Organic Traditional Christmas Mantel Decor
Have you put up your Christmas decorations? With the arrival of December, it
truly feels like the holiday season is upon. I'll be sharing some of the
spaces I've decorated for the holidays, starting today with the Christmas fireplace mantel.
For me, the mantel (or mantle as most people misspell it!) is the most fun to decorate, even moreso than the Christmas tree. With the tree, you're likely using the same tree and mostly the same decorations year after year. It can be difficult to achieve a different look without buying lots of new things.
For me, the mantel (or mantle as most people misspell it!) is the most fun to decorate, even moreso than the Christmas tree. With the tree, you're likely using the same tree and mostly the same decorations year after year. It can be difficult to achieve a different look without buying lots of new things.
In contrast, the mantel provides the opportunity for creating an entirely new
design and stunning focal point each year. Even if you are reusing your garland and Christmas stockings, it's the perfect place to express your creativity and bring a new theme to life. Here's the one I've created for
this Christmas. I call it my Organic Traditional Christmas Mantel.
Organic Traditional Christmas Decor
What is Organic Traditional Christmas Decor?
This is a style of holiday decoration that combines elements of both
traditional and natural, organic aesthetics. It's all about blending classic
Christmas charm with a touch of nature and a dash of sustainability.
My holiday decor style tends to gravitate towards timeless, classic looks. I love finding new ways to reuse pieces and make them feel fresh while also invoking a sense of nostalgia.
This year, I've taken a traditional red and green color scheme but also embraced
earthy tones such as browns, and natural elements. Using this style, I
sought to create a warm and cozy atmosphere with familiar classic holiday
traditions combined with a connection to nature and the outdoors.
Layered Garlands
The foundation to a beautiful Christmas mantel display is the garland. You
can use a real evergreen garland or artificial garlands but I encourage you to consider
artificial garlands if you haven't already. With an artificial or faux
garland, you don't have to worry that it will dry out and crumble before
Christmas arrives. You can also reuse it for many years to come and save on
the cost and effort of having to purchase fresh greenery each year.
The quality and style of faux garlands has also improved drastically over
the last few years. I wrote
this post on where to buy artificial garlands
and you can see that there are lots of sources for real looking garlands.
My garland is actually two garlands, the super popular
Norfolk pine real-touch garland
combined with a pre-mixed juniper and pine garland (no longer available). It creates a lush,
layered, full look that draws you in.
Vintage Elements
To add to that organic feeling to my holiday mantel decor, I've intertwined a raspberry vine garland
that I got at the thrift store and delicate gold leaf fairy lights
with the greenery. There are different ways to place your garland - you can lay it on top or hang it along the front. I've chosen to hang the garland asymmetrically with a long drape on
one side of the mantel. It cascades on the front of the mantel (see
this post
for tips on hanging garland) in a dramatic wave-like pattern, giving a sense
of movement.
Vintage or handcrafted items also play a significant role, giving the decor
a timeless and sentimental feel. The small branches displayed in a vintage
pitcher, the brass bells, and the long green velvet ribbon add warmth and
familiarity. These are classic Christmas mantel decorations that bring elegance and a sense of
tradition.
Natural Materials
Organic traditional decor often incorporates elements such as wooden
ornaments, handmade crafts, and items sourced from nature, like pine cones,
twigs, and dried berries. Take a closer look and you can see the cluster
of petite pinecones and faux twigs tucked into the garland.
To soften the look, I've used cableknit white stockings we've had for over a decade.
Their faux fur pom poms and cork name tags infuse cozy charm and keep the
mantel decor from feeling too serious.
Gold Accents
One other notable design device is the ample use of gold-hued accessories.
Gold suits a traditional scheme and combined with the twinkle lights and
roar of the cozy fireplace, it creates a warm, welcoming glow.
I've had the
shield mirror and
chevron fireplace screen
for years and I don't think I will ever tire of them. They are timeless
and feel both contemporary and traditional in this setting. The large
brass deer is one I picked up at an antique show. With a plaid ribbon around
his neck, he adds a commanding presence to this display.
Finally, a
woven basket
and
pillow that I designed with my friend Sarah add a tactile and textural touch to the decor. I love how the reds
and deep greens can be found in the colours of the pillow.
Ultimately, organic traditional Christmas decor is about striking a
balance between the warmth and familiarity of traditional holiday elements
and the simplicity and connection to nature that organic, sustainable
choices bring to the celebration. I think this year's mantel has managed
to do just that.
Later this week, I'll share the rest of the my Christmas living room which
has that same traditional + organic feel. I hope you've enjoyed what
you've seen so far!
But in case this mantel isn't quite your personal style, I invite you to see my
mantels from Christmases past. I've loved creating each and every one of
these diverse looks!
More Christmas mantels (click on the titles to see the details):
0 comments