Saddle Up: Cowgirl Christmas Decor Is Coming to Town (and Your Home) This Winter
JEFF HERR
While Western influences never truly go out of style, we have Beyoncé to thank for cowgirlcore. With her newest album Cowboy Carter, this glamorous and playful take on the classic Americana style has been popularized in fashion and home spaces this year. Now, with Christmas fast approaching, designers say cowgirlcore is set to get a festive twist. That’s right: Cowgirl Christmas is coming to town.
“Western style and cowboy flair have been major trends in both interior design and fashion the past couple of years because they offer a sense of nostalgia, rugged authenticity, and timeless Americana charm,” says Cheryl Clendenon, owner and creative chief of In Detail Interiors based in Pensacola, Florida.
These qualities make cowgirlcore a natural fit for Christmas, evoking a sense of comfort and familiarity many seek during the holiday season. So, how can you embrace this playful take on a classic style in your holiday decor? Here are a few expert-recommended tips for bringing cowgirl Christmas home this year.
Meet the Experts
Cheryl Clendenon is the owner and creative chief of In Detail Interiors based in Pensacola, Florida.
Emily Vaughan is the owner and principal designer of Emily Vaughan Interiors based in Washington D.C.
Related: 6 Holiday Decor Trends to Skip in 2024, According to Experts
How to Decorate for Cowgirl Christmas
Cowgirl Christmas decor is all about striking a balance between classic Western and modern glamor. It blends the best of cozy country decorating with glitzy Christmas accessories for a truly festive look—here's how to achieve it in your own space.
Aniko Levai
Choose the Right Materials
Rustic textures and materials are an important part of the cowgirlcore look, and the same applies to cowgirl Christmas.
“To embrace the theme without veering too juvenile, look for elements that give a nod to materials and textures that speak to the West, without relying on literal interpretations of lassos and spurs," says Emily Vaughan, owner and principal designer of Emily Vaughan Interiors based in Washington, D.C. "Think rich leathers and soft wools, complemented by natural touches."
Leather, denim, weathered metals, plaid, wools, and faux cowhides are some earthy, country-inspired textures that embody this style (while also touching on the popular cozy aesthetic). Incorporate them into your Christmas decor with wool throw blankets, leather napkin holders, garlands, ornaments, ribbons, and more.
Related: The 10 Best Leather Couches of 2024 for Every Style
Adam Albright
Incorporate Western Motifs
Embracing Western motifs throughout your decor in a subtle and elevated way brings the cowgirl Christmas look home. Particularly, Vaughan recommends rounding up some stars and stripes.
“Every cowgirl needs a bit of leather, and a star motif perfectly captures both Christmas spirit and Lone Star references," she says. "A leather star garland is the perfect addition to your cowgirl Christmas decor—try draping it across your powder room mirror for a festive yet rustic touch."
Jay Wilde
Add a Touch of Glam
Lastly, it wouldn’t be cowgirl Christmas without a little yeehaw sparkle! Finish off the look by adding glamorous touches, like metallic accents and rhinestones.
“We would love to see faux leather gift wrapping with a metallic velvet ribbon, fringe, or crystal studded cords," Clendenon says. "You could also make custom leather tags for the gifts or even name placards if you're hosting a holiday dinner party. This would have all the cowgirlcore vibes but in an elevated and mature way."
Also, don’t be afraid to embrace a non-traditional color scheme to add some modern flair: Take inspiration from the original cowgirl Christmas queen, Dolly Parton, and opt for a color palette of pink or purple. Or stick to a more Americana look like Bey. Either way, cowgirl Christmas takes you right to a North Pole and Wild West wonderland—so wrangle up these festive ideas if you're truly country.
Related: Have Yourself a Holly Dolly Christmas
Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens