We all have our go-to holiday movies—and you might love each of your faves for entirely different reasons. Maybe it’s the story, or the warm fuzzies, or the cast (ahem, Jude Law). But we’d argue that at least some of the magic of these films is due to the world-building aesthetic that each presents. Whether it’s the collected sophistication of Nancy Meyers’ sets or the candy colors of Whoville, holiday movies are a mood. Hoping to bring some of that movie magic into your own home’s holiday decor? Follow this guide to nailing the aesthetic of three holiday classics in your space.
The Movie
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
The Aesthetic
The land of Whoville is an explosion of candy-colored pastels, exaggerated curvy shapes, and Seussian strangeness, all with a smattering of mid-century futurism. If you want to get this look, go for decor that feels just ever so slightly offbeat, with rainbows of colors and a retro appeal. Incorporate multi-colored ornaments that feel right out of the 1960s, a touch of fuzzy faux fur (reminiscent of the Grinch’s look), and, of course, some dried plants in odd shapes that feel oh-so-Grinch.
Amaranth bunch, Terrain, $68
Rainbow Glass Ball Ornament Set, MoMa, $50
Gemmie Glass Cake Stand, Anthropologie, $68
Green Tinsel Trees Set of 3, Terrain, $38
Cody Foster glass tree set, Maisonette, $163
Faux fur stocking, Anthropologie, $26.60
The Movie
The Holiday
The Aesthetic
Nancy Meyers’ 2006 beloved rom-com—arguably one of our favorite holiday movies—offers up two distinctive styles. Are you feeling Iris’s cozy English Rosehill Cottage or Amanda’s modern sophistication? If you’re Iris, aim for a collected, vintage-inspired look, with classic toile patterns, soft golden accents, twinkly lighting, and layers of warm textiles. If you’re more in line with Amanda, go for a 2024 version of her contemporary Californian look. Think a palette of cream, warm woods, and rich forest green, combined with clean, modern lines and a minimalist approach.
Camille Gilded Metal Candle Holders, Anthropologie, $24-$38
Traditional Earthenware Tableware, Zara, $6.90-$69.90
Hand-Painted Ornaments Set, CB2, $22.97
Noel Collection Whistling Kettle, Le Creuset, $135
Antique Brass Finished Bells Set, Pottery Barn, $149
Stacked Wood Trees, West Elm, $15-$27
Sofia Smoke Glass Wine Decanter by Gianfranco Frattini, CB2, $79.95
Faux Cypress Wreath, Crate & Barrel, $129
Venezia Spruce Green Glass Taper Candle Holders, Crate & Barrel, $14.95
Cream Paper Ornaments Set, West Elm, $16
Pieced Offset Stripe Throw Pillows, West Elm, $35.20-$47.70
The Movie
Home Alone
The Aesthetic
Classic ‘90s! If there was ever a time to revisit the holiday look of the McAllister home, it’s now. There’s a revival of many of the looks from this era happening in stores at the moment. Here’s how to get the look: Choose items in a traditional Christmas red, add plenty of golden glow, and don’t shy from patterns like plaid, Fairisle, and tartan. And those little light-up ceramic houses? Deck your mantle with ’em. You know Catherine O’Hara’s Kate McAllister would have.
Plaid Ornament Box Set, Pottery Barn, $47
Stewart Plaid Salad Plate Set, Pottery Barn, $41.50
Gingham Christmas Bell Garland, Zara, $35.90
Christmas Star Candle, Zara, $10.90
Velvet Bow Tree Skirt, Anthropologie, $117.60
Village Tealight Ceramic Candleholders, West Elm, $12-$27
