Image: @ralphlaurenhome
Many designers have cultivated a style all their own, much like Ralph Lauren, so it should come as no surprise that the lauded brand has adopted a signature Christmas aesthetic – one defined by layers of tartan, uniform gift wrapping and forest-green garlands draped over staircase balustrades in glorious excess.
The Ralph Lauren-inspired Christmas décor has recently gone viral, gaining traction on platforms such as TikTok. Molly Moorkamp, a former Ralph Lauren designer, joined the conversation, sharing her rules on the trend. “It’s not abundant; it’s simple,” shares Molly. “Ella Fitzgerald humming in the background, pigs in a blanket in the oven and a cocktail waiting for you on a freshly polished silver tray. Warm. Simple. Inviting.”
A complete guide to Ralph Lauren-inspired Christmas rules:
1. No bright green garlands
Avoid using bright green garlands; instead opt for a palette of richer tones – think hunter green or British racing green – rather than shades that give the impression of undesirable faux greenery. ‘Dense garland, preferably live – nothing smells more like a proper Christmas than real Fraser fir,’ says Molly.
2. Strict plaid guidelines
Always include plaid, but keep it consistent. Mixing different tartans in the same room disrupts the cohesive Ralph Lauren look – stick to one pattern, whether it’s a classic Christmas check or Black Watch plaid.
3. Uniform gift wrapping
Ensure every gift under the tree is wrapped in consistent paper with matching ribbons. ‘One tartan or plaid wrapping paper, used en masse, and the same crisp red grosgrain or velvet ribbon around every present,’ suggests Molly. Gift bags are strictly off-limits – if they must be used, hide them discreetly behind the tree.
4. No holiday signage
Avoid using printed holiday signage like “Merry Christmas” or “Ho ho ho” on walls or decorations – it disrupts the classic feel of the Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
5. Stick to classic colours
Keep to a timeless palette – think forest green, mahogany, cranberry red, navy and burnished gold – for a look that feels considered. Eschew glitter and tinsel in favour of tactile materials like wool, leather, velvet and brass. After all, The RL aesthetic is about consistency.
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