Blame Martha Stewart… this Christmas, it’s all about style with soul. A joyful fusion of whimsy and nostalgia combined with nature, a bold personality and thoughtful aesthetics.
Traditional, minimalist, maximalist….almost every approach is valid when it comes to decorating your home for Christmas this year, as long as it feels personal and intentional.
As we edge towards the festivities, memories and comfort, as ever, take centre stage. This year, they come in the form of handmade decorations, treasures from the garden, vintage textures and the warm familiarity of cherished family traditions.
It’s a year when more is definitely more, with designers mixing styles — dramatic jewel colours, shimmering metallic accents and contrasting textures — to create statement decorations to wow, but that still feel cosy and homely.
Annie Blackledge, Interior Designer at Holloways, explores this year’s key decorating trends, from the opulent Ralph Lauren look, rich with evergreens, reds and tartans, to the whimsy of cottage core and glamorous monochrome schemes.
“Designers this year are really leaning into texture,” says Annie. “Velvet ribbons, wood, linen, evergreen or sprayed foliage and pinecones are everywhere, often layering different materials to bring depth and an intentional, handcrafted, personal feel. It’s because we all want meaning in our decor – sustainability and authenticity — at time of year that’s meant to feel special, familiar and warm.”
Warm neutrals
While last year was all about the Scandinavian woodland vibe, this year, the stark whites and silvers have softened into mochas, olives, antique golds, creams and terracottas, paired with natural textures like linen, wood, herbs, dried botanicals and pine cones.
“This creates a cosy, calm, grounded feel,” says Annie. “It’s richly textured, yet understated and works in contemporary and country settings, and celebrates the natural treasures you’ll find on a walk, or in your garden.
“Think bunches of spruce and berries tied to the backs as chairs for decorations. A branch hung above the dining table, wound with string lights and glass baubles. And the soft greens of succulents or eucalyptus placed down the centre of the table for a soft, muted look.”
.jpg)
Jewel tones
Playful and opulent, deep garnet, hot pink, emerald green and sapphire are the perfect partner for warm metallics or frosted silvers. Use all the colours together for a playful, extravagant look, or stick to one or two for a more refined, polished scheme. Velvet or matte baubles help accentuate the depth and richness of this look.
Monochrome
Hollywood glamour meets Art Deco styling with a contemporary black and white scheme. For for a clean, modern twist, pair black, white or muted greys with the rich textures of velvet, glass or marble, lifted with touches of gold or silver. Add natural, glossy greenery to soften, or a rich pop of orange, terracotta or bright red for a playful 'red thread'.
Ralph Lauren Christmas
2025’s festive aesthetic is a chance to reconnect with tradition and storytelling, and no more so than in the viral Ralph Lauren trend. Think rich reds, deep greens and tartans, oversized baubles and red velvet or satin ribbons – where even tinsel is making a comeback. It’s maximalism in all its 80s, shoulder-padded glory.
“Old-school baubles, heirloom ornaments, ceramic figures and vintage-style Christmas trees evoke nostalgia and cherished memories,” says Annie. “It’s the Christmas of yesteryear given a modern twist with handmade decorations, embroidered linens and wooden accessories to bring a sense of character and history.”
You'll find a huge selection of red and green Christmas tree decorations in our Gift Shop, plus hand-painted papier mache baubles in our Neptune store-in-store for a touch of whimsy.
.jpg)
Cottagecore
Layering is key in this year’s Cottagecore trend. Focused on slow living and simple, natural cosy aesthetics, vintage pieces are paired with textured throws, hand-painted, ceramic decorations and felt ornaments with a nod to the flora and fauna of the English countryside.
“Cottagecore is cosy, but it doesn’t have to be twee,” says Annie. “It’s not all gingham tablecloths and crocheted blankets – it’s about slow living, connecting with nature and sustainability. Layer soft throws and tweed cushions on neutral sofas, bring the outdoors in with winter foliage from the garden, make a wreath, group wicker baskets together, incorporate antique finds and hand-sewn stockings with vintage tableware and light your space with fairy lights.”
You'll find Neptune's new collection of felt tree ornaments in our Neptune store-in-store and a huge array of wicker baskets and candles in our Christmas Gift Shop.
.jpg)
Sustainability, sentimentality and mindful decorating
A consistent thread across 2025’s trends is a movement toward sustainability and intentionality.
“Handcrafted ornaments, recycled or biodegradable materials, real or sustainably sourced foliage, and décor that can be reused or easily stored for years are key,” says Annie. “These choices reflect a growing awareness among designers that Christmas décor doesn’t have to cost the planet.
“Also, by choosing decorations with meaning or history — family heirlooms, handmade pieces, or nature-inspired ornaments — we’re all finding deeper joy in the season. It becomes less about flashy display and more about warm memories and cosy ambience.”
Annie’s top decorating tips:
1. Pick a base palette: decide whether you want soft neutrals, deep jewel tones or a monochrome look — this will help unify your scheme, even if you’re mixing styles.
2. Layer textures: combine natural materials with rich fabrics and fairy lights for contrast and depth.
3. Prioritise meaningful pieces: add a few handmade ornaments, a vintage bauble or two — items you love, that tell a story, and can be reused for years.
4. Don’t be afraid of drama: a big bow, a garland, or a statement wreath can transform a room — even in a small house.
