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Bows are the New Christmas Decor Must-Have of 2024
Bows, by convention, are a classic fashion accessory and gift accent. They are the chic cherry on top that makes any outfit or present look more polished and put-together. But did you know that they could also be the star of your holiday home? These graceful frills are stepping out of the gift-wrapping and wardrobe realms to be the latest centerpiece of your festive Christmas decor this 2024.
Untying the Story Behind the Bow Trend
If you’ve been scrolling through social media and wandering around malls, bows and ribbons are impossible to miss. Whether used in jewelry, body art, personal items, food, or even in the most random objects, people can’t seem to get enough of this prissy cute item.
One factor of this phenomenon is the sudden fascination for the coquette style this year. It’s an aesthetic distinctive for its feminine, playful, and romantic qualities often represented through pastel colors, doll-like features, vintage-inspired pieces, and delicate details like laces, ruffles, and of course, bows and ribbons.
Similar to other fashion trends, it eventually became a home decor favorite due to its minimal material requirements and versatile styling options. But it isn’t solely the strong online influence that caused its resurgence, especially this Christmas.
Interior designer Anna Marie Cousins explained that decorating homes with bows is nothing new. They’ve been adorning Christmas trees for centuries, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy in various colors and lengths.
Renowned “Queen of Christmas” and Designer Gisela Graham also stated that bows on Christmas trees have been a long-standing tradition, often symbolizing unity. Not to mention the nostalgia it brings when you find them tied in a pile of gifts.
The design community generally describes this decor as timeless, yet still feels fresh, modern, and relevant. So, it’s not surprising that it can seamlessly blend and stand out during a season calling for festive and dainty flair.
How to Use Bows as Christmas Decor
According to Cox & Cox Photography and Film Head Danielle Le Vaillant, bows and ribbons are a very forgiving Christmas decor since they perfectly go with any scheme. However, Blooming Artificial Managing Director Alick Burnett cautioned about context when incorporating them in your holiday home arrangement.
He emphasized that there are certain sizes and styling for whatever Christmas look you’re trying to achieve. For instance, elegant holiday themes usually require smaller bows to maintain their polished appeal. But if you’re going for a more playful vibe, you can skew the bows’ placements a bit to create dynamics.
Moreover, Graham stressed the importance of choosing the right type of bow to suit your interior decorations. One thing to remember is that the bow’s color should complement your Christmas tree theme. If you opt for a winter wonderland style, for example, the best colors would be blue, white, golden, or silver.
Another aspect to consider is the bow’s structure. Wired bows exude a more formal appearance due to their obvious and stiff shape. On the other hand, non-wired types have a more casual, informal, and natural look.
The bow’s texture also plays a big role to further highlight your holiday interior style. If you aim for a rustic Christmas, tartan, gingham, or checkered are great options. But for a more sophisticated look, go for velvet or satin.
In addition, Rowen & Ren Founder Lucy Uren suggests using this item in every corner of your Christmas display. Repeating this element creates a consistent visual rhythm and helps harmonize the home’s design. So, here are some of the places you can decorate with bows.
Christmas Tree
To create a unified theme, start with this special occasion’s centerpiece—the Christsmas tree. Aside from putting them on presents by the tree’s base, you can place an oversized bow on top. And along with baubles, tinsel, and ornaments, bows would also look good on branches for an extra touch of playfulness.
Wreaths and Garlands
Although typically decorated with pinecones, berries, florals, and lights, wreaths and garlands can transform into elegant statements with bows and ribbons. You can put a large bow on top, bottom, or center of these classic decor to add a focal point. Or if you want a more subtle touch, opt for smaller ones and distribute them all throughout. But if you don’t have any of these greeneries and you feel a bit more experimental, you can try making a whole wreath or garland out of bows.
Table Setting
Bows have a special place even in tablescaping. Whether you tie them on glassware stems, napkins, candlesticks, or include bow-designed tableware and linens, they instantly elevate the overall aesthetic and make your table setting more delightful. You can even use it as your dinner table’s very own centerpiece.
Overlooked Details and Areas
You already know how bows’ ability to enhance any space with its simplicity and versatility. So, adding them in overlooked areas of your home could balance your Christmas interior style and make every corner look equally promising. They could be incorporated in furniture like handles or chair backs. You can also loop them around mirrors, vases, picture frames, wall sconces, and other decorative items. Or they could also be seen in textiles like cushions, pillow covers, mantels, or curtains.
Bows are a simple, easy, yet elegant addition that brings a touch of nostalgia and individuality to any holiday home. They are proof that even the smallest details can leave a big impact when used in creative and thoughtful ways.
Read more: 4 Interior Design Trends to Upgrade Your Christmas Decor This Year
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