Say Goodbye to These 15 Old-School Christmas Decor Trends in 2024
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Thanks to the latest technology in decoration, holiday decorating is moving faster than Santa’s sleigh! “The modern Christmas aesthetic is shifting toward minimalism, personalization, and sustainability,” says design expert Rebecca Martinez.
According to a recent National Retail Federation survey, 72 percent of millennials opt for unique, nontraditional styles — avoiding traditional red and green.
Interior designer Jordan Lee adds, “People want chic, Instagram-worthy homes that reflect their personal style.” 2024 is about being fresh and eco-friendly this season. Are you ready to abolish old Christmas traditions and embrace modern traditions? Here are 15 old-school Christmas decor to say goodbye to in 2024.
Traditional Red and Green
Red and green are going into the archives as classics. Modern Christmas decor’s most popular color schemes tend to be neutral tones such as beige, cream, and soft greys, punctuated with a sprinkle of shimmering metallics such as gold, silver, and bronze.
A minimalist palette is better because it makes the look more sophisticated and cohesive. According to a survey by Pinterest, searches for “neutral holiday decor” rose by 130% in 2023 alone.
Real Trees
Real Christmas trees, for all their nostalgic appeal, are no longer in vogue with younger generations, many leaning increasingly toward fulfillment. Artificial trees from recycled materials are on the rise. For apartment dwellers or those who would rather have low maintenance options, space-saving knobs like wall-mounted or half trees are trending. Bonus—no needles to vacuum!
Classic Wreaths
Cleaner and minimalist designs are replacing big, floral wreaths. Geometric frames are made through simple greenery or something non-traditional, like feathers or pampas grass. These are low-effort designs yet super sophisticated.
Tinsel
Elegant garlands made of natural materials, such as eucalyptus, cedar, or wooden beads, are edging out messy, overly shiny tinsel. These tasteful alternatives put a polished, timeless look when hung over a mantel or banister.
Large Inflatables
Don’t worry; the era of the lighter-than-previously-known-to-Nature Santa blow-up is over. Instead, choose unique yard displays, such as custom wooden signs, light-up deer silhouettes, or DIY holiday installations that present a reflection of you.
Heavy Ornaments
Heavy ornaments are stepping aside for families who want style without sacrificing safety. Now, you can find all sorts of shatterproof lightweight ornaments, playing shapes, or neutrals anywhere on the Christmas trees.
Single-Light Strands
Saying goodbye to static single light strands. The go-to choice was smart lighting, offering customizable colors, motions, and music synchronization even if you’re boring enough to be able to. You can control your holiday ambiance using products like Twinkly Smart Lights from your smartphone.
Traditional Stockings
They are replacing generic red stockings with customized ones. Embroidered with names or a different theme, these stockings add a unique, heartfelt touch to your decor.
Nutcrackers
For a long time, nutcrackers have held the spotlight, but today, you can find abstract figurines, Scandinavian-inspired designs, or metallic decorative pieces that go great with the modern-age home.
Busy Table Settings
Tables decorated with too many things are no longer in style. Think less is more, and opt for monochromatic table linens, coordinated dinnerware, and on-point statement centerpieces instead. You’ll save on your guests’ enjoyment and always appreciate the clean aesthetic.
Scented Candles
Toss heavy, overly sweet holiday-scented candles and replace them with reed diffusers or essential oil sprays. They aren’t overpowering and don’t overwhelm the senses (or the room), but they give just the right hint of sophistication to a room.
Cluttered Mantels
Rather than stacking every holiday trinket you own on your mantel, position a few statement pieces that showcase a little extra (like an oversized wreath or a flirty set of candles) with a simple garland in between. Less is truly more.
Cookie-Cutter Wrapping Paper
Thoughtful, eco-friendly wrapping papers are replacing generic, glossy options. For a modern, sustainable alternative, consider using kraft paper tied with twine or reusable fabric wraps.
Excess Decor
The era of overcrowding your space with decor is gone. Today, the trend is intentional design, where each piece serves a purpose, evokes joy, or tells a story. Quality and substance now outweigh quantity.
The Dying of Old Traditions and Birth of New Possibilities
In 2024, we are leaving behind the traditional and into an age of modern, practical, and fashionable Christmas decor. When you say goodbye to those 15 old-school trends, you update your home and curate your environment to match who you are today.
Be ahead of the trends; transform your holiday space. Today, find modern Christmas decor inspiration in a curated collection!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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