So here’s the thing—I thought farmhouse Christmas decor peaked around 2019. You know, the whole “rustic signs everywhere” phase that made every home look like a Hobby Lobby exploded? Yeah, I was over it too. But 2025 is bringing something different, and honestly? I’m kind of here for it.
Farmhouse style is getting a serious glow-up this year. We’re ditching the overdone buffalo check (finally) and bringing in warmer, more authentic pieces that actually feel like home instead of a staged photo shoot. I’ve been diving deep into this year’s trends, and trust me, this isn’t your mom’s farmhouse Christmas—it’s better.
What Makes 2025 Farmhouse Christmas Different
Remember when farmhouse meant slapping “Merry Christmas” signs on every available surface? Those days are gone, my friend. This year’s vibe is way more intentional and honestly, more livable.
The new farmhouse Christmas aesthetic is all about warmth, texture, and genuine vintage finds rather than mass-produced “distressed” wood. Think less “I bought out the seasonal aisle at Target” and more “I inherited these beautiful pieces from my grandmother.” Even if you didn’t actually inherit anything—we’re just creating that feeling.
I tested some of these trends in my own space last weekend, and the difference is wild. My living room actually feels cozy instead of cluttered, which is saying something considering how much Christmas stuff I own. 🙂
The Color Palette Shift: Goodbye Stark White
What’s Out: That super stark white and red combo that screamed “farmhouse!” from 2015-2023
What’s In:
- Creamy ivory and warm whites
- Deep forest greens
- Rich burgundy and wine tones
- Warm brass and aged gold accents
- Natural wood tones (think honey and walnut, not gray-washed everything)
This palette shift is HUGE, IMO. The creamy tones make everything feel so much warmer and more inviting. I swapped out my bright white stockings for ivory ones this year, and the difference in how cozy my mantel looks is actually incredible.
The deep greens are particularly gorgeous this year. We’re talking real evergreen vibes—the kind that remind you of actual Christmas trees, not craft store garland. Pair that with burgundy velvet ribbons and some brass candlesticks? Chef’s kiss.
Texture is Everything (Seriously, Layer It On)
If there’s one rule for 2025 farmhouse Christmas, it’s this: texture over quantity. You don’t need 47 decorations—you need the right textures working together.
Here’s what’s trending:
Chunky Knit Everything:
- Oversized knit stockings (not the thin ones)
- Chunky knit tree skirts
- Cable knit pillow covers
- Those massive knit blankets draped over literally anything
I picked up a chunky knit tree skirt last year, and it’s become my favorite piece. It makes the whole tree area feel cozier, and bonus—it hides the ugly tree stand way better than those flimsy fabric ones.
Natural Elements:
- Real pine branches (not plastic!)
- Dried orange slices
- Cinnamon sticks bundled with twine
- Pinecones (but make them fancy with a light dusting of “snow”)
- Raw cotton stems
Vintage Textiles:
- Old quilts as tree skirts or table runners
- Vintage grain sack pillows
- Antique linen napkins
- Worn leather accents
Pro tip: Hit up your local thrift stores NOW before everyone else catches on to this trend. I found an amazing vintage quilt for $12 that I’m using as a tree skirt this year. Score!
The New Farmhouse Tree: Less Is Actually More
Ever noticed how the most beautiful Christmas trees are the ones that look effortlessly decorated? Yeah, that’s the 2025 vibe. We’re moving away from “more ornaments = better” and into intentional, curated tree styling.
The 2025 Farmhouse Tree Formula:
Start with greenery: Get the fullest, most realistic tree you can afford (real or fake—no judgment). The tree itself should be the star, not buried under decorations.
Lights first, obviously: But here’s the twist—warm white lights only. Cool white is officially out for farmhouse style. Those warm, golden lights create that cozy glow we’re all chasing.
Ornament strategy:
- Limit your color palette to 2-3 colors max
- Mix in natural elements (dried oranges, wooden ornaments, small pinecones)
- Add some vintage glass ornaments for sparkle
- Include handmade or sentimental pieces
- Leave some branches bare (I know, it feels wrong, but trust me)
Ribbon game:
- Thick velvet or burlap ribbon
- Wired edges for easy shaping
- Cascading down the tree, not wrapped around it
- Burgundy, forest green, or natural linen colors
Tree topper: Forget the giant star. This year it’s all about:
- Simple wooden stars
- Oversized bows made from natural linen
- Vintage-style metal toppers
- Or honestly? Nothing at all. A beautifully shaped tree doesn’t always need a topper.
I’m trying the “no topper” thing this year, and it feels weird but also kind of sophisticated? We’ll see if I cave and add one by December 1st. :/
Mantel Magic: The Focal Point Gets Real
Your mantel is prime real estate for farmhouse Christmas vibes. But 2025 is all about making it look collected over time, not decorated in one Target run.
The Layered Mantel Approach:
Back layer (tallest items):
- Vintage wood signs (but subtle ones—nothing that screams motivational quotes)
- Large mirrors with worn frames
- Simple greenery garland draped casually
- Antique windows (yes, they’re still cool)
Middle layer:
- Brass or copper candlesticks at varying heights
- Small vintage bottles or jars
- Battery-operated candles in hurricanes
- A couple of small potted evergreens
Front layer:
- Chunky knit stockings (personalized or plain)
- Natural elements clustered in groups
- Small wrapped “gifts” (they can be empty boxes)
- Maybe a vintage sled leaning against the mantel
The secret? Don’t line everything up perfectly. Overlap things, create little vignettes, let some items lean. The goal is “collected over years” not “decorated yesterday.”
I learned this the hard way when I spent two hours arranging my mantel in perfect symmetry last year. My sister came over, shifted everything slightly off-center, and it immediately looked ten times better. Sometimes messy is better.
Table Settings That Don’t Scream “Pinterest!”
Farmhouse Christmas tables in 2025 are getting way more relaxed. We’re done with the perfectly styled tablescape that nobody can actually eat at because they’re too afraid to move anything.
The Casual Farmhouse Table:
Table covering options:
- Linen runners in natural or ivory (not the whole tablecloth)
- Vintage quilts or blankets
- Bare wood tables (if yours is pretty)
- Layered look: runner + placemats
Place settings:
- Mix-and-match vintage dishes (seriously, they don’t need to match)
- Simple white plates with one accent piece
- Linen napkins tied with twine and a sprig of pine
- Mismatched vintage silverware adds character
Centerpiece ideas:
- Long wooden dough bowls filled with greenery and candles
- Multiple small arrangements instead of one massive centerpiece
- Fresh eucalyptus and pine bundles
- Candles at varying heights
- Scattered pinecones and cinnamon sticks
Pro tip: Your centerpiece should be low enough to talk over. Nobody wants to move stuff just to see their dinner companion across the table. Function matters!
If you’re working with a small space like I usually am, check out these tips for decorating small spaces without losing your mind. The same principles work for Christmas!
DIY Farmhouse Christmas Projects Worth Your Time
Look, I’m not a crafter. I can barely glue two things together without making a mess. But some DIY projects are actually worth it for that authentic farmhouse feel, and they’re easier than you think.
Dried Orange Garland: Slice oranges thin, bake at 200°F for 3-4 hours (flipping halfway), then string them up with twine. Boom. Done. Costs like $5, looks expensive, smells amazing.
Cinnamon Stick Bundles: Buy a bag of cinnamon sticks, bundle 5-7 together with twine, add a sprig of fake or real pine. Toss them in bowls, tie them to presents, hang them on the tree. They’re basically decoration confetti.
Pinecone “Snow” Treatment: Collect pinecones (free), lightly brush with white paint (just the tips), let dry. Instant “snowy” farmhouse vibes. I did this while watching TV and made like 30 in an hour.
Mason Jar Candle Holders: If you don’t already have mason jars lying around, are you even into farmhouse style? Fill them with epsom salt (looks like snow), add a battery-operated tea light. Line them up anywhere for instant coziness.
For more easy projects you can actually finish, check out these DIY Christmas decorations that won’t make you want to cry.
The Lighting Situation: Warm and Intentional
Lighting can make or break your farmhouse Christmas aesthetic. And in 2025, we’re being very specific about it.
What’s working:
String lights everywhere (but tastefully):
- Warm white only—no colored lights
- Draped over mantels, woven through garlands
- In glass jars or bottles
- Around windows and doorframes
- Wrapped loosely around stair railings
Candlelight is crucial:
- Real or battery-operated (I use battery because anxiety)
- Varying heights create dimension
- Brass or copper holders preferred
- Cluster them in groups of 3 or 5
- Don’t space them out evenly—group them!
Lanterns make a comeback:
- Metal lanterns with candles inside
- Various sizes grouped together
- On the porch, by the fireplace, on tables
- Rustic metal beats shiny any day
The goal? Your space should glow, not glare. Think cozy cabin in the woods, not stadium lighting. Dimmer switches are your best friend during the holidays.
I installed a dimmer in my living room last year, and it’s been a game-changer. Being able to control the vibe with lighting makes everything feel more intentional.
Outdoor Farmhouse Christmas: Curb Appeal That Works
Don’t forget about the outside of your house! Farmhouse Christmas curb appeal in 2025 is all about simple, classic, and natural.
Porch perfection:
- Matching or coordinating wreaths (one for the door, more for windows)
- Galvanized buckets filled with evergreen branches
- Vintage sled propped by the door
- Simple garland with minimal embellishment
- Lanterns with battery candles
- Maybe a wooden “Merry Christmas” sign (but keep it classy)
Avoid:
- Inflatable anything (please, I’m begging you)
- Excessive colored lights
- Too many competing elements
- Anything that requires an extension cord visible from the street
Keep it simple: A beautifully simple porch beats an overdone one every time. I learned this when I went crazy with decorations a few years ago and my neighbor gently asked if I was “trying to compete with the North Pole.”
Message received. Less is more, especially outside.
Where to Find Authentic Farmhouse Pieces
Here’s where the real magic happens—sourcing pieces that actually look authentic rather than mass-produced farmhouse.
Best sources:
Thrift stores and antique shops: This is where you find the GOOD stuff. Real vintage pieces, old quilts, actual antique ornaments. Go early, go often, especially in November.
Estate sales: Pure gold for farmhouse Christmas. Boxes of vintage ornaments, old decorations, textiles galore. Bring cash and get there early.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Search terms like “vintage Christmas,” “old ornaments,” “antique decorations.” I’ve scored incredible deals here.
Your grandma’s attic: Seriously. Ask family members if they have old Christmas stuff. That authentic vintage look? It’s because it’s actually vintage.
New pieces to buy (when vintage isn’t available):
- Target’s Hearth & Hand line (still killing it)
- Kirkland’s (surprisingly good farmhouse options)
- HomeGoods (if you’re willing to hunt)
- Small Etsy shops (support small businesses!)
Budget tip: Mixing one or two really nice vintage pieces with affordable new items creates a collected look without breaking the bank. Nobody needs to know everything isn’t an heirloom.
Speaking of budget, here’s how to create a cozy Christmas aesthetic without overspending—because farmhouse style shouldn’t require a second mortgage.
What’s Officially Out for 2025
Let’s talk about what NOT to do. Some trends are officially done, and it’s time to let them go.
Retiring these:
- Gray-washed everything (we’re over it)
- Buffalo check overload (a little is fine, everywhere is not)
- “Gather” signs and excessive word art
- Overly distressed new pieces trying to look old
- Galvanized everything (one or two pieces max)
- Identical matching sets of anything
- Super trendy pieces that’ll look dated next year
The reality check: If you already own this stuff, you don’t need to throw it all out. Just use it more sparingly or mix it with the new trends. I’m still using some buffalo check because I already own it, but I’m not adding more.
Trends are fun, but don’t stress if you can’t afford to replace everything. Work with what you have and add new elements slowly.
Bringing It All Together: Your 2025 Game Plan
Okay, so you’re sold on the new farmhouse Christmas vibe. Now what? Here’s how to actually implement this without overwhelming yourself (or your credit card).
Start with what you have: Pull out your current Christmas decorations and sort them. Keep anything natural, vintage, or in the new color palette. Store or donate the rest.
Identify gaps: What’s missing? Maybe you need more texture (chunky knits), better lighting (warm white lights), or natural elements (pine branches, dried oranges).
Make a budget: Decide how much you can spend. Even $50-100 can transform your space if you’re strategic. Thrift stores and DIY projects stretch that budget way further.
Shop secondhand first: Hit thrift stores, estate sales, and online marketplaces before buying new. You’ll find better quality for less money.
Add elements gradually: You don’t need to do everything at once. Add a few key pieces this year, more next year. Building a collection takes time, and that’s kind of the point.
Focus on high-impact areas: Tree, mantel, and front porch are your priorities. Get these right, and the rest falls into place.
The Real Secret to Farmhouse Christmas Style
Want to know what actually makes farmhouse Christmas work in 2025? It’s not about having the perfect pieces or the trendiest decorations. It’s about creating a space that feels genuinely warm and inviting—a place where people want to gather.
I’ve been to homes with every trendy piece imaginable that felt cold and staged. And I’ve been to homes with simple, mismatched decorations that felt like Christmas magic. The difference? The second homes felt authentic. They felt lived-in. They felt like someone decorated because they love Christmas, not because they wanted the perfect Instagram photo.
That’s what 2025 farmhouse Christmas is really about—getting back to authentic, cozy, genuine holiday vibes. It’s about decorating your space in a way that makes YOU happy, not just following trends blindly.
Make It Your Own
Here’s my final advice: Use this guide as inspiration, not as rigid rules. Your farmhouse Christmas should reflect your personal style and what makes you happy.
Love buffalo check? Keep some. Found an amazing vintage sign with a quote? Use it if it makes you smile. The best spaces are the ones that feel like the people who live there, not like a magazine spread.
I’m mixing some of these new trends with pieces I’ve collected over the years. My tree has my kids’ handmade ornaments alongside the trendy dried oranges. My mantel has a vintage sign I found at an estate sale next to new brass candlesticks. It’s a mix, and it’s perfect for us.
The 2025 farmhouse Christmas trend is about elevation, not elimination. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and create a holiday space that makes you genuinely happy.
Now go forth and create your most beautiful, cozy, authentic farmhouse Christmas yet. And maybe skip the inflatable lawn decorations—just saying. 🎄
