Over-the-Top Decorating Ideas for the Hardcore Holiday Enthusiast

Sometimes, more is more. For many, one of those times is Christmas, and all the decorating opportunities the holiday brings with it. If you’re more of a maximalist than a minimalist when it comes to decking your halls, feast your eyes on the following ideas— they’re a little OTT, but in the best way possible.

Above: Why decorate one tree when you can trim six trees? This room spotted on Becoration will make you question everything you ever thought you knew about Christmas decorating.

Decorating starts at the front door, so why not go all-out and wrap that thing up like a giant present, like Amaryllis from OhOh Blog did?

A wreath is a more traditional option for the front door—this one from Wreaths by Rebecca B on Etsy is fairly bursting with Christmas goodies, while still getting in on the current trend for bare branches and asymmetric styles.

Once you’re inside, don’t ignore your other doors. Here, some simple gold stickers make this (rather fancy) architrave featured on House & Garden come alive with Christmas cheer.

The stair banister is a traditional place for decorations. Instead of trailing greenery, go for these huge paper pom poms, festive in a slightly quirky way. As seen at House & Home.

Ombre has invaded everything else, why not our Christmas trees? Pick one color and buy a bunch of baubles in varying shades, as on this tree from Lovely Indeed.

Wall trees aren’t just for minimalists. This one (though technically on a corkboard leaning against the wall) from How to Decorate is made entirely of sparkly ornaments.

But if that’s not enough ornament usage for you, just hang them from any old thing! This chandelier, as seen on House to Home, is bedecked.

Maximalism isn’t just about sparkle and shine. This living room (belonging to Ben Pentreath and found on House & Garden) is shrouded in greenery: over the top but oh-so-classic.

A table set for the holidays, from Scandinavian Love Song, shows how greenery can be used to excess on tablescapes, too.

This mantle might be looking a bit minimal for this round-up, but I think all those candles and greenery push it toward the maximalist end of the spectrum. In any case, it’s lovely. From Damask & Dentelle.

As for your Christmas gift wrapping, go for an eclectic mix of patterns, colors and ribbons. Because not everything can be brown paper and twine. Via House & Garden.

Finally, just remember one thing: you can’t go wrong with fairy lights, as IKEA (found via House & Garden) proves here.