In Bermuda, Christmas is the time of year when homes glow a little brighter inside and out.
Decorating is a big part of the season’s celebrations and whether your taste leans traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, it’s an opportunity to express your personal style, and create a festive, welcoming atmosphere at the same time.
Jennifer Dearing understands that many people will have questions about how to bring this year’s Christmas trends to life in their own homes.
The senior interior designer at Hamma Galleries says a “classic and nostalgic Christmas” has enduring appeal and, unsurprisingly, is one of the strongest themes this year.
“It never goes out of style,” she said.
Traditional reds, greens, and golds form the foundation, with plaid and tartan adding warmth and a touch of cosiness. Retro multicoloured lights, which were popular last year, remain a top choice for adding cheerful charm.
Hamma can help curate the look. Its in-store collection includes vintage Santas, blown glass ornaments, and wooden nutcrackers, all of which “fit beautifully” into the “classic and nostalgic style”.
If that doesn’t grab your interest, there are bolder forms and colours to explore this season. These more expressive, statement-making accents are taking centre stage, and Ms Dearing is a fan of the drama they bring.
“We’re also loving the fun trend of stripes and oversized bows – bigger is definitely better!” she said.
Pick your colours
Tones such as navy, burgundy and black — colours the interior designer describes as “deep and moody” — are also making an unexpected appearance, adding richness and elegance to trees and décor.
For those who prefer something softer and more refined, natural and elegant themes are equally popular. Items in “soft creams, warm pumpkin tones and lovely sage greens in plush velvet” are especially appealing to people aiming for “a polished look”.
Dried fruits and burnished or antiqued metals make beautiful finishing touches that create a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere, Ms Dearing added.
Balancing festive décor with everyday style can feel daunting, but she believes it can be done gracefully.
“Sprinkle your Christmas décor evenly throughout the house,” she advises.
That means thinking beyond the tree — adding garlands over fireplaces and archways, introducing Christmas pillows or throws, and creating simple tablescapes to tie a room together.
She suggests mixing year-round pieces with holiday-specific ones.
“Everyday silver, gold or glass candlesticks mixed with greenery, bobbles or pine cones and bows can make a beautiful tablescape,” Ms Dearing said.
Go big or go small
The opposite of minimalist design is ‘Kitschmas’, a decorating style characterised by clashing colours and eclectic motifs. Although it might sound brash, the designer says it is possible to pull it off tastefully.
“To maintain a sense of tasteful harmony, consider focusing on a cohesive theme or a well-defined colour palette. This approach will allow you to embrace the Kitschmas trend while maintaining a visually appealing space,” she said.
Minimalists, meanwhile, can enjoy a quieter holiday aesthetic that still feels festive.
“A soft neutral palette is key,” said Ms Dearing, who suggested white, cream, natural wood, soft reds, pinks or blues as colours that would work.
Natural tabletop trees, nutcrackers or candles would all work well for simple arrangements, she added. Natural wood tones add warmth without “compromising the minimalist style”, and while warm metals like brass can be beautiful, she said that “it’s important to choose clean, modern shapes”.
Certain colours, textures, and finishes are especially on-trend this season. Ms Dearing highlights “burgundy, cream, teal, and forest green velvets; burnished and antiqued metal finishes; and antiqued glass” as key materials showing up across ornaments, accent pieces, and holiday décor.
To make a living room feel instantly more festive, she recommends thoughtful layering.
“Consider using decorated fir garlands, candles in various sizes, festive throw pillows and cozy blankets,” she said. “To appeal to all the senses, incorporate scented candles, cozy knit throws – and play festive music!”
Don’t break the bank
For those decorating on a budget, you don’t need a complete overhaul. A few thoughtful updates can make your home feel beautifully festive while keeping cherished traditions intact.
“An easy way to elevate your existing decorations is to swap out some of the ornaments and bows on your existing garlands or wreaths,” Ms Dearing said.
And you probably won’t have to buy a whole load of new decorations to keep up with next year’s trend – because those colours we associate with a traditional Christmas will continue to shine.
“The classic and nostalgic colours always stand out,” she said. “While there may be some variations in the colour palette, the overall combinations remain true to tradition.
“Think of beautiful greens ranging from soft sage to rich hunter green and spruce, along with stunning reds like burgundy. Shiny metallics in silver and gold add a festive touch as well.
“Additionally, cozy neutrals such as warm cream, bright white and natural wood elements contribute to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s all about fostering that festive vibe.”
Sustainability is another influence shaping how people decorate. Ms Dearing has noticed that customers are gravitating towards natural materials such as wood, dried fruits, and pine cones. But the most sustainable practice, she said, is simple: “There is nothing more sustainable than reusing your decorations year after year and adding a little each year to complement and update the look further.”
Her one piece of advice for creating a truly special festive living room? “Make it personal.”
“Christmas is all about family and togetherness, and your decorations should celebrate that spirit,” she said.
“Focus on the areas where everyone gathers, like the kitchen island, fireplace mantel, dining table and entry door. As you collect special items over the years, they’ll remind you of those wonderful Christmas moments you’ve shared with loved ones. Happy decorating!”
