Cute Christmas decor items approved by our editors

A collage of a disco ball ornament, bedding set, mug, and llama ornament on a bright background

(Image credit: Future)

published 12 December 2022

Listen, we know Christmas is an expensive time, and switching up your decor theme each year isn't always realistic. Rather than splurging on a full set of new decorations, we love the idea of slowly building up your collection each year by picking one item.

Not only is this more cost-effective, but it's also more sustainable. Some micro-trends can be fun to try, but the look doesn't always last forever. Sticking to just one piece means that if you do fall out of love with a look eventually, it won't be the end of the world or mean starting your Christmas decor collection from scratch.

The Real Homes team spends countless hours searching for the best pieces for you, and in all of our research, there are some gems that stand out. Each of our editors has found a top pick in Christmas decor this year, and with this wishlist, we're bringing you the best of the best.

1. MELISSA, GLOBAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Disco Ball Christmas Ornament

The one item our global editor-in-chief Melissa has her eye on this year is a disco ball Christmas ornament from West Elm. Available in two different sizes, these ornaments would work great as a standalone statement or as a set to drive an on-trend Christmas theme.

Melissa Epifano

"While I normally opt for subtle and understated picks in my home, I've felt much more drawn to bold colors and splashy textures lately. Rather than a neutral Christmas tree, I'm going for a bright and sparkly disco theme this year. These dazzling orbs totally fit the bill."

2. ANNIE, HEAD OF ECOMMERCE

Monogrammed mugs with letters spelled out of black and gold tiles

Bistro Tile Monogram Mug

Head of e-commerce Annie's choice is a glass monogrammed mug from Anthropologie. Although these aren't specifically made for Christmas, the black and gold color scheme still feels festive. Yet because the look is timeless, these would still fit into your home at any time of year.

Annie Collyer

"I have these adorable Anthropologie mugs at home already, and think they could be an amazing eco-friendly alternative to table names! Plus, you can gift them to your guests afterward, which feels like such a nice, thoughtful touch."

3. CAMILLE, DEPUTY EDITOR

Fuzzy Llama Christmas Ornament

Deputy editor Cam's top pick this year is an adorable, fluffy llama ornament from Urban Outfitters. Available in blue, yellow, or white, this figurine is bound to brighten your day, especially since there's a little llama that will fit in with every Christmas color scheme.

Camille Dubuis-Welch

"My decs are all pretty close to nature and minimal, but I keep my tree fun by buying one new ornament each year. I love this little llama for the cute uplifting color and fuzziness that we all need in December."

4. LOUISE, ECOMMERCE EDITOR

A festive bedroom with a candy cane striped bedding set in pink and red

Candy Cane Pink and Red Bedding Set

Our ecommerce editor and sleep expert Louise shook things up with her selection: a candy cane-inspired bedding set in pink and red. Bedrooms are oftentimes forgotten when it comes to Christmas decor, but with this fun bedding set, the festive spirit will follow you into your snuggly evenings.

Louise Oliphant

"Go big or go home this Christmas, because I LOVE this bold pink and red striped sheet set. It channels total Barbiecore vibes but with that festive edge, of course. This means it'll look great year-round if you can't bare to put it away after the big day."

5. NISHAA, STAFF WRITER

Swirl Christmas Tree Candle

Finishing off the Real Homes' Christmas wishlist is my personal pick: these swirly tree-shaped candles from Etsy. They come in white, light green, and dark green, and you can select your scent from vanilla, peppermint, and pine.

Nishaa Sharma

"I love these Scandi-style, swirly candles that would fit in perfectly with a neutral and green color scheme. They're shaped like Christmas trees, but in a subtle way, and I think they'd look so cute on a Christmas tablescape. Plus, they come in vanilla, which is my absolute favorite scent for candles!"

Hi! I’m the former social editor at Real Homes and a freelance social media expert bringing you the latest and greatest in home trends, interiors aesthetics, and celebrity finds. When I’m not scrolling or filming the best home decor for your small space, you can find me exploring the cutest villages and brunch spots, or snuggled up on the sofa with a new recipe, my husband, and our puppy, Ebble.