Craving A Kitsch Christmas? You’re Not The Only One
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1 minute ago
Rockin’ around the kitschmas tree
What does Christmas look like in your house? Do you keep things stripped back, with natural foliage and garlands? Do you take inspiration from Ralph Lauren, and dress your home in swathes of tartan and gold? Or maybe it’s a secret third thing – something a little more quirky? Kitschmas is coming, and we can’t wait to get into the colourful Christmas spirit.
What Is Kitschmas?
Whatever image you have of Christmas in your head, amplify it by a hundred – bows, tinsel, bells and multicoloured fairy lights galore – then you should have an idea of what Kitschmas is. ‘Kitschmas is Christmas turned up to the max,’ emphasises Jamie Watkins, co-founder of independent British design house Divine Savages. ‘It’s where bold pattern, colour and a dash of mischief come together by dialing up your personality and creating interiors that feel fun, expressive and unfiltered.
‘Our take on Kitschmas is rooted in a healthy dose of whimsy,’ he adds, ‘we never take ourselves too seriously, especially at Christmas.’
Divine Savages
Think of it as festive season’s answer to no-frills decorating. (If anything, it’s frills on frills on frills.) Inspired by vintage Christmas grottos, Hollywood glamour and DIY crafts, it’s maximalism doused in colour, nostalgia and wonderfully over-the-top styling. Think oversized bows, novelty ornaments, swathes of tinsel and homemade paper chains – all artfully clashing, of course.
‘After a few years of quiet luxury and minimalist styling, people are craving joy and personality at home and Kitschmas delivers it in spades,’ notes Jamie. ‘It gives people permission to play with patterns, to mix interior styles and to create a home that feels lived-in, loved and full of character.’
Where To Set Up
Kitschmas is a festive decor trend that’s meant to be seen – and discussed at length – by guests. This means it looks its best in rooms meant for hosting. ‘I’d say it works best in rooms that are right at the heart of festive entertaining,’ agrees Jamie. Think living and dining rooms, lounges and (if you have the space) pop-up cocktail bars.
‘That said, smaller spaces like hallways and powder rooms can be wonderful too,’ the designer adds. ‘In fact, kitsch styling can be particularly magical in compact rooms where wallpaper, lighting and playful accessories can create a jewel-box effect.’
The Edit: Kitschmas
A Designer’s Tips For Kitschmas Decorating
More Is More
Don’t be afraid to keep adding things to your festive setup – especially if it’s something that speaks to your personality. ‘Layer your patterns, mix your textures and don’t hold back – maximalism is the name of the game,’ adds Jamie. ‘Kitsch thrives on abundance and theatre.’
Get Your Quirk On
Not sure where to start when it comes to ornaments? ‘Christmas is, much like a home, a treasured collection of objects found and collected over many years, each one with a story behind it,’ says Jamie. ‘So add a few new decorations each year to keep your festive styling feeling fresh and full of character. We look for quirky pieces, vintage finds and anything that makes us smile.’
Create A Focus Point
If you’re quick to overwhelm, then curate your decorating plans around one key focal point. ‘Create a standout moment, whether it’s an oversized bauble, a dramatic tree topper or a playful ornament under a cloche,’ recommends Jamie. ‘Try to include at least one unexpected moment that sparks conversation.’
Finishing Touches Matter
‘Wrap gifts to match your interiors,’ suggests Jamie. ‘For the perfect kitsch finishing touch, coordinate your presents with your décor.’
And don’t feel like your choice of wrapping paper needs to be conventional – anything with a fun colour, print or pattern will do the trick. ‘We love using wallpaper offcuts,’ says Jamie. ‘Not only are you saving materials from going to waste, but you’re also reducing the need for store-bought wrapping paper. It also really helps make your gifts stand out. It’s the perfect seasonal hack.’
Molly Mahon
What To Avoid
The biggest rule when it comes to kitschmas? Don’t overthink it. ‘You don’t need over-coordinate,’ adds Jamie. ‘Kitsch should feel joyful, not matchy-matchy.’
It’s also worth taking a look at your light setup, he adds. ‘Avoid harsh, bright white lighting; it kills the cosy, nostalgic mood,’ the designer explains. ‘Warm, glowing light is your best festive friend.’
And while kitsch is all about maximalism, don’t fall into the trap of putting up things you don’t necessarily need. ‘Steer clear of clutter that doesn’t serve the aesthetic,’ emphasises Jamie. ‘Every piece should feel intentional.’
