So you've probably seen those gorgeous holiday spreads in magazines or on Pinterest that just scream "Elegant Christmas" – you know, the ones with all the plaids, rich greens, and that cozy-yet-sophisticated vibe? Yeah, that's 'Ralph Lauren Christmas', and honestly it's become one of the most iconic holiday aesthetics out there. People are OBSESSED with this look.
Let me break down everything you need to know about this classic style that's been making our holidays feel like we're living in a New England estate (even if we're just in our regular homes lol).
Where Did 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' Even Come From?
The phrase "Ralph Lauren Christmas" originated as a viral social media trend on TikTok in late 2025, popularized by users and former employees of the brand who shared tips on achieving the company's long-standing, classic holiday aesthetic.
The aesthetic itself is not new; it's a traditional, nostalgic, "old world" style that the Ralph Lauren brand has embodied for decades in its marketing, store displays, and home decor lines. The core elements include:
Color Palette: Deep hues like forest green, oxblood red, navy blue, cream, and khaki.
Patterns and Textures: Prominent use of tartan and plaid, often in wool or velvet fabrics.
Decor: Lush, voluminous garlands, warm incandescent lighting, brass accents, nutcrackers, and an absence of modern or "kitschy" items like holiday signs.
Vibe: A cozy, traditional, and aspirational "home for the holidays" feeling reminiscent of classic Americana and a refined, East Coast lodge fantasy.
The recent trend on TikTok repackaged this timeless look under a specific name, resonating with a desire for comfort, tradition, and a return to maximalist styles after years of minimalism. Videos from former Ralph Lauren designers, such as Molly Moorkamp and Preston Konrad, detailing the brand's specific decorating "rules," helped fuel its virality.
The Colors That Define 'Ralph Lauren Christmas'
Okay let's talk about the color palette because this is where the magic really happens. 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' isn't about you're typical red and green combo – well, there IS green but it's done in a much more sophisticated way. No neon greens here, folks.
The main colors you'll see are:
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Hunter Green and Forest Green – This is like THE signature color. We're talking deep, rich greens that remind you of evergreen trees and velvet smoking jackets. It's elegant, it's classic and it works with literally everything else in the palette. Honestly, if you only remember one color from this post, make it hunter green.
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Burgundy and Wine Red – Instead of bright Christmas red Ralph Lauren goes for these deeper, more sophisticated reds. Think wine-colored velvet, rich burgundy plaids and that cozy feeling of sitting by a fire with a glass of red wine (even if your drinking hot cocoa!). These reds just hit different, you know?
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Classic Navy Blue – This might surprise you but navy is a huge part of the 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' look. It adds depth and works beautifully with the greens and reds without competing with them. Navy is basically the unsung hero of this whole aesthetic.
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Cream and Ivory – You need some light to balance all those rich, deep colors and that's where cream and ivory come in. These soft neutrals keep everything from feeling too dark and add that touch of elegance. Plus they make everything else pop.
And then there's the accent colors:
The real star of the show? Tartan plaid patterns. We're talking Black Watch tartan (that iconic dark green and navy plaid), Royal Stewart (the classic red tartan) and various other traditional Scottish plaids. These patterns are EVERYWHERE in 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' – on ribbons, fabrics, wrapping paper you name it. If you see plaid, you're probably looking at 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' inspo.
You'll also see metallic gold and brass accents throughout, plus natural wood tones that add warmth and that organic, country estate feel. The brass stuff is chefs kiss – not too shiny, just the right amount of elegant.
The Style Elements That Make It Work
'Ralph Lauren Christmas' is all about layering textures and patterns in a way that feels intentional and cohesive. Here's what defines the look:
Patterns are key – Plaid, buffalo check and tartan patterns are the foundation. But here's the thing: you can mix different plaids together as long as they share the same color family. A Black Watch tartan looks amazing with a buffalo check in the same green and navy tones. Don't be scared to mix patterns – that's literally the whole vibe!
Texture matters – Think cable knit sweaters, Fair Isle patterns, velvet ribbons, wool blankets and natural materials like wood and leather. The 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' aesthetic is tactile – you want things that feel as good as they look. Everything should be touchable and cozy.
Preppy meets traditional – There's definitely a preppy, New England vibe here but it's mixed with traditional English country home elements. Equestrian and sporting influences show up everywhere, from horse-themed ornaments to the colors you'd see in a riding stable. It's very "I summer in the Hamptons" energy lol.
Quality over quantity – This isn't about covering every surface with decorations. It's about choosing fewer, higher-quality pieces that make a statement. A beautiful plaid ribbon is better than ten cheap ones. Trust me on this – one good piece beats a bunch of meh stuff every time.
'Ralph Lauren Christmas' Fashion
Let's talk about what you'd actually WEAR during a 'Ralph Lauren Christmas'. The clothing is just as important as the decor because it all works together to create that cohesive aesthetic. You gotta dress the part!
Iconic holiday sweaters are a must. We're talking cable knit sweaters in cream or hunter green, Fair Isle patterns with traditional Nordic designs and those classic Ralph Lauren sweaters with the little polo player logo. These aren't you're tacky Christmas sweaters – they're the kind you'd actually want to wear all winter long. Like, you could wear these to the office and look professional AF.
Plaid flannel shirts are everywhere during 'Ralph Lauren Christmas'. Whether it's a classic button-down in Black Watch tartan or cozy flannel pajamas for Christmas morning plaid is essential. And yes matching family pajamas in tartan plaid are totally a thing and they're adorable. Your Instagram feed will thank you.
Velvet pieces add that touch of elegance. A velvet blazer in hunter green or burgundy, a velvet dress for holiday parties or even velvet hair ribbons for the kids – it all works. Velvet just screams holidays in the best way.
Tartan scarves and accessories pull the whole look together. A classic tartan scarf, plaid headbands or even tartan-lined gloves add those finishing touches. These are the little details that take your outfit from basic to bougie.
Classic outerwear with holiday flair rounds out the wardrobe. Think peacoats, barn jackets and those iconic Ralph Lauren puffer vests in rich holiday colors. You'll look like you just stepped out of a J.Crew catalog circa 2010 (but in a good way).
Home Décor in the Ralph Lauren Style
Even if your not going full Ralph Lauren with your wardrobe you can definitely bring this aesthetic into your home for the holidays. The key elements include:
Traditional wreaths with plaid ribbons on every door. These aren't your basic evergreen wreaths – they're elevated with beautiful tartan bows and maybe some brass accents. Your neighbors are gonna be jealous, just saying.
Tartan stockings and tree skirts that coordinate with your overall color scheme. Hung on a mantel with fresh greenery and brass candlesticks they create that classic look. It's giving Hallmark movie vibes.
Brass and gold ornaments mixed with plaid ribbon on the tree. The metallic elements catch the light beautifully and add sophistication without being too flashy. Just enough sparkle without looking like a disco ball exploded.
Natural greenery arrangements throughout the house. Fresh evergreen branches in brass containers, holly and ivy displays and pinecone accents bring the outdoors in. The smell alone is worth it – nothing beats real greenery.
Leather-bound books used as décor elements. Stack them on coffee tables, use them as risers for candles or small trees or just display them on shelves. They add that library, country estate vibe that's so Ralph Lauren. Even if you never read them lol, they look amazing.
Creating the Overall Aesthetic
So what ties all of this together? It's about creating a "country estate" holiday feel that's cozy yet refined, traditional yet fresh. Here's what that means in practice:
It's cozy but not cluttered – You want you're space to feel warm and inviting but not overwhelmed with decorations. Every piece should have a purpose and a place. Marie Kondo would approve.
Traditional with modern touches – While the aesthetic is rooted in tradition it doesn't feel dated. You can mix vintage elements with contemporary pieces as long as they share the same color palette and style sensibility. Old meets new in the best way.
Quality and craftsmanship matter – This goes back to that "fewer, better things" philosophy. A handmade wreath with real evergreen and a beautiful plaid ribbon is better than five cheap artificial ones. Invest in pieces that'll last.
Layering is everything – Layer your plaids, layer your textures, layer you're greenery. The depth and dimension created by layering is what makes the 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' look so rich and inviting. It's all about that depth and dimension.
The beauty of 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' is that it's not trendy – it's timeless. These are decorations and traditions you can use year after year without them feeling dated. It's an investment in creating a holiday aesthetic that feels both elegant and comfortable, sophisticated and welcoming. Basically, it's the opposite of those trendy decorations that look dated after one season.
Whether you go all-in with the full 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' experience or just incorporate a few elements into your existing holiday décor this classic style brings a level of polish and warmth that makes the season feel extra special. And isn't that what the holidays are all about? Making everything feel a little more magical?
In the next post we'll dive deep into specific home décor ideas so you can bring this gorgeous aesthetic into every room of you're house. Trust me, your gonna want to see these DIY ideas! We're talking wreaths, photo frames, plant holders – all the good stuff.
https://michelleadoorablecreations.com/blogs/news/ralph-lauren-inspired-christmas-crafts-projects
Disclaimer:
This article is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ralph Lauren Corporation or any of its subsidiaries. The “Ralph Lauren Christmas” theme is discussed for informational and inspirational purposes only, as part of general commentary on holiday décor and design trends. All trademarks, brand names, and product names mentioned are the property of their respective owners. No trademark or copyright infringement is intended.
