Christmas décor from the 1990s has made a full comeback in 2025 — and it’s no coincidence. The mix of vibrant colors, exaggerated sparkle, and kitsch elements has reignited interest in a warmer and more festive aesthetic.
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Among the biggest inspirations behind this nostalgia is the series Friends, which returned to the spotlight after an article published by Homes & Gardens highlighted a charming mini Christmas tree used in the apartment of the main characters played by Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, and Lisa Kudrow.
In the image recovered by the publication, the small decorated pine tree shares the space with an exuberant garland adorned with red flowers, bows, and silver ornaments. The set conveys exactly what fans of the series have always loved: coziness, warmth, and that inviting touch that only the 90s Christmas spirit can provide.
Why does this décor work so well for small spaces?
The famous Friends apartment is the best example of how compact environments can embrace the holiday spirit without losing charm — something Homes & Gardens emphasizes when analyzing its vibrant aesthetic. In big cities, where homes tend to be smaller, investing in striking pieces makes all the difference. It’s the kind of décor that transforms a single corner into a complete festive scene.
Retro décor stands out precisely because of its colorful and sentimental energy. Unlike minimalist styles, which call for softness, nostalgic décor brings personality and makes an impact even in small doses.
The secret behind nostalgic aesthetics, according to experts
Claudia Kampmann, brand manager in Europe at Ruggable, reinforces in her interview with Homes & Gardens that the retro trend follows a clear mantra: “more is more.” According to her, classic colors such as red, gold, green, and silver are essential to create a truly warm Christmas atmosphere.
But the expert also offers tips to update this look without losing its essence:
“Incorporating vibrant and modern colors — such as fuchsia pink, cobalt blue, or yellow — adds freshness to the traditional green tree. A simple way to bring this vibrancy is to switch yellow or white lights for multicolored versions,” she says.
The past remains the biggest inspiration for the Christmas of the future
Both the mini tree and the garland seen on the Friends set show how small pieces can make a big impact when used creatively. In 2025, the search for vintage elements grew precisely because of this: besides being affordable, they fill spaces with emotion, nostalgia, and authenticity.
If you want to transform your apartment — whether large or tiny — into a Christmas haven, it’s worth embracing this aesthetic that dominated the 90s and has returned with full force. A single corner can come to life with a well-decorated mini tree, colorful lights, and ornaments that celebrate the magic of the past.
Source: Homes & Gardens
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
