Holiday Decor 2025: New Christmas Decorating Ideas

By Enigma Properties | Last updated: November 5, 2025

You want new looks for the season. You also want it easy. This guide brings the best ideas, colors, and simple steps. It is made for renters and owners. It is made for small rooms and big ones. It follows the trends, but keeps things simple. You will see Holiday Decor 2025 named, because this is the focus. You will also get ways to do each idea in a renter-friendly way. So you can enjoy the look now, and still keep your walls and floors in good shape later.

Why the new trends matter

Holidays feel big. But stuff and styles can pile up fast. Then rooms feel busy. Budgets feel tight. Time runs short. A clear plan helps. New trends give you a map. They show colors that work well. They show textures that feel calm. They show the small items that give a big pop. You can follow the plan and still keep your own taste. You can shop your home first, then fill the gaps. You can also use low-damage tools like hooks, clips, and ribbon. That keeps your deposit safe.

Also, the right light, color, and texture can lift mood. Studies show cozy light and warm color help people feel calm and happy during winter. For example, the National Institute of Health has shared how light and color affect our mood in indoor spaces (see sources). So style is not only “pretty.” It helps you feel good at home.

Holiday Decor 2025: what changed and what stayed

Some holiday looks never leave. Green. Red. Cozy light. Fresh greens. They stay because they work. In 2025, the look shifts a bit. It gets richer. It gets more classic. But it is not fussy. Think “chic cabin” meets “city loft.” Think deep color and soft fabric. Think cleaner lines and less glitter. Below you will find the top moves for this year. Each trend comes with a quick how-to, a renter tip, and a money tip.

1) The “Ralph Lauren Christmas” look

The idea: Rich, classic, and warm. Deep reds. Forest greens. Navy. Black. Jewel tones. Plaid shows up, but not too much. The feel is calm and grown up.

How to do it:

• Pick one main plaid. Black Watch plaid (navy and green) is a top pick. Use it on one or two items in each room. For example, a runner and a throw.
• Mix in solid jewel tones. Add velvet pillows in burgundy or hunter green.
• Use polished metal. Brass and silver bring shine without glitter.
• Use real or faux candles for glow.

Renter tip: Add plaid with pillow covers, ribbon on wreaths, and a single framed plaid fabric swatch. Use removable hooks for garland and stockings.

Money tip: Shop thrift stores for wool throws and plaid skirts you can upcycle into runners or pillow covers.

2) Monochrome gift wrap that becomes decor

The idea: Boxes, not bags. One color per tree zone or per room. Ribbon and paper match or sit in the same color family.

How to do it:

• Save boxes in fall. Wrap them in one tone like forest green.
• Tie with same-tone satin or velvet ribbon.
• Tuck them at the base of the tree, on a bench, or on shelves.

Renter tip: If storage is tight, save the ribbon and fold the paper flats for next year.

Money tip: Kraft paper with one ribbon color looks chic and costs less.

3) Jewel-tone color story

The idea: Go a bit darker than last year. Navy, burgundy, deep green, aubergine. These tones make spaces feel warm and calm.

How to do it:

• Keep your current bright red and green if you love them.
• Add depth with darker ribbon, matte ornaments, and velvet bows.
• Swap a few bright berry stems for burgundy ones.

Renter tip: Use removable wall hooks to hang a deep navy fabric panel as a quick backdrop behind a tree. It makes lights glow and protects paint.

Money tip: Spray-paint dated ornaments in satin navy, forest, or black for a luxe update.

4) Bows, bows, bows

The idea: Bows are still big in 2025. They are the easiest way to tie a whole room together.

How to do it:

• Buy one spool of 2–3 inch velvet or satin ribbon.
• Tie small bows on tree tips.
• Tie medium bows on garland, sconces, and chair backs.
• Tie tiny bows on napkins and jars.

Renter tip: Use ribbon to “hang” light art or frames from an existing nail. It adds color but avoids extra holes.

Money tip: Ribbon scraps make great ties for pomanders, treat bags, and stockings.

5) Mixed metals done right

The idea: Silver and gold together feel fresh, not clashy, when used with care.

How to do it:

• Pick one to lead (about 70%). Let the other be the accent (about 30%).
• Use silver for shine in cool spaces (blue, gray).
• Use gold for warmth in green and red rooms.
• Add a third tone in small ways, like black metal candle cups.

Renter tip: Place metal trays to group candles and protect surfaces.

Money tip: Thrift silver plate and brass candlesticks. Mix heights and shapes for a “collected” look.

6) Full-length tablecloths with texture

The idea: Floor-skimming cloths feel rich and calm. Ruching and soft pinches add movement.

How to do it:

• Measure the table. Size up so fabric hits the floor.
• Pick solid cloths in deep tones or quiet patterns.
• Layer a runner of velvet or satin for depth.

Renter tip: In very small dining nooks, the long cloth hides bins under the table. Extra storage wins.

Money tip: Use curtain panels as a tablecloth. Clip-pinch the edges for soft texture.

7) Velvet and satin everywhere

The idea: These two fabrics make any room feel special right away.

How to do it:

• Pick velvet ornaments.
• Add satin ribbon on wreaths and gifts.
• Swap two pillow covers for velvet ones.
• Add a small velvet footstool or pouf if space allows.

Renter tip: Pillow covers store flat and change a room fast.

Money tip: Make simple no-sew pillow covers with hem tape.

8) Backyard holiday glow

The idea: We often light the front of the home. But we see the back from our windows all winter. So light the back too.

How to do it:

• String warm white lights along a fence or rail.
• Put battery candles in clear jars on a table.
• Add a knit throw to a chair for cold nights.
• If allowed, use a small fire pit. If not, use a heat lantern.

Renter tip: Use clip-on light hooks on balcony rails. They come off clean.

Money tip: Time lights with low-cost smart plugs so you save power.

9) Vintage and thrifted magic

The idea: Nostalgia is strong. Old charm feels warm. It is also budget-friendly and green.

How to do it:

• Hunt for vintage Santas, elves, and angels.
• Look for old brass bells, cookie tins, and glass ornaments.
• Frame old holiday cards or book pages for wall art.

Renter tip: Use standing frames and easel art so you can style ledges with no new holes.

Money tip: Gather pinecones and branches outside. Bake cones at low heat to dry, then use in bowls with a ribbon.

10) Natural greens and scent

The idea: Real greens and spices make a home feel like a storybook. They also help air feel fresh.

How to do it:

• Mix faux with a few real sprigs for scent.
• Simmer water with orange peel, cinnamon, and clove on the stove.
• Use essential-oil reed diffusers where flames are not safe.

Renter tip: Protect surfaces with trays or felt under fresh garland.

Money tip: Ask tree lots for trimmed branches. Many give them for free.

11) Layered lighting that flatters

The idea: Winter days are short. Good light matters.

How to do it:

• Use three types: overhead, task, and glow.
• Add a lamp with a warm white bulb (2700–3000K).
• Place fairy lights in glass bowls for soft sparkle.
• Put lights on timers so rooms welcome you home.

Renter tip: Use plug-in sconces with cord covers. Use stick-on clips to guide cords.

Money tip: Switch all bulbs to LED to cut power use.

12) Artwork and fabric that “dress” walls

The idea: Fabrics and simple art panels can turn a bland wall into a cozy backdrop.

How to do it:

• Hang a large piece of plaid or velvet with two removable hooks and a dowel.
• Frame a set of small prints in a grid.
• Layer a wreath over a mirror with ribbon.

Renter tip: Use damage-free strips with proper weight ratings. Clean the wall first.

Money tip: Free printable art is easy to find. Print at a copy shop in matte finish.

13) Kid-friendly holiday zones

The idea: Family spaces need to be safe and still look good.

How to do it:

• Put soft ornaments low on the tree.
• Use shatter-proof bulbs.
• Set up a craft tray with paper snowflakes and ribbon.
• Create a small “village” with battery tea lights.

Renter tip: A felt tree on the wall lets kids “decorate” with no glass or glue.

Money tip: Cardboard boxes make great toy gift “houses” to paint and play with.

14) Small-space trees and smart layouts

The idea: Apartments can feel full fast. A space plan helps.

How to do it:

• Use a slim tree in a corner.
• Lift the tree on a crate inside a basket to gain height.
• Swap a side chair for the season to make room.
• A mirror behind a tree doubles the glow.

Renter tip: Use a washable tree skirt or a woven basket base to protect floors.

Money tip: A tabletop tree on a dresser still gives a big cheer.

15) Sustainable swaps that still sparkle

The idea: Less waste. More joy.

How to do it:

• Cloth napkins instead of paper.
• Reusable ribbon instead of plastic bows.
• Glass or wood ornaments that last.
• LED strands with replaceable bulbs.

Renter tip: Store decor in clear bins by room or color. Label with painter’s tape.

Money tip: Trade decor with friends for a “new” look at no cost.

16) Easy entry moments

The idea: First steps set the mood.

How to do it:

• Hang a small wreath with a ribbon on the inside of your door.
• Place a boot tray with a sprig of pine.
• Add a bowl of bells on the console.

Renter tip: Use a Command hook for the wreath and remove after the season.

Money tip: DIY a wreath from clippings and a wire coat hanger.

17) Bedroom coziness

The idea: Bring the season to rest spaces, but keep it calm.

How to do it:

• Swap one pillow for velvet.
• Add a knit throw at the foot of the bed.
• Place a small pre-lit tree on a dresser in one color.

Renter tip: Battery lights avoid outlet clutter.

Money tip: Use a scarf as a mini table runner on nightstands.

18) Kitchen cheer that works hard

The idea: The kitchen is busy. Keep decor clear of tasks.

How to do it:

• Tie bows on cabinet pulls.
• Put greens in a pitcher in a back corner.
• Use a tray for cocoa items you can lift and move.

Renter tip: Magnetic hooks on the side of the fridge hold towels and bells.

Money tip: Dry orange slices in the oven for garlands and drink garnish.

19) Bath and laundry sparkle

The idea: Small touches go far.

How to do it:

• Swap one hand towel for a deep green one.
• Place a small pine in a jar near a window.
• Use a cedar sachet in the linen closet.

Renter tip: Stick-on hooks hold a tiny wreath on tile without drilling.

Money tip: Epsom salt with a drop of peppermint oil in a jar makes a cute, cheap display.

20) Music and scent as decor

The idea: The holiday mood is not just visual.

How to do it:

• Create a playlist of classics and new soft jazz.
• Use one main scent per zone so it does not clash: pine in living room, citrus in kitchen, clove in entry.

Renter tip: Use diffusers where flames are not allowed.

Money tip: DIY stovetop potpourri with scraps and spices you already own.

21) Tree styling made simple

The idea: A quick order saves time.

How to do it:

• Fluff branches.
• Add lights first.
• Add ribbon next.
• Place large ornaments, then medium, then small.
• Finish with bows or berry picks.

Renter tip: Use a soft mat under the tree for easy needle clean-up.

Money tip: If the tree looks thin, tuck leafy faux stems to fill gaps.

22) Photo-ready corners

The idea: Make one spot camera-ready for quick family photos.

How to do it:

• Pick a plain wall or a bookcase.
• Add one wreath, one chair, and a throw.
• Place a floor lamp with a warm bulb.

Renter tip: Use removable hooks for the wreath and keep it light.

Money tip: A thrifted chair with a blanket looks great in photos.

23) Quiet minimal spaces

he idea: Not everyone wants a packed room. Quiet can be festive too.

How to do it:

• Pick two colors and stick to them.
• Use plain glass ornaments and white lights.
• Add one bowl of pinecones and a single garland.

Renter tip: Store extra decor and rotate weekly if you crave change without clutter.

Money tip: Clear the surfaces you do not need. Empty space is free and feels luxe.

24) Bold, happy moments

The idea: One spot can go big and bright and still feel chic.

How to do it:

• Choose one “wow” item like a giant bow on a mirror, an oversized wreath, or a bright nutcracker display on a console.
• Keep the rest calm.

Renter tip: Lean tall decor against the wall rather than hanging it.

Money tip: Make a huge paper star from craft paper for under $5.

25) Tie it all together

The idea: Repeat colors and materials across rooms so it all feels like one story.

How to do it:

• Pick one plaid or one ribbon and use it in every room once.
• Repeat your lead metal tone.
• Keep light warm and soft in every space.

Renter tip: Make a simple packing list as you decorate. It helps you reverse the steps in January.

Money tip: Box up by room at take-down. Next year will be faster and cheaper.

Simple mistakes to avoid (and easy fixes)

• Too many plaids in one room. Use one hero plaid, then solids.
• Only cool or only warm metal. Mix a little so rooms do not feel flat.
• Glitter overload. Use glow and shine from metal and candles instead.
• No plan for cords. Use clips and cord covers in the same color as the wall.
• Heavy scents that clash. Keep one scent per zone.
• Skipping the back patio. Light what you see from the sofa. It boosts joy on dark nights.

Quick summary you can follow today

• Choose a deep color story. Navy, forest, burgundy.
• Add one plaid in small repeats.
• Tie bows everywhere with one ribbon.
• Mix silver and gold, with one in the lead.
• Use floor-length tablecloths with texture.
• Bring in velvet and satin.
• Style the backyard or balcony with soft lights.
• Thrift a few vintage pieces to add soul.
• Keep light warm and layered.
• Repeat your colors across rooms so it all feels calm.

A note for Enigma residents in Milwaukee and across Wisconsin

We love how our residents make each space feel like home. If you are looking for a new place for the season ahead, we can help. We have apartments and homes in many Milwaukee neighborhoods and beyond. See what is open now. Visit our current listings for more info, tours, and easy online applications.

More ideas inside the phrase you searched

You came here for Holiday Decor 2025 and for fresh Christmas decorating ideas. You got both. You also got steps you can do in a rental. Try two or three moves first. Then add more next week. Keep it simple. Keep it warm. Enjoy the season.

FAQs

Q1. What colors are trending for 2025?
Deep jewel tones. Navy, burgundy, forest green, and touches of black. They pair well with mixed metals.

Q2. Can I use bright red and green with these trends?
Yes. Keep what you love. Then add depth with darker ribbon, matte ornaments, or one plaid throw.

Q3. How do I decorate if I rent and cannot drill?
Use removable hooks, ribbon, and standing decor. Lean mirrors. Use trays to group candles. Most ideas here are renter-friendly.

Q4. How do I style a small apartment?

Pick a slim tree. Use baskets for bases. Repeat one ribbon and one metal tone in each room to tie it together.

Q5. Are mixed metals really okay?
Yes. Let one metal lead. Use the second in small ways. This adds warmth and shine without clutter.

Q6. What is the easiest update on a small budget?
Ribbon bows, thrifted brass candlesticks, and a floor-length cloth made from curtain panels.

Q7. How do I light a back patio safely?
Use outdoor-rated LED string lights and battery candles. Clip them in place. Set timers to save power.

Sources

• National Retail Federation (NRF). “Holiday Trends and Spending Insights.” 2024–2025. https://nrf.com(accessed Nov 5, 2025).
• Pinterest Predicts. “Seasonal Decor Themes.” 2024–2025. https://newsroom.pinterest.com (accessed Nov 5, 2025).
• Etsy Trend Guide. “Holiday Home and Gift Trends.” 2024–2025. https://www.etsy.com/seller-handbook(accessed Nov 5, 2025).
• NIH / PubMed review on indoor lighting and mood. “Lighting and Well-Being in the Built Environment.” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (accessed Nov 5, 2025).
• Canva Visual Trends. “Color and Texture for 2025.” https://www.canva.com/learn (accessed Nov 5, 2025).