The holidays are upon us, and if you’re like me, you are still trying to figure out where the entire year went. Not to mention, we have barely come out of our pajamas since 2019 and now we must get dressed for parties, and decorate our homes! Yikes! First, try not to get overwhelmed. Let’s focus on what you can do this year to make it a memorable holiday season, rather than what’s likely to cause stress. 

When it comes to holiday home style and gift giving, this years’ theme, according to forecasters, is "meaning." Whether this means making your home extra festive or choosing thoughtful gifts, the expectation is that, in 2021, we will celebrate with intention and tradition. Some families suffered loss during the pandemic, and some simply lost the ability to see each other and be together. Either way, many have come to realize, now more than ever, that it’s important to treasure each and every connection. Therefore, gathering is top-of-mind and long-anticipated reunions with loved ones could shape the season. 

Celebrate with Optimism

A sense of positivity and hope is likely to reign as shoppers seek out Fall fun and return to beloved social traditions and cozy Fall gatherings. More and more people are going all-out for the holidays this year. Because we had to keep celebrations small last year, folks can't wait to bust out as much holiday decor as possible, bake holiday cookies, and host a big family dinner. For some, this may even be the first time you have had extended family over since the start of the pandemic.

Most of us set out the same holiday decor every year because it’s easy and practical. But, adding new holiday decorating trends doesn’t mean you have to do a complete overhaul of your existing decor. Consider repurposing existing pieces, shifting the placement of them in your home and pairing them with inexpensive DIY Christmas decorations so you have more budget left for for gifts, travel or savings.

Consider holiday décor that has significance, spreads joy, or brings a little extra sparkle this season. Here are some ideas to help get you started:

• Be creative. A handmade, crafted look is key to many of the season’s top styles, as shoppers increasingly embrace DIY and take comfort in hands-on hobbies. 
• Support sustainability. Go green this season. Try purchasing eco-friendly decor items when you can. Check out these ethical and sustainable options on Made Trade. Recycle wherever possible. Try going to a thrift shop for your décor or donating your own unwanted items. Someone’s trash is another’s treasure.  
• Autumnal touches. Pumpkins appear this year as motifs in housewares (think pillows, table settings, and doormats).
• Harvest themes. Fresh fruit motifs and faux fruit objects represent the season’s bounty. 
• Warm metals. Metallic tones take on warmth for the season in gold and brass. Explore muted, brushed metals rather than high shine.
• Tapestries. These woven wall hangings add instant coziness and nostalgia to any interior. Check out these options on Etsy.

Dress You Up

Now that you’ve got your home perfectly decorated and ready for company, let’s talk about dressing YOU up! While most of us aren’t quite ready to give up our cozy comfort wear completely, it’s exciting to know that there will be opportunities to get dressed up for parties and events this season. Here are some hot trends for the Fall and holiday season:

• Playful Spirit. There’s an increasing popularity in backless dresses, crop tops, and cutout details. Zara has some stunning options. If you are looking for a more modest crop, layer with another top!
• Sustainable Fashion. Look for new, used or barely used fashion on TheRealReal, Fashionphile, Rebag and so many other resale sites that sell designer products substantially lower than retail. Not to mention, you will give this item a new life.
• Sweater Vests. Believe it or not, vests are back. Sweater vests in wools, cottons and cashmeres have been on the scene for women over the last couple years and this layering trend is perfect for the holidays.
• Relaxed Outerwear. Shackets, bomber jackets, and oversized overcoats are all made-to-layer Fall looks that work across genders. 
• Plush textures. Faux fur, fleece, quilted patterns, and thick corduroy offer warmth and a comforting appeal. Spanx has just come out with velvet leggings in beautiful gem colors that can be worn in a variety of ways for the season.
• Sweatpant alternatives. The work-from-home favorite gets a fresh look for Fall with a mash-up of luxe fabrics and tailored details with the elastic waists people have come to expect from pants. 
• Romantic frills. Victorian-inspired looks evolve with an emphasis on soft volume from cascading ruffles. Checkout these stunning looks from Zimmerman.
• Print party. Consider logo-style motifs that repeat (i.e. Logomania) as well as paisley, jacquard, and a more grown up take on tie dye.
• Bootie Talk. It’s finally boot weather! While OTK boots are still hot, it’s the utilitarian combat boot that has taken center stage. Available at all price points, you can find traditional styling or combat boots with amazing feminine accents like these beauties from Jimmy Choo.
• Bordeaux or Burgundy. One of my favorite colors for Fall that takes you right into the holidays is burgundy. There is nothing like a butter soft burgundy bag, in either leather or vegan leather. This “mini pouch” from Bottega Veneta in intrecciato design has inspired many designers, at many price points.
• Holidays Sparkles. As you head out for the holidays, do not forget to add the sparkle! Now is the perfect time to shine with gold, silver and diamonds (or imitation). Check out the amazing variety of jewelry and accessories from Kendra Scott. This brand offers amazing gifts as well.

As you may be hearing on the news, there are global supply chain issues resulting in less availability of the things we may want for our homes or ourselves. Supplies are low across the board and this likely won’t change for at least another 6 months to a year. My recommendation is, if you see something you love, get it – because it may not be there tomorrow.

As I always say, be your authentic self when you prepare for the holidays. It’s fun to look at trends, but always best to do what you feel is right or wear what you feel most comfortable in. No doubt you will sparkle for the holidays just being yourself!