This year, I want a "kitsch" Christmas.

My contribution against the "beige" tree, with a little history about the Christmas Tree and some beautiful vintage inspirations.

Dec 23, 2023

I am sorry for my hiatus on this newsletter. After the excitement about launching this, I had to get my hand immobilised, making writing on a computer nearly impossible. What's that saying, you make plans and life laughs?

But I'm happy to be back, with many spaces to share, decor ideas and photos I discovered while scrolling only with one hand.

Last week, I came across a video speaking out my inner thoughts.

No words could have resonated better than what I've been feeling this season.

This year, I feel like the holidays are supposed to be kitsch, too much, an explosion of joy, and, let’s be honest, sometimes being what others consider "tacky" is fun.

Have you seen the "sad beige Christmas tree" going around TikTok? The minimalist wave is taking over Christmas, and, for me, it has no place in it.

Don't get me wrong; there is nothing wrong with a minimalist approach, but this year, I've been feeling nostalgic for other eras (and yes, opening an account about vintage design could be why).

The start of the tradition

The Christmas tree as we know it today has its roots in the 16th century.

According to some, decorating evergreens with candles was originally an idea of Martin Luther, who was inspired by the stars shining through the branches of trees.

In the mid-19th century, despite having fought for independence less than seventy-five years earlier, citizens of the United States were captivated by British royalty.

Queen Victoria, particularly popular, was what we would call now "the ultimate influencer", and in 1848, when Prince Albert and her got a Christmas tree for Windsor Castle, everyone wanted one for themselves.

These trees were simple, adorned with lighted candles —the ultimate fire hazard—and later, with string lights, homemade ornaments and garlands.

Then, post-Great Depression consumerism claimed yet another victim: the Christmas tree.

Think of carpets covered with silver and gold tinsel after the children excitingly opened their sea of velvet-wrapped presents, while mantels completely decorated with garlands laid dangerously close to the fireplace.

For instance, have a look at this tree:

It's not just because it is pink; take a minute to see the details:

The pink roses as ornaments, the asymmetric but somehow perfect distribution of the two shades of pink, and my favourite, the gold cherub statue holding the tree on his shoulders, almost as if stealing it for himself.

I couldn't find the source for this image, but for the sake of it, let's imagine the backstory.

How much time did this lovely lady spend planning out her tree? She loves pink, that's for sure, roses and tulle.

But one thing that made me laugh is that it seems like this tree is in the corner of her bedroom.

Probably, her mom said, "Oh no, keep your pink and roses Christmas tree in your bedroom, and return the gold cherub to your grandma's cabinet where it belongs," and I laughed because years later, my mom would tell me the same thing.

Or maybe not, and I'm just projecting.

Probably, this tree was proudly showcased in the middle of the living room, with every guest marvelling at her creativity and good taste, as they should.

Here is another pink version, perhaps easier to recreate, and my definite inspiration for next year is this Christmas tree above featured in the December 1971 edition of House and Garden.

Again, look at the details: the white birds and pink bows as ornaments, the flowers popping out with a bouquet as the star on top. You can stare at it all day and still find new details.

Another great one is this more sober 1960s Christmas tree.

I've seen great renditions of the classic silver tinsel Christmas tree going around social media this year, and wow. For example this one is a modern version of it.