5 trending festive themes for Christmas decor

One of the wonders of Christmas is putting up the decorations… and foraging for those sentimental trinkets, glitzy trimmings, garlands and twinkling lights galore.

But what if you’re rethinking your Christmas aesthetic; fancy a shift in style and theme, and have your heart set on making a statement to create something meaning and memorable?

“I really feel like now more than ever, it’s about personal expression and making every person that you’re gifting to – and that you’re bringing into your home – feel seen and making them feel special,” says Dayna Isom Johnson, trend expert for Etsy online marketplace.

“And it’s about releasing the cookie cutter… look of it all in the past, and focusing more on that personal expression – and what really speaks to you.”

With a focus on nostalgia, detailed table settings, colourful accessories, ballet influences and moody themes, here’s how to express your inner self this festive season…

“Nonna holiday is all about the nostalgia of it all,” highlights Johnson. “It’s about thinking back to your grandmother’s kitchen, your mother’s kitchen.

In addition, she suggests thinking about items that look straight out of the garden… candles that look like tomatoes; or a scented sliced baguette to evoke homemade bread recipes.

“All of those nostalgic moments that look special and kind of a throwback, adding that sense of character.”

“The supper club trend is all about creating a beautiful tablescape that’s just as beautiful as the food you’re serving,” explains Johnson.  “So looking and paying attention to every single detail.

“And from your side, as the person who’s executing the décor, taking the time to really knock out every single detail,” suggests Johnson, who reveals she’s a hostess to the max.

“And I will say: ‘Absolutely, I did that,'” she says smiling.

3. Play haus

“This is really where you’re going to let your imagination fly freely,” enthuses Johnson. “This is when you’re tapping into your childlike wonder.

And if you’re into dopamine dressing, now’s the time to get playful and creative with homewares. Top tip: “Really allowing your childlike adventure and sensibility, to really fly freely.

She continues: “Colour clash, print clash… think of this as the most imaginative playhouse you can dream of as a child – and you’re now bringing it to life for Christmas.”

4. Nutcrackercore

“But then you have part two, which is being inspired by the actual performance of The Nutcracker itself,” she explains. “So you’ll see lots of influences from the ballet.

She continues: “So think of the softness of the ballet, the ornate design of the actual nutcracker, and, of course, the velvet ribbons that come with all of those.”

There are so many inspirational touch points from Nutcrackercore, she highlights. “It’s not just the actual Nutcracker, but also within the performance of the ballet.”

5. Gothmas

“I am such a fan of gothmas,” confesses Johnson. “I love this because it’s so surprising, and that’s what gets me excited when something new comes around.

“And while this isn’t a new idea, it’s new for Christmas.”

So you’ll see lots of Victorian curvatures in items, she points out, especially within candle holders, candelabras etc. But says to also think about materials such as polka dots, and black lace that can be used for table décor.

“Again, black candles, lots of heavy velvets, all of these things that read very sophisticated and moody.

Along with black accents, Johnson says for gothmas, “it’s leaning into the deep jewel tones, like the emerald greens, like the navy, alongside that moody black.”

And if you’re dreaming of a chic Christmas, a monochrome palette with magical touches such as a crescent moon topper really brings home the look of luxe… while championing a heavenly scheme.