Red and gold glitter is a hallmark of the festive season that we all know, but if we're honest, Christmas decor can quickly become a visual chaos if we aren’t careful.
Here we introduce a minimalist yet festive way to decorate your tree, the Scandinavian way.
Think neutral Christmas decorations, natural materials, and space for your Christmas tree to show through without being hidden behind tinsel and multi-colored baubles.
If you’ve been dreaming of calm, more intentional Christmas decor this year, trying the Scandinavian approach might be right for you.
What Is Scandinavian Christmas Decor?
Scandinavian Christmas decor is all about simplicity, natural elements, and creating a cozy atmosphere with minimal fuss. Inspired by Nordic traditions, this style emphasizes warmth, handmade touches, and a focus on the essentials
It's typically about being more intentional with your decor, and every piece has its place.
Some elements you often see are natural materials, handmade decorations, soft lighting, minimal clutter, and a neutral colour palette.
Why Switch To Scandinavian Christmas Decor
There is a deeper, more spiritual reason behind Scandinavian Christmas decor that you might not have considered.
This minimal decor approach inspires us to slow down and focus on comfort and connection.
It reduces the emphasis on overconsumption, something we can all be guilty of at Christmas, often spending money on things we don’t use any other time of the year.
Natural materials are more eco-friendly, and handmade decorations have more sentimental value, aligning with the shift to sustainability we are seeing in the world.
A Less Is More Approach To Your Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree is the focal point of your Christmas decor. The Scandinavian approach to tree decor is one that accentuates the tree, rather than overshadows it.
Scandinavian Christmas trees are characterised by their sparse branches and minimalist decor, allowing you to see the greenery as a decoration itself. They also don’t tend to be a uniform size, we see everything from mini trees to extra tall ones.
How To Decorate Your Minimalist Christmas Tree
If you want to take a pared-back approach to decorating your Christmas tree this year, then we recommend following these tips.
- Add woven textures - Woven baskets are typically used as the tree skirt for Scandinavian Christmas trees, adding character and warmth.
- Use LED candles - Tree candles have been used for many years traditionally as Christmas decorations, but battery-operated ones are much safer, however. Minimal warm light fairy lights also work well.
- Mix organic materials - Dried fruit, wooden and paper decorations all add a touch of festive cosiness to your branches without being overwhelming.
- Leave space - Don’t clutter your branches, less is truly more when it comes to a minimalist Christmas tree. Be intentional with your decorations.
- Make your decor - Making a few paper ornaments is a great way to add texture and character to your tree and make it feel more special.
- Stick to a neutral palette - Feel free to add colour if you wish, but traditionally Scandinavian colour trees are more about muted greens, whites, beiges, and soft gold. Sticking to a cohesive palette allows the tree to still take centre stage.
Other Ideas For Neutral Christmas Decorations In Your Home
To create a consistent look throughout your home this Christmas, using neutral and minimalist decor in other places can help bring your decor together and create a Scandinavian feel.
Some more simple ways to integrate this kind of decor into your home are: -
- Add textured fabrics - Chunky knit throws and rugs are great ways to add more of a Nordic vibe to your home without being too overstated.
- Make a green garland - Garlands made from pine or other greenery look perfect draped over mirrors, staircases, or mantels.
- Candles everywhere - Scandinavians are known for their glass jar candles around their home. Take the opportunity to group candles and place them on your coffee tables, shelves, and sideboards.
- Minimalist wreaths - Less is more with minimalist wreaths, no need for decorations, simply hang them as they are and let the greenery show.
- Add minimal lighting - Warm mini twinkle lights draped over your window sills or mantle add a soft, cosy glow to your space.
- Handmade advent calendars and presents - Gifts wrapped with minimal brown paper and ribbon, and handmade advent calendars made of simple twine and paper, are a great way to tie your Scandinavian Christmas theme together.
