How to Style a Ralph Lauren Christmas This Holiday Season
There’s something so nostalgic and inviting about a Ralph Lauren Christmas… the mix of rich textures, equestrian-inspired details, layered patterns, and that classic red-and-green palette. I love that it’s trending this year, and people are leaning more maximalist when it comes to their holiday decor. It’s warm, cozy, and one of my favorite aesthetics. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that iconic Ralph Lauren holiday look, today I’m sharing 10 styling tips to bring this aesthetic home in a thoughtful, authentic way. I put my own spin on it this year, but click through for the basics or essentials…
If you missed my classic Christmas home tour (inspired by Ralph Lauren), be sure to check it out! It’s an annual holiday house tour I always look forward to sharing.
1. Swap Your Lampshades
This is such an underrated holiday styling trick. A simple lampshade swap can instantly change the tone of a room. Here are some of my favorite options for a holiday or winter look…
- Black parchment
- Pleated silk or linen
- A tailored tartan shade (just one pattern per room)
It’s an easy way to introduce classic, moody lighting that feels very Ralph Lauren. I actually swap my shades seasonally because it’s an easy update for a great design payoff. Check out this post on how to choose a clip on sconce or chandelier shade!
Add Tartan- But Keep It Consistent
Tartan is practically synonymous with a Ralph Lauren Christmas, but the key is consistency. Stick to one tartan pattern per room for a cohesive, intentional look. You can repeat it on:
- Throws
- Pillows
- Ribbons
- A single shade or accent
Keeping the pattern unified allows everything else to shine. This year I used a lot of black watch tartan. I shared some of my go-to tartan & plaid holiday decor from Wayfair, here.
Use Candles in Glass Hurricanes
Nothing sets the mood like flickering candlelight, and hurricanes elevate the glow while adding polish. Opt for clear glass or cut-glass hurricanes for a traditional library or lodge feel. They’re perfect for mantels, dining tables, or entry vignettes.
Style with Pine Needle Garland
Fresh or high-quality faux pine needle garland is THE garland for the Ralph Lauren aesthetic. You’ll never see droopy garland, it’s typically pine. Draped over a mantel, staircase, mirror, or doorway, it brings that natural, understated elegance RL is known for. Keep it classic… skip glitter or overly embellished greenery.
Bring in Berries & Red Roses
If you want that quintessential Ralph Lauren palette, berries and red roses are a must… adding red is key! I love tucking berry sprigs into garland and mixing red roses into smaller bud vases around the house. It’s festive without feeling fussy. These are the exact berries I used this year!
Layer Pinecones, Feathers & Natural Textures
Ralph Lauren interiors always nod to nature… especially winter elements. Focus on adding earthy texture throughout. Here are some easy ideas:
- Pinecones
- Pheasant or quail feathers
- Woven baskets
- Vintage wood accents
- Antler details (faux or antique)
- Taxidermy (if you’re into that sort of thing)
These organic pieces balance the luxe fabrics and bold plaid patterns. If you feel like your vignette is missing something, give these a try!
Incorporate Ribbon
Ribbon is such an affordable way to bring everything together. Check out this post for 20 ways to decorate with ribbon this holiday season! Velvet ribbon in deep greens, reds, or navy feel especially classic.
Wrap Your Gifts in Matching Paper
Nothing elevates your holiday home like beautifully wrapped gifts under the tree. Keep things consistent with monochromatic paper… think navy, red, black, ivory, or a single tartan, and finish with a simple matching ribbon. It’s a small styling detail that makes a big visual impact.
Bring in Luxe Textiles
A Ralph Lauren Christmas is all about layering. Go for rich materials like that create the cozy, collected vibe that defines the look. Consider adding the following…
- Wool throws
- Cashmere blankets
- Sheepskin rugs
- Leather accents
- Cable-knit or faux fur pillows
Lean Into Maximalist Styling
This is your sign to go all in! Ralph Lauren holiday decor thrives on layering… books, greenery, plaid textiles, candlelight, florals, art, and vintage pieces. Embrace depth, warmth, and storytelling. Maximalism (done well) just feels right this time of year.
My Top Budget Ralph Lauren Aesthetic Picks From Amazon
Click directly on each item within the collage to shop!
If you’re trying to achieve this look on a budget… or modify your existing holiday decor, these are my top picks from Amazon!
FAQ
Deep reds, greens, navy, black, and warm neutrals. Jewel tones work beautifully, too.
I’d avoid it. One tartan per room creates visual harmony. You can change patterns between rooms.
Not at all! Mine is all faux… pine garland looks fantastic and lasts for years. Here is timeless holiday greenery you’ll use every year (find my top picks there).
Layer intentionally. Pair patterns with solids, add natural materials, and give each vignette a clear focal point.
Tartan textiles, candlelight, and luxe throws will get you there quickly and on a budget.
Silver and polished nickel… with brass accents mixed in! Typically you’ll see a lot of polished metals from Ralph.
Related Posts
Looking for more holiday inspiration for the season ahead? I’m going to link some of my favorite posts and traditions for you below…
- My Classic Christmas Home Tour
- Easy Winter Window Box DIY with Faux Greenery
- How to Make an Orange Topiary Centerpiece for the Holidays
- Classic Butter Spritz Cookies (My Heirloom Family Recipe)
- My Annual Holiday Gift Guide
- Classic Monochromatic Gift Wrap
- The Best Holiday Gift Ideas from Amazon
- Tartan & Plaid Holiday Decor from Wayfair
- Equestrian Inspired Christmas Tour: Living Room
- Amazon Christmas Tree Review (Styled 3 Ways)
If you’re going for that timeless Ralph Lauren look (like myself and many others) this holiday season, I hope you found this post helpful! By mixing classic patterns, natural textures, luxe materials, and cozy lighting, you can create a festive home that feels inviting and beautifully curated. I hope these tips inspire you to embrace a more intentional and elevated holiday look this season. If you end up trying any of these ideas, I’d love to hear how your home comes together!
Immediately need to order the berry garland to mix into my pine!! Good morning! Yesterday I spent some time at hobby lobby grabbing discount stems and picks to make a floral arrangement for the dining room. This is my sign to pull out the vases and head to Trader Joe’s for some red roses for the entry. This palette is the most “me” Christmas palette I’ve ever done. Who knew that I love red for Christmas?? I should have known… in the early iterations of our trees, red was the star of the show. I leaned heavily into mercury and clear glass accents this year; I still owe you a proper photo! These are fantastic tips, and now you have me itching to swap lampshades. Ha! I hope you’re thoroughly enjoying the season as I am. Have you had a proper snow yet? Cheers to a winter Wednesday!
All so gorgeous.