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Incorporating Old World Style into Your Holiday Decor

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of decorating our homes to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for friends and family. There’s something incredibly enchanting about incorporating old world style into your holiday decor and that has been the stylistic inspiration for my newest artwork pieces.  Read on for some ideas for incorporating this style into your very own holiday home!

1. Embrace Rich and Warm Colors:

Old world style is all about opulence, and when it comes to your holiday decor, the color palette plays a pivotal role. Think deep burgundies, regal blues, and lush greens. These colors not only evoke a sense of nostalgia but also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using rich, velvet ribbons, tablecloths, and ornaments in these hues to add a touch of grandeur to your decor.

2. Antique Ornaments and Decorations:

One of the most delightful aspects of old world style holiday decor is the use of antique ornaments and decorations. Pull out your own vintage pieces or scour local antique shops for vintage glass ornaments, candleholders, and figurines. These pieces add character and a sense of history to your holiday displays. And, of course, no old world holiday theme would be complete without a lovely tree to showcase these treasures.  No shame in going faux – I use my trusty pre-lit tree every year!

3. Incorporate Luxurious Fabrics:

Velvet, silk, and satin are the hallmark fabrics of old world style. Consider draping your furniture with sumptuous throw blankets and accent pillows in these materials. Adorn your dining table with a rich, velvet table runner and silk napkins. 

4. Candlelight and Warm Lighting:

Old world style is all about creating a warm and cozy environment; my favorite way to do this is by incorporating candles and warm lighting into my decor. Place candle sconces on your walls, light up candelabras on your dining table, and use vintage lanterns to add a soft, romantic glow to your space. My advice – go for realistic looking flame-less pillar and tea light candles with a remote and timer.  I love having all of my candles pop on right when the sun goes down as the days get shorter!

5. Greenery and Natural Elements:

To balance the opulence of old world decor, include natural elements such as fresh greenery, pinecones, and berries. Wreaths made from real evergreen branches and garlands draped over mantels and staircases add rustic charm to your decor. These elements help maintain a sense of balance and harmony in your holiday setting.

6. Old World-Inspired Ornaments:

When selecting ornaments for your tree, look for intricate glass ornaments, hand-painted baubles, and delicate angels or cherubs. These decorations can transport you back in time and evoke a sense of nostalgia that’s perfect for the holiday season.

7. Vintage Table Settings:

For holiday feasts, create an old world dining experience with vintage tableware and fine china. Incorporate antique silverware, crystal glassware, and delicate porcelain plates. This attention to detail will enhance the overall elegance of your holiday gatherings.

Incorporating old world style into your holiday decor is a wonderful way to create a classic aesthetic that exudes elegance and charm. The rich colors, antique ornaments, luxurious fabrics, warm lighting, natural elements, and vintage table settings all play a part in crafting an atmosphere that feels like a page from a holiday storybook. So, this holiday season, let your decor transport you and your loved ones to a bygone era, where the warmth of tradition and the magic of the season come together in perfect harmony.

A moody, old world Christmas art print of a painting of bells and holly berries and green leaves on a deep red background in a white frame on a white shelf.
Bells & Holly Leaves Fine Art Print 8″x10″