In Part 1 of our Christmas trends features we looked at how an elongated season is inspiring a seamless transition between autumn and winter, punctuated by a squash-coloured Halloween and the colours of fallen leaves. The forestcore trend epitomises the cosy ‘autumnal aesthetic’, with its natural wood and textured materials, coupled with mushrooms, pinecones and woodland animal motifs.
Here in Part 2 we see how the British passion for all things Vintage, Retro and Nostalgic shines like a beacon every Christmas. Some ‘trends’ never go out of style because they are actually evergreen classics. Top of the list here is Plaid. According to eCommerce site, Faire, searches related to this traditional pattern were already up 28% year-on-year by July of this year and are expected to peak in October. Their report into seasonal trends states: “From plaid pyjamas and pillows to ribbons and table runners, this festive pattern pulls together all the season’s colours.”
Vintage, Retro and Nostalgic themes have also become perennial favourites in the UK and USA for many years now. Searches for “vintage Christmas” grew 21% year on year between 2023 and 2024, according to Faire, which says: “We expect that it’ll grow even more, as consumers continue to yearn for nostalgia”.
Nothing spells decorative Christmas tradition like poinsettias. Here the styling experts at Stars for Europe UK show how you can incorporate poinsettias as plants or cut flowers into table settings or to beautify shelves and window sills.
Porcelain is another retro staple, with teacups forming the mainstay of traditional life in Britain since the Victorian era. The pottery you choose – whether it’s from the seventies, mid-Century, or beyond, will help you define the essence of the era you’re trying to recreate. Plaid/tartan cushions and accents, with striped candy canes and quirky natural elements will also bring vintage character to interior arrangements. Heirloom decorations for the Christmas tree or cake can be used to style whimsical features and home crafted accents for that extra special personal touch. Featured images above: Porcelain and Poinsettias by Stars for Europe UK, and Red Tartan Fleece Pixie Perch by Jackwicks Designs.
Nutcrackers at Christmas have been popular in Europe for over a century, since Tchaikovsky produced his magical beloved ballet score. Fast forward to 2025 and the term “nutcracker”is 2.5x more popular than “snowman” on the Faire site. These searches peak in November so there’s still time to jump on this colourful festive train with a nutcracker as your conductor!
Legendary decorations supplier, Gisela Graham, also believes a vintage-inspired aesthetic is set to reign supreme this Christmas, saying that “nostalgia will be huge again’ for the 2025 festive season. Handmade and heirloom pieces; decorations with retro charm, are the way forward here. Above: Nutcracker with hand crafted copper star by Copper and Green.
