20 Vintage Christmas Decor Ideas to Bring Retro Charm to Your Holidays

Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and there’s something truly special about incorporating vintage touches into your holiday decor. Whether you’re drawn to the cozy nostalgia of mid-century designs or you want to infuse your home with timeless, retro elegance, vintage Christmas decor offers the perfect blend of charm and warmth. From classic color schemes to iconic ornaments, there are endless ways to bring vintage flair to your festive season. In this post, I’m sharing 20 vintage Christmas decor ideas that will help you create a retro-inspired holiday atmosphere.

1. Classic Red and Green Color Schemes

When it comes to vintage Christmas decor, few color combinations are as iconic as red and green. These traditional hues have been part of Christmas celebrations for decades, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. For a retro-inspired look, consider incorporating glass ornaments in these colors. Look for shiny, reflective balls or unique shapes, like teardrops or bells. You can also use plaid patterns in your tablecloths, ribbons, and stockings to emphasize that classic vibe.

Tip: Pair red and green with natural elements like fresh pine branches or holly to balance out the bold colors and bring a touch of greenery into your decor.

2. Vintage Glass Ornaments

Vintage glass ornaments are a hallmark of classic Christmas decor. These delicate pieces, often made in Eastern Europe or the U.S. during the mid-20th century, come in a variety of shapes and sizes—everything from teardrop shapes to hand-painted angels and reindeer. You can often find these ornaments in second-hand stores or antique shops, but don’t be afraid to mix old and new glass pieces for a more personalized touch.

Tip: Display these ornaments on a Christmas tree, but consider creating a vintage ornament garland to drape across your mantel or even along stair railings.

3. Antique Ceramic Trees

Ceramic Christmas trees, often adorned with tiny plastic lights, were a major trend in the 1950s and 1960s. These quirky yet charming trees are a fun way to introduce vintage flair into your holiday decor. Today, you can find both original ceramic trees in antique stores or newer versions designed to look like the originals. These trees come in various sizes, from small tabletop trees to larger, more extravagant designs that can be placed in living rooms.

Tip: For a modern twist, use battery-operated LED lights for a soft glow without the need for a cord.

4. Retro Holiday Cards

Vintage Christmas cards are a perfect way to add some holiday cheer to your home. You can hang them on a string, display them in frames, or even turn them into a garland. Cards from the mid-century often feature retro illustrations of Santa, snowy scenes, or traditional holiday imagery. By placing them throughout your home, you can create a nostalgic, festive atmosphere.

Tip: Consider framing your favorite vintage cards and displaying them on your walls for a chic, timeless touch.

5. Flocked Christmas Trees

The flocked Christmas tree—covered in faux snow—was popular in the 1950s and 1960s, and it’s making a comeback in modern holiday decor. These trees have a soft, snowy appearance that adds a cozy, wintery feel to any room. Today, many retailers sell pre-flocked trees, or you can even DIY it with flocking spray. Pair your flocked tree with retro-inspired ornaments, tinsel, and a vintage tree topper for a perfectly nostalgic look.

Tip: A flocked tree looks stunning with a soft color palette like icy blues, whites, and silvers, perfect for a vintage winter wonderland theme.

6. Vintage Tinsel and Garland

Tinsel has been a beloved Christmas decoration since the 1950s, and it continues to add a bit of sparkle and shine to holiday decor. In its heyday, tinsel was used to adorn Christmas trees, mantlepieces, and even the edges of windows. Opt for vintage-style tinsel that features long, iridescent strands for that classic look. You can also find metallic garlands or create your own using glittered beads or paper to replicate vintage designs.

Tip: Drape tinsel over your tree and use it as garland around doorways or along the mantle for a glamorous touch.

7. Retro Christmas Stockings

Vintage Christmas stockings come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. Some feature embroidered designs of reindeer or snowflakes, while others are knitted with classic red, green, or white yarns. Choose stockings that have a bit of character—whether it’s a simple wool knit or an intricately crafted design with fringe or pom-poms. Hang them by the fireplace or even along a staircase for a whimsical, retro-inspired look.

Tip: Personalize each stocking with monogrammed initials in an old-fashioned font for a unique touch.

8. Holiday Santa Figurines

No vintage Christmas collection is complete without a few jolly Santa figurines. These charming decorations come in many forms, from ceramic figures to old-fashioned wooden Santas. Display them on your mantel, tables, or shelves to evoke that nostalgic holiday feeling. Look for figurines from the 1940s, 1950s, or 1960s to get the true vintage look.

Tip: If you love Santa, consider creating a small vignette with several different Santas placed throughout the house for a cohesive, retro display.

9. Mid-Century Modern Tree Skirts

Mid-century modern Christmas tree skirts often feature geometric patterns, bold colors, and clean lines. Look for skirts made from velvet, satin, or even burlap, which can add a retro touch to your tree. These skirts were often simple, yet elegant, and could tie the whole vintage theme together.

Tip: Pair a mid-century modern tree skirt with matching holiday decor like a retro tree topper or a classic set of ornaments for a complete look.

10. Vintage Santa Sleds and Reindeer

Vintage sleds and reindeer figurines are quintessential to retro Christmas decor. Look for wooden sleds, which can be displayed outside as part of your front door decoration, or for smaller figurines made from metal or ceramic to decorate the living room. Santa’s reindeer also come in many forms, from carved wooden creatures to ornate metal sculptures.

Tip: Place a vintage sled near your front door or in the corner of your living room as a fun focal point.

11. DIY Vintage Wreaths

Handmade wreaths are a great way to infuse your home with vintage Christmas charm. You can create your own using retro-inspired materials such as old ornaments, tinsel, or ribbon. Look for vintage brooches, pins, or jewelry pieces to add to your wreath for an extra-special touch.

Tip: Create a rustic wreath using natural materials like pinecones, berries, and burlap, then accent it with a few vintage ornaments.

12. Retro Christmas Lights

There’s no better way to add instant vintage charm than with retro-style Christmas lights. C7 or C9 bulbs, which are large and colorful, were once the go-to for decorating Christmas trees and outdoor spaces. Use them to decorate your tree, windows, or even your front porch. Pair them with vintage light-up decorations like snowflakes or stars for an extra festive feel.

Tip: Consider using a timer or smart plug to turn these lights on at dusk for a soft, retro-inspired glow.

13. Vintage Holiday China and Serveware

Vintage holiday china adds a touch of elegance to your Christmas table. Look for china with festive motifs like holly leaves, snowflakes, or reindeer. Vintage glassware, such as crystal goblets or serving trays, also works beautifully as part of your holiday tablescape. Use these pieces to create a classic, retro-inspired dining experience.

Tip: Display your vintage china on a buffet table or use it to serve holiday meals, and consider pairing it with vintage silverware for a complete set.

14. Handmade Holiday Stocking Holders

Instead of using standard stocking holders, look for vintage or handmade pieces made from wood, metal, or ceramic. These can be personalized with names or holiday symbols like holly, snowflakes, or sleighs. Place them on the mantel or along a shelf for a charming way to hang your stockings.

Tip: Create a set of DIY stocking holders by repurposing old wooden crates or using vintage tins as a base.

15. Retro Holiday Posters

Add some vintage holiday flair to your walls with retro Christmas posters or advertisements. Look for posters from the 1950s and 1960s that feature jolly Santas, classic winter scenes, or vintage products like Coca-Cola or toy ads. These prints evoke a sense of holiday nostalgia and make for great conversation pieces.

Tip: Frame these posters and display them as part of your holiday decor, or hang them in a gallery wall arrangement.

16. Old-Fashioned Snow Globes

Snow globes are a classic Christmas decoration that brings a bit of whimsy and nostalgia to any space. Vintage snow globes, often depicting charming holiday scenes like a snowy village or a winter landscape, are perfect for adding a retro touch to your decor. Place them on your mantel, side tables, or windowsills for a delightful display.

Tip: Add a few mini snow globes to your holiday tablescape or as part of a larger holiday vignette to create a cozy, festive atmosphere.

17. Vintage Table Centerpieces

Create a vintage-inspired holiday centerpiece using antique glass bowls, vintage ornaments, or pinecones. You can also add a few classic elements like a pair of candlesticks, holly sprigs, or a small ceramic tree. These simple yet stylish arrangements evoke the warmth and charm of a bygone era.

Tip: Mix vintage-inspired pieces with modern elements for a blend of old and new that feels fresh yet nostalgic.

18. Old-Fashioned Advent Calendars

An old-fashioned advent calendar is a great way to countdown to Christmas while adding a touch of retro charm to your home. Look for calendars made from metal, wood, or fabric, often featuring holiday images or characters from the mid-20th century. These calendars offer a fun and festive way to celebrate the season with family and friends.

Tip: Fill each day with small treats or holiday messages to make the countdown even more exciting.

19. Retro Christmas Table Linens

Vintage-inspired tablecloths, napkins, and placemats can transform your dining area into a retro holiday haven. Look for fabrics with traditional Christmas motifs such as holly, snowflakes, or reindeer. For a more modern touch, opt for patterns with bold geometric shapes or metallic accents.

Tip: Layer vintage tablecloths with modern placemats for a fun mix of retro and contemporary styles.

20. Classic Christmas Candles

Candles are a timeless addition to any holiday decor, and vintage candles—whether they’re in the shape of trees, angels, or traditional tapers—add a nostalgic touch to your Christmas decorations. Look for vintage-style candles made from beeswax, or choose bright, bold-colored ones to match your retro color scheme.

Tip: Place candles on your dining table, in the windows, or on a decorative tray for an elegant, vintage-inspired look.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about embracing the charm of vintage Christmas decor. Whether you’re adding delicate glass ornaments, retro Santa figurines, or a mid-century modern tree skirt, each piece brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to your holiday celebrations. These 20 vintage Christmas decor ideas will help you create a timeless, festive atmosphere that’s sure to evoke memories of Christmases gone by while bringing joy to the present. Happy decorating!