How to Achieve the Nonna Holiday Aesthetic

Crocheted and embroidered pieces come to play in this aesthetic—doilies for the table, an embroidered tablecloth, and crocheted pot holders add a heartfelt touch to your kitchen during winter. Add simple taper candles for mood lighting; vintage-style lamps with warm-toned bulbs are also a good choice. Searches for ‘decorative lampshades’ rose by 11,000% on Etsy’s website. 

Tomato-inspired colors and scents abound; Etsy highlights tomato red, but you can also enjoy the softer hues of orange, yellow, and green, along with garden-inspired scents in your space. Woven baskets, vintage bread boxes, and handmade or hand-painted pottery should adorn the counters of those fully embracing the Nonna Holiday trend.

Ruffles, gingham, and checkered patterns all scream Nonna Holiday. Layer tablecloths and runners on your holiday table, add patterned throw pillows to your sofa, or try out some new cushions for your dining chairs. 

Decorations That Tell a Story

Heirloom decorations certainly deserve a crowning place within this aesthetic, so don’t be afraid to pull out your favorite passed-down items and allow them to tell a story across your kitchen. Etsy also makes it clear that storied items don’t necessarily need to be heirlooms; you can simply choose vintage, antique, or distressed pieces that play into the world behind the aesthetic that you’re creating.

Trimming the Tree with Nonna in Mind

For your tree, Etsy recommends hand-crocheted ornaments. You can also try using simple bows, attaching faux candles, hanging vintage bells, or stringing up popcorn for an old-fashioned element. A quilted Christmas tree skirt ties the look together.

Because this holiday aesthetic is all about tradition and holiday gatherings, Etsy knows that the Nonna Holiday aesthetic is more than just a look—it’s a feeling, one that should be shared with your loved ones. Food made with friends and family, dishes and drinks around the dining table, and personalized, thoughtful gifts are hallmarks of this aesthetic that are a must this holiday season.