Dial up the holiday charm with these fresh picks for decorating your home, updating your wardrobe, and choosing an oh-so-thoughtful gift.
Get ready to rock a festive outfit, wrap a heartfelt gift that says “I get you,” and raise a toast to all things merry and bright. The holiday season has officially arrived! Etsy’s resident trends expert Dayna Isom Johnson sat down for a cozy fireside chat to let us in on this season’s emerging shopping trends, stemming from talented Etsy sellers’ inventive minds. “These trends aren’t just predictions,” Dayna says, “they’re informed and inspired by real people who live and breathe creativity every day.”
Whether you embrace enchanting fairytale flourishes, sleek space-age metallics, or upcycled pieces that connect you to nature, these fresh ideas are sure to spread holiday cheer. “From chrome accents that add a touch of futuristic flair to modern heirlooms that exude charm,” Dayna says, “this year’s trends are all about showcasing individuality and celebrating meaningful connections.”
1. Chrome-mas
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Wavy chrome vase from Darkka Studio, $45; metallic holiday wreath from Sweet Caroline’s Floral, $179; silver clutch bag from JUANJOgallery, $185; silver leather three-strapped shoes from LeatherByHannaKo, $185
“Shiny things just hit different in the glow of Christmas lights, and chrome is having a major moment this holiday season,” Dayna notes. “The Chrome-mas trend is a natural evolution of summer’s playful and rebellious ‘Brat Girl’ vibe, but with a festive twist.” The electric, lime green palette and unapologetic fun of Brat Summer give way to Chrome-mas’ space-age style, with reflective, futuristic surfaces. To try this trend at home, bring in chrome decorative accents, like sleek trays, chrome cocktail glasses, or metallic ornaments. Or, glam up your get-up with chrome charm necklaces, festive footwear, or silver purses for an otherworldly aura.
2. Mythical medieval
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Starry ring dish from Spice Wildflowers, $39; sun, moon, and star necklace from FawningInLove, $55; filigree ring from Armour and Castings, $48; tarot card storage box from BurntWillows, from $40
Escape into a fairytale world with this trending style. For a magical atmosphere, display gothic or mystical wall art with celestial elements—and opt for opulent jewel tones (think: ruby, emerald, and sapphire). Adorn yourself with chunky jewelry, lavish velvet and faux-fur fabrics, and folklore-inspired dresses for an enchanting, timeless feel. Set the table with silverware and goblet-style glassware, and your guests will feel like royalty. “Whether you’re hosting a feast or simply want to elevate your space,” Dayna says, “this trend will make your holidays feel straight out of a storybook.”
3. Pastoral prints
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Beaded bag from JanissBrand, $141; coffee mug set from gaguatelier, $121; cow-print hair clips from Valley Fern Co, $13; cow-print coasters from Plum and Peach Store, $9
Western-inspired looks are still on the rise, and black-and-white cow prints are making moooves from the runways to home closets. For a night out, try this trend in the form a Western tote or a suede bag. This spotted pattern also pops on statement rugs, cushions, throw blankets, and stockings—especially when anchored by solid colored items. “The rustic charm of cow prints adds warmth and depth,” explains Dayna, “making it a perfect fit for festive decor and fun gifting.”
4. Charmed life
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Cowboy-themed charm necklace from Quinney Collection, $123; fruit charms from RehathanConceptUSA, $3; custom charm bracelet from John Wind Jewelry, $98; personalized charm necklace from MJDJBoutique, $26
Though small in size, charms are super adaptable and bring a big boost of personality. A staple of vintage-inspired charm bracelets and charm necklaces, these teeny accessories can also add expressive style to your on-the-go drinking tumbler or bag. Decorate a tiny tree (or a house plant!) with charms, instead of ornaments, to bring a festive feel in smaller living spaces. Whether you pick initials, zodiac signs, or symbols of your loved ones’ favorite things or recent accomplishments, you’ll find a treasure trove of personalized charms on Etsy for everyone on your list.
5. Nature reborn
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Birch tea light candle holders (set of 4) from HolzdekoWoods, $40; tabletop driftwood tree from Sustain My Craft Habit, from $45, embroidered orange ornament kit from a design for all seasons, $52
Calling all nature lovers and plant parents! This one’s for you. “From upcycled wood pieces to dried fruit displays, this trend celebrates the beauty and tranquility of nature,” Dayna explains. To create an at-home oasis and celebrate the earth’s beauty, go for biophilic botanical prints or decor made from natural materials, like hand-carved wooden ornaments, floral jewelry, or dried flower garlands. “Perfect for the eco-minded shopper, these gifts and decor items bring the calm and simplicity of the outdoors inside, creating a peaceful, grounded holiday atmosphere.”
6. Heirloom era
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Vintage radio from Amaru Antiques, $251; personalized mixing bowl from Marie Martin Ceramics, $351; miniature framed landscape print from ScarletCordPaints, $28; pinky signet ring from Everli Jewelry, from $145
“In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, there’s something undeniably magical about the things that stick around,” Dayna says. “Enter the Heirloom Era, where timeless treasures and vintage-inspired finds are stealing the spotlight.” To pick a meaningful present that’s made to last, consider vintage gold jewelry steeped in history, hand-embroidered cloth napkins that make mealtime extra special, and hand-thrown ceramics that blend beauty and everyday utility.
7. Christmas Eve boxes
SHOP: (clockwise from top left) personalized Christmas Eve bag from Fira Studio, $20; personalized wooden Christmas box from Dusky Lark, $65; baby's first Christmas gift box from The Little Evil Eye, $49; dinosaur crayon box from Cool Crayations, $17
A relatively recent tradition in the UK, Christmas Eve boxes are gaining popularity in other places, too. These festive gift boxes are typically filled with small gifts and treats—like stuffed toys, games and puzzles, pajamas, and hot cocoa mix—and gifted to excited little ones on Christmas Eve, in anticipation of the big day. “This fresh holiday tradition allows for layers of personalization,” Dayna notes, “making it the perfect way to give a gift that says ‘I see you.’”
