Home (Decor) for the Holidays

Jennifer McNamara
Nov 19, 2020
4 min read

In which I spent countless hours scouring the internet for the best holiday decor that our favorite stores have to offer. You're welcome.

As the stay-at-home saga continues, a holiday refresh might be just what your space needs. And yes, I know it's November. But who cares!? Hating on holiday decor is not a personality trait. Get a hobby.

There are many components that go into holiday decor and I am here to provide dozens upon dozens of my favorite finds from every category imaginable! So let's get right to it.

The Tree

Ok let’s just get the big ticket item out of the way first. The tree. A hallmark of holiday decor, and also one of the trickiest things to get right. Trees can feel too short, too big, too skinny, too round, too busy, too sparse, you name it. Each home has its own specific tree requirements, so finding the right tree for your place is absolutely key. Thankfully, trees have really branched out (get it) and there are tons of options available ranging from your classic 9 foot tall pre-lit beauties, to your small non traditional gems. So let’s get to tree shopping.

Tree Skirts

What’s a tree without a skirt (or a collar)?

Target Metal Tree Collar Matte Black - Affordable
Target Cable Knit Tree Skirt Ivory - Affordable
Crate and Barrel Abaca Tree Collar - Mid Range
CB2 48" Flake Velvet Burnt Gold Tree Skirt - Splurge

Bottle Brush Trees

You can never have enough bottle brush trees. And by you I mean me. Put them on your mantel, entryway table, nightstand, coffee table, bathroom shelf, EVERYWHERE. They deserve their own category just because I love them so much. They are also one of the cheapest ways to make your space more wintery.

Crate and Barrel Sage and Silver Bottle Brush Christmas Trees, Set of 8 - Mid Range
Magnolia Ombre Blush Flocked Bottle Brush Tree - Affordable
Target Opalhouse Bottle Brush Trees - Affordable
Target Threshold Bottle Brush Trees - Affordable
West Elm Ombre Bottle Brush Trees - Affordable

Wreaths

I am actually not that into wreaths, mostly because I don't have super great places to put them in my home. But if I had to put one up, I would choose from these.

Target Christmas Green Felt Leaves White Berries Pinecones Artificial Wreath - Affordable
Pottery Barn Pre-Lit Faux Eucalyptus & Pine Wreath - Splurge
West Elm Red Berries Wreath - Splurge
Magnolia Cedar and White Berry Wreath - Splurge

Garlands

I am also not super into plant-based garlands (see wreaths). But I am so glad that pom pom, felt and wood garlands are having a moment. They are a great way to dress up your mantel or wall with something that feels very fun and casual.

Target Opalhouse Pom Pom Garland - Affordable
Z Gallerie Rainbow Pom Pom Garland - Mid Range
Crate and Barrel Wood Bead Garland - Affordable

Menorahs

These gorgeous menorahs can make an already important holiday element feel like a true statement piece and a perfect blend between the traditional and modern.

CB2 Brass Hanukkah Menorah - Affordable
Crate and Barrel Orli Silver Menorah with Marble Base - Mid Range
West Elm Glass Menorah - Mid Range
CB2 Architectural Menorah - Splurge

Ornament Sets

Many of us have our favorite sentimental ornaments that we mix and match, but sometimes it is nice to have a set that adds a little cohesion to the tree. Check out my favorites below!

West Elm Glass Ball Ornament, Pure Multi, Set of 9 - Mid Range
Target 42ct Round Glass Ornaments Teal Gold Copper & Navy - Affordable
Anthropologie Miniature Bulb Set of 100 - Mid Range

Pillows

I am a firm believer that pillows need to be switched out seasonally. Remember, one of the best ways to do this is to buy pillow covers! Keep in mind that some stores do offer the covers separately from the inserts to be sure and ask when you see something you like! Another key point when it comes to pillows, especially around the holidays, is that not all of your pillows need to scream “Christmas!!!”. It’s ok if some of your pillows just look vaguely festive or wintery.

Target Opalhouse Oh What Fun Holiday Collections - Affordable
Crate and Barrel Rian Pillow - Affordable
World Market Quilted Wave Velvet Throw Pillow - Mid Range

Stockings

Stockings are definitely not an item you purchase every single year. Most of us hold onto stockings for most of our lives. But if this year just so happens to be the year you are in the market for some new stockings, here are my faves.

Anthropologie Piper Stocking - Mid Range
Target Opalhouse Christmas Cotton Stocking Pink - Affordable
Pottery Barn Personalized Faux Fur Knit Stockings - Mid Range
Anthropologie Sadie Stocking - Mid Range

Table Top and Mantel Decor

I personally don’t think holiday decor is complete without little trees and trinkets all over the place. Adding in little items here and there on table tops and mantels is what can take your holiday decor from basic staples to a full on wintery wonderland home! Decorate away!