Mackenzie Collier Interiors

View Original

Embracing a Homespun Holiday with "Country Christmas"

Celebrate the simple joys of the season with the rustic charm of a "Country Christmas." Inspired by timeless traditions and the natural beauty of the rural Midwest, this style brings together handmade touches, natural elements, and nostalgic details for a truly heartfelt holiday. Whether it’s a wreath crafted from dried oranges or the cozy textures of patchwork pillows, every element reflects the elegance of simplicity. Discover how to bring this inspired-by-nature aesthetic into your home and create a holiday that’s as warm and inviting as the countryside itself.


Inspired by Nature, Rooted in Holiday Traditions

The charm of a country Christmas is woven through the fabric of my earliest memories, deeply rooted in the rural Midwest where I grew up. This holiday style, inspired by the simplicity of handmade goods and utilizing what's readily available in nature, mirrors the life lessons from my grandparents who lived through the Great Depression and World War II. As children and young adults during those challenging times, they learned to make do with what they had—lessons that were instilled in me as I watched them live resourcefully and harmoniously with nature. These are the values that shape the "Country Christmas" theme: utilitarian, nostalgic, and beautifully simple.

This collection is a celebration of the understated elegance that comes from a lifestyle close to nature. It's casual and comforting, filled with elements that speak of a time when every possession had a purpose and every holiday decoration had a story. Inspired by the tradition of a simple winter sleigh ride, this style brings the subtle joy of nature indoors. It is a nod to the handmade wreaths and the rustic charm of a holiday spent among the evergreens, embracing the natural peace and beauty of winter—a heartfelt tradition that deeply influenced this style.

Designer Tips for a Cozy and Rustic Country Christmas Style

To bring the essence of "Country Christmas" into your home, consider incorporating these key design elements:

  • Handmade and Heartfelt: Embrace crafts that incorporate knits, woven fabrics, and natural materials like wood beads, twine, and burlap.

  • Natural Decorations: Decorate with items sourced from nature, such as berries, twigs, pinecones, and evergreens. These elements should evoke the feeling of gathering materials from a winter landscape.

  • Classic Textiles: Use gingham, plaid, and ticking stripes in your textiles. These patterns are timeless and reflect handmade utilitarian and decorative items common in rural environments.

  • Neutral Palette with Muted Tones: While the overall color scheme should remain neutral, infuse subtle pops of muted greens, reds, and blues to complement the natural browns and beiges.

Shop “Country Christmas” Designer Picks

Featured in this year's style guide are products that truly encapsulate the spirit of a "Country Christmas." A handmade wreath made from dehydrated oranges not only beautifies your doorway but also can add a fragrant touch to your holiday drinks. The handmade kraft paper gift wrap is perfect for those looking to personalize their gifts with a bespoke touch, especially when adorned with a charming bluebird gift tag. The red berry wreath provides a vivid contrast to the winter whites, embodying the season's spirit with its timeless appeal.

Additional warmth and texture are brought into play with the handmade patchwork round throw pillow, crafted with the same care and skill as traditional quilts. This pillow, alongside the vintage post throw pillow, invokes memories of a simpler time when holiday letters from loved ones were the highlight of the season. The green enamel mug reflects the utilitarian yet enduring aspects of country living, destined to become a cherished multi-purpose item.

Building gingerbread houses is a delightful way to spend time with family, providing a fun and creative activity away from screens. The green gingham tablecloth is practical for year-round use, emphasizing sustainability and reducing wastefulness—key aspects of this style. Hand-tied bows can enhance your Christmas tree or wreaths, adding a handmade charm with simple velvet ribbon or twine.

For your greenery, opting for spruce or cypress allows for lush, soft garlands and wreaths that look full and vibrant, bringing the crisp scent of the forest into your home. The Zara China set, which offers the look of family heirlooms without being specific to any holiday, is ideal for special occasions throughout the year.

The "Country Christmas" style is more than just a decorating theme—it's about returning to our roots and embracing the joy that comes from simplicity and the natural world. It's a reminder of the times when holiday preparations were a labor of love, and every element of decor had a personal touch.

As you explore these products and inspirations, I invite you to create a holiday environment that celebrates togetherness and reflects the unique personalities within your family. Dive into the rustic elegance of "Country Christmas" and let the spirit of resourcefulness and natural beauty fill your home this holiday season.


Bring Warmth and Charm to Your Holidays with Inspired Decorating Ideas

Continue your holiday decorating journey with our seasonal inspiration series! From the nostalgic charm of 'Retro Cheer' to the rustic elegance of 'Country Christmas' and the timeless sparkle of 'Silver Bells,' we’re sharing thoughtful ideas to make your holiday decor truly special.

Need help bringing these styles to life? Contact us to create a space that’s as warm and inviting as the season itself.