If you’ve ever stood in your living room on December 26th holding a storage bin thinking, “Now what?” — you’re not alone. That weird time after Christmas can feel awkward decor-wise. The tree feels too festive, spring feels way too early, and suddenly your home feels… undecided. For me, this day happens on January 6th when I take the tree down (you can read why I take it down that day here)
The good news? This is where winter decor shines. Today I’m sharing exactly what to take out, what to keep, and what to add so your home feels warm, cozy, and intentional all through January and into mid-February — without rushing the seasons.
First Things First: The Winter Decor Reset
What to Take Out (Goodbye, Christmas)
Once Christmas wraps up (I usually keep my tree until January 6th for that cozy glow), it’s time to remove anything that screams holiday instead of winter:
- Red accents
- Glittery ornaments
- The big Christmas tree
- Bells, stockings, Santa figurines
- Reindeer and overtly Christmas signage
These pieces instantly date your space to Christmas, and clearing them out gives your home a fresh, calm start for the new year. This is one of my favorite post-Christmas decorating tips because it makes everything else feel intentional instead of leftover.
What to Keep (Hello, Cozy Winter Vibes)
This is where the magic happens. Winter decor ideas are all about simplicity, texture, and warmth — and you probably already own most of what you need.
Keep these out and styled:
- Winter greens (cedar, pine, eucalyptus)
- Smaller flocked or green trees
- Snowflakes and neutral winter motifs
- Candles and white twinkling lights
- Cozy blankets and plush pillows
- Pine cones and winter stems
These pieces create a peaceful winter atmosphere and instantly make your home feel warm and inviting after the holidays. Think calm, layered, and soft — the exact opposite of December chaos.
What to Add (Subtle, Seasonal, and Serene)
If your home feels a little empty after taking Christmas down, this is where a few thoughtful additions help bridge the gap.
Some of my favorite simple winter decor additions include:
- Faux fur or sheepskin rugs draped over chairs or benches
- Neutral pillows in linen, knit, or subtle patterns
- Layered throws on sofas and beds
- Vintage wood pieces like bread boards or trays
- Soft, warm lighting (lamps, candles, sconces)
Winter decor is incredibly versatile. Neutral tones, cozy textures, and natural elements work beautifully with almost any decorating style — farmhouse, traditional, modern, or vintage.
How to Style Winter Decor Without It Feeling Boring
One of the biggest winter decorating hacks is focusing on texture instead of theme. You don’t need signs that say “winter” — you want your home to feel like winter.
Try this:
- Layer knits, faux fur, and linen
- Stick to whites, creams, soft browns, and muted greens
- Add warmth through lighting instead of color
- Keep surfaces uncluttered for a minimalist winter look
This approach keeps your home cozy while still feeling fresh and calm during mid-January — when we all crave a little peace.
How Long Should You Keep Winter Decor Up?
I personally keep my winter decor up until mid-February. It perfectly fills that gap between Christmas and spring and prevents your home from feeling bare or rushed.
When you’re ready, transition slowly:
- Swap winter greens for fresh florals
- Lighten up textiles
- Introduce soft spring tones little by little
There’s no rush — winter deserves its moment.
Quick Tips for Decorating After Christmas
- Remove festive holiday decor like red accents and stockings
- Keep winter greens, candles, snowflakes, and twinkle lights
- Add natural elements like pine cones and wood textures
- Layer cozy blankets and pillows for warmth
- Transition to spring decor gradually after mid-February
Decorating after Christmas doesn’t have to feel confusing or empty. With a few intentional changes, you can create a home that feels cozy, peaceful, and perfectly winter-ready — and honestly, this season might just become your favorite.
xo,
Alicia
Thrifty & Chic
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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