When December arrives, it’s natural to want to transform your home into a magical Christmas setting. However, according to interior designers, some traditional items commonly used during this season can compromise the aesthetic of your space — even when the intention is good.
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Excess, lack of harmony and outdated choices can make the decor visually tiring or even kitschy.
Below, experts highlight five Christmas elements that have the power to make a home look instantly unappealing, and what to use instead.
1. Overly shiny artificial wreaths or wreaths with excessive glitter
Wreaths are classics, but models made of shiny plastic, with dripping glitter and artificially bright colors, often weigh down the overall look. Besides appearing cheap, they reflect light excessively and clash with the rest of the decor.
What to use instead:
Natural wreaths made of pine or eucalyptus, or more realistic artificial versions with a matte finish. Neutral tones, linen bows and dried elements create a more sophisticated feel.
2. Themed chair covers
Those red covers shaped like Santa hats or featuring cartoonish Christmas prints can make the dining room look like a children’s party. Although popular, they rarely match the rest of the home and create visual clutter.
What to use instead:
Elegant placemats, high-quality fabric napkins and small table decorations such as greenery sprigs or candles elevate the ambiance without excess.
3. Large inflatable figures indoors
Inflatable figures are fun… in the yard. Indoors, however, they make the space feel cramped, childish and completely devoid of coziness or elegance.
What to use instead:
Small sculptures, wooden ornaments, tall candles and glass or ceramic decorations bring a subtle and charming Christmas atmosphere.
4. High-brightness multicolored string lights
Flashing lights in every color are practically synonymous with Christmas, but according to designers, they create visual noise, tire the environment and give the space an improvised-party feel.
What to use instead:
Amber lights, warm-white lights or micro-lights such as fairy lights. They create a soft glow, a cozy atmosphere and a more professional-looking decor.
5. Overloaded Christmas trees
A tree full of memories is special, but designers warn that too many ornaments — especially when they vary greatly in style, color and size — give a disorganized appearance and reduce the elegance of the decoration.
What to use instead:
Choose a palette of two or three colors, mix only a few materials and leave some space for the tree to “breathe.” Larger ornaments in smaller quantities create impact without visual chaos.
Christmas decor should be warm, festive and meaningful — but it doesn’t need to come with visual excess. With more thoughtful choices, it’s possible to create a modern, elegant and beautifully themed environment.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
