Tartan prints, burnished brass, and teddy bear motifs are back for 2026 as the timeless holiday trend continues to thrive on social media.
Some holiday décor trends fade once the season ends, but the vintage "Ralph Lauren Christmas" aesthetic first spotted on TikTok last year shows no signs of disappearing. Teddy bear motifs, antique brass accents, and tartan patterns dominated mood boards in 2025—and they're returning for 2026.
The enduring popularity of this holiday style stems from its focus on luxurious, well-worn textures and vintage character that never feels dated. The trend also aligns with a shift toward heirloom-quality pieces that consumers can reuse annually rather than treating decorations as disposable.
Creating an authentic Ralph Lauren look typically requires years of collecting, so the approach works best when blended with existing pieces. This might mean retrieving grandmother's crystal glassware from storage or hunting for vintage ornaments at local thrift shops. For those needing to round out their collections, several elements define this aesthetic.
Tartan—not just any plaid—is essential. This traditional Scottish pattern features symmetrical stripes intersecting at right angles, with forest green, deep navy, and rich burgundy offering particularly refined options.
Equestrian details pay homage to the brand's polo roots through vintage-style art prints, iron bookends, or serving trays with horsebit hardware. These pieces transition easily beyond the holiday season.
Burnished brass rather than polished silver creates the desired lived-in atmosphere, whether framing family photographs or illuminating rooms with warm lamplight.
Texture layering prevents pattern overload while adding visual depth. Sumptuous velvet, playful ruffles, and rustic leather work together, with monogrammed items introducing personalized touches.
For those without inherited pieces, hand-painted elements, classic Nutcracker figurines, and etched glassware evoke generational collections.
Finally, the signature bear motif appears on tree ornaments, pillows, and snow globes to complete the look.