I remember the first time I flipped through a Ralph Lauren Christmas catalog—I stopped on almost every page. The way everything seemed to glow, the perfect mix of elegance and coziness, the deep reds and soft golds… it was everything I wanted my living room to feel like in December.
But for me, the best part was realizing that this kind of beauty isn’t just for magazine spreads. I started noticing that what really makes the Ralph Lauren Christmas look so special isn’t the price tags—it’s the layering, the textures, and that warm sense of nostalgia.
So today, I’m sharing how you can decorate like a Ralph Lauren Christmas catalog without spending like one. These are the exact steps I’ve used in my own home to capture that timeless, cozy-meets-polished charm.
What You Might Need
Before we start layering and lighting, here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- Plaid fabrics (even scarves or old shirts work)
- Faux greenery garlands and wreaths
- Brass or gold candleholders
- Vintage books or small leather accessories
- Red and green ornaments
- Knit throws and soft cushions
- Pinecones, dried oranges, or cinnamon sticks
Step 1: Start with the Signature Ralph Lauren Christmas Color Palette
I’ve realized that color is everything when creating a Ralph Lauren Christmas look. Those signature hues—rich reds, forest greens, creamy whites, and hints of gold—instantly bring warmth and refinement to any room.
How to Do It:
- Layer plaid fabrics across your tables or sofas.
- Balance deep tones with soft neutrals like beige or ivory.
- Bring in gold accents through candleholders or picture frames.
For me, once I swapped out my cool winter decor for these warmer shades, my space instantly felt more welcoming.
Pro Tip: If you can’t splurge on designer plaid, check the fabric section of thrift stores or repurpose an old scarf as a table runner.
Picture This:
A tartan throw draped over a chair, candles flickering on a brass tray, and deep red ribbons tied neatly around gift boxes. It feels rich, layered, and quietly luxurious.
Step 2: Layer Textures Like a Pro
When I started paying attention to the Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic, I noticed how touchable it looks—like every surface has a story. The secret? Texture upon texture.
How to Do It:
- Mix materials like velvet, wool, and leather.
- Add a knit throw over a plaid armchair.
- Layer rugs or add faux fur to soften the space.
I love how these textures make even the simplest corners feel luxurious. You can do this with what you already have—just start combining instead of matching.
Picture This:
A cable-knit blanket casually draped across a leather chair, a velvet cushion against crisp linen, and soft light reflecting off a brass lamp. It’s comfort and elegance in perfect balance.
Step 3: Ralph Lauren Christmas Lighting: Candles and Cozy Glow Tips
I was always drawn to how every Ralph Lauren Christmas photo seems to have that golden glow. The trick isn’t complicated—it’s about playing with light.
How to Do It:
- Use plenty of candles—taper, pillar, or tea lights—in brass or glass holders.
- Add warm LED fairy lights to greenery or mantels.
- Choose bulbs labeled “soft white” (2700–3000K).
- Layer your lighting: one floor lamp, one table lamp
- Let your tree lights be the main source of sparkle — it feels cinematic, not chaotic.
I love the cozy calm that fills a room when you switch off overhead lights and let candles do the talking. Let’s be honest — once you light those candles, you’ll never want to turn your overhead light on again.
Budget-Friendly Hack: Layer string lights behind sheer curtains for that soft Ralph Lauren glow — no fancy fixtures required.
Picture This:
The room flickers softly. Candlelight dances across picture frames while a faint pine scent fills the air. It feels like the kind of evening you’d only find in a winter novel.
Step 4: Embrace Classic Plaid Patterns
Plaid is practically the heartbeat of the Ralph Lauren Christmas style. I’ve been obsessed with it for years—it’s timeless, cheerful, and always feels right for the season. I remember thinking, ‘Wait, I can totally do this!’ after spotting a thrifted plaid blanket that looked straight out of the catalog.
How to Do It:
- Use plaid blankets or scarves as decor layers.
- Wrap gifts in tartan paper and tie them with velvet ribbons.
- Mix plaids with neutrals for a balanced, sophisticated look.
For me, nothing says Christmas like a touch of red tartan—it’s an instant mood lifter.
Picture This:
A stack of plaid-wrapped gifts under the tree, a table dressed in tartan and candlelight, and a soft throw over the arm of a chair. It’s cozy, classic, and effortlessly polished.
Step 5: Add Equestrian and Vintage Touches
One thing I’ve started noticing about every Ralph Lauren Christmas setup is that it always feels storied—like the home belongs to someone with generations of memories. The key to that feeling is mixing in vintage or equestrian-inspired pieces.
How to Do It:
- Add thrifted finds—old books, brass trinkets, or small framed portraits.
- Use leather-bound journals or horse figurines as subtle nods to that classic heritage look.
- Combine natural elements like wood, rattan, or antlers for depth.
I love adding small vintage pieces I’ve collected over the years. Even just one leather item instantly makes the room feel warmer and more intentional.
Pro Tip: Mix in one ‘real’ vintage piece, like a brass lamp or old portrait, with newer decor. The contrast keeps it from feeling too theme-y.
Picture This:
A stack of old books topped with a gold candleholder, a plaid throw over a leather chair, and a framed family photo catching soft light. It feels refined yet deeply personal.
Step 6: Ralph Lauren Christmas Tree Styling: Elegant and Simple Ideas
For me, the Christmas tree is where the magic really happens. A Ralph Lauren Christmas tree doesn’t scream for attention—it glows with quiet luxury.
How to Do It:
- Stick to a few colors: red, gold, and green always work.
- Replace tinsel with fabric or velvet ribbons. If you’re anything like me, you probably have three rolls of ribbon and no idea where they came from.
- Add pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or even dried orange slices for a natural feel.
I started doing this a few years ago, and it completely changed how my tree felt—more elegant, more cohesive, and surprisingly simple to achieve.
Picture This:
A tree glimmering with gold ornaments and tartan ribbons, surrounded by gifts in deep red and cream. It looks like it belongs in a classic Christmas movie.
Step 7: Ralph Lauren Christmas Tablescape: Cozy, Elegant Holiday Dining
Every Ralph Lauren Christmas table feels like a celebration of tradition. I’ve been collecting ideas for years—mixing thrift finds with small splurges until it felt just right.
How to Do It:
- Layer a plaid or linen tablecloth under white or gold-rimmed plates.
- Add candles, greenery, and small ornaments as a centerpiece.
- Tie napkins with velvet ribbons or twine for a personal touch.
I love that moment right before dinner when everything’s glowing and calm—it’s exactly the atmosphere this style creates.
Picture This:
A table lined with gold-rimmed glasses, flickering candles, and evergreen sprigs tucked into plaid napkins. You can almost hear the soft hum of Christmas music in the background.
Common Ralph Lauren Christmas Mistakes to Avoid
Even when you’re dreaming of that luxurious Ralph Lauren Christmas look, it’s easy to slip up and make your space feel more chaotic than cozy. I’ve learned a few lessons over the years, so here’s what I try to avoid:
- Overloading on Red and Green
- I used to think the more red and green, the merrier — but too much can feel cartoonish rather than classic.
- Ignoring Texture
- Flat surfaces make even the fanciest ornaments feel lifeless. I’ve realized layering textures — velvet, wool, brass, and natural greenery — is what gives the space depth.
- Forgetting the Glow
- Nothing says Ralph Lauren Christmas like warm, soft lighting. I learned that harsh overhead lights can instantly ruin the mood.
- Skipping Personal Touches
- At first, I focused solely on the “catalog look” and forgot what makes a home festive — personal touches. The room looked pretty, but it didn’t feel like ours.
- Overcomplicating Layering
- I’ve noticed people often try to do too much at once — piling ornaments, ribbons, and garlands everywhere. Instead of elegance, it can feel cluttered.
FAQ
Q1: How can I get a Ralph Lauren Christmas look without spending much?
Shop your home first, then look at thrift stores for plaid, brass, and wood accents. Many of my favorite “designer-looking” touches came from vintage markets.
Q2: What colors define the Ralph Lauren Christmas style?
Think rich reds, forest greens, gold, and warm neutrals. Together, they create that timeless, polished holiday mood.
Q3: Can this look work in a modern home?
Absolutely. I love mixing modern pieces with vintage touches—it keeps the look fresh while preserving that classic Christmas warmth.
Conclusion
For me, the magic of a Ralph Lauren Christmas isn’t in perfection—it’s in the feeling. It’s the candlelight, the soft plaid throws, and the way every texture tells a story. I’ve realized that creating this look is less about recreating the catalog and more about embracing the comfort and nostalgia behind it.
If you’re looking for even more cozy, timeless ideas, I’ve collected my favorite inspiration on my Christmas Decor Ideas Pinterest board — think layered plaid tablescapes, brass candlelight moments, and that signature Ralph Lauren glow in every corner.
I hope these steps inspire you to create your own version of a Ralph Lauren Christmas—one that feels personal, timeless, and full of warmth. Because in the end, that’s what makes this style truly unforgettable. Now it’s your turn — which Ralph Lauren Christmas detail are you trying first? The plaid, the glow, or the velvet ribbons?
At Lady Lifestyle Blog, I use AI as a tool to assist with research, idea generation, and content refinement. While much of my content is shaped with AI’s help, I personally review and adjust each post to ensure it aligns with the blog’s style and purpose. My focus is on providing stylish, creative, and practical inspiration for every modern lady!
