Call it the Hobby Lobby Effect, but the holiday decoration market often skews a little too kitsch for my taste. Actually, it’s the space in between full kitsch and ultra-luxe that irks me. I vote you either commit wholly to luxury or embrace the irony of the absurd. Think: delicate gold leaf sconces and handmade paper chains. Ahead, I’ve compiled a list of decorations that pass my stylized, slightly neurotic holiday vetting process.
Paper Chain Kit
No one throws a party like Rebecca Gardner, so of course, she has the holidays on lock. Her paper chain kit is both decor and a fun activity—gather ‘round the table to assemble with a batch of cranberry ginger French 75’s.
Segmented Silver Orb Glass Garland
This silver orb garland from John Derian is absolutely lovely, as is his entire holiday offering. Nestle these on your mantle or string them from your chandelier.
Holiday Tiny Taper Candles
A low-lift decor option, swap your regular tapers for a festive hue, and suddenly, your ornate candle holders are transformed into holiday decor.
Buto Glass Candlestick
Porta’s candlesticks from their collaboration with Issy Granger mimic the look of Christmas trees—perfect for any holiday spread.
Handmade Metallic Paper Tinsel
For those on a budget, opt for this beautiful handmade tinsel from sustainable brand Toast. The slight metallic sheen gives a luxe finish to any tabletop.
Brass Decorating Bow
How lovely is this brass bow decoration from one of my favorite interior designers Matilda Goad? I love how she combines them with popcorn strings, as seen on the website, or pop it on a wreath for your front door.
Antique Silver Tinsel Tree
For those wary of color, opt for these silver tinsel trees from abc Carpet & Home. Grab a few mismatched sizes for a varied effect.
Traditional Christmas Emerald and Red Paper Snowflake Decoration
Transform your home into a winter wonderland with our Traditional Christmas Emerald & Red Paper Snowflake Decoration. This exquisite decoration combines the charm of Christmas with the art of origami to create a festive atmosphere in your living room.
Eucalyptus Berry Wreath
Faux green eucalyptus and red berries form a welcoming holiday wreath for your door, over the hearth, or as a holiday gift.
Pewter Candle Snuffer
Though not technically billed as holiday decor, this pewter candle snuffer from Salter House would be a beautiful seasonal addition to any table.
Wodden Gingerbread Nutcrackers
An old-fashioned nutcracker adds the perfect dusting of nostalgia to any holiday set-up. Plus, you can pretty much stick them on any free surface.
Lacquered Bar Set
Does one need a $500 lacquered bar set? Why, of course! This lovely set from Cabana would provide the perfect contrast to a floral tablecloth.
See Christmas Crackers Set of 6
Placing an old-fashioned Christmas cracker upon each place setting at a dinner party adds the perfect finishing touch.
Courtly Check Ornament Stand
Use this stand as a vehicle to show off your most cherished ornaments.
Candy Cane Tree Skirt
Your tree will get a much needed makeover with this silk and beaded skirt.
No 275 Stocking
St. Frank’s limited-edition oversized stockings—made with vintage textiles, lined in flax linen, and finished with a coordinating loop perfect for hanging—are always a best-seller. This year’s collection includes stockings in vintage Frazada, Otomì, Indigo, and Suzani fabrics.
Round Christmas Tree Ornament Set
Obviously, this is a highly curated list, but when it comes to simple baubles, I’d just head to Target. Place these everywhere—nestled in garland, heaped upon your table, stuffed in jars and ceramics—for low-fuss decor.
Gingerbread House
Why decorate your own when you can purchase a lovely luxury gingerbread house instead?
Decoration Wishing Tree
Svenskt Tenn’s wishing tree is both great-looking and interactive. Anyone who adds a pendant gets to make a wish.