Every year around the end of October department stores start displaying their Christmas decorations and seasonal collections. Each year these displays are a little different from the last, with a new trendy colour-of-the-moment integrated here and there, a new range of baubles in unusual shapes and designs. But who decides exactly what decorations are ‘in’ each year?
Those people are usually Christmas decoration buyers and retailers, and those people generally have a good idea of what the market wants to see right now, and are able to anticipate the trends that will eventually emerge throughout the season.
Spotlight’s DIY expert and decorations buyer Laura Morriss is one such person who makes these decisions, and we thought there would be no one better to quiz about what decorations to choose this year, and how to style them.
How do you know what trends will be ‘in’ this Christmas?
“We use home decor trends to predict the biggest Christmas themes. A new trending theme is bright and jolly colours you would not normally relate to Christmas. Think hot pink, aqua, blue, with candy themed decorations and tropical influences,” says Laura.
How should we choose which decorations to buy/use?
“I suggest choosing your theme, then develop a colour palette and stick to that. It’s all about finding decorations in those colours and materials in the textures outlined in your theme,” says Laura.
“Don’t be afraid to create your own themes or start your own traditions. If you love the traditional look but want something new then try adding one or two new colours to the traditional ones. A navy blue among green and red can make a bold statement – or pastel blue and pink to complement classic silver and gold.”
What are you top 5 Christmas decoration tips?
1. Don’t forget the door
“Greet your family and friends with a beautiful wreath and bring joy before they even step foot in the house,” says Laura.
2. Be experimental with your tree
“Let your Christmas tree be the shining centerpiece of your home,” says Laura. “Stick to your colour scheme and mix up the size and scale of your baubles. Lights are a must, and you can even swap the tinsel for strings of colourful pom poms or felt garlands.”
3. Make your mantelpiece snazzy
“Adorn your mantelpiece with a few select ornaments and make the show stopping piece a Christmas garland. Simply start off with the garland base and look to your tree for inspiration. Baubles and decorations should link the garland to the tree – but you can be as creative as you like!”
4. Dress your dining table
“Your tableware doesn’t have to come from the same set. Combine two ranges to match your festive colour decor. Add a touch of elegance by using baubles and faux foliage to set the scene,” says Laura. “Bring fun to the table by adding colourful Christmas decorations to the centre for a show-stopping display. Personalise each place setting, creating name tags with letter stickers.”
5. Do the whole house
“Personalise your space by painting plain papier-mache and timber decorations in coordinating colours. Get creative with stars or an argyle pattern on your ornaments to up the wow factor.Try an oversized paper garland for your bannister or a scandi-inspired Christmas village for the mantlepiece, then add a little extra shine with lanterns and candles inside and out.”
You might also like:
Easy and affordable DIY ways to decorate your Christmas table
Outdoor Christmas decorating ideas
The new Christmas decorations you need to see
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