Every year, as soon as the weather turns cold, I can’t help but start dreaming up new ways to make our living room feel extra cozy for the holidays. Last year’s Christmas setup still holds a special place in my heart — it was warm, layered, and filled with those magical little touches that make the season feel special.
This year, I’m building on that same cozy foundation with a few updates (I’ll be adding new photos soon!), but for now, I’m sharing a look back at last year’s Christmas living room styling — a reminder that you don’t need a complete overhaul to create something truly beautiful.
The Before: Everyday Cozy
Before decorating for Christmas, our living room already felt like a cozy Thanksgiving vibe — moody lighting, plush textures, and a mix of traditional and eclectic decor. But once the holidays hit, it’s always missing that extra layer of sparkle.
Think of this “before” as your blank canvas: soft throw blankets, neutral pillows, your favorite candles, and maybe a bit of greenery from around the house. The goal is to create a space that already feels inviting before you even add the Christmas magic.
The After: A Festive, Layered Transformation
Once the Christmas decor comes out, everything shifts. Suddenly the same cozy living room feels alive — twinkling lights on the tree, velvet ribbons, flickering candles, and a hint of pine in the air.
Here’s what made the biggest difference:
1. Layered Lighting
Warm, ambient lighting instantly adds that soft holiday glow. I use a mix of faux candles, my Philips Hue smart bulbs, and the glow from the fireplace to create that cozy golden tone that feels like a Hallmark movie.
2. Textures Everywhere
Think cable-knit throws, velvet ribbons, and soft flannel pillows. Texture adds depth and comfort — and it’s what makes a space feel warm even before the lights come on.
3. Twinkling Accents
The magic always comes from the little details — fairy lights woven through garland, ornaments that sparkle when the tree lights hit them, or brass bells that catch the candlelight just right. Especially my viral twinkle christmas tree!
4. A Mix of Traditional and Timeless
I love blending classic Christmas touches (like wreaths and tartan plaid) with neutral, timeless pieces that I can reuse year after year. The result feels festive without feeling overdone.
Shop the Look
While I’ll be updating this post with photos from this year’s Christmas living room soon, you can recreate this cozy, classic look using similar pieces linked below:
All of my favorite Christmas decor finds are linked on my Amazon Storefront and LTK.
The Takeaway
A cozy Christmas living room doesn’t have to mean completely redecorating — it’s all about creating a space that feels warm, intentional, and full of comfort. With the right lighting, texture, and a few twinkling touches, even the simplest space can transform into a festive retreat you’ll never want to leave.
Stay tuned — I’ll be updating this post soon with new 2025 photos once the decorating is complete. Until then, save this post (and my Pinterest pin!) for your Christmas decorating inspiration board.
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