Traditional Christmas lovers, rejoice! Jewel tones are back in a big way this year and Ralph Lauren–inspired Christmas décor is leading the trend.
There’s been plenty of debate on TikTok about whether a “Ralph Lauren Christmas” is just another take on a traditional red-and-green holiday. To that, I say… not exactly.
Sure, both styles feature classic reds, greens, and tartan plaids, but the Ralph Lauren aesthetic takes it a step further. It’s about exuding luxury. Think equestrian touches, rich mahogany paneling, thick oriental rugs, and a glass of brandy by the fire after dinner in the drawing room. It’s traditional, yes, but elevated in a way that’s warm, refined, and timeless.
This debate got me thinking… what exactly is Ralph Lauren Style? Those of us alive from the late 1970s-late 1990s remember when Ralph was at his pinnacle, but many of you younger ones might need a quick tutorial.
Ralph Lauren Tweeds and Tartan from RL Home
Ralph Lauren Style is American Heritage with British Influence
Ralph Lauren built his brand around the idea of “American aristocracy”, a romanticized version of old-money style that borrows heavily from British country living and European refinement, yet feels distinctly American in spirit.
Think of it as:
British tailoring meets Aspen lodge meets New England prep.
🎩 British Roots
- Equestrian themes, tartan plaids, and houndstooth patterns… all classic British symbols.
- Inspirations drawn from the English countryside, polo matches, fox hunts, and sturdy heritage fabrics like tweed and wool.
- The moody palette (burgundy, hunter green, navy, mahogany) and old-world libraries or drawing rooms echo British gentility.
🦅 American Twist
- Ralph Lauren reimagines those influences through an American lens of freedom, confidence, and storytelling.
- You’ll often see the British prep style softened with Western ranch, New England lodge, or East Coast Ivy League touches.
- It celebrates the idea of the American dream: success, taste, and self-made sophistication. Even if you weren’t born into it, anyone could achieve it.
So when you decorate in a “Ralph Lauren Christmas” style, you’re really blending:
The luxury and polish of Britain with the warmth and storytelling of Americana. Plaid blankets by the fire, brass horse decor, leather-bound books, and vintage ornaments that look like they’ve been in the family for generations. Some of you might call it Dark Academia style.
Way back in 2014, I decorated an entire Christmas tree in yards of twisted plaid fabric. Let’s bring that back, shall we? I want my house to look like Kevin McAllister’s mom threw up all over it. Bring back all the navy, burgundy and hunter green please.
This year I’m decorating with all the classic Ralph Lauren elements that make a home feel timeless, warm, and just a little bit luxurious. Think tartan, velvet, brass, and the scent of pine filling the air.
Here’s a few ideas on how you can bring that signature Ralph Lauren look home for the holidays.
SHOP ALL RALPH LAUREN STYLE CHRISTMAS DECOR
1. Choose a Cozy, Classic, Red and Green Color Palette
Start with a color palette that feels traditional but rich.
Think deep greens, navy blues, cranberry reds, creamy whites, and a touch of gold.
These shades instantly create that cozy lodge feeling. Mix them into your ornaments, ribbons, table settings, and even your wrapping paper for a pulled-together look.
Shop the look: plaid ribbons, brass bells, plaid ornaments, green velvet tree skirts
Photo and Styling by Jennifer Carroll from Celebrating Everyday Life
2. Layer Your Textures in Tartan and Plaid
The magic of Ralph Lauren style is in the mix of textures.
Wool, velvet, leather, wood, and brass all work beautifully together. Layer them throughout your home. My friend Jennifer Carroll from Celebrating Everyday Life is a MASTER of this style.
Go check out all of her Ralph Lauren Christmas Aesthetic here.
Drape a plaid throw over your sofa. Add a few velvet pillows in deep green or cranberry.
Set out a stack of vintage books with a leather tray or brass candleholder.
Use natural materials like pinecones, greenery, and woven baskets to balance it all.
Everything should feel like it’s been collected over time. Head to the thrift stores and scour the shelves for anything that looks vintage, tartan, plaid or wool.
3. Create a Cozy Warm Glow of the Holidays
Low lighting and candlelight is BIG key to that Ralph Lauren ambiance. Turn off your overhead lights and get small battery operated touch lamps to brighten up dim spaces.
Use flickering tapers on your mantel, lanterns by the fireplace, and clusters of votives on your dining table.
Warm white fairy lights are perfect for trees and garlands too.
Pro tip: mix battery-operated candles with real ones for a layered, safe glow.
4. Add Equestrian and British-Inspired Touches for Christmas Charm
Ralph Lauren has always been inspired by equestrian and classic Anglophile heritage, and a few small nods to that look can make your decor feel authentic.
Add framed horse prints or old riding boots by the fireplace.
Horse trophies or use vintage brass horse medallions from Scotland as Christmas ornaments
5. How to Trim the Tree in Ralph Lauren Style
Your tree is the showstopper, so keep it elegant and full of character.
Use a mix of gold and red velvet ornaments, (or plaid if you can find them) tartan ribbon, and natural touches like pinecones, feathers, or dried oranges.
Add a velvet bow on top and tuck in sprigs of live cedar or magnolia leaves for fullness.Under the tree, wrap gifts in kraft paper with plaid ribbon and a small evergreen clipping. It’s simple but timeless.
Make it Your Own
However you decorate this year, make it a reflection of you. Mix the old with the new, add a little plaid and candlelight, and watch your home come alive with Christmas magic.
Merry Christmas, friends! May your season be as classic and cozy as a Ralph Lauren sweater by the fire.
SHOP FOR RALPH LAUREN CHRISTMAS DECOR HERE
