Photo by Morgane Van Liere
When it comes to decorating for the holidays the French approach is one of timeless beauty. From the elegance of natural greenery to the gleam of antique silver, the atmosphere in French homes is rarely excessive. Instead they balance warmth with a touch of restraint, lending their festivities a sense of joyous calm.
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Though subtle, French holiday décor is not without its richness or finesse. It is a season where every detail matters; decorations are thoughtfully chosen, velvet ribbons arranged in perfect curves, glass baubles deliberated over, the air gently scented with pine and warming spices….
Much like their approach elsewhere in life, the French love to celebrate tradition, craftsmanship and history through their decorations. From artfully dressed trees and festive tablescapes, to winter foliage and small, delightful flourishes, it all about offering quiet proof of a season prepared with care — and many of these ideas are wonderfully easy to bring into your own home.
Bringing in the green
Although the tree may be the centrepiece, in many French homes the supporting cast of winter foliage creates the real ambiance, and needs to be set up first. Sprays of fir and cedar are tucked behind gilt mirrors. Ivy is draped along mantels, picture frames, or even chandelier branches, echoing the way greenery was used in 19th century celebrations.
Arrange your branches simply, with the branches falling as they want for an effortless atmosphere, perhaps tucking in an ornaments or two, for a touch of sparkle.
Decorating the tree
Next comes the main event. French trees, unlike in the US, tend to lean more minimalist than maximalist. Glass baubles are a popular choice — especially hand-blown options — which capture the light in unique ways. Miniature scenes and ornaments inspired by nature are also common, while baubles with gilded details and mirrored surfaces are added with tact for a luminous effect. What you won’t typically find on trees at home is tinsel: the emphasis is on craftsmanship and a harmonious palette rather than volume.
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Adding advent accents
Beyond the tree, you also might find small decorations throughout the home. Dried orange slices threaded with ribbon, tassels hung from doorknobs, festive linens, or felt miniatures, little gestures that feel lived in and help to soften the harshness of winter.
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Putting out the silverware
The holiday season is the perfect excuse to dust off and display your heirlooms and antiques. Many French households maintain a tradition of displaying their finest tableware at this time of year — not only for meals but as décor in its own right. Polished silver trays, engraved cutlery, pedestal dishes and antique porcelain suddenly step into the spotlight, decorating sideboards, holding bonbons on coffee tables and adding a wonderful regality to holiday meals.
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Getting the light right
Last, but certainly not least, is lighting. It’s a defining feature of French winter interiors, shaping the atmosphere as much as any wreath or ribbon. At home, think in layers: pillar candles on the mantel or hearth, grouped in mixed heights and softened with a little winter foliage; a few strands of fairy lights threaded through garlands, tucked into tree branches, or wound loosely around a banister; and, for the table, antique candelabras or tall tapers to introduce a bit of drama. Just remember, nothing needs to be too precise or elaborate. Just a handful of well-placed touches that warm the room and bring a restorative glow to gatherings.
