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Christmas, Christmas Decor, Seasonal Decor · November 1, 2024

The New Vintage Christmas: 21 Classic Holiday Decor Ideas Worth Trying

There’s something irresistible about vintage Christmas decor that keeps drawing us back. Maybe it’s the warm glow or old-world metallics under the twinkle of Christmas lights, or the way those classic ornaments seem to hold memories of holidays past. But recreating that nostalgic aesthetic doesn’t mean you need to spend weekends hunting through antique stores or bidding on rare collectibles. Today’s vintage-inspired holiday decor combines the charm of yesteryear with modern sensibility, creating spaces that feel both timeless and fresh. From vintage brass to handpainted ornaments, this curated list of 21 vintage Christmas decor ideas captures that coveted modern classic Christmas spirit.

As an Amazon Associate, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) for qualifying purchases on items purchased through the links in this post.

The Evolution of Christmas Decor: From Farmhouse to Modern Vintage

Christmas decor trends have taken quite a journey over the past fifteen years. We’ve moved from the era of Farmhouse Christmas—dominated by distressed wood and abundant and confusingly obvious signage—through the reign of stark minimalism with its clinical beige and white palettes that seemed designed for showhouses rather than real homes.

Today’s most compelling trend feels like a natural evolution of both styles but with a more sophisticated and livable approach. The 2023-2024 season embraces deep, saturated earth tones in carefully curated color schemes. Instead of overwhelming spaces with multiple hues, designers choose one to three colors and explore them thoroughly through layering and texture. Velvet ribbons, matte-finish ornaments, and varied greenery create depth and visual interest without chaos.

This aesthetic has found a powerful voice through designers like Shea McGee of Studio McGee, whose work resonates because it thoughtfully blends beloved elements from multiple decor movements. She masterfully combines the neutral palette of minimalism, the ornate touches of vintage style, and the craftsmanship of traditional design.

The result is Christmas decor that feels both elevated and wonderfully lived in. While you can certainly find elements of this style at Target (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good Target find?), the magic happens when you make it personal. The key to executing this aesthetic successfully lies in mixing curated retail pieces with your own collected treasures—whether they’re family heirlooms, interesting thrift store discoveries, or handcrafted elements. Use designer work as inspiration, but let your home tell your story.

With that philosophy in mind, here are 21 vintage Christmas-inspired decor ideas that will seamlessly integrate into your modern home, helping you create a space that’s both on-trend and uniquely yours

1. Paper Ornaments

Paper ornaments are popular for Christmas decor in 2024 due to their sustainability, affordability, and versatility, making them an eco-friendly choice that appeals to DIYers. Additionally, they evoke a sense of nostalgia and align well with the vintage Christmas aesthetic. If you don’t want to DIY, you can find lots of premade options for paper ornaments.

2. All About Brown

Brown is truly having a moment in design in 2024-2025. I recently refreshed our bedding and used shades or white and brown and I am using brown as a central color for our kitchen renovation. It is so rich and earthy, from deep espresso to soft creamy beige, brown is the multidimensional color that works in so many spaces. I have plans to upcycle most of my existing ornaments, but I am considering adding some brown ball ornaments to our collection.

3. Green and Gold

I’m truly torn between this option and the one above for my Christmas tree inspiration this year. The green and gold tree is absolutely stunning, embodying a classic and elegant tonal look. The glass stars and green bells harmonize beautifully with the textured green ball ornaments, while the metallic ball ornaments introduce a fun, modern twist.

4. Hand-Painted Ornaments

Let your personality and creativity shine by making your own ornaments! Thrift or upcycle ball ornaments you already have, and use acrylic paint to add your unique designs. This fun DIY project not only personalizes your decor, but also adds a meaningful touch to your holiday celebrations.

5. Speciality Ornaments

For a budget-friendly way to create unique tree decor, combine inexpensive bulk ornaments with a few special pieces that stand out. Look for distinctive ornaments at stores like World Market or Etsy to add a personal touch. This mix will give your tree a charming and individualized look without overspending.

6. Textured, Aged Ornaments

These have been around for a few years now, but I love this trend. It involves creatively and upcycling, two of my favorite things. Next week I’ll be upcycling the dark red oraments that have adorned our tree for the last 5 years. I’ll share the DIY process here when I do.

7. Truly Classic Bright Vintage Christmas

While the colors on these wreaths are bolder than the rest of the decor on this list, I still feel like they deserve a spot on the list. You can’t go wrong with these truly classic Christmas colors and natural elements.

8. New Vintage Christmas

This modern vintage Christmas wreath beautifully blends traditional elements with a more subdued color palette, creating a sophisticated yet festive look. Its earthy tones and classic ornaments evoke nostalgia while adding a contemporary touch to your holiday decor. Customize a wreath base with your own holiday elements like dried oranges, cinnamon, cranberries, and more.

9. DIY Wreath

I love making seasonal wreaths with things from our yard. I’ll update our Winter wreath soon, but if you’d like to see the tutorial for my fall wreath, read this post.

Natural Fall Decor DIYs: Wreaths, Herb Bundles, and Arrangements

10. Yule Inspired Mantle

Oranges have long been a part of Christmas decor, but have you ever wondered why? I briefly explain the history of oranges involvement in Christmas and Yule, along with a full tutorial on how to make your own orange garland and ornaments. Read that post here.

DIY Christmas Orange Garland: Creating Traditional Holiday Magic with Dried Citrus

11. Modern Vintage Mantle

White knitted stockings and brown satin ribbons feel timeless and elegant in this gorgeous mantle display. I did a similar mantel display last year but couldn’t bring myself to spend on Christmas bells, so I made them myself. I upcycled some cheap vinyl/aluminum bells from the thrift store with paint and Rub ‘n Buff.

See the full tutorial below!

How to Make Your Vintage Christmas Decor: Brass Christmas Bells and Candleholders

12. Eclectic Vintage Mantle

This layered, lived-in look feels so homey and those vintage rug-inspired stockings are darling. The key to this look is volume. For our mantle display, I use a combination of faux and real pine garland/ boughs to give a full look.

OUSHUAI Gold Traditional Vintage Ornate Baroque Mirror,Gold Brass Mirror for Wall,Victorian Antique Bronze Mirror Arched for Bathroom/Living Room/Hallway/Fireplace 19"X27"
OUSHUAI Gold Traditional Vintage Ornate Baroque Mirror,Gold Brass Mirror for Wall,Victorian Antique Bronze Mirror Arched for Bathroom/Living Room/Hallway/Fireplace 19″X27″
AuldHome Wooden Christmas Trees (Set of 2, Natural); Tabletop Handmade Wood Trees with Rectangular Base for Holiday Home Decor23%
AuldHome Wooden Christmas Trees (Set of 2, Natural); Tabletop Handmade Wood Trees with Rectangular Base for Holiday Home Decor
$38.99 ($19.50 / Count)
Carfar Set of 10 Vintage Rustic Tin Bells Wall Hanging Décor 6cm Big Bells On Jute Rope Christmas Hanging Jingle Bells (Cone)
Carfar Set of 10 Vintage Rustic Tin Bells Wall Hanging Décor 6cm Big Bells On Jute Rope Christmas Hanging Jingle Bells (Cone)

13. Garland Over Mirror

Decorating mirrors and artwork around your home can be a great opportunity to add a little holiday cheer in unexpected places. My decor usually ends up in a few specific places- the tree, the mantel, and the entryway. In the last few years, I have tried to spread out the decor a little more, without completely taking over my home’s existing design aesthetic. I do this by adding small wreaths, ribbons, and garlands on windows, doorways, and framed art.

14. Wrap Your Art With Ribbon

This is a stunning example of minimal yet festive Christmas wall decor. Simply add a few strategically placed bows to your artwork and mirrors to spread the holiday spirit throughout your home. Use textured velvet ribbon to imbue vintage charm.

15. Don’t Forget the Kitchen!

The kitchen is often overlooked when it comes to adding seasonal decor. Adding some simple hanging bells and greenery might be all you need to make your kitchen feel cozy and festive.

Using real pine boughs or a real mini juniper or rosemary tree will fill your kitchen with a delightful fresh herb scent. Plus, rosemary is fantastic in many of my holiday meals and cocktails (or mocktails)! Roasted fingerling potatoes with rosemary have become a staple Christmas dish for my family. One of my favorite mocktails is inspired by our signature wedding drink, the “Rosemary Me Gin and Tonic.”

I no longer drink, so now I skip the gin and make the drink with sparkling water, tonic, rosemary, lime, and either cucumber or cranberry juice. Cucumber is great in the summer, and cranberry is perfect for Christmas.

16. Vintage Christmas Counter Decor

This stunning wooden lamp, basket, mini tree, and lazy Susan make this kitchen counter feel so festive and bright. To recreate this look, thrift a basket and some vintage rolling pins, wooden spoons, and cutting boards. I would also try to thrift a cool vintage lamp. Thrift stores are generally packed with lamps! And if you find a lamp base you love, but with an ugly or missing lamp shade, you can easily find a replacement shade online or upcycle it yourself.

Pro tip: bring a light bulb while thrifting to test the lamp before you bring it home.

If you can’t find the right thrifted lamp or just want one that is cordless (who wants cords on their counters?)- you can try a cordless brass lamp instead. That will also work well with this look.

Replacing plastic hand and dish soap bottles is a well-known way to enhance your countertops. However, not all refillable pump bottles are created equal! I’ve ended up with at least 10 broken ones from stores like Ross and TJ Maxx. After so many frustrations, I decided to invest a little more and chose this amber glass set. I’m happy to say that after nearly a year, they’re still working beautifully, and the brass pump hasn’t discolored, as many others tend to do!

ONEWISH Cordless Lamp-Battery Operated Table lamp, 4000mAh Rechargeable, Stepless Dimmable, Small Touch Bedside Lamp with Fabric Shade, 2700K Warm Ambient Light for Dining, Patio, Bathroom(Gold)
ONEWISH Cordless Lamp-Battery Operated Table lamp, 4000mAh Rechargeable, Stepless Dimmable, Small Touch Bedside Lamp with Fabric Shade, 2700K Warm Ambient Light for Dining, Patio, Bathroom(Gold)
12" Wooden Lazy Susan for Table Top - Acacia Wood Serving Tray with Removable Marble Texture Glass Plate - Elegant Rotating Organizer for Dining Table Centerpiece, Turntable, Countertop and Spice Rack
12″ Wooden Lazy Susan for Table Top – Acacia Wood Serving Tray with Removable Marble Texture Glass Plate – Elegant Rotating Organizer for Dining Table Centerpiece, Turntable, Countertop and Spice Rack
Vine Creations Amber Glass Soap Dispenser, 2 Pack Kitchen Soap Dispenser Set with Stainless Steel Pump, 16 oz Hand Soap Dispenser Bathroom, Dish Soap Dispenser for Kitchen with Waterproof Labels24%
Vine Creations Amber Glass Soap Dispenser, 2 Pack Kitchen Soap Dispenser Set with Stainless Steel Pump, 16 oz Hand Soap Dispenser Bathroom, Dish Soap Dispenser for Kitchen with Waterproof Labels
$32.99 ($16.50 / Count)

17. Decorate the Bannister

There’s something truly romantic and timeless about a staircase railing or banister adorned for Christmas. It brings back the childhood sense of hope and wonder associated with the holiday. Can’t you just picture excited kids rushing down the stairs on Christmas morning?

18. Decorating Openings and Windows

Hanging layered garlands from your windows sets the perfect scene for a beautiful winter view. I grew up in Montana, and I truly miss looking out to see snow. Although we don’t have white Christmases here in Northern California, a charming vintage garland display like this brings back the nostalgic feel of Christmases gone by. Layer pine garland with paper stars to get this look.

19. Vintage Christmas Table Setting

Are you hosting for friends and family this season? Small thoughtful details can elevate your get-together to a classic and classy Christmas dinner party. This can be done with any budget in mind. You can get gorgeous chargers, tablecloths, cloth napkins and rings, and nice silverware. Or this can be done in a more eclectic vintage way with thrifted plates and handmade or foraged decor. A small vase with some sprigs of rosemary, pine, or other local flora can make beautiful table decor.

20. Simple Christmas Entryway Table Decor

A beautifully crafted wreath in your entryway adds a touch of seasonal cheer, instantly welcoming guests with its vibrant colors and festive charm. Pairing the wreath with vintage brass candlesticks elevates the decor, infusing the space with a classic Christmas elegance. Together, these elements create a warm and inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holidays.

21. Mini Tree to Set the Tone

A mini tree nestled in a charming thrifted basket adds a delightful touch to your entryway, creating a warm welcome for your guests. This classic element not only showcases your unique style but also infuses the space with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The tree can be adorned with twinkling lights and sentimental ornaments, further enhancing its charm and making each visitor feel at home. This simple yet effective decor choice captures the essence of the season, ensuring that everyone who walks through your door feels the holiday cheer.

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Keypan Brown Velvet Ribbon 2-1/2 Inch x 6 Yd Handmade Frayed Vintage Wide Ribbons for Christmas Tree Home Decor Wreath Craft Ornaments Gift Wrapping
Keypan Brown Velvet Ribbon 2-1/2 Inch x 6 Yd Handmade Frayed Vintage Wide Ribbons for Christmas Tree Home Decor Wreath Craft Ornaments Gift Wrapping

That’s a Wrap: Vintage Christmas Ideas That Feel Fresh for Today’s Home

The beauty of vintage-inspired Christmas decor lies in its ability to evolve. While these ideas draw from the past, they’re not bound by strict historical accuracy. Feel free to mix periods and styles, incorporate family heirlooms, or blend vintage elements with contemporary pieces. The key is creating a space that feels collected over time rather than purchased in a single season. The most compelling holiday displays often tell a story—so don’t be afraid to let your personal history shine through your vintage-inspired decorations. Whether you’re just starting your collection or adding to years of carefully curated pieces, these ideas prove that some styles truly are timeless.

And please don’t feel pressured to do this all at once! I don’t buy all new or replace my decor annually. Every year, my decor style evolves a little and I add a few new pieces and upcycle some old ones to fit my decorating scheme. Cheers to you finding your version of this vintage Christmas look!

Looking for more vintage holiday inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest for weekly updates, creative DIYs, decorating ideas, and vintage finds.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) for qualifying purchases on items purchased through the links in this post.  

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The frame of our newish couch broke, but thanks to The frame of our newish couch broke, but thanks to a service warranty, we got it checked out. Turns out, a knot in the wood caused a main support bar to crack in three directions—bad enough that the repair guy wanted to haul the whole couch to the shop for a few days. That sounded awful, so I asked if he could get it started and show me how to finish the job.

He was awesome, walked me through the first part, and left me with wood glue and torque screws. A few hours later, the couch was back in business.

A few years ago, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to tackle something like this, but learning to DIY has changed that. It may seem like a small thing to some, but I love the confidence that building and repairing things in my own home has brought me. DIY is about learning, problem-solving, getting creative, and most importantly—trying.

What did Michael Jordan say? “You miss 100% of the couches you don’t fix?” Oh wait, that might have been Michael Scott. Either way, I’m glad I went for it.

Follow along if you’re also learning to DIY! Let's learn together! #womenwhodiy #makinghome #makinghomes #makinghomehappen #dıy #diyprojects #homerepair #homerepairs #womenwhobuild
Our Christmas was majorly interrupted by the flu t Our Christmas was majorly interrupted by the flu this year. We had to cancel all of our plans, including our annual Christmas Eve party, which was a major letdown. I was down for the count for a few weeks, so the holiday decor stuck around a little longer than usual… like, into the second week of January. 

Then CapCut decided to dip for a minute, and this reel got stuck in limbo. But it’s back, I am mostly recovered, and our regular decor is back in place. 

As much as I love Christmas decor, it feels good to have a clean, minimal living room again. All of my plants are back in place, we hung up some new artwork, and added wireless sconces above our mantle that pull everything together and brighten up the room.

 #homedecor #christmasdecor #takingdownchristmas #cozy #cozyhome #moderntraditional #modernvintage #thrifted #thrifteddecor #collectedhome
New year, new cleaning routine✨ If you’re decl New year, new cleaning routine✨ If you’re decluttering and refreshing your space, don’t forget to make it smell just as fresh with a DIY linen or room spray made with essential oils. 🌿 Not only is it non-toxic and better for the planet than store-bought aerosol sprays, but it’s also budget-friendly. Plus, you can customize the scent to your liking—whether you’re all about calming lavender or a citrus burst to start your day. 🌱 

Visit the blog for the full recipe and scent suggestions🤍 #SustainableLiving #DIYLinenSpray #EssentialOils #NonToxicHome #NewYearCleaning
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Making lemon ginger turmeric shots today as our fa Making lemon ginger turmeric shots today as our family is fighting our first major cold of the season.  They are my go-to immune-boosting, antioxidant-packed drink that gets me through winter when our kids seem to bring home every possible variation of cold and flu. (A few weeks ago, it was scarlet fever—scarlet fever! What is this, the 1700s?)

These immunity shots combine:

Lemon for a hefty dose of vitamin C
Ginger, a powerful anti-inflammatory
Turmeric, another anti-inflammatory 
A touch of maple syrup for sweetness
A crack of black pepper to activate curcumin, turmeric’s potent antioxidant
Stay ahead of the winter colds and read the blog for the full recipe! 

#LifeWithKids #AlwaysSick #LemonGingerImmunityShots #lemongingerturmeric
I thought I was finished with our Christmas mantel I thought I was finished with our Christmas mantel, but it needed one more thing. Part two coming tomorrow 🤍 #christmas #manteldecor #christmas2024 #christmasdecor #newblogger #diyhomedecor
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The full tutorial on my blog breaks down how to make them using simple materials most people already have at home—acrylic paint and baking soda. Comment "ornament" below, and I'll send you the link to the tutorial. #flockedornaments  #christmas2024 #Christmas #christmasdecorideas #ChristmasDecor #flocked #christmasdiy #DIYInspiration #christmascrafting
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