This post shows you 22 unique winter decor ideas for after Christmas.
As the holiday season winds down and we pack away our Christmas decorations, our homes can feel a bit… empty. But here’s the thing: transitioning to winter decor after Christmas doesn’t have to be boring or daunting.
It’s actually an astonishing opportunity to create a serene, cozy winter wonderland right in your own home.
There is a fine line between keeping some seasonal appeals and transitioning to simpler decor when switching from Christmas to winter.
I completely see why certain people prefer to ease into it!
Giving up the bright hues, like red, and sticking to a more subdued, soothing color palette is my go-to strategy.
Less really is more!
I have compiled a list of warm winter décor ideas that will motivate you to design a fashionable and welcoming house long after the Christmas tree has been taken down.
Here’s some decoration ideas after Christmas for you
1. Strip Down to the Basics (But Keep the Spirit)
First things first: it’s time to declutter. Getting rid of unnecessary items will give you peace of mind.
As much as I love twinkle lights and garlands, they can start feeling a bit overwhelming by the New Year. Begin by packing up explicitly Christmas-themed items (goodbye, Santa figurines and mini Christmas trees) and keep the pieces that scream “winter” instead of “holiday season.”
Tip: If you’re anything like me and get sentimental while packing away decorations, remind yourself that next year your favorites will make a glorious comeback!
You can leave out items like pine cones, evergreen branches, and birch logs—these natural elements are timeless and cozy for the winter season. They’re also a great way to bring texture into your space. A stack of birch logs by the fireplace mantel? Chef’s kiss!
2. Focus on Winter Whites and Neutral Color Palettes
After the vibrant reds and greens of the Christmas season, shifting to a softer, neutral color scheme can feel like a breath of fresh air. Think “blank canvas” meets “cozy hug.”
You can incorporate winter whites, greys, and beiges into your space.
Swap out bold pillow covers with muted tones, and add faux fur or snowflake pillows to your living room for that extra snug vibe.
Neutral colors are like the plain bagels of decor—simple, versatile, and everyone likes them. But don’t be afraid to add a schmear of creativity with faux greenery or faux eucalyptus for pops of subtle color.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Twinkle Lights
You might think twinkle lights are strictly for Christmas, but that’s simply not true.
Keeping a few strands around is an easy way to maintain a warm, magical atmosphere.
Drape them along your mantel; wrap them around the book shelf.
Trust me, twinkle lights are the little black dress of winter decorations!
4. Cozy Textures Make All the Difference
The best way to make your home feel snug during the cold winter months is by layering textures.
Best Tips:
If your pets take over your cozy blankets, you should maybe consider designating a “decoy” blanket. Let them snuggle while you stay warm with the good stuff.
I suggest you go for cozy blankets, throw pillows, and faux fur throws.
A blanket ladder in the corner of your living room or by the entry table is not just practical—it’s adorable!
5. Bring the Outdoors In
Natural elements are really your best friend when it comes to transitioning from Christmas decorations to winter decor. Like I said before, pine cones, bare branches, and evergreen branches are excellent staples for this time of year.
Here’s a fun idea: Arrange magnolia leaves or cotton stems in vases for your dining table or coffee table. These are simple tips to create a cozy winter feel without going overboard.
And don’t forget about your front door!
You can swap out the Christmas wreath for a minimalist winter wreath featuring dried foliage or faux eucalyptus. It’s an astonishingly great way to set the tone for your home.
6. Create a Winter Mantel That Wows
A fireplace mantel is the crown jewel of a living room—don’t leave it bare! Decorate with faux greenery, birch logs, and maybe a few candles or lanterns. You can even incorporate a neutral color palette with white vases or muted ornaments.
Add some height by stacking books with pine cones or placing a small tree for that delightful winter forest vibe.
This is like a fresh start from the elaborate garlands of the Christmas season, yet equally charming.
7. Embrace the Glow of Candles and Lanterns
Candles are a great way to make your home cozy, warm, and inviting. Go for unscented or scented white candles, whichever you prefer.
Arrange them in groups on your coffee table, dining table, or mantel for a cozy winter glow.
Lanterns are another fantastic addition. They’re the decor equivalent of wrapping yourself in a warm hug.
8. Reimagine Your Windows
Window decorations for Christmas might have included garlands and snowflakes, but you can simplify things for winter.
Alternatively, placing small wreaths with ribbons on your window frames is also a nice way to decorate your fronting.
9. Add a Wintery Touch to Your Tablescapes
Your dining table can also join in on the fun! Start with a neutral runner or tablecloth, then add natural elements like a white vase, evergreen branches, and dough bowls for a center piece.
For a pop of sophistication, consider incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver candle holders. It’s an astonishingly great way to create a tablescape that’s both elegant and approachable.
And don’t forget about your coffee table! A stack of books, a tray with a candle, and a few sprigs of greenery can transform it into a cozy focal point.
10. Celebrate Winter-Specific Themes
Imagine ice hues, frosted décor, and snowy vistas. Try building your own winter scene in a glass terrarium with miniature trees, figurines, and fake snow if you enjoy DIY projects.
If the thought of crafting makes you groan, just remember—you can always call it “rustic” if it doesn’t turn out Pinterest-worthy!
11. Keep It Cozy and Personal
At the end of the day, your home should reflect your personality.
Add extra cushions, fuzzy rugs, and perhaps even a special hot cocoa station to create a warm and inviting winter décor.
Displaying heirloom décor items or pictures of the family is another great way to add personal touches.
You can create an environment that feels distinctly yours by combining these with seasonal accents.
12. Velvet Accents
Velvet throw pillows or blankets add a touch of luxury and warmth to your space while transitioning your decor seamlessly into winter.
These will help keep your home fresh, cozy, and winter-ready, even after the holiday season ends!
13. Layer Your Rugs for Warmth and Texture
Double up your rugs! Choose subdued winter patterns or muted hues.
In your living room or bedroom, you can layer a soft, smaller rug over a bigger one, which adds visual appeal and warmth in the winter.
14. Natural Centerpieces
On your dining table or coffee table, swap Christmas-specific items for natural elements like mandarins or candles.
These create a sort of rustic & wintery vibe.
15. Sheer Curtains for Soft Lighting
Let the natural winter light shine through by replacing heavy Christmas drapes with sheer curtains. It’s a great way to brighten your home while keeping it cozy.
16. Winter-Inspired Wall Art
Replace Christmas prints with winter-themed art featuring snowy landscapes or minimalist designs. This is an easy way to update the ambiance without cluttering your walls.
17. Glass box display
This is for you if you are still in the mood for something dramatic after Christmas!
A simple brown and white color scheme might make the ornaments ideal for winter, even if many people prefer to put them away.
To create the ideal winter décor item, stack them in a glass box.
18. Coffee Table
19. Minimalist Shelf Display
Clear off holiday knick-knacks and instead use a style shelf with faux greenery, ceramic glass vases, or neutral-toned books for a clean winter aesthetic.
20. Frosted or Icy Accents
For a frosted, winter wonderland touch, add frosted décor pieces to your mantel or entry table, such as snow-covered branches, icy-looking vases, or crystal ornaments.
21. Upgrade Your Bedroom Nightstands
For a pleasant touch, decorate your nightstands with flowers, a cute lamp in a muted color scheme, and a compact plate for gathering little bits.
22. Think About What’s Next
As you enjoy your refreshed winter decor, start taking mental notes for next year. Did you overdo the garlands this past Christmas? Were you short on storage for your holiday decorations? Use this downtime to plan ahead so the next holiday season is even more seamless.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from Christmas decorations to winter decor doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It’s a chance to create a calm, welcoming space that embraces the beauty of the cold months. Whether you’re lighting up twinkle lights, layering cozy blankets, or showcasing your dinner table glass jars in creative ways, there’s no shortage of ways to keep your home looking stunning.
Oh, and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more winter decor ideas—you’ll thank me next week when inspiration strikes again!
This post showed you 22 unique winter decor ideas for after Christmas.
