Design Experts Reveal 2024’s Top Christmas Decorating Trends

From ornaments to tabletop decor, festive fungi has made its way into holiday decor. “Mushrooms, from whimsical in bright red to more earthy colors in velvet are popular this year,” says Annie Diamond of The Most Lovely Things.

Swap bright red accessories for pops of moody burgundy, which “help add richness and warmth to your decor,” says Drew Michael Scott, designer and founder of Lone Fox. “It creates a bold contrast with traditional greens and golds, giving your space a deep, sophisticated vibe.”

From moody velvet to bright satin ribbons, bows are probably the biggest trend this year. “Put a bow on everything — from candles, bottles and wreaths to the Christmas trees,” says Diamond. “People are hanging large bows above the door or mantel, and linking them together as garlands.”

From the viral gingerbread man pillow to gingerbread villages, we’re seeing more people embrace this whimsical theme. “I’m leaning heavily into the gingerbread theme by turning all of my farmhouse villages into gingerbread houses,” says Jennifer Hadfield of Tatertots and Jello.

People are craving cozy, personalized spaces — turning to hand-painted ornaments over mass-produced items. “I love how hand-painted ornaments feel like a work of art. They add character to your tree and feel more unique and personal,” says Scott.

RELATED: 80 Homemade Christmas Ornaments to Spruce up Your Tree

“Gone is the restraint of typical holiday palettes, with favor coming to more prismatic ones,” says Rebecca Bobroff of Rebecca Bobroff Design. Think bold jewel tones, soft pastels and mixed metals. “These non-traditional schemes bring a fresh, unique vibe to the season, and offer a delightful twist on holiday decor”

From throw blankets and place settings to ornaments, plaid patterns are popping up everywhere this year. And, don’t worry: This iconic design isn’t going anywhere. “Tartan has been around for thousands of years and will remain for thousands more. You can’t go wrong with the classics!” says Beverly Nyguyen, stylist who recently worked with The Glenlivet on a tartan collection.

Also popular this year are homemade paper decorations, such as paper chains, paper snowflakes and paper ornaments. “Handmade and artisanal pieces are taking center stage, adding a personal touch to holiday decor,” notes Cheryl Clendenon, owner of In Detail Interiors.

Turn your living room into a cozy ski chalet. “The trending Après Ski design style can come to life via leather-look sofas and durable armchairs,” says Ursula Carmona, DIY expert behind Homemade by Carmona and HomeGoods’ featured finder. Then, layer in greenery and playful pieces, like faux antlers and ceramic animal figurines.

Retro design is back, and glitzy disco balls have become a staple of Christmas decor. “I’m seeing non-traditional colors for a more modern Christmas with sparkly elements like disco balls,” says Hadfield, who decorates her mantel with colorful bottle brush trees, disco ball garland and more.

RELATED: Retro Kitchens Are Making a Comeback — in a Very Surprising Color