Deck Your Halls like 'The Gilded Age' This Christmas

Christopher Ehlers READ TIME: 13 MIN.

Cinnamon Holiday Candle, $31

Source: Heart and Soul Lifestyle

Cinnamon Holiday Candle, $31

A flickering flame is a great way to bring some warmth to your home, especially if you don't have an actual fireplace. There's something about dim lighting and open flames that are resolutely classy. Heart and Soul Lifestyle.

Balsam Hill Holiday Grace Wreath & Garland, $169

Source: Williams Sonoma

Balsam Hill Holiday Grace Wreath & Garland, $169

Like we said, go garland or go home! You can never have too much garland – just picture those stately mansions dripping with it. This is a great set because it includes both garland and a matching wreath, complete with shatter-resistant ornaments and LED lights with a built-in timer. Williams Sonoma.

Prelit Silver and Champagne Stairway Swag, $70

Source: Hammacher Schlemmer

Prelit Silver and Champagne Stairway Swag, $70

We love the term "stairway swag," and for that reason alone we think this is a great choice. Coordless and ready to be hung anywhere, even outside, this 30" piece of hanging garland is a great way to class up just about anything. Hammacher Schlemmer.

Red Poinsettia Floor Plant, $130

Source: Plants.com

Red Poinsettia Floor Plant, $130

A hallmark of well-appointed Gilded Age sitting rooms is the incorporation of plants and flowers, such as this standard poinsettia. Whether you opt for the real thing or something artificial, the key is placing them in a planter that's dramatic and elegant enough. That way, whether you've got an expert bouquet in there or a $9 grocery store plant, the end result is still something refined. Plants.com

Red Glass Christmas Candle Holders, $45-$60

Source: Neiman Marcus

Red Glass Christmas Candle Holders, $45-$60

Look at any photo of a Gilded Age room decorated for Christmas, and you'll notice the role that light plays in the room. From sconces, candles, fireplaces, statement floor lamps, and even a massive chandelier, the key to cozy lighting reminiscent of the Gilded Age mansions is soft, warm, and carefully curated pops of light. These gorgeous red candle holders are a great way to introduce tapers to your décor, whether you're using them on a dining table, coffee table, or mantle. Neiman Marcus.

Christmas Tree Bows, $16.99

Source: Amazon

Christmas Tree Bows, $16.99

In addition to ornaments, a true Gilded Age Christmas tree is often adorned with a slew of dramatic red bows (though gold bows would do as well). Elegant, timeless, and warm, red bows are a great way to bring some color to your tree without resorting to chintz. And at $17 for 12 bows, you'll be able to order enough to cover your entire tree. Amazon.


by Christopher Ehlers

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