10 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Like a Winter Wonderland

Use these simple ideas to make your living space wintry and cozy (even if you live in a warm climate).

Updated on December 7, 2023

Christmas decorations can go beyond classic red and green, even past December 25th if you want to truly embrace the season (and all the ice and snow that comes with it). This year, use these easy decorating ideas to romanticize winter by making your home feel like a fresh layer of fluffy, sparkling snow has just fallen. Even if you live in an area without frosty temperatures, you can bring the magic of the season to your space.

Christmas decoration by fireplace in living room

Some winter decor ideas require a little bit of craftiness, while others use items you likely already have at home. Whether you decide to go all-in or just add a few faux snowflakes here and there, these seasonal decorating ideas are sure to brighten the dark days of winter and make your space magical and cozy.

01 of 10

Make a Snowy Miniature Village

mini Christmas village with faux snow on a table — Jay Wilde

To add a little whimsy to your mantel, coffee table, or console, construct a miniature Christmas village. If you don't already have one, there are plenty of classic sets sold at thrift stores and modern versions at most home decor stores. For a snowy wonderland, opt for white and cream houses and buildings, or paint existing ones to match. Decorate your village with mini flocked trees, faux snow, and fairy lights for a warm glow.

02 of 10

Add a Sleigh

a present-filled sleigh in front of Christmas tree — Jay Wilde

Just as though Santa himself left it behind after dashing through the snow, a small vintage sleigh is an adorable addition to any Christmas decor. Level up your wrapped presents by filling the sleigh with gifts waiting to be opened on Christmas day.

03 of 10

Suspend Snowflakes

Faux snowflakes hanging over a windowsill — Jacob Fox

For a winter wonderland, hang snowflakes from curtain rods or doorways. They're easily found in decor stores, but also easy to DIY—all you need is a pair of scissors, paper, string, glue, and glitter. Make snowflakes in different sizes and hang them at varying lengths for a more realistic appearance.

04 of 10

Drape a Flocked Garland

Stairway banister with lit garland hung on it — Adam Albright

While the dark green hue of typical garland can distract from a snowy color scheme, soft, warm lighting intertwined with flocked garland is the perfect combination for a light and airy feel. Embellish garland with cream-colored ornaments and ribbon bows, and drape over your banister, mantel, or doorways.

05 of 10

Style a Miniature Forest of Bottlebrush Trees

bottlebrush christmas trees in pink and white — Marty Baldwin

A blast from the past, bottlebrush trees are trending again, and it's easy to see why with their countless sizes and colors. Beautiful on their own or in a group, bottlebrush trees can be arranged to create a winter forest of your own on your mantel, countertop, or sofa table. They also make a great addition to Christmas villages.

06 of 10

Use Warm, Dim Lighting

a dining room table with hung lights and snowflakes — John Granen

To feel snug indoors while still embracing winter elements, look to warm, dim lighting in different forms. The use of ambient light is often the trick to making snowflakes and icicles still seem toasty. Hang string lights across the ceiling or doorways, light candles, place tea lights in lanterns, and add fairy lights to wreaths. There's no such thing as too much soft lighting to warm up a chilly space.

07 of 10

Flock Your Christmas Tree

two christmas trees with fireplace — Adam Albright

A holiday classic, flocked Christmas trees feature a freshly fallen snowy appearance, just like trees in winter woods. Flocking is popular for both artificial and real trees. If you want to flock a tree yourself, you can do so with a powder or a spray.

08 of 10

Layer Soft White Fabrics

a living room decorated for Christmas with white fabrics and pillows — ADAM ALBRIGHT

In your living room and bedroom, be sure to use mostly white or cream fabrics with warm undertones and soft textures that add to the fluffy, frosty effect. Layer varying textures with pillows or blankets on your bed, couches, and chairs. Add interest to your tree or mantel with a felt garland. Even stockings can be found in fuzzy materials.

09 of 10

Craft a DIY Snow Globe

To make your own snow globe, use a Mason jar and small characters or holiday accessories of your choice. For an even simpler option, use a cloche or large glass bowl and place tiny winter items like trees and a snowman on a flat surface, then cover them with the container—voila!

10 of 10

Hang a Frosty Wreath

To give a frosted look to your wreath, use flocking powder or spray. Embellish foam balls and ornaments with faux snow, glitter, or flocking powder. Craft small paper snowflakes and attach all of the accessories to the wreath with floral wire. Finish the look with a large bow.

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