The colors of Christmas bring warmth and cheer during the cold winter season. They adorn homes, public spaces, and retail establishments, infusing the atmosphere with the joyous spirit of the holidays. But what exactly are the classic Christmas colors? And what meanings and symbolism are behind this festive palette? Here we will explore the history, meanings, and uses of the key colors associated with Christmas celebrations around the world. Understanding the symbolism and traditions behind these hues can help guide your own decorating schemes to evoke the magic of the season.
The Traditional Christmas Color Scheme
The most traditional and iconic Christmas color scheme consists of just three hues:
- Red
- Green
- Gold
This classic trio can be seen adorning everything from Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, ornaments, gift wrap, greeting cards, apparel, and more. These traditional shades have strong symbolic meanings and historical origins that have cemented their essential place in Christmas décor and design over centuries of observance.
Red
Red is the most dominant and widely used color in Christmas décor. As the color of fire and blood, red is associated with energy, warmth, and comfort. In the context of Christmas, red symbolizes the blood of Christ shed on the cross. It is also connected to the red robes worn by Saint Nicholas, who served as an early inspiration for Santa Claus. Red brings a vibrant, lively feel to holiday festivities. It commands attention and cheers the atmosphere. Red poinsettias, Santa suits, plaid bows, cardinals, and red velvet cake are hallmarks of the season.
Green
Green represents the evergreen pine trees that remain vibrant even during the dark and cold winter. Tree decorating originated in Germany using evergreen fir trees adorned with apples, a tradition which later evolved into modern Christmas trees. Green is therefore strongly symbolic of life, rebirth, and renewal. It brings a fresh, peaceful natural feel to Christmas. Traditional green décor includes wreaths, trees, garlands, vines, and Christmas candles.
Gold
Gold conjures feelings of wealth, royalty, and luxury. In Christianity, gold symbolizes the light of God and his divine grace. The gifts presented by the Three Wise Men were gold, along with frankincense and myrrh. Gold decorations add an elegant, regal touch to Christmas. Gold ribbons, ornaments, bells, stars, tinsel, and lights glimmer brightly, imbuing Christmas with magic and splendor.
Expanded Color Palettes
While red, green, and gold form the core Christmas palette, additional colors are often included for a wider range of design options.
White
White represents purity, peace, and innocence. It pairs beautifully with the traditional red and green as a snowy winter white. White lights twinkle on trees and shrubbery like glistening snow. White represents the purity of the Savior.
Silver and Other Metallics
Silver and other metallic decorations complement gold with their festive shine and sparkle. Tinsel, beads, sunbursts, balls, candles, and bells create dazzling displays.
Blue
While less common than green, blue can bring a cool, icy winter feel. Light blue decorations evoke snowflakes, frost, and robin’s egg shells. Dark midnight blues suggest the deep velvety backdrop of the winter night sky.
Purple
Purple combines the passion of red and tranquility of blue for a rich, sophisticated mood. Pale lavenders and lilacs add soft, elegant accents.
Pink
Soft pinks bring a sweet, cute aesthetic to Christmas décor popularized from the 1950s onward. They provide a delicate, whimsical contrast to bold reds and greens.
Modern and Eclectic Color Trends
In addition to traditional hues, contemporary Christmas palettes incorporate unique color combinations for bold, eclectic holiday décor.
Teal and Turquoise
These cool, icy blues complement wintry whites and silvers. Teal and turquoise add a trendy, beachy vibe.
Coral
Vibrant coral pinks pair dynamically with turquoise for a punchy retro look.
Lime Green
Zesty lime greens inject a burst of citrus flair. Combine with fuchsia, turquoise, or even eggplant for an energetic color pop.
Non-traditional Palettes
For dramatic modern schemes, create Christmas palettes from your favorite colors. Orange and navy, yellow and gray, plum and olive – any colors can carry the Christmas spirit when combined in creative, thoughtful ways.
Using Color in Christmas Décor
When planning your own Christmas color scheme, consider how different hues, textures, and palettes can shape seasonal spaces. Here are some tips for effectively decorating in Christmas colors:
Pick 1-2 Primary Colors
Choose one or two main colors as the foundation of your theme. Classic red and green or contemporary teal and coral are pleasing combinations.
Accent with Metallics
Metallic trims and ornaments in gold, silver, copper, or mercury glass add lovely accents and reflect light beautifully.
Repeat Colors Throughout
Repeating your chosen hues across various elements creates cohesion. Use colored ribbons, table linens, pillows, and votive candles for a pulled-together look.
Contrast Light and Dark
Pair deep, rich shades like emerald or navy with light, airy pastels like powder blue or creamy ivory. Varying shades and intensities creates visual interest.
Layer Textures
Consider luxurious velvets, cozy knits, soft florals, natural linens, sturdy woods, and glittery metallics. Combining materials adds depth.
Incorporate Nature
Bring in live garlands, wreaths, plants, pinecones, and fresh greenery for organic appeal. Natural symbols reinforce the seasonal mood.
Use Candles
Candles produce a warm, festive glow. Arrange red, green, gold, or white candles of varying heights for a welcoming display.
Color Schemes for Different Christmas Themes
With your primary hues and accents selected, you can apply color to create Christmas themes that reflect your style and sensibilities.
Traditional Elegance
Red, green, and gold serve as classic colors for a timeless, polished look. For a formal elegant atmosphere, opt for deeper jewel tones over bright primaries. White candles and silver accents lend an air of sophistication.
| Main Colors | Forest green, burgundy red, deep gold |
| Accent Colors | Silver, champagne, pewter |
| Materials | Velvet, brocade, faux fur throws |
| Details | Crystal ornaments, white poinsettias, glass candleholders, pine garlands |
Rustic Charm
A rustic Christmas emphasizes natural materials and earthy hues like forest green, deep red, amber, and brown. The scheme exudes cozy cabin vibes.
| Main Colors | Forest green, red, tan, brown |
| Accent Colors | White, silver |
| Materials | Faux fur, burlap, knitted throws, cotton |
| Details | Pinecones, berries, mini pine trees, wood ornaments, plaid bows, wood candleholders |
Vintage Chic
Classic red, green, and gold come alive with vintage-inspired adornments. Accent with antique baubles, frosted pinecones, and candles for time-honored charm.
| Main Colors | Red, emerald green, champagne gold |
| Accent Colors | Mercury glass, silver |
| Materials | Velvet, brocade, lace trim |
| Details | Ornate candlesticks, glittered pinecones, mirrored ornaments |
Whimsical Wonderland
Pastels, frosted metallics, and bright primaries craft a playful, fairy tale aesthetic. Opt for fun colors like coral, turquoise, fuchsia, and lime green.
| Main Colors | Turquoise, fuchsia, lime green |
| Accent Colors | Iridescent metallics |
| Materials | Tulle, satin, glitter |
| Details | Ornate glass ornaments, candy canes, paper snowflakes |
Natural Winter Wonderland
Focus on icy blues, frosty whites, and pine green accents for a serene wintry environment. Metallic snowflakes and crystals enhance the magical cold weather aesthetics.
| Main Colors | Light blue, white, silver |
| Accent Colors | Pine green, iridescent metallics |
| Materials | Faux fur throws, quilted linens, pine, birch decor |
| Details | Snowflake ornaments, glitter pinecones, white poinsettias |
Color Psychology and Meanings
Beyond their seasonal symbolism, Christmas colors also tap into deeper psychological meanings that influence our moods and emotions.
Red
Red is inherently energetic, passionate, and commanding. It elevates heart rates and grabs attention, making it ideal for creating Christmas excitement. But too much red can feel aggressive or tiring, so balance is key.
Green
Green is considered universally restful and renewing for its association with nature. It slows heart rates and relieves anxiety. Green offers a mellowing contrast to lively reds.
Gold
Gold is uplifting and luxurious. It feels elegant, opulent, and aspirational. The warm hue satisfies our festive material desires.
White
White evokes purity, new beginnings, and peace. As a blank canvas, it opens up space and breathing room. White resets the mood.
Blue
Cool blues are mentally stimulating yet soothing. Pale blues are ethereal while bolder shades feel crisp and refreshing. Blue adds level-headed balance.
| Red | Passion, excitement, cheer, love |
| Green | Nature, renewal, life, calmness |
| Gold | Wealth, extravagance, elegance |
| White | Purity, harmony, clarity, peace |
| Blue | Tranquility, understanding, focus |
Conclusion
Christmas color schemes draw from centuries of tradition using red, green, and gold as quintessential holiday hues. Their symbolic meanings relate to the magical season. Today’s palettes can expand on the classics or take color schemes in entirely new directions. Whether aiming for timeless or trendy, colors create a mood and spirit that defines Christmas décor. Balancing complimentary tones and textures allows you to design customized Christmas color themes that make your home merry and bright.
