There’s no easy way to say this: some Christmas decorations are ready to retire. Every year, it seems a few holiday staples cling on for dear life even as they become more kitsch than classic. Tradition has its charm, but certain outdated pieces don’t exactly add to the ambiance and take up more attic space than they’re worth.
Instead of decking the halls with everything that sparkles next year, it might be time to trim the excess and go for a style that feels festive and fresh. It may not feel like it when you toss that fake fireplace sticker into the furnace, but letting go of old holiday decor can be oddly freeing. Out with the old and in with the new.
Here’s the lowdown on which decorations to ditch for a more stylish, updated Christmas look. This doesn’t mean you have to feel guilty about what you want to use for decor; this is just a gentle nudge to review what you have before you pack it away for net year, and make sure it’s there for the right reasons (enjoying the season).
1. Overdone Tinsel
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Tinsel has a certain retro charm, but too much of it can make your tree look more chaotic than classy. Covering every branch with shiny, clingy strands turns your Christmas tree into a glittery overload, which distracts from the beauty of the lights and ornaments.
To create texture, add ribbon or a more minimalist garland. A few strategic touches will still give your living room that sparkle without turning it into a holiday disco.
2. Inflatable Yard Characters
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This may be an unpopular opinion, but inflatable holiday characters are often eye-catching for all the wrong reasons. Giant, air-filled Santas and snowmen popping up in front yards can feel more tacky than tasteful, especially when deflated figures slump over in sad heaps during the day. These blow-up decorations tend to dominate and ruin the yard and create more of a spectacle than a serene holiday scene.
For a refined outdoor setup, try using wreaths, string lights, or lanterns for a softer holiday glow. These options are less likely to draw side-eyes from the neighbors and give your yard a classic winter wonderland look. But as mentioned initially, to each their own!
3. Multicolored Icicle Lights
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Multicolored icicle lights hanging from rooftops might sound festive, but the reality is often a bit more chaotic. The rainbow of lights can overwhelm the clean lines of your home and make it look more like a carnival than a holiday haven.
For those who love a more refined style, these vibrant icicles can be hard to reconcile with an elegant holiday aesthetic. Opt for warm white or soft LED icicle lights, which create a consistent and welcoming glow.
4. Too Many Santa Figurines
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Santa is a beloved holiday icon, but having him in every room and on every surface can quickly go from festive to overwhelming. A mini army of Santas can take over the space, making your home feel cluttered rather than relaxing (as goes for any other character- snowmen, elves, etc.).
There’s a thin line between decor and clutter; use Santa figurines in moderation. This year, try keeping just one or two standout Santas on display and let them be the focal points.
5. Clunky Plastic Centerpieces
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Plastic holiday centerpieces might be easy to grab at the store, but they can make your table look more like a children’s craft than an elegant tablescape. With their oversized designs and bright colors, plastic centerpieces will leave little room for anything else.
After a season or two, they can quickly start to look worn out. Try switching to fresh greenery, candles, or a simple bowl of ornaments for a centerpiece that’s both beautiful and functional.
6. Glitter Bombs Everywhere
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Glittered ornaments, wreaths, and figurines may look dazzling on the shelf, but once they’re in your home, it’s a different story. Glitter has a way of ending up everywhere, lingering long after the holidays are over.
The extra sparkle might initially add holiday cheer, but the cleanup will not be very cheerful. Instead of glitter-covered décor, try metallic finishes or shimmery fabrics that add shine without the mess.
7. Novelty Stockings
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Novelty stockings with cartoon characters, bright colors, or flashy patterns can clash with the rest of your holiday décor. While they might bring some smiles, these stockings can feel a little too playful if you’re aiming for an elegant, cohesive look.
Opt for matching or coordinated stockings in a color scheme that complements your home. Personalize them with subtle details like monograms or tasteful patterns for a touch of individuality without sacrificing style.
8. Outdated Wreaths
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Holiday wreaths set the tone for your home, but not that faded wreath from years ago. Old wreaths can start to look worn out, with bent branches and dull colors. Instead of welcoming guests with a cheerful greeting, an outdated wreath can give off a tired, uninspired welcome.
Consider updating your wreath with fresh vines, berries, or a modern design that feels both festive and fresh. With a new wreath on your door, your entryway becomes a true holiday highlight.
9. Fake Snow Spray on Windows
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Fake snow spray on windows can look charming at first, but the streaks and smudges it leaves behind aren’t quite as delightful. The artificial snow tends to look more like a cleaning mishap than a winter wonderland, especially after a few days when it starts to wear off unevenly.
For a cleaner look, consider hanging sheer white curtains or adding frosted window clings. These options create a snowy effect without the mess, letting in natural light while keeping the room feeling bright and festive.
10. Mass-Produced Generic Ornaments
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When decking the halls, it’s easy to grab a box of mass-produced ornaments from a store shelf. They will fill up a tree quickly, but they often lack the personal touch that makes holiday decor feel special.
Don’t just blend into the sea of identical trinkets; consider incorporating heirloom ornaments or handmade pieces into your decor. They may be those crafted by your children or the ones you have collected over years of travels.
11. Musical Christmas Decorations
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Musical holiday decorations might seem festive, but they can quickly veer into “annoying” territory. After the 75th jingle, that mechanical “Jingle Bells” coming from a Christmas tree ornament starts to lose its charm.
Constant jingling will give some of the people in your house (and the neighbors) a headache and make it difficult to enjoy quieter moments. Get silent decorations that focus on aesthetic appeal without the endless soundtrack.
12. Mismatched Ornament Sets
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If you want a more cohesive-looking tree, mismatched ornaments will make your tree look a little too busy. Clashing colors, different styles, and random shapes can make the tree look cluttered, especially if your ornaments range from homemade to high-end. If you have kids, this is likely the result, with a mix of homemade and store-bought ornaments, which is totally okay.
However, if you’re out of the chaos era, consider choosing a color scheme and focusing on a few select pieces that align with it. This brings balance and harmony to your tree, allowing each ornament to shine without clashing. Your tree will look thoughtfully decorated, making it the true centerpiece of the room.
13. Matching Table Settings
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Grandma’s perfectly coordinated table settings might have appealed to your childhood eyes, but it’s now time to put away the red tablecloths and matching runners. Having every plate, napkin, and glass lined up with military precision can make a dinner look more like a showroom display than a warm family gathering.
It’s the holidays, after all time to add a bit of personality. Mix up your tableware with contrasting napkins, varied plate styles, or a blend of vintage and modern pieces if you’re up for it!
14. Artificial Pine Scents
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Yeah, don’t. Spraying artificial pine scent around the house may seem like a quick fix for creating a holiday aura, but the overly strong smell can sometimes be overwhelming or even toxic. Artificial fragrances can lack the subtle, natural touch that real pine or cedar brings to a room.
If you’re looking for that authentic forest scent, choose a fresh pine wreath. This will add a fresh aroma and bring in the natural beauty that artificial sprays can’t quite replicate.