As the saying goes, everything old becomes new again, and this holiday season proves it! Beloved Christmas decor trends from decades past are making a big comeback. From vintage ornaments to creative crafts, these timeless styles are finding their way into modern homes, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair.
Many of these ideas first appeared in Better Homes & Gardens throughout the last century, and today, they’re inspiring a new generation of holiday decorators. Ready to embrace the past? Explore these vintage holiday trends that are making a stylish return.
For more creative ideas, check out our Pinterest boards for endless holiday inspiration.
1. Shiny Brite Ornaments
First popular in the late 1940s and 1950s, Shiny Brite ornaments are back as a staple of vintage Christmas decor.
- These iconic ornaments feature bright colors, glitter, and metallic finishes.
- Originally sold at Woolworth for pennies, they became the hottest post-WWII decor trend.
- Modern reproductions are available in a range of styles, perfect for both traditional and whimsical trees.
Pair these ornaments with fun designs, like the ideas in our Whimsical Ways to Decorate with Christmas Gnomes for a playful holiday twist.
2. Holiday Villages
Christmas villages, popularized in the 1960s and 1970s, are making a big comeback.
- Early villages featured cardboard or ceramic pieces but evolved into full sets with moving parts and tiny figurines.
- Today, minimalist and modern villages are a fresh alternative for tabletops and mantels.
3. Vintage Santa Mugs
These iconic Santa mugs, first produced in 1949, are back in style.
- Originally designed for serving drinks, they’re now primarily used as festive decor.
- Display them on kitchen shelves or mantels for a nostalgic holiday touch.
- Modern reproductions make it easy to enjoy this trend without worrying about vintage safety concerns.
4. Ribbon Trees
Decorating Christmas trees with ribbons is a versatile and cost-effective trend.
- In the 1990s, red ribbons were a staple, tied into bows on trees and wreaths.
- Today, ribbons come in all colors and are styled as garlands or cascading accents.
- For a cohesive look, pair ribbon trees with Traditional Christmas Decorations History and Tips for timeless charm.
5. Christmas Bells
Bells have been a symbol of the holiday season for centuries, representing joy and celebration.
- In 1941, bells were used as door decor or tied to wreaths to welcome guests.
- Today, metallic bell garlands and oversized bells are trending in both rustic and modern styles.
6. Flocked Christmas Trees
Flocked trees, with their faux snow-covered branches, were first popularized in the 1950s.
- These trees blend beautifully with both minimalist and farmhouse decor.
- Decorate with bold jewel tones or neutral metallics for a versatile holiday look.
7. Ceramic Christmas Trees
Ceramic tabletop trees, popular in the 1970s, are having a major revival.
- Featuring built-in lights and nostalgic charm, these trees are perfect for mantels or side tables.
- Originals are collectible, but affordable reproductions bring the trend to everyone.
8. Pink Christmas Decor
Bright and cheerful, pink holiday decor first became trendy in the 1950s.
- The recent popularity of Barbiecore has pushed pink ornaments, garlands, and trees back into the spotlight.
- Use pink accents for a bold, playful twist on traditional Christmas decor.
9. Tinsel Trees
Tinsel trees date back to 16th-century Germany and regained popularity in the 1950s.
- Originally made of silver, modern tinsel trees are crafted from shimmering PVC plastic.
- Add sparkle to your decor with a full tinsel tree or by draping silver strands over a live tree.
10. Mercury Glass Decor
Mercury glass ornaments, first produced in the 1800s, exude vintage elegance.
- The speckled glass look is replicated today in ornaments, candleholders, and tabletop trees.
- Add these timeless pieces for a touch of shimmer and sophistication.
11. Nontraditional Trees
The 1970s embraced creativity with nontraditional Christmas trees, including macrame and string art designs.
- These unique alternatives are perfect for small spaces or creative holiday displays.
12. Handmade Paper Ornaments
Born out of necessity during World War II, paper ornaments have regained popularity as a charming DIY craft.
- Create colorful chains or intricate paper designs to add a personal touch to your tree.
13. Decorating With Fruit
Using fruit as decor is a centuries-old tradition, symbolizing hope and abundance.
- Dried orange garlands, apple wreaths, and fruit-filled centerpieces bring a rustic, natural vibe to holiday decorations.
These iconic Christmas trends blend nostalgia with contemporary style, making them perfect for modern holiday decor. From Shiny Brite ornaments to dried fruit garlands, these ideas bring warmth and charm to your celebrations.
For even more holiday inspiration, explore our Pinterest boards and rediscover the joy of Christmas traditions!
