Nothing brings together timeless tradition and cozy holiday charm quite like tartan. With its rich colors and classic patterns, tartan adds instant warmth to any space—whether draped across a fireplace mantel, wrapped around your Christmas tree, or woven into festive table settings. A tartan-inspired holiday theme blends rustic comfort with elegant heritage, creating a Christmas atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and beautifully refined.
Follow these 3 easy steps, and sit back and enjoy.
1. Pick a Theme
I love traditional Christmas plaid and tartan decorations. Think Ralph Lauren in Connecticut on Christmas morning. Having this base to refer to makes shopping easy. But it’s not about me, it’s about you. What do YOU like? All white? Modern? Country? Pick a theme and go with it.
Here are my favorite picks for this year.
2. Vary It Slightly
Now that you have a signature look, vary it slightly from room to room. I mix different tartans and plaids in different areas. More formal rooms get silver champagne buckets holding mini trees with tartan ribbon. Kids areas get buckets holding trees, tartan blankets and shams. Keeping the same thread running throughout keeps everything working together.
3. When in Doubt, Add More!
This is not the time for subtlety. Your house is only going to be decorated for a month, max. Pull out all the stops and enjoy. It will be gone before you know it.
Now that we have a few guidelines, let’s see some inspiration images in my favorite look. Several are from my home. Enjoy! Sources and buying info at the bottom.
Here’s a couple handy graphics for your Pinterest boards with links below!
