I’ve always been drawn to the timeless elegance of Ralph Lauren—the way of marrying classic style with luxurious details feels as natural as velvet and cashmere. Long before “Ralph Lauren Inspired” became a holiday decor trend, I’d already started planning my Christmas look — searching for the perfect ribbon, pulling together different textures and rich ornaments.
Now, I’m excited to pull back the curtain. This year’s holiday reveal is my own Ralph Lauren–inspired Christmas tree design: bold red berries, luxe velvet ribbon paired with a signature plaid, and a curated elegance that feels polished, warm, and unmistakably classic.
We will also dive in to some easy ways to capture the Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic in your home this holiday season using pieces from our Preppy Plaid Christmas Collection.
1. Curate a Signature Color Palette
When I set out to create a Ralph Lauren–inspired Christmas, I started by defining the color palette. Mine consists of different tones of red and burgundy, hunter green, rich mahogany and an antiqued gold.
When you create a Ralph Lauren aesthetic think deep, rich tones that feel stately and elegant — not loud, but deeply luxurious. My palette centers on shades of rich red and burgundy, evoking the warmth of winter berries elevated through burgundy velvet ribbon, matte red ornaments, and seasonal floral accents like magnolia.
Hunter green serves as the grounding neutral, appearing in evergreen garlands, Norfolk pine stems, and magnolia leaves — a perfect complement to red without ever overpowering it.
Navy blue adds a timeless twist to the traditional holiday palette, bringing depth, contrast, and that signature “preppy-luxe” edge that feels effortlessly classic.
Finally, small accents of black, brown, ivory, or gold — from creamy ivories to soft metallic glints in brass finishes — help balance the richness of these deeper tones. By anchoring your décor in this palette of reds, greens, navies, and subtle metallics, you create a cohesive, elegant foundation where every element — from ribbon and ornaments to candles and textiles — feels perfectly connected.
2. Embrace Plaid & Classic Pattern
Plaid is practically synonymous with Ralph Lauren—and it’s one of the most powerful ways to add heritage charm to a luxe Christmas aesthetic. When used thoughtfully, it brings structure, warmth, and personality without ever feeling kitschy.
Choose your plaid wisely by opting for traditional tartans and checks that fit within your color palette, such as red and black, navy with hunter-green accents, or muted ivory-based patterns like you see here. The goal is to keep it grounded and classic rather than overly bright or trendy.
Layer plaid textiles throughout your space with pillows, throws, tree skirts, or even upholstered dining chairs. A wool plaid blanket draped over a sofa or chair instantly reinforces that cozy-but-refined look. Incorporate tartan ribbon as bows on wreaths, garlands, or wrapped gifts beneath the tree for a festive touch that feels both timeless and elegant. Because plaid is inherently bold, balance it with solid fabrics in velvet, wool, or cashmere — for instance, pair a burgundy-and-navy plaid pillow with a solid velvet or neutral cushion to maintain sophistication.
By thoughtfully weaving plaid into your Ralph Lauren Christmas decor through textiles, ribbons, and accents, you’ll infuse your home with that heritage-luxe feel that perfectly captures Ralph Lauren’s enduring style.
3. Signature Ornaments & Tree Styling
The Christmas tree is the heart of a Ralph Lauren–inspired holiday — elegant, layered, and full of personality. Every ornament should feel intentional, telling part of your home’s story.
Choose ornaments in rich finishes like matte gold, deep red glass, or navy enamel to set the tone. Add textural pieces such as velvet or satin ornaments, beaded accents, or even touches of leather to echo the luxurious feel of your ribbons and fabrics. Incorporate red berry picks throughout the branches for natural pops of color and added dimension.
Drape velvet or plaid ribbon vertically or in soft waves around the tree for a refined, finished look. Finally, balance bold statement ornaments with simpler glass or metallic ones to let the overall design shine. The result is a tree that feels collected and elevated — a timeless reflection of sophistication and warmth.
4. Invest in Rich Textures
Layer velvet throughout your décor to bring in that signature sense of luxury and warmth — think throw pillows, plush blankets, or even a velvet-lined stocking.
Use velvet ribbon generously in your design, tying bows on wreaths, securing garlands, wrapping gifts, or trimming your Christmas tree. The material adds softness, depth, and a subtle sheen that instantly elevates any space. For added contrast, mix velvet with wool or knit fabrics, such as draping a cashmere throw over a tartan blanket.
Finally, let warm lighting — from candlelight or twinkling string lights — play off the folds and texture of the velvet. The gentle glow enhances its richness, creating an atmosphere that feels both cozy and effortlessly elegant.
5. Statement Wreaths & Greenery
Make your wreath and evergreen garlands the centerpiece of your holiday design. A statement wreath sets the tone for every room it touches — from your front door to your mantel — and creates continuity when echoed in swags, garlands, and accents throughout your home.
To achieve that timeless Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic, start with a full, lush wreath or garland made of mixed foliage like fir, pine, Norfolk or cedar. The Deluxe versions of our Real Touch garlands and wreaths are perfect for capturing that rich, natural texture. Add red berry clusters or picks for a signature Ralph Lauren-inspired pop of color, then finish with plaid or velvet ribbon bows that echo the cozy textures of your interior. To extend the look, drape cascading greenery along your mantel or stair rail to mirror your wreath’s style, and tuck Real Touch greenery stems into your Christmas tree to carry that natural, elegant feel throughout your entire space.
6. Candlelight & Warm Lighting
Nothing captures that Ralph Lauren ambiance quite like a soft, golden glow. Lighting sets the mood — it’s what transforms elegant décor into something timeless and inviting. Opt for warm white twinkle cluster lights on your tree and garlands to create a gentle, romantic shimmer rather than a harsh brightness.
Incorporate candles in varying heights — pillars, tapers, and votives — to add depth and movement, displaying them in brass, glass, or black metal holders for that polished, heritage-inspired touch. Let the glow highlight your rich textures: velvet ribbons, wool throws, and glossy ornaments all shimmer beautifully in the flicker of candlelight. If you prefer faux candles, choose styles with realistic flames or subtle flickers for the same cozy charm without the worry.
The result is a space that feels as though it’s been illuminated by a crackling fire — warm, luxurious, and effortlessly classic.
The Finishing Touch: Capturing the Ralph Lauren Spirit at Christmas
A Ralph Lauren–inspired Christmas is all about timeless elegance, warmth, and thoughtful layering. It’s where classic patterns meet luxurious textures, and every detail feels intentional — from the glow of candlelight on velvet ribbon to the sophistication of tartan and brass accents. By grounding your holiday décor in rich colors, tailored materials, and heritage-inspired touches, you create a space that feels both inviting and refined. The result is a Christmas that’s not just beautifully styled, but deeply personal — a celebration of tradition, comfort, and understated luxury that never goes out of style. For help pulling together your look, visit us in-store at Decorator's Warehouse in Arlington, TX or shop our Preppy Plaid Christmas Collection at decoratorswarehouse.com. Happy Decorating!
