Here’s the entrance into this room, and even the smallest Christmas touches make it feel so charming. I added little bows to my year-round plants, draped a simple garland over the mirror, swapped in a red velvet frame for a pop of vintage color, and stacked a few books to mimic a tiny Christmas tree—finished off with a sweet bow on top. It’s amazing how these simple details instantly bring the cottage-Christmas magic to life.
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To tie in the green you’ll see throughout the rest of the room, I brought in a few pops of it here—green pillows on the couch, extra cozy layers with throw blankets, and the sweetest little tabletop tree tucked into the basket on the wall. And yes… it’s topped with another bow. I can’t help myself!
Now for the mantel. I went big in here… long before the wallpaper even went up. And once I started, I just kept adding more and more layers of Christmas magic. It turned into one of my favorite mantels I’ve ever created—grand, glowing, and so perfectly vintage cottage.
I absolutely love how my great-grandmother’s mirror looks against this wall—it feels like it was made for this spot. To balance the garland climbing up the opposite side, I added two smaller mirrors beside it. The trio adds the perfect vintage touch and helps the whole vignette feel intentional and grounded.
Storage Bench: Link Jute Rug: link Christmas Tree: link White Rug: Similar Scalloped Jute Rug: Link
This tree is a little bit of everything—in the best way. It’s filled with vintage and antique pieces, dried oranges, tinsel, beads, tiny frames, baby’s breath, hydrangeas… truly a charming mix of all my favorite things.
And the after:
To soften up this corner, I added a scalloped rug under the bench, which doubles as a cozy little coffee table. I layered a chunky knit blanket over the edge, adding warmth, texture, and that inviting “stay awhile” vibe. Little touches like this make the space feel layered, cozy, and perfectly cottage-chic.
I felt like the other side of the bench needed a little something, so I grabbed a wooden tray and styled it with faux vintage-worn books. I topped them with hydrangeas to echo the tree, and added a candles in brass candlesticks for the perfect finishing touch. It brought balance, warmth, and just the right amount of vintage charm to the space.
Next to the tree sits one of my favorite antique treasures: a Victorian-era chair. Beside it, I added a vintage table and this stunning milk glass lamp. When the tree lights come on at night, so does the lamp, casting the most beautiful, warm glow and creating the coziest corner in the room.
I feel like this chair was made for this wallpaper—it fits perfectly. I’m starting to think this room might officially be dubbed my “Victorian room.” It reminds me of some classic interiors I’ve seen recently and just hugs you the moment you walk in. And the bonus? My husband actually loves this wallpaper.
Vintage Cottage Christmas Decorating Tips
1. Layer Your Greenery
Don’t be afraid to mix and match garlands, stems, and sprigs of greenery. Combining eucalyptus, pine, and even baby’s breath adds texture, depth, and a touch of whimsy to your mantel or tree.
2. Add Pops of Color Thoughtfully
A mostly neutral or moody space can benefit from strategic pops of color. Use dried oranges, red velvet frames, or gold accents to draw the eye and tie elements like your tree and mantel together.
3. Mix Old and New
Vintage ornaments, antique books, and heirloom pieces like your great-grandmother’s mirror add personality and history. Layer them with modern touches—like trendy throw blankets or small tabletop trees—to keep the look fresh.
4. Play with Height and Balance
Stack books, use trays, or layer decorative objects to create height. Place larger pieces, like chairs or lamps, alongside smaller items to balance the space visually.
5. Double Duty Decor
Use benches as coffee tables, trays as mini vignette platforms, and baskets to hold tabletop trees. These multifunctional pieces are perfect for cozy, lived-in spaces.
6. Repeat Elements for Cohesion
Small details like bows on plants, coordinating bows on the tree and garland, or mirrored accents help tie the room together and make it feel intentional.
7. Lighting is Everything
Layer soft lighting from candles, lamps, and your tree to create warmth and mood. A single lamp can beautifully complement tree lights and make corners feel magical at night.
8. Don’t Forget Texture
Chunky knit blankets, scalloped rugs, and layered pillows add tactile interest and make your space feel inviting. Even small touches, like draping a throw over a bench, instantly elevate the cozy factor.
9. Embrace the Unexpected
Turn broken or unusual items—like an oil lamp—into festive decor. These personal touches make your space unique and spark conversation.
10. Have Fun!
The best part of decorating is letting your personality shine. Mix in vintage, antique, and sentimental items with playful touches, and don’t be afraid to experiment—you might just discover your favorite new corner.
Wow! If you got through all of those pictures, thank you! I hope you find some inspiration for you to use in your own home. A lot of people request links to items I use, so here's a roundup for this room:
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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