Tacky Christmas Decor Is The Latest Holiday Trend Taking Over TikTok

After years of neutrals and minimalist styles reigning supreme, the holiday decor trends have done a complete 180, trading sleek and subtle for something much more bold and boisterous. That's right — tacky holiday decor is officially in, and it's taking over TikTok this Christmas season. Videos praising tacky Christmas decor are going viral and gaining millions of likes and comments, making it clear that this unexpected trend has captured the hearts of people everywhere this holiday season.

While people typically try to steer clear of tacky decor, there's something about the holidays that's made it become more appealing than ever. Perhaps this shift comes from the whimsical charm that feels reminiscent of past holidays, or a yearning for colorful designs after years of muted trends. Either way, it's clear that people are falling in love with colorful and nostalgic holiday decor this year, and luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to achieve this trendy look in your home. Whether you're looking for decorating tips for Christmas on a budget, or simply want to give your holiday decor a touch of kitch and color, this trend has something for everyone.

While the term "tacky" might not sound immediately appealing, it's clear that this playful, over-the-top decor style has started to develop more positive associations. In a viral TikTok video from @reevcon, the creator claims, "Some Christmas decoration styles, like this tacky style, look way more warm and inviting than others." The comments section is filled in agreement, with one top comment noting, "It's like stepping into a time machine and reliving those childhood memories. Nothing beats the warmth and nostalgia."

This rise in reminiscent trends is massive this year. Just look at the nostalgic Christmas color palette that's making a big comeback in 2024 as an example. It's chock full of classic hues like bold red, deep green, and saturated gold. These traditional colors are just another way of embracing the cozy, sentimental style that tacky Christmas decor represents. Other viral videos have shown off delightfully nostalgic holiday setups, often paired with a popular sound declaring, "Christmas tree decorations are not supposed to be sleek and classy and minimalist. It's supposed to look like joy has thrown up in your house. It's supposed to be a little bit tacky." This sentiment reflects a growing desire to break free from the minimalist, neutral-toned styles that have dominated recent years. Instead, people are leaning into color, whimsy, and excessive charm — because if there's one time of year to be nostalgic and go all out, it's Christmas.

Tacky holiday decor is all about saying goodbye to the holiday trends that are overused and outdated — like stark minimalism — and diving into a colorful, nostalgic, and joy-filled aesthetic instead. To embrace the this trend, you may want to ditch the soft white lights and monochromatic decorating schemes. Instead, bring in some eclectic style with colorful string lights and a mix of quirky, bright, and homemade ornaments. Your tree wouldn't be tacky if it wasn't dripping in shiny tinsel, so don't forget to use it for the perfect finishing touch.

A popular TikTok video from @chey.powers helps show you how to create a tacky yet stylish entryway design by layering an easy DIY dried orange slice garland with those colorful paper chains you may remember making from your childhood. Pair these DIYs with traditional green garland, colorful lights, and sentimental ornaments for a look that's both cheerful and totally on-trend. But the true key to getting the perfect holiday look is to let go of rigid rules, as nothing is really off-limits. Focus on decor that sparks joy and brings back the excitement and wonder you felt for the holidays as a child. This approach celebrates vibrant colors, whimsical accents, and classic designs that remind us of past Christmases — making it easier than ever to get in the holiday spirit.