THE holiday trends THIS YEAR that will HELP make the season bright
By the title of this blog post, you may think I have been watching too many Hallmark holiday movies…well, the truth is, I HAVE. It is also true that the month of December is just a few days away so it is safe to say that the holiday season is well upon us…ready or not.
As our attention turns to tree-trimming, festive get-togethers and gift-giving, after a rather tumultuous and uncertain year globally, I think it is more important than ever to maximize the joy factor during this hectic time while alleviating the stress associated with finding the perfect gift or hosting the ideal party.
Fortunately, Etsy answers this call on all fronts offering key insights on the holiday trends and how best to prepare and celebrate the season..
For instance, did you know that searches for handmade gifts increased more than 16 times compared to last year at the same time? That means more shoppers are looking towards buying locally and buying customized gifts for their loved ones.
The popular e-commerce marketplace known for unique handcrafted pieces and vintage treasures has also introduced its first Gift Registry for the season which helps take the guesswork out of gifting allowing shoppers to build their very own holiday wish lists.
With their finger on the pulse on what will get you in the holiday spirit this year, Etsy resident trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson reveals the six top holiday trends and merry must-haves from candy-inspired tree trimmings to customizable travel essentials for all the upcoming unforgettable vacations you will embark upon in the new year .
“I’m especially loving the Elevated Entertaining trend which is all about celebrating the art of hosting again and making dinner parties really special for your guests, with pieces like beautiful ceramic serveware, table linens and even vintage glassware and barware,” says Johnson.
Handmade, Glass-blown Confetti Sparkle Glasses, set of three $95; Etsy
The emphasis is on making every day feel special which means investing in sustainable pieces that can be used well beyond the holidays. A practice that is both beneficial for the planet and “easier on the wallet.”
Next we venture into a trend that taps into the child-like enchantment of sweet treats, iridescent materials and playful patterns. The wildly sought-after Barbie pink we saw all year for the holiday season transitions into a more pastel hue as part of a new craze dubbed, Candycore.
Hand-painted terracotta ware by Casa Cubista, handmade in Portugal. Starting at $18; available at Saudade in Toronto, saudadetoronto.com
A pronounced call for nostalgia takes us into the next baking-inspired trend called, Gingerbread Girl. Coined Cottagecore’s baking-obsessed sister—it is all about returning to a wholesome, rustic lifestyle that celebrates simplicity, tradition and, of course, all things baking. “I think that in response to the unpredictable state of the world, consumers are craving a return to slow living and simple pleasures. The Gingerbread Girl trend speaks directly to this movement as it embraces a nostalgic, rustic lifestyle centered around baking and old-fashioned crafts like knitting.”
French Rolling Pin, $85 from Etsy. Photography by Heather Ogg
Gathering round the fireplace takes on new meaning with the Mantelscaping trend. Here you can unleash your holiday spirit by decorating with snow globes, winter wonderland villages, garlands, ceramic trees or black candle lanterns.
Black Deer Head Candle Holder, $39.99, Black Antler Stocking Hanger, $16.99; HomeSense
No mantel? No problem! Make use of a sideboard, TV stand or shelving to create some mantel magic. Johnson advises to mix up heights, shapes and textures to curate the mantel masterpiece. “I also see this aligning with the Grandpa Chic trend, which leans into traditional pieces that are made to last with heirloom-like quality,” says Johnson.
Wood & Marble Coasters, set of 4, $59.95; Crate & Barrel
The final trend is a big passion of mine: Travel. This past year, travel soared beyond pre-pandemic levels (despite the increase in air fares, hotel and AirBnb stays). Blame it on all that pent-up wanderlust during the lockdown years. With this in mind, it is no surprise that the search for travel essentials grew 10x and travel planners have doubled this year on Etsy. With experience prioritized over material things, the trend Meaningful Memories embodies this state of mind and is perfect for the traveller on your gift list. Think customized, eye-catching luggage tags which make identifying suitcases on the conveyor belt easy, and passport covers that keep you organized and facilitate the travel experience as welcome and thoughtful gifts.
Whether you’re a baker, the consummate host or a globe-trotter, these six holiday trends mirror what we are collectively craving this holiday season—and perhaps what we seek most every December—special times with the special people in our life. A wonderful way to wrap up the year and kick off a new one creating joyful memories with your nearest and dearest, without feeling daunted by any of the holiday hoopla. Now that you are in the know, let the holly jolly prepping begin; unless of course you have taken Hallmark’s cue and have already dressed up your home for the holidays. Thankfully that leaves more time for thoughtful gift-giving, holiday parties and much needed self-care time.
Which of these holiday trends resonate most with you?
Leave a comment below and let me know!