CHARLOTTE – This week marks the beginning of the Christmas Season. Once the Thanksgiving meal has digested, many people get their tree set up, put their lawn decorations on display and make sure their lights are twinkling. As the community eagerly awaits the installation of the local city decorations and festivities, many families think about how they want to celebrate in their own homes. To make sure each home is as festive as it can be this year, here are the 2021 Holiday Trends to follow.
SEASONAL COLORS
Many print and online magazines are calling for metallics to take center stage in modern homes this year. Warm golds are considered to be especially relevant because they complement both the 2020 Pantone color of the year, Classic Blue, and its 2021 counterpart, Ultimate Gray. “Think dark blue and purple candle holders paired with light gold reindeers,” says Interior Designer Kane Hughes. This color combination will look particularly elegant for table settings.
The editors at Living, etc. recommend simplicity this year. They encourage families to “just pick one [main color].” One color is bold, stylish, and simple to pull off. For those who want a little variety, consider various textures instead of various colors. With how much time families have been spending indoors over the past few holiday seasons, overcomplicated household color palettes have become unpleasant. In fact, scaled back simplicity is a theme in more than just seasonal colors.
SENTIMENTAL CONIFERS
Over the past few years, people have begun to realize that material objects don’t have the same pull as they once did. With families being regulated to more and more screen time at school and work, the desire for something real has burst forth. Correspondingly, many homes should consider having a more angular, sparsely branched, live tree in their living room.
Focus on only using the ornaments and decorations that have true meaning to the family rather than overloading a tree to make it seem “full.” A simple string of wooden beads, intermingled with a classic style of twinkle lights, will offset a family’s precious heirlooms with festivity. Continue the feelings of gratitude that Thanksgiving brought out by making each element on the Christmas tree matter.
Nostalgia will be a big theme this year according to the creative team with Helen Green Design. “Instead of buying new ornaments, mend old ones, make new ones out of recyclable materials, or find local gems at vintage shows or internet auctions.” Most families have old decorations that they just haven’t been able to throw away, tablecloths made by family members and dishes that have been passed down for generations. ‘Tis the season for simplicity, sentiment, and sustainability.
SUSTAINABLE CUSTOMS
Another strong idea for the 2021 Christmas decorator is staying eco-friendly. Wrap gifts with fabric, newspaper, or other recyclable materials. Use wooden utensils rather than plastic for any family mealtimes. Count down to Christmas with a reusable wooden or fabric advent calendar. Give the gift of a show or experience rather than overloading the space under the tree. Plan meals that use many of the same ingredients so leftovers can be given a second taste.
Mostly, do the cheesy thing and remember the reason for the Holiday Season. Watch old family movies and think about upcoming memories to capture. Share an old tradition and create a new one. Spend time with loved ones, reflecting on the year that has passed and planning for the year to come.
