INTERIOR DESIGNER CHRISTMAS MANTLE STYLING TIPS

There’s something magical about a beautifully styled Christmas mantle. Whether your mantle is grand or modest, modern or traditional, a few well-chosen pieces can set the tone for the festive season and create a gorgeous focal point in your home.

We have an old Villa that has 3 fireplaces with mantles, so we get plenty of practice styling these (especially when setting up for our Christmas Open Home!)

Here’s our simple, interior designer guide and tips for styling your mantle this Christmas.

'A White Christmas' Collection, Silver Candlesticks with Broste candles

START WITH A STATEMENT WREATH

Anchor your mantle with a beautiful wreath above the fireplace. Choose one that you love and that complements your overall colour palette — whether you’re going for classic green, rich reds, neutrals, or something with a touch of gold and shimmer.

Tip: You can take down a painting or mirror and replace it with a wreath, or, (if complementary) you can hang the wreath over the artwork (as below.) Hang directly using a metal wreath hanger, a removable 3M hook, or ribbon loop.

'Magnolia & Mirth' Wreath and Garland, Gold Candlesticks with Broste Candles

LAYER WITH A FULL GARLAND

A well-placed garland brings instant drama and depth to your mantle. Select a style that complements the wreath (and/or surroundings) and drape it naturally across the surface. It can be centered or let it cascade off one or both sides for a relaxed, effortless look. Battery operated fairy lights and ribbon bows can be added for extra dimension.

Tip: All of our garlands are fairly flexible, making them easy to shape and secure. We use 3M hooks placed on the flat surface of the mantle to help hold the garland in position.

Heather fixing our 'Jingle Bells' garland into place

'Jingle Bells' Collection, Antique Brass Bells

ADD PERSONAL TOUCHES WITH STOCKINGS

Nothing says “Christmas at home” like hanging stockings on the mantle. Choose a cohesive set or mix and match styles for each family member.

Tip: Our 'brass finish' metal stocking hooks are perfect for hanging stockings or other decorations from mantles, shelves or other ledges and are 'self-balancing'.

Block Printed Christmas Stockings

FINISH WITH CANDLES, SCULPTURAL ITEMS OR CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

Balance the greenery (or as per below image instead of a garland) with elegant accessories like candle holders, ceramic houses, brass bells, mini Christmas trees, or sculptural vases. A bowl of pinecones can add a natural element that speaks to the season. Keep things asymmetrical — a cluster at one end or layered heights always looks more natural.

Tip: Stick to a refined colour palette to let your greenery shine. Neutrals, metallics and soft whites work beautifully. You can add colour or continue themes with candles and bows.

Cinnamon & Spice wreath, Gold Candlesticks with Broste candles. Floor standing mini Christmas trees flank the mantle.

Christmas styling does not have to be loud - we love this calming foliage only option that nods to the season more subtly.

BRING IT ALL TOGETHER

The perfect mantle is one that reflects your home, your style and your version of Christmas.

Tip: If you want to stick to a theme or colour-way, we design our Christmas collections to help you take the guess work out with regard to wreaths, garlands, swags, centrepieces etc, so find a range you love and stick with it for your styling (or have different themes throughout the home). View Christmas Collection.

Abbey choosing bow colours

Happy Styling!