Redecor, a realistic design simulation game that reaches 8M users globally, recently released a survey shedding light on what trends to expect for the 2024 holiday season – and the answers reveal people are getting old school with their décor this year. Vintage touches and natural elements are playing a main role, meanwhile many are considering trading in the traditional Christmas tree for retro and simpler touches this year.
Aino Heinäsuo, Head of Design at Redecor, dives into these findings and shares her predictions for this year’s top trends.
Many of this year’s trends are laying the foundation for what’s to come in 2025. Autumn in particular is a season when people invest in decorating their homes as they spend more time indoors. As a result, we see more noticeable shifts in home décor now than at any other time of the year.
Large, bold statement pieces are falling out of favor as the trend shifts toward subtle, elegant decorations that complement rather than dominate a space – which I especially like. This shift results in a décor that feels less tacky and more refined, integrating effortlessly with permanent home design.
The Main Drivers of Christmas and Halloween
This season, natural elements, sustainability, and DIY projects are taking center stage in holiday decor. Nearly half of the people are incorporating live forest touches into their Christmas decorations with real wreaths, garlands, and planters, while 50% plan to use organic materials for Halloween, such as pumpkins, hay, and leaves.
Natural elements provide warmth and coziness that plastic or artificial decorations often lack, encouraging people to keep them up longer.
Décor Costs
Rising prices have fueled a DIY trend, with 88% of individuals planning to create some or all of their holiday decorations themselves. This movement towards secondhand finds and DIY projects adds even more unique character and individuality to décor, allowing it to stand out in subtle, yet meaningful ways!
In terms of spending, 21% of people invest between $100 and $499 on Halloween decorations, while 3% splurge up to $1,000. For Christmas, about half spend between $100–$499 and 8% go all out on festive décor, reaching up to $1,000.
Spooky Season Has More Legs Than Ever
Apparently, spiders and giant skeletons are no longer the frights they once were, with 50% of people focusing on spider and cobweb decorations, and only 5% including skeletons this Halloween.
People love to get ahead – about 25% of respondents set up their spooky décor before the end of September. Although many enjoy getting into the spooky spirit, more than half say they take down Halloween décor by the next day, though a bold 2% keep it up year-round!
I was surprised to learn that more than 50% of people take down their Halloween décor the very next day. In my opinion, a more sustainable approach would be to decorate in a way that suits multiple holidays, allowing us to enjoy the décor longer while reducing waste.
Could It Be – Pink Halloween and Pink Christmas?
Pinkoween and Pinkmas are both going strong with nearly 15% saying it’s their main motif for both holidays!
I believe this trend plays a role in redefining Halloween décor, making it less frightening and more playful. While we see the same autumnal orange hues year after year, I would welcome the introduction of new tones and colors into holiday décor trends as well.
Tiny Trees Everywhere
This holiday season, mini and metallic décor are becoming increasingly popular, with 22% of people considering metallic trees and ornaments, while nearly 28% plan to replace a big tree with multiple smaller ones. For lighting, white string lights remain the favorite at 47%, but 27% prefer multi-colored ones.
About 47% will decorate the day after Thanksgiving, but nearly 20% start as early as September! Vintage items are gaining popularity, with 56% looking to incorporate more of it. Interestingly enough, almost half of respondents find previously beloved inflatable lawn ornaments to be tacky.
Nostalgia is anticipated to play a significant role in upcoming design trends, emphasizing the blend of vintage pieces with modern elements to create unique, personalized spaces that tell a story.
This holiday season embraces creativity and individuality, as many turn to DIY projects and vintage accents, reflecting a shift towards meaningful, expressive decorations. The trends reflect a desire for personal expression and a touch of nostalgia. As we navigate rising costs and seek meaningful ways to celebrate, let your decorations tell your story and bring warmth to your home.
