How to Create a Ralph Lauren Christmas: The Key Elements
First, a little context: the “Ralph Lauren Christmas” aesthetic has become a viral trend, but what people are calling this look is actually a distilled version of Ralph Lauren’s long-standing brand: preppy, heritage-inspired, equestrian-tinged, and deeply nostalgic.
Designers and decorators emphasize that it's more of a feeling than a rigid style: cozy and elegant, masculine but warm, like a country estate or lodge during the holidays.
And here’s the best part, you probably already have most of what you need to get the look. You don’t have to buy anything new. If you do, you can find it all at the thrift store. This aesthetic isn’t about wealth despite what the big box stores want you to believe, it’s about mood. It’s the feeling of refinement meeting comfort, and polish blending with patina.
The Core Elements of a Polished Yet Rustic/Vintage Ralph Lauren Christmas
To get the balance just right, polished but laid-back, vintage but curated...here are the essential building blocks.
Color Palette
The palette is rich, deep, and timeless. Think forest green, oxblood or burgundy red, navy blue, and espresso brown. Layer in neutrals like cream, camel, and ivory to soften it, and add touches of polished silver or brass for that heirloom glow.
Texture & Material
This look is all about texture. Tartan, velvet, leather, and wood, the combination of rich, tactile materials gives depth and dimension. A velvet pillow next to a wool throw, a leather tray holding brass candlesticks, a stack of old books with frayed edges, it all works. Greenery should be natural and a little wild, not over-manicured: cedar, pine, juniper, and pinecones.
Pattern
Tartan is the signature, particularly traditional plaids like Black Watch. But restraint matters. Rather than covering every surface, use tartan thoughtfully: a pillow, a runner, a ribbon on a wreath. The goal is collected, not chaotic.
Lighting
The lighting is warm and low, never harsh or bright. Think candlelight, tapers, votives, small table lamps, and string lights that glow rather than glare. Metallic candleholders in brass or pewter help reflect the light beautifully and add polish to the rustic charm.
Decor Details & Accents
This is where the collected, heritage look comes to life. Equestrian and British details, horse prints, brass trophies, riding boots, vintage books — add that Ralph Lauren touch. A small nod to the Polo Bear motif (on an ornament or pillow) adds a bit of playfulness without breaking the sophistication. Mix metals and finishes so it feels layered and lived-in, not showroom-perfect.
Your table can follow the same approach: a tartan runner, real greenery, candlelight, and elegant glassware. Keep gift wrap cohesive , uniform paper and ribbon, simple and refined.
Furniture & Base Layers
Start with what you already own. A leather chair, a dark wood coffee table, a plaid blanket ...these are your foundation pieces. Layer on textiles, velvet pillows, and wool throws. The beauty of this look lies in imperfection. It should feel as though it evolved over time, not like it arrived in a single delivery.
Scent & Ambiance
To capture the full Ralph Lauren feeling, you need more than visuals. Use scents that evoke warmth — pine, cedar, tobacco, clove. Add soft jazz or classic holiday standards. Mix in personal touches: framed photos, inherited decorations, vintage books. These details give the look its heart.
Tips for Balancing Polished + Rustic/Vintage
Start with what you have. You don’t need to buy a thing — and if you do, secondhand is the way to go. The goal isn’t to create a showroom; it’s to build something layered, soulful, and real.
Be intentional, not maximalist. Let each piece have a reason to exist. Too many colors or competing textures will dilute the look. Focus on harmony — a consistent palette, a balance of shine and matte, soft and structured.
Also lighting is crucial. Skip the bright overheads and use layered light sources instead.
What to Avoid
No fluorescent or neon lighting, it kills the mood instantly.
Skip garlands that are too bright or plastic-looking; opt for real or natural greens.
Avoid loud signage (“Merry Christmas” banners, for instance) and go for timeless touches instead.
And wrapping? Keep it simple, consistent, and classic.
Final Thoughts
A Ralph Lauren Christmas isn’t about chasing a trend or buying designer décor. It’s about capturing that layered, nostalgic, quietly luxurious feeling. When done right, it strikes the perfect balance: polished enough to feel special, rustic enough to feel like home.
It’s the kind of Christmas where the fire crackles, the silver gleams, and the plaid feels just a little worn from years of use.... because that’s the point. It’s not supposed to be perfect. It’s supposed to feel lived in, storied, and effortlessly elegant.
Juliette