Tips for a Vintage Holiday Aesthetic

By Grace MacDonald

Everywhere you look it seems there’s no shortage of inspiration for “Nancy Meyers” aesthetics and “Ralph Lauren-inspired holiday styles”. Below, I share my tips for pulling this off in your own home, if this is a style you’re wanting to achieve this holiday season! 

Lean into warm colors, in deep moody tones – colors such as deep hunter green or forest green, cranberry reds, navy blues, golds and creams are key elements of this style. Additionally, patterns – particularly tartans or plaids are another quintessential ingredient of this style, and curtains are a wonderful way to incorporate this! Additionally, faded or worn patterns can also give any setting a lived-in vintage feel. 

Incorporate classic materials like aged brass, antique gold/silver, brown leather, dark woods and velvets. These materials are known for bringing a sense of warmth and timelessness to any space – some options you may choose to incorporate may be: brass candlesticks, leather books, velvet bows, silver trays or wooden figurines. 

Layer your lighting elements – from string lights to candles sticks and even firelight, always look to incorporate various sources of ambient light for a soft, cozy glow. 

Mix materials – such as cable knit or wool throws with woods and other outdoor elements such as fir or cedar greenery, berries or pinecones. A mixture of textures instantly elevates any space by adding visual interest and creating more of a sensory experience. 

Personally, I love the contrast of textures & patterns in the space between the Fraser Fir tree, plaid wallpaper and lush velvet Two Pages Birkin curtains! 

Create a sense of nostalgia with collected vintage décor pieces – this makes a space feel more authentic and unique to you. Layering vintage or thrifted décor like porcelain houses or vintage bulbs with family photos and classic heirlooms will bring a sense of warmth to your space for that cozy, ‘lived in’ feel. 

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