Good article by Designers

Gina Alem and Melinda Bell Dickey

Integrating new holiday trends into your existing décor

 “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is
softer and more beautiful.”  – Norman Vincent Peale

There are fabulous, fresh trends out there for holiday decorating this year.
The question is how to integrate these new finds into an existing décor. Here
are some options.

One of the most popular trends is with natural materials. Tabletop trees
constructed from bleached woods or dried leaves and fibrous or feathered
woodland animals are lining the shelves of many home interiors stores.
Driftwood, pinecones, branches, willows and twigs, burlap, and wools are other
natural components that are finding their way into exciting holiday décor.

One especially interesting trend is that of eco-décor, or recycled chic,
which is derived by combining the old with the new.

Mercury, or silvered glass, is everywhere as well, from Pottery Barn and West
Elm to area florists. It’s hot and makes different styles of décor look
fabulous. Mercury glass is available in votives, globes, vases, candleholders
and even mercury glass string lights. It’s sparkly and festive, but some pieces
can transition into everyday décor as well.

Find a thread of continuity to tie in your current décor with a new trend.
For example, if you already decorate with traditional reds and greens, then
select a new trendy shade of green ornament for your assortment to freshen up
the look. Consider a mercury glass hurricane to replace clear glass in a floral
arrangement, or implement an interesting antique for something new.

Scale is important in holiday decorating. If you feel like your Christmas
tree needs some updating, then go big. In other words, instead of purchasing the
smallest white feather owl to add to your silver and white décor, go with the
largest one available and make a significant impact in your nest. Another
expressive trend is with oversized ornaments, so intermix large, extravagant
ones on your tree to create some drama.

For something different this year, select a new area for implementing new
décor, such as on a dining room tablescape or a guest bedroom — a great space
for a small Christmas tree with birds or mercury glass ornaments in a new yet
room-coordinating color. Plus, it’ll make holiday guests feel even more
special.

Mantel décor is another area that lends itself to a new design direction.
Throw out the old wired greenery, unwind some willow or grapevine garland
throughout, and add lanterns or candleholders and ornaments for a unique
look.

Combining some nature-inspired elements with existing décor also can bring a
slightly more casual feel to the mix. For instance, if you have glittery gold
table arrangements, adding some curly willow or driftwood branches can bring it
down a notch and create an eclectic design.

When it comes to decorating with metallics, mix and match different elements,
like shiny with matte and silver with copper. Don’t limit yourself just because
you’ve used gold in the past. Put some matte-finish silver ornaments in a big
bowl or basket with shiny gold ones, and watch them all pop.

Theme-based décor is another trend that’s not necessarily new but that always
has new elements or categories. It also can be a great way to integrate new
décor into what’s already there. Some additional current design themes include
aviary, French-inspired and color medleys. Au courant color combinations include
silver and a lighter shade of green.

With the “Mad Men” craze toward 1960s styles, nostalgia and influences, retro
decorating also is in this year. Pick up an aluminum tinsel tree at a local
resale shop, or look to stores like CB2 for modern versions.

Similar to natural or organic décor but with a theme is oceanic styling,
which utilizes sea fans, coral, and shells. Unless you’re blessed with a beach
house, though, this trend is best used in smaller amounts. A beautiful dining
room or cocktail tablescape is a great way to add this element, while
candlelight raises the design sensibility tremendously.

Speaking of candlelight, another trend that’s beautiful and safe is the
flameless candle. It can enhance the mood and be used in places that otherwise
prove to be a safety hazard, like among dried florals.

This year, be a bit adventurous with your decorating — and take joy in
something new.