How to Have a Ralph Lauren Christmas
There’s something so timeless about a Ralph Lauren Christmas. It’s the perfect balance of cozy and sophisticated — where tartan plaids meet crystal chandeliers, where a roaring fire feels right at home beneath a polished brass mirror.
Every detail whispers classic American luxury, and I absolutely love that mix. When I think about decorating for Christmas in Ralph Lauren’s style, I imagine soft candlelight, aged leather chairs, and snow falling outside a grand window framed by velvet drapes.
It’s warm, inviting, and utterly timeless. Here’s how I’d bring that look to life in any home.
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How to Decorate for a Ralph Lauren Christmas
Before we dive in, I want to share that creating a Ralph Lauren-inspired Christmas isn’t about perfection — it’s about capturing that feeling of timeless elegance and cozy comfort. I love how this style blends rustic textures with polished details, and how every space feels both refined and inviting.
You don’t need a mansion or designer furniture to achieve it — just a thoughtful mix of pattern, color, and atmosphere. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of a holiday that feels like it came straight from a Ralph Lauren catalog, here are my favorite ways to bring that look home this Christmas.
01. Start with a Classic Color Palette
Ralph Lauren’s Christmas palette always feels rich and layered — deep reds, forest greens, navy, cream, and accents of gold. I love this combination because it never goes out of style. It’s traditional but not stuffy, elegant but still warm.
If I were decorating in this style, I’d start with tartan patterns as the base, mixing in dark wood tones, gold-framed mirrors, and plenty of candlelight. I think even just swapping out a few neutral pillows for plaid ones or adding a tartan throw over a leather sofa instantly gives that Ralph Lauren feel. The colors create a sense of history, like they’ve been loved for generations.
02. Layer Patterns Like a Designer
What makes Ralph Lauren’s holiday style so striking is how he layers patterns fearlessly. Tartan plaid sits next to houndstooth, paisley, and pinstripes — yet it all feels harmonious. I love this because it’s cozy and interesting without feeling chaotic.
If I were styling a Ralph Lauren-inspired room, I’d mix a red tartan throw pillow with a small houndstooth print and a velvet cushion in hunter green. On the table, I’d bring in tartan napkins with gold chargers and crystal stemware. The trick is keeping the color story consistent so everything feels connected, even when the prints are bold.
03. Use Texture to Add Warmth
Texture is everything in this look. Ralph Lauren interiors are never flat — they’re rich, tactile, and full of depth. I’d combine velvet, wool, leather, cashmere, and polished metals. I love the contrast of something soft against something refined.
A velvet sofa with a wool plaid blanket draped over the arm instantly feels luxurious. A tufted leather ottoman topped with a silver tray full of candles brings elegance with ease. Even a simple linen table runner paired with a gold candelabra can evoke that understated Ralph Lauren sophistication.
04. Mix Country Charm with City Sophistication
What I adore most about Ralph Lauren’s Christmas style is how he effortlessly merges two worlds: the rustic charm of a mountain lodge and the refined polish of a Manhattan penthouse. I think that contrast makes everything feel balanced and lived-in.
In a country-elegant space, I’d use lots of natural wood, vintage horse prints, and cozy plaids. For a city-chic approach, I’d keep things sleek — navy velvet, crystal barware, and polished silver accents. And honestly, the most beautiful homes mix both.
Picture an antler chandelier above a gleaming mahogany table or a tartan pillow sitting on a linen-upholstered chair — it’s all about contrast and confidence.
05. Embrace the Power of Candlelight
Ralph Lauren’s rooms always glow. I think the key is using soft, flickering light everywhere. Instead of harsh overheads, I’d rely on table lamps, sconces, and of course, candles.
I love grouping pillar candles of different heights on a mirrored tray or placing brass candlesticks down the length of a dining table. Even battery-operated candles can look stunning when tucked inside hurricane glass. That golden light makes every space feel like a scene from a Christmas card — and it’s so easy to recreate.
06. Dress Your Fireplace for the Season
If there’s one spot that deserves special attention, it’s the mantel. I always think of Ralph Lauren’s fireplaces as storybook-perfect: lush garlands, glowing candles, and stockings hung with care.
I’d start with a thick, natural garland — something with pine, cedar, and eucalyptus — and weave in twinkling lights and velvet ribbons. Then I’d layer in antique brass candlesticks or hurricane lanterns. If you love a bit of symmetry, matching wreaths or framed prints above the mantel look beautiful. The overall effect should feel grand but not fussy, like it belongs in a cozy mountain lodge or an elegant townhouse.
07. Create a Timeless Christmas Tree
A Ralph Lauren Christmas tree feels classic and personal. I love the look of a tree filled with ornaments collected over time — mercury glass, plaid ribbons, and a mix of gold and red baubles.
I’d choose a warm white light for that soft glow and finish it with a tartan or velvet ribbon spiraling from top to bottom. For a city feel, I might add crystal or glass ornaments; for a country look, I’d include wooden horses, skis, or pinecones. The tree should feel layered and meaningful, never overly coordinated — just beautifully curated.
08. Set a Formal Yet Inviting Table
I always think the dining table is where Ralph Lauren’s holiday style truly shines. It’s elegant but never intimidating. If I were hosting, I’d start with a crisp white or tartan tablecloth, then layer in gold chargers, fine china, and crystal glasses.
I love the idea of using small wreaths as napkin rings or placing name cards tied with velvet ribbon. Candles down the center add that magical glow, and a centerpiece of red roses, holly, or winter greenery ties it all together. It’s a table that makes everyone feel special — which is exactly what Christmas dinner should do.
09. Bring in Equestrian and Heritage Touches
Ralph Lauren is known for weaving equestrian elements into his designs — and I think they give a home so much personality. I’d add horse prints, vintage riding boots, or even an old saddle as part of the décor.
A leather tray on a coffee table, a plaid wool blanket folded neatly in a basket, or a framed photograph of a country scene all nod to that heritage feel. It’s understated luxury — polished yet approachable. And it pairs perfectly with the warmth of Christmas greenery and candlelight.
10. Add Cozy Layers Everywhere
For me, the heart of a Ralph Lauren Christmas is how cozy everything feels. Layers make a home feel collected and lived in, and I love how this style invites people to relax.
I’d add wool throws to every sofa, drape blankets across beds, and layer rugs underfoot. Even in a formal setting, these touches keep the atmosphere grounded and welcoming. You can have crystal and brass, but if there’s a soft throw waiting for you by the fire, the whole space feels instantly inviting.
11. Incorporate Natural Elements
Ralph Lauren’s take on Christmas never feels artificial — it’s grounded in nature. I’d bring in pinecones, birch logs, cedar garlands, and fresh greenery wherever possible.
A vase of winter branches, a bowl of apples or pomegranates on the table, or a wreath made of magnolia leaves can all add a natural charm. I think these organic touches balance out the more glamorous elements, keeping everything authentic and timeless.
12. Use Art and Books to Add Character
One thing I adore about Ralph Lauren interiors is how personal they feel. Art, books, and small details make a space come alive. I’d lean into that by displaying vintage books with rich leather spines, framed botanical prints, or antique-style landscapes.
A few carefully chosen pieces of art — maybe a snowy landscape or a vintage equestrian scene — can set the mood. And coffee table books on design, travel, or heritage fashion look beautiful stacked with a candle on top. It’s all about creating layers of meaning and warmth.
13. Elevate with Metallic Accents
Gold, silver, and brass play a big role in Ralph Lauren’s holiday look. I think metallics are essential for bringing that polished, festive feel to a space.
I’d use gold-rimmed glassware, silver serving trays, or brass candlesticks. Even small details — like metallic picture frames or ornaments — catch the light beautifully. Mixing metals can work too, as long as you keep the rest of the palette classic. A hint of shine adds instant elegance without overwhelming the space.
14. Don’t Forget the Scent
Every beautiful space should smell as good as it looks. I love filling my home with fragrances that remind me of the holidays — pine, cedar, amber, or vanilla.
You can use candles, diffusers, or even simmer pots with cinnamon sticks and orange slices. I think scent completes the experience — it’s what turns décor into atmosphere. Ralph Lauren’s world is all about sensory richness, and fragrance is such a lovely part of that.
15. Finish with Thoughtful Details
Finally, the details make everything feel complete. I’d wrap gifts in brown kraft paper with plaid ribbon or tuck sprigs of greenery into bows. I’d use real linen napkins instead of paper and bring out heirloom dishes even for small gatherings.
It’s those little touches — the ones that feel intentional — that create the true Ralph Lauren Christmas magic. I think the secret is to make your home feel loved, curated, and calm. Whether you lean more rustic lodge or polished townhouse, this look is all about timeless comfort.
Shop the Ideas
Realistic Norfolk Pine Garland
Pine Branch Centerpiece
Buffalo Plaid Mat
Cream Fabric Ribbon
Christmas Pillow
Vintage Christmas Print
Christmas Bells
Gold Christmas Decorations
Cable Knit Throw
In Closing
A Ralph Lauren Christmas is classic, elegant, and full of heart. I love that it celebrates both luxury and warmth — polished silver next to crackling logs, velvet beside plaid, crystal reflecting candlelight. It’s a style that feels sophisticated yet soulful, just like the season itself.
If you decorate this way, I think your home will feel like something out of a winter storybook — where every detail glows, every texture invites, and every moment feels like it’s meant to be savored. That’s the beauty of this timeless look: it’s not just décor, it’s a feeling — one that lingers long after the snow has melted.
