The biggest style trends to look out for this festive season
Now you’ve handpicked your perfect Christmas tree, are you ready to refresh your festive look? From medieval-inspired metallics to playful retro hues and rustic Western textures, we spoke to Whinnie Williams, Interior Designer and Trends Forecaster for Balsam Hill, to learn more about some of this season’s biggest style trends.
Merry Medieval
Romance, opulence and candlelight reign supreme this Christmas, as the ‘Merry Medieval’ trend brings the Castlecore aesthetic from TikTok into our living rooms.
“Following the rapid rise of Castlecore, which has captured Gen Z hearts on TikTok with over 280 million views for the hashtag alone, Merry Medieval promises to bring the world of candlelit corridors and velvet-draped banquets to our doors this Christmas,” says Whinnie.
Metallics form the foundation of this look, but forget gaudy golds — this year it’s all about silver and chrome. “Build your tree with a base of silver baubles,” Whinnie recommends. “I opt for primarily shiny chrome as I love the way these reflect candlelight. Further textural dimension comes through the gun-metal-coloured ribbon twisted throughout the tree with velvet and satin finishes on either side. Layer with frosted icicle ornaments and accents of red berries, and finish the look with a metallic tree collar that has the look and feel of amour.”
This trend goes beyond the tree, too. Whinnie suggests extending the medieval glamour to your festive tablescape. “Take a large garland and run it down the centre of the table, dress it with beaded feathers and berries, and stagger pewter candlesticks with tapered candles either side. Dress simple place settings with chrome platters and ornate silverware to add a medieval touch.”
Whether you’re hosting a feast or simply want to evoke a sense of grandeur, this trend transforms your home into something timeless, romantic and deeply atmospheric.
Retromaxxing
On the other end of the spectrum, ‘Retromaxxing’ is the most joyfully nostalgic trend of the season — a riot of colour and charm that captures the heart of 1950s Christmas nostalgia.
“Retromaxxing is where I get to have the most fun,” Whinnie explains. “Rooted in retro charm, this playful look blends 1950s-inspired pastels with a wink of modern kitsch. Think baubles, bows, and ice cream parlour colours like tutti frutti blue and bubblegum pink, all popping beautifully against a classic cherry red.
“By drawing on heirloom treasures, handmade trinkets, and vintage finds, I love that Retromaxxing can be deeply personal and completely unique to every household! It’s both sentimental and delightfully quirky — is there anything more festive?”
Whether you go full candy-coated maximalist or simply add a few nostalgic touches, Retromaxxing reminds us that Christmas decorating should be joyful, playful and entirely your own.
Cowgirl Christmas
While Beyoncé may have brought cowboy couture to fashion runways this year, this trend brings with it an earthy, homespun twist. “I like to think of the ‘Cowgirl Christmas’ trend as yeehaw-meets-hygge,” says Williams. “This trend is all about texture, with a colour palette that leans into earthy browns, sand-washed neutrals, and caramel creams. Oversized jute rosettes add a rustic, farmhouse feel with pinecones adding further natural touches.”
With this trend, the emphasis is on upcycling and individuality. “I’ve added hooks to charity shop horse figurines for a playful touch and threaded ribbon through vintage horsebrasses to create my very own cowgirl-inspired decorations,” Whinnie adds.
As Whinnie puts it, creating a truly personal festive look is about balance. “Choose one unifying element – whether that’s a colour palette, a motif, or even a book or film that inspires you – to tie everything together and give your décor purpose. From there, focus on layering. Don’t be afraid to mix new with old as this is what gives your tree personality.”
Ultimately the most memorable Christmas decor isn’t about perfection – it’s about personality, storytelling, and sparking a little bit of joy.
Alexandra Davis
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