If you’ve noticed the Ralph Lauren Christmas style popping up all over social media this season, you’re not alone. This trend blends classic Americana charm with cozy, layered holiday decor inspired by the designer’s signature look. It’s about creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere using deep colors, rich textures, and heritage patterns that feel timeless yet inviting.
To recreate this look at home, focus on traditional colors like forest green, burgundy, and warm gold, and add touches of leather, wood, and tartan accents for that authentic Ralph Lauren vibe. The style isn’t just about decorating—it’s about capturing a feeling of homey elegance and quiet luxury that’s both approachable and stylish.
You probably already have some of the key pieces sitting in your holiday stash, making it easier than you think to bring the Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic to your space. Get ready to layer in velvet, plaid, and vintage-inspired details that turn your home into a cozy, refined holiday retreat.
What Is the Ralph Lauren Christmas Aesthetic?
This style blends timeless holiday traditions with a sophisticated, warm vibe. It’s all about layering classic decorations with rich textures and a carefully curated color palette to create a cozy yet refined atmosphere in your home.
Origins and Rise of the Trend
The Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic stems from the brand’s signature look—classic American design steeped in heritage and quiet luxury. It became a social media sensation recently as people sought to transform their holiday decor into a more meaningful and polished experience.
People like Preston Konrad, a former Ralph Lauren employee, helped popularize the style by sharing insider tips on layering and lighting that elevate your space. Jenny Reimold, another designer associated with the trend, emphasizes tradition over trendiness. This look offers a calm, nostalgic alternative to flashy, more contemporary decorations. It’s about comfort wrapped in elegance.
Key Elements That Define the Look
Plaid is non-negotiable. Strategic pops of tartan appear in throws, napkins, or ribbons rather than an overload of pattern.
The color palette sticks to rich reds, forest greens, golds, and neutral tones—no bright or glittery colors. Think matte finishes, natural pine cones, and touches of warm metallic accents like brass or chrome.
Lighting plays a big role: warm white lights create an intimate and cozy ambiance, steering clear of colored or flashing lights. Scent is another subtle but important detail—pines, cinnamon, or fresh garland scents bring the look together in a sensory way.
Why It’s Resonating With Holiday Decorators
You want a holiday style that feels intentional but not over the top. Ralph Lauren Christmas captures a deeper desire for heritage and calm amid seasonal chaos.
At its core, it’s about creating memories in a space that looks as inviting as it feels. This trend appeals because it balances nostalgia with sophistication—no flashy slogans or kitschy decorations, just quiet luxury rooted in tradition.
Beyond aesthetics, it invites you to prioritize warmth and authenticity rather than chasing fleeting trends. This reason explains why it’s become so popular on platforms like TikTok, where people look for approachable yet elevated ways to decorate.
Essential Color Palette and Fabrics
The Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic is defined by a carefully chosen color palette and layered fabrics that bring warmth and elegance to your home. By focusing on specific hues and textures, you create a space that feels both festive and timeless.
Rich Reds, Deep Greens, and Classic Hues
Start with colors that evoke a traditional Christmas mood—rich reds and deep forest greens are the foundation. These hues add warmth and connect your decor to the heritage style Ralph Lauren embodies. Think of deep crimson ribbons tied neatly around gifts or velvety red throws draped over chairs.
Complement these colors with creamy whites, soft beige, and hints of black to balance the intensity. Black accents, like candleholders or picture frames, add sophistication and grounding to the overall look. This classic palette invites a cozy glow while remaining refined and polished throughout your space.
The Role of Tartan and Plaid Patterns
Tartan and plaid patterns are at the heart of Ralph Lauren’s holiday style. Whether you use a Stewart plaid sham on your couch or plaid wrapping paper on your gifts, these patterns provide a cheerful yet timeless vibe.
Plaid ties together the color palette, offering a visual rhythm with layers of pattern that feel both rustic and elegant. Green tartan napkins or scarves repurposed as table runners add subtle nods to tradition without overwhelming your decor.
You can easily mix different tartans and plaids; just keep the colors consistent with your main palette to maintain harmony. This approach avoids chaos and maintains that classic Ralph Lauren sophistication.
Incorporating Velvet and Texture
Texture is what transforms color into a living, tactile experience. Velvet bows and cushions bring softness and depth, inviting you and your guests to feel the luxury of the season.
Layer velvet with cozy knits, soft wool, and even leather or faux fur touches to create contrast and interest. These textures don’t have to be expensive—a thrifted velvet throw or a knit blanket can add plenty of character.
When combined with tartan fabrics and your signature colors, these layers stimulate both sight and touch, making spaces feel comfortable and genuinely inviting. Texture is essential to achieving the warmth and elegance that defines a Ralph Lauren Christmas.
Signature Decorative Accents
To get the Ralph Lauren Christmas vibe at home, focus on layering classic details with a blend of refined textures. Key pieces like equestrian-inspired accents, brass and silver elements, vintage treasures, and playful icons help you build a warm, polished look that feels timeless.
Equestrian Motifs and Heritage Touches
Incorporate horse-themed decor to channel that signature Ralph Lauren heritage charm. You can start with horse figurines or brass horse candlesticks placed on mantels or side tables. These small but striking details bring a sense of tradition and rugged elegance.
Look for extras like horse bit napkin rings to dress your holiday table with subtle equestrian flair. For a nostalgic touch, add ornaments such as the Old World Christmas snowflake horse to your tree. These pieces invite a connection to the brand’s classic American countryside influence.
Brass and Silver Details
Metal finishes are essential in achieving the polished Ralph Lauren Christmas style. You’ll want to incorporate brass bell holiday door swags for a traditional and welcoming entryway. Brass elements also add warmth and richness that complement deep reds and greens.
In your living spaces, add silver trophies or vases with nickel finishes for that sophisticated shine. Silver and pewter accessories on tablescapes or shelves tie together the layered look with a refined balance of rustic and luxe.
Incorporating Vintage and Heirloom Pieces
Vintage accents bring personality and a lived-in feel to your holiday decor. Look for pieces with patina like antique skis, snowshoes, or aged rugs placed at an angle to warm up the room. These add depth and authenticity to the overall aesthetic.
Consider integrating heirloom items such as old family ornaments or vintage glassware. Blending these with Ralph Lauren’s inspired pieces helps create a collected, meaningful holiday atmosphere rich with stories.
Polo Bear and Playful Icons
The iconic Polo Bear is a charming touch that softens the otherwise sophisticated theme. Add it through holiday pillows or collectible figurines for a playful, cozy vibe.
Other whimsical accessories, like classic knit pillows or plush toys in festive colors, balance the rich textures and tartans. These elements keep the space inviting and fun without losing the brand’s polished feel.
Greenery, Florals, and Seasonal Styling
To capture the Ralph Lauren Christmas vibe, focus on rich, natural elements that bring warmth and texture to your holiday decor. Mixing various types of greenery with touches of florals and traditional accents creates a layered, luxurious look that feels both timeless and cozy.
Lush Pine Garland and Wreaths
Start with pine garland as the foundation of your greenery. Norfolk pine garland is a popular choice because of its full, soft needles and deep green shade. Drape it generously over mantels, staircases, or door frames to add a classic holiday feel.
You want the garland to look full and textured. Layering in different pine varieties or mixing in eucalyptus adds depth. Wrapping the garland with soft white lights or subtle ribbons enhances the cozy, elegant effect without overpowering the natural beauty.
Using Magnolia Leaves and Pinecones
Magnolia leaves bring a unique seasonal texture with their thick, glossy green tops and velvety undersides. Adding sprigs of magnolia into your garland or wreath adds a Southern charm and richness you don’t get from pine alone.
Pair magnolia leaves with pinecones to add rustic elements that feel very Ralph Lauren. Look for pinecones with a natural dusting of white or gold to hint winter. Attach them with thin floral wire or nestle them into greenery for a balanced, natural look.
Red Roses and Berry Accents
Incorporate red roses sparingly to introduce pops of rich color that feel classic and sophisticated. Choose partially open roses to keep the look fresh and elegant without overwhelming the greenery.
Complement the roses with clusters of red berries. These provide a natural, festive accent that ties your greenery and florals together. Use berry sprigs along wreaths or branches near your Christmas tree to bring bursts of color and texture typical of a Ralph Lauren Christmas.
Tablescapes, Gift Wrapping, and Entertaining
Creating a festive atmosphere involves choosing the right mix of textiles, tableware, and gift presentation. Rich patterns and nostalgic details bring warmth, while thoughtful layering and classic touches make your space inviting and elegant for holiday gatherings.
Layered Plaid Table Linens
Start with a base of Stewart plaid table runners or placemats to set a traditional Ralph Lauren Christmas tone. Layer these with green tartan napkins for a festive pop of color. Mixing different textures, like cotton and velvet, adds warmth and depth to the table.
Draping linens in deep reds, forest greens, and navy enhances a polished look. You can also add placemats with subtle equestrian prints or layering pieces in natural fibers to keep the style grounded. This “more is more” approach to fabrics will instantly elevate your tablescape.
Heirloom-Inspired Tableware
Incorporate pieces that feel collected over time to achieve an authentic, heritage vibe. Mixing vintage glassware with bold, plaid plates, for example, adds dimension to your setting. Using old family dishes or heirloom serving pieces fits perfectly with the Ralph Lauren Christmas style.
Add height and interest with candleholders, brown cloche decorations, or sculptural centerpieces. Personalize by including handwritten name cards or ceramic holders for a welcoming touch. These details transform your holiday table into one full of character and memory.
Classic Wrapping Paper and Ribbons
Go for timeless charm with plaid wrapping paper in muted tones—think navy, red, or green tartan patterns. Pair these with simple ribbons in velvet, grosgrain, or natural jute to keep gift wrapping elegant yet understated.
Adding small accents like sprigs of pine or cinnamon sticks tucked under the ribbon reinforces the cozy, heritage feel. Using reusable gift bags or cloches in brown or neutral shades adds a stylish, sustainable touch fit for a Ralph Lauren-inspired holiday look.
Tips From Top Home Stylists
To capture the Ralph Lauren Christmas vibe, focus on mixing rich textures, classic patterns, and warm, layered colors. Use vintage accents and natural greenery to add depth and character to your holiday decor.
Jenny Reimold’s Styling Rules
Jenny Reimold emphasizes balance between elegance and comfort. Start by layering tartan fabrics, such as pillows and throws, in deep reds and greens. Incorporate luxe textures like velvet and leather to elevate the cozy feel.
She recommends using candlestick holders and crystal glassware to bring subtle glamour. Don’t forget natural elements like cedar garlands and fresh wreaths to anchor the look in tradition.
Keep your accessories meaningful and minimal to avoid clutter, focusing on pieces that tell a story or have a heritage feel.
Inspiration From Preston Konrad and Molly Moorkamp
Preston Konrad highlights warmth as the heart of the Ralph Lauren style. He suggests adding glowing fireplaces or flickering candles paired with plaid to evoke a nostalgic holiday mood. Rich mahogany or dark wood pieces help create that old-world charm.
Molly Moorkamp advises layering patterns carefully. Start with a bold tartan base and soften it with tweed or neutral-toned accessories like leather-bound holiday books or brass embellishments.
Together, they stress the importance of atmosphere: your space should feel lived-in yet polished, like a country estate ready for guests.
Budget-Friendly Ways to Get the Look
You don’t need to splurge on Ralph Lauren products to nail this aesthetic. Check thrift stores or discount retailers for tartan pillows, velvet ornaments, and brass candle holders.
Dollar stores and online marketplaces often have faux cranberry garlands and cedar wreaths that fit the style perfectly. Mixing new buys with vintage finds makes your decor unique without breaking the bank.
Layer textures by combining inexpensive pieces like tartan runners and velvet bows, then use greenery and simple string lights to add richness and charm.
