Mistletoe: The Everlasting Kiss
While plastic mistletoe might seem like a cute idea, it can often look cheap and tacky. Plus, it’s not very eco-friendly. If you love the tradition of hanging mistletoe, consider using a real sprig instead. Not only does it look more authentic, but it also adds a fresh, natural element to your holiday decor.
If you can’t find real mistletoe, there are many beautiful handmade alternatives available. You can find mistletoe made from felt, wood, or even recycled materials. These can add a charming and eco-friendly touch to your holiday decor.
9. Overly Thematic Decorations: The Obsessive Compartmentalization
While it can be fun to decorate with a specific theme in mind, overly thematic decorations can often feel restrictive and impersonal. Instead of sticking to one theme, consider mixing and matching different styles and elements. This can create a more eclectic and personalized look.
For example, you could combine vintage ornaments with modern decor, or mix rustic elements with glam accents. The key is to find a balance that reflects your personal style and makes your home feel festive and inviting.
10. Identical Wrapped Presents: The Uniform Gift Giving
While matching gift wrap can look neat and organized, it can also be a bit boring. Instead of wrapping all your presents in the same paper, consider mixing it up with different patterns, colors, and textures. This can add a fun and festive touch to your gift giving.
As suggested by My 100-Year-Old Home, you can also get creative with your gift wrapping techniques. Try using fabric, newspaper, or even brown kraft paper for a more eco-friendly option. And don’t forget to add a personal touch with a handwritten note or a special ornament.
11. Old School Light Bulbs: The Energy Drainers
Old school light bulbs might have a nostalgic charm, but they can also be a major energy drain. These days, there are many energy-efficient alternatives available, such as LED lights. Not only do they use less energy, but they also last longer and are safer to use.
Switching to energy-efficient lights is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money on your electricity bill. So, it’s a win-win situation. Plus, LED lights come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can still create a festive and bright holiday display without the energy drain.
12. Oversized Wreaths: The Door Takeovers
While an oversized wreath can make a bold statement, it can also take over your entire door. Instead of going for the biggest wreath you can find, consider choosing a smaller one that complements your door and the rest of your holiday decor. A well-proportioned wreath can add a festive touch without overwhelming your front entrance.
Additionally, instead of sticking to the traditional evergreen wreath, consider trying a different style. There are so many beautiful and unique wreaths available these days, from rustic birch branch wreaths to modern metal wreaths. These can add a fresh and stylish touch to your holiday decor.
13. The Tacky Sweater Party: The Ugly Tradition
While tacky sweater parties can be a fun way to celebrate the holidays, they can also feel a bit outdated. Instead of hosting another ugly sweater party, consider trying a different theme. For instance, you could host a holiday movie night, a cookie decorating party, or even a festive game night.
According to a study published by Liberty University, people tend to enjoy holiday gatherings that are unique and interactive. So, don’t be afraid to get creative with your holiday party theme. After all, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the holiday spirit with your loved ones.
14. Over the Top Tablescapes: The Uncomfortable Dining Experience
While an elaborate tablescape can look impressive, it can also make dining uncomfortable and impractical. Instead of going over the top with your tablescape, consider keeping it simple and functional. Focus on creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere where your guests can relax and enjoy their meal.
Remember, the most important thing about a holiday meal is the food and the company. A simple and tasteful tablescape can enhance the dining experience without distracting from the main event. Plus, it’s much easier to set up and clean up!