Ralph Lauren’s holiday style embodies a perfect balance of sophistication and warmth, making it one of the most coveted looks for Christmas decorating.
With its signature mix of rich textures, timeless plaids, polished metallics, and cozy layers, this aesthetic transforms any home into a festive retreat filled with elegance and charm.
It’s a style that feels both luxurious and inviting, ideal for creating memorable holiday gatherings.
In this guide, you’ll discover Ralph Lauren Christmas decor ideas that will inspire you to bring the brand’s iconic design sensibility into your own holiday home.
1. Traditional Plaid Patterns Throughout Your Home
Make plaid the star of your holiday decor by incorporating this quintessential Ralph Lauren pattern throughout your living spaces.
Choose rich red and forest green tartans for throw pillows, table runners, and window treatments to instantly create that cozy cabin atmosphere.
Mix different scales of plaid patterns together, pair large buffalo check with smaller tartan designs. This layering technique adds visual interest while maintaining the cohesive Ralph Lauren aesthetic that makes spaces feel professionally designed.
2. Rich Textural Elements for Cozy Appeal
Create depth and warmth in your holiday decor by combining multiple luxurious textures. Layer soft cashmere throws over leather furniture, add wool rugs beneath coffee tables, and incorporate velvet accent pieces throughout your rooms.
The key to mastering this look is mixing three different texture families in each space: something soft (cashmere), something structured (leather), and something plush (velvet). This combination creates visual richness that makes guests want to settle in and stay awhile.
3. Sophisticated Equestrian-Inspired Details
Incorporate subtle horse-themed accents that nod to Ralph Lauren’s equestrian heritage. Display vintage brass stirrups as bookends, use leather straps to tie napkins, or hang framed fox hunting prints in your dining room for an authentic touch.
Keep these elements understated, one or two equestrian pieces per room is plenty. The goal is to add character without overwhelming your space with too many themed items.
4. Luxurious Red Velvet Accents
Nothing captures holiday elegance quite like sumptuous red velvet. Add this rich fabric through decorative pillows, table runners, or upholstered dining chairs to instantly elevate your Christmas decor.
When working with velvet, consider the lighting in your room. This fabric looks most beautiful in warm, ambient light where it can catch and reflect the glow, creating that magical holiday atmosphere you see in Ralph Lauren’s seasonal campaigns.
5. Grand Statement Wreaths with Elegant Ribbons
Create dramatic impact with oversized wreaths that command attention. Choose full, lush evergreen wreaths and embellish them with wide plaid ribbons, natural pinecones, and subtle gold accents for that signature Ralph Lauren sophistication.
Size matters with this look, your wreath should be proportional to your space. For standard doors, aim for 24-30 inch wreaths, and don’t forget to hang them at eye level for maximum visual impact.
6. Warm Candlelit Atmosphere
Master the art of candlelit ambiance by grouping pillar candles of varying heights throughout your home. Place them on mantels, dining tables, and side tables to create that intimate, flickering glow that defines Ralph Lauren’s holiday aesthetic.
Always use candle holders and never leave burning candles unattended. For families with small children, consider high-quality battery-operated candles that provide the same warm light without the fire risk.
7. Elegantly Decorated Plaid Christmas Tree
Design your Christmas tree with the same sophisticated restraint that Ralph Lauren is known for. Wrap your tree in wide plaid ribbon, add gold and bronze ornaments, and incorporate natural elements like pinecones and dried orange slices.
Follow the one-third rule: one-third plaid elements, one-third metallic ornaments, and one-third natural materials. This balanced approach prevents your tree from looking cluttered while maintaining visual interest.
8. Inviting Fireplace Mantels with Holiday Stockings
Transform your fireplace into the focal point of your holiday decor. Drape plaid stockings along the mantel, weave evergreen garland through brass candlesticks, and add small potted evergreen plants for a fresh, organic touch.
Create symmetry by placing matching elements on either side of your fireplace, but add interest with varying heights and textures in the center of your mantel arrangement.
9. Sophisticated Plaid Holiday Table Settings
Create a stunning holiday tablescape by layering a plaid tablecloth with fine dinnerware and crystal glasses. Add leather charger plates and brass napkin rings to complete the Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
Don’t forget the finishing touches: fold napkins simply, add small evergreen sprigs to each place setting, and use warm candlelight instead of harsh overhead lighting to create intimate dining ambiance.
10. Warm Brass and Gold Metallic Touches
Incorporate warm metallic accents throughout your holiday decor to add that luxurious Ralph Lauren gleam. Choose brass picture frames, gold-rimmed glassware, and bronze candlesticks to complement your plaid and velvet elements.
Stick to warm metals only, mixing gold and silver can look chaotic. Warm metals also pair beautifully with the traditional red and green Christmas color palette that Ralph Lauren favors.
11. Personalized Embroidered Holiday Linens
Add a custom touch to your holiday table with monogrammed napkins and table linens. This personal detail elevates even simple table settings and gives your dining room that exclusive Ralph Lauren boutique feel.
Choose classic fonts and thread colors that complement your overall color scheme. Deep green or gold thread on cream linen creates an especially elegant look that works for both casual and formal holiday meals.
12. Natural Wood and Rustic Elements
Balance the refined elements with rustic wooden accents that add warmth and authenticity to your decor. Use reclaimed wood serving trays, natural wood ornaments, and log baskets to create that perfect Ralph Lauren contrast.
The key is choosing pieces that look naturally weathered rather than artificially distressed. Real reclaimed wood has character marks and patina that can’t be replicated with new materials.
13. Intimate Holiday Reading Nooks
Create a cozy corner perfect for holiday relaxation by arranging a comfortable leather chair with a plaid throw blanket and small side table for hot cocoa. Add warm lighting and a few classic books to complete the scene.
This space becomes more functional when you add a small basket for storing holiday magazines, a soft ottoman for putting up feet, and perhaps a small evergreen plant to bring in natural holiday fragrance.
14. Luxurious Faux Fur Throw Blankets
Drape sumptuous faux fur throws over sofas and armchairs to instantly add luxury and warmth to your holiday decor. Choose rich browns or creamy whites that complement your existing color palette.
Quality matters with faux fur, invest in pieces that feel soft and look realistic. Cheap faux fur can look obviously artificial and detract from the sophisticated Ralph Lauren aesthetic you’re trying to achieve.
15. Elegant Crystal and Cut Glass Accessories
Elevate your holiday entertaining with beautiful crystal decanters, cut glass bowls, and sparkling glassware. These pieces catch and reflect candlelight beautifully, adding glamour to your holiday table settings.
You don’t need to invest in expensive crystal, many affordable options look stunning when filled with seasonal treats like mixed nuts or chocolate. The key is choosing pieces with clean lines and classic shapes.
16. Lush Evergreen Garlands with Ribbon Details
Install full, generous garlands along staircases, mantels, and doorways, then enhance them with wide plaid ribbons and small white lights. The garland should look abundant and naturally full rather than sparse.
Secure garlands properly with small finishing nails or adhesive hooks, and mist them lightly with water every few days to keep them looking fresh throughout the holiday season.
17. Cozy Plaid Guest Room Bedding
Welcome holiday guests with comfortable plaid bedding that makes them feel like they’re staying at a luxury mountain lodge. Layer plaid duvet covers with solid-colored sheets and add extra throw pillows for comfort.
Don’t forget the details that make guests feel pampered: extra blankets in a basket, good reading lights, and perhaps a small tray with seasonal treats or bottled water.
18. Classic Holiday Floral Arrangements
Create sophisticated holiday centerpieces using deep red roses, evergreen branches, and seasonal berries arranged in brass or crystal vases. Keep arrangements low enough for conversation across the dining table.
Change the water every few days and trim stems at an angle to extend the life of your arrangements. Fresh flowers always look more elegant than artificial ones and add natural fragrance to your rooms.
19. Dramatic Staircase Garland with Plaid Carpet
This classic Ralph Lauren look pairs beautifully with traditional red tartan stair runners, creating a grand entrance that welcomes guests with sophisticated holiday charm.
Weave the garland through each spindle and enhance it with burgundy velvet ribbon, frosted pinecones, and subtle berry accents.
The key is using full, generous garland that complements rather than competes with your plaid carpet pattern.
Add small battery-operated warm white lights within the greenery for a magical glow that highlights the rich textures and creates an inviting pathway to your upper floors.
20. Equestrian Art and Decorative Horse Figures
Display tasteful equestrian artwork or small bronze horse figures on mantels or bookshelves to reinforce the Ralph Lauren aesthetic. Choose pieces that feel authentic rather than obviously themed.
Vintage fox hunting prints, small brass horse figures, or even antique riding equipment can add character without overwhelming your space. One statement piece per room is usually sufficient.
21. Layered Ambient Holiday Lighting
Create the perfect holiday atmosphere by using multiple light sources at different levels throughout your rooms. Combine table lamps, sconces, and candles while avoiding harsh overhead lighting.
Install dimmer switches where possible, and use warm white bulbs (2700K-3000K color temperature) rather than cool white ones. This creates the cozy, inviting glow that makes Ralph Lauren interiors so appealing.
22. Beautifully Wrapped Gifts in Holiday Patterns
Make your wrapped presents part of your decor by using plaid wrapping paper, velvet ribbons, and gold gift tags. Place them under your tree early in the season so they contribute to your overall holiday design.
Coordinate your wrapping materials with your room’s color scheme, and don’t forget to add small natural elements like evergreen sprigs or cinnamon sticks tied into the ribbon for extra Ralph Lauren flair.
23. Sophisticated Holiday Bar Cart Display
Set up an elegant bar cart stocked with crystal decanters, quality spirits, and seasonal garnishes like cranberries and rosemary sprigs. This creates a focal point for entertaining and adds sophistication to your holiday decor.
Even if you don’t drink alcohol, you can create the same elegant effect with sparkling ciders, fancy water bottles, and beautiful glasses. The key is the styling and attention to detail.
24. Statement Holiday Chandelier Decorations
Transform your existing chandelier into a holiday centerpiece by weaving evergreen garland and plaid ribbon through its arms. Add small battery-operated lights if needed, but keep the look elegant rather than overly festive.
Safety first: ensure any additions to your chandelier don’t interfere with the electrical components or create fire hazards. When in doubt, consult an electrician before making modifications.
25. Charming Rustic Wagon Holiday Display
Create an enchanting outdoor or entryway focal point with a vintage-style wooden wagon filled with festive holiday elements.
Load the wagon with fresh evergreen boughs, classic red and gold ornaments, and cozy plaid blankets for that perfect Ralph Lauren countryside charm.
Tie wide tartan ribbons around the wagon’s handles and nestle pillar candles among the greenery for warm ambiance. This rustic display works beautifully on covered porches, in mudrooms, or as a unique indoor centerpiece.
The weathered wood contrasts beautifully with the rich textures of evergreens and plaid, creating that signature Ralph Lauren balance between rugged authenticity and refined elegance that makes guests feel instantly welcomed.
Creating Your Perfect Ralph Lauren Holiday Home
The magic of Ralph Lauren’s Christmas style lies in its perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. By combining rich textures, classic patterns, and warm metallics, you create spaces that feel both luxurious and wonderfully liveable during the holiday season.
Remember that less is often more with this aesthetic – choose quality pieces over quantity, and let each element serve both a decorative and functional purpose in your home.
The true secret to achieving this coveted look is attention to detail and layering different elements thoughtfully. When done right, your home will have that effortless elegance that makes the Ralph Lauren holiday aesthetic so timelessly appealing and inviting for family and friends alike.
