How To Have A Ralph Lauren Christmas
By
57 minutes ago
Roaring fireplaces, classic colour schemes and flashes of tartan sit at the heart of this festive interiors trend
Stepping into the world of Ralph Lauren is, at once, both grand and cosy. Let’s set the scene: a cracking fireplace casts a golden glow over the room, which plays host to a robust leather sofa draped with tartan throws and plush wool pillows, a mahogany coffee table topped with holly garlands and whiskey glasses, and a glittering tree dressed up in red, green and gold. It’s the classic Christmas scene – one that’s instantly recognisable, and primed to make us feel deeply festive.
Ralph Lauren has spent decades cultivating its preppy, country club chic aesthetic – and in 1983 took on the task of translating this visual language from the runway to our living room. And when it comes to festive season, the brand is a master at creating that homely Christmas feeling.
And, with maximalist interiors supposedly making a comeback this year, it seems this classic Christmas look is experiencing a renaissance. ‘This year we’re embracing a revival of traditional Christmas decorating, pushing away from minimal-scandi styles,’ confirm Sarah and Liz Hellmers, co-directors of interior design studio Lathams. They note that ‘the nostalgic, heritage style’ of Ralph Lauren interiors draws on a ‘signature countryside aesthetic’, which come Christmas reads as ‘deep wine reds and elegant sage greens that look both nostalgic and sophisticated’.
Regardless of the setting – cosy countryside cottage, London townhouse or sprawling estate – the Ralph Lauren interiors aesthetic is pretty easy enough to tap into. Especially at Christmas. Here’s how to recreate the look at home.
View this post on Instagram
Get The Look: Ralph Lauren Christmas Interiors
Refine Your Palette
First things first: the colour palette. It’s what makes the Ralph Lauren festive look so recognisable – a rich burgundy, a forest green, hints of gold and cream – and easy to get on board with. These are colours you’d usually reach for come Christmas, but they feel elevated when treated with the expert eye of a Ralph Lauren homescaper.
‘A classic palette of reds, deep greens, golds and ivory, layered with natural textures, glass and metallic accents will always be timeless and elegant,’ adds designer Laura Hammet. ‘It’s a scheme that works beautifully with candlelight and feels welcoming.’
She does however add that, if you want to push the boundaries of your palette a little further, you can tap into ‘subtle variations’. Think aubergine, a deep teal or even a brush of bronze – all of which Laura says can ‘add depth without overpowering the overall look.’
Test Out The Tartan
As for the prints, think tartan. ‘Tartan patterns take centre stage when recreating the Ralph Lauren aesthetic,’ says Johanna Constantinou, an interior trends expert at Tapi Carpets & Floors. ‘Deep greens, navy blues and rich reds woven through classic tartan bring a touch of heritage to your home and evoke the cosy, countryside feel that Ralph Lauren is known for.’
To get the look, start simple; try layering tartan throws across armchairs, or mix patterned cushions with soft wools. Or dig deep into the details with tartan baubles, door bows and Christmas wreaths. (And if you’re feeling really brave, why not embrace the all-over look with some tartan wallpaper?)
View this post on Instagram
Nail The Lighting
There’s a specific kind of warmth associated with a Ralph Lauren Christmas set-up. It’s often defined by a soft, golden light that’s both inviting and relaxing. So, save the big light for later. Instead, fall back on natural light sources like fireplaces or candles – just make sure not to bunch the latter together into a little shrine – and if you really need some extra light, opt for adjustable, warm-toned lamps with deep-toned shades.
Go Big On The Wreath
This is a trend steeped in traditional maximalism – which means a wreath (of the supersized variety, naturally) is required. Wherever you choose to hang it, your Christmas wreath should be a grand tease of what’s to come from the rest of your decor. ‘Oversized wreaths have a statement, sculptural quality and instantly command attention, whether framing a doorway or hanging over a mantelpiece,’ adds Laura. ‘Their scale brings a sense of generosity and celebration that feels very true to the season.’
For more tips on how to pick out the perfect wreath, see our guide here.
View this post on Instagram
Dress Up Your Tree
There are hundreds of ways to decorate a Christmas tree – but to get the Ralph Lauren look, you’ll want to stick to those tried-and-tested tips and tricks. Think glossy baubles, gold fairy lights, leafy garlands and a showstopping tree-topper.
And Extra Foliage
Greenery doesn’t stop at the wreath or tree, either. Be sure to sprinkle your space with little extras from the outdoors: garlands spread across the mantle, table centrepieces dressed in pine and sprigs of mistletoe over the doorway. This not only adds a bit more life and vibrancy, but will also give your setting that fresh, outdoorsy smell that comes with fresh branches.
View this post on Instagram
Hone In On Those Metallic Accents
Layers of detail are what make Ralph Lauren interiors look so enticing – you never run out of things to look at. And when it comes to breaking up textural ‘dead space’, think gleaming metallics: gold-rimmed china, a silver serving tray, bronze candlesticks and sparkling napkin rings. That added shine is sure to catch an eye or two.
Don’t Forget The Bow
You can – quite literally – tie up the look with a nice, neat bow. Whether topping the tree, sitting on the mantle, decorating your door or holding together a picture-perfect tablescape, a bright and preppy bow is one of those lush finishing touches that guests will notice. ‘Finishing touches make all the difference,’ agrees Laura. ‘Think velvet ribbons in rich red and burgundy tones.’ You can also branch out into shades of green, or even a little tartan number.
