How to Create a Ralph Lauren Christmas
Imagine walking into a room where the scent of pine mingles with clove-scented oranges, a plaid-wrapped tree twinkles in the corner, and vintage ornaments glimmer alongside modern metallics. That’s the magic of a Ralph Lauren Christmas — timeless, warm, and effortlessly elegant. This season, it’s not about perfection; it’s about creating a home that feels yours, blending French Country sophistication, Cottagecore charm, and a little nostalgic plaid.
Start with the Tree: Tartan Magic
The Christmas tree is the heart of your holiday decor. Tartan instantly brings classic Ralph Lauren charm and warmth.
Tartan Tip: Wrap wide plaid ribbons around the tree or use them as bows tucked between branches.
Mix ornaments that tell a story: vintage glass baubles, wooden figurines, hand-painted treasures, and a few modern metallics to catch the twinkle of the lights.
Texture Trick: Add velvet, wool, or knit ornaments for a layered, collected-over-time look.
Scarf Idea: For a signature touch, wrap a vintage plaid scarf around the tree base instead of a tree skirt — cozy, chic, and effortlessly stylish.
Last year, I found a vintage red and green tartan scarf at a thrift store. Wrapping it around my tree made it feel like it had a story of its own, and my kids loved spotting which ornaments had history behind them.
Create a Tartan Tablescape
Extend the cozy plaid aesthetic to your table. A Ralph Lauren tablescape is all about layering textures, patterns, and heights.
Tablecloth Tip: Start with a rich tartan tablecloth in reds, greens, or navy.
Napkin Idea: Fold linen napkins and tie them with matching plaid ribbon.
Mix vintage and modern dinnerware: blue-and-white china paired with brass flatware and crystal glasses adds sophistication without feeling stuffy.
Centerpiece Idea: Gather greenery, pinecones, candles at varying heights, and small vintage accents like silver trays or old books.
Layer textures and materials — the mix of old and new creates warmth and character.
Candle Trick: Use a combination of tall taper candles, votives, and soft fairy lights for a gentle, inviting glow.
Blend Modern and Vintage Decorations
The timelessness of a Ralph Lauren Christmas comes from mixing eras.
Pair vintage brass candlesticks with modern white pillar candles.
Combine hand-painted ornaments with metallic baubles.
Layer greenery with small floral accents like cream roses or hydrangeas for a French Country touch.
For your mantel or side tables, stack textures and heights: a leather-bound book, glass vase, brass candleholder, and tartan accents feel collected, warm, and personal.
The key is letting your vintage treasures anchor the space while modern touches keep it fresh and elegant.
What to Wear: Cozy, French Country Meets Cottagecore
This season, your holiday style should be as effortless and charming as your home.
A plaid or tartan skirt paired with a delicate lace top is both romantic and timeless.
Knee-high camel boots add warmth, sophistication, and a French Country elegance.
Layer with a soft wool cardigan or a vintage-inspired coat in neutral tones.
Accessories like a vintage brooch, pearl earrings, or a soft scarf add subtle Cottagecore charm.
Whether you’re trimming the tree, hosting a holiday tea, or serving cocoa by candlelight, this look is stylish, comfortable, and perfectly seasonal — and it reminds us that holiday beauty doesn’t have to be perfect to feel magical.
Add Personal Touches and Warmth
A Ralph Lauren Christmas isn’t complete without touches that make it uniquely yours.
Display family photos or heirlooms.
Hang embroidered stockings.
Bring in natural elements: pine branches, magnolia leaves, or fragrant herbs like rosemary.
Layer textures with soft wool throws, velvet pillows, and meaningful ornaments.
Scent is key: simmer oranges, cloves, and cinnamon or use essential oils to fill the room with cozy holiday aroma.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season, embrace imperfection. Start with a tartan tree, create a layered tablescape, mix vintage and modern decorations, and dress in a way that reflects your personal style. A Ralph Lauren Christmas is about warmth, nostalgia, and elegance — but more than anything, it’s about making it yours.
Mix French Country refinement, Cottagecore charm, and your own unique touches, and your home will feel cozy, collected, and ready for cherished holiday memories.
Brooke
Hello Gorgeous Threads
Shop My Ralph Lauren Christmas Picks
Make your Ralph Lauren Christmas come to life with these handpicked items , all budget-friendly, thrifty, or easily sourced to bring plaid, tartan, and timeless charm into your home and wardrobe.
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Welcome to my cozy corner of the internet! I’m Brooke, and I’m so thrilled you’re here. As a homeschool mom and a lover of all things Cottagecore, I’ve built a life that’s all about creating warmth, charm, and simplicity—and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Cottagecore, for me, is about slowing down and embracing the beauty of intentional living—finding joy in baking fresh bread, tending a garden, or savoring a quiet moment with a cup of tea by a sunny window. It’s about blending the rustic charm of Cottagecore with the refined elegance of French Country style to create a life that feels both beautiful and attainable.
One of my greatest passions is curating unique, timeless treasures that reflect this way of life. Whether it’s a vintage find, a sustainable piece, or a handmade item with a story to tell, I love sharing these special discoveries with you. And now, you can shop these carefully chosen pieces right here! Each item is selected with love, bringing charm, sustainability, and elegance into your home and wardrobe.
This little community of like-minded women makes everything even sweeter. I’m so excited to connect, inspire, and celebrate the magic of Cottagecore together. Thank you for stopping by—it means the world to me. Let’s embrace a simpler, more beautiful life, one lovely find at a time!
Bring warmth and elegance to your home with a Ralph Lauren-inspired Christmas. Learn how to style your tree with tartan ribbons, set a layered tablescape, and mix vintage and modern decorations for a festive, cozy holiday.