How to Master the Cozy Kitsch Decor Trend This Christmas

David Land

The holiday season evokes nostalgia every year, regardless of the decor trends and aesthetics of the moment. And while there’s nothing wrong with basic white string lights and evergreen garlands, it's certainly more fun to play into that feeling—and this year, it’s time to take your decor over the top.

The cozy kitsch aesthetic embraces a bright, playful, anything-goes approach and favors the haphazardly collected over the carefully curated. It leans into the warm and welcoming nostalgia of the holidays, producing a style that evokes fun and family memories. It allows you express yourself through your decor, and create a Christmas wonderland that’s all your own.

In other words, that pressure for a “perfect” holiday display and matching sets is gone, and meaningful mementos and fun finds that inspire a childlike wonder are in. While this trend can feel quite freeing, it can also be challenging to decide on decor without relying on tried-and-true design guidelines. To help you master cozy kitsch, we spoke with design experts who brought step-by-step instructions for incorporating this new and exciting look into your home this season.

Jay Wilde

We’ve seen a resurgence of maximalist, more-is-more decor over the past couple of years, and the cozy kitsch trend is no exception. It allows homeowners and renters everywhere to express themselves through their interior design, even if it doesn’t match the standard.

“To me, ‘kitschy’ holiday decor is holiday decor with a fun retro vibe, usually colorful and over the top in design,” says Siobhán Alvarez, DIY expert and founder of She Shines Media. “Gone are the days of holiday decor needing to follow strict guidelines to be seen as beautiful. Now, people of all backgrounds