Get home decorating inspiration for trees, tabletops, and more from the Victorian eras interiors and holiday traditions.

John Gruen

What Is Victorian Style?

In general, Victorian style refers to the reign of the British Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901.

white mantel with candles and garland on it

Credit:John Gruen

Built in 1880 by Jule Gilmer Korner, the historic home goes all-out for the holidays.

Annie Schlechter

Decorate for the Holidays with Victorian Design Elements

1.

Victorians used comparatively plain stockings but made sure to embroider names on each, says Ritz Malliett.

colorful decorated Christmas tree in living room

Credit:Annie Schlechter

James Schroder

5.

Candles adorned trees, garlands, mantels, and tables, giving Victorian rooms a warm glow.

Incorporating real or flameless candles throughout your home enhances the Victorian ambience.

staircase banister decorated with lit garland

Credit:John Gruen

Ribbon

Ritz Malliett says ribbon was a popular decoration because it was affordable and readily available.

Carson Downing

7.

These are an inexpensive way to decorate the tree in typical Victorian maximalist fashion, says Ritz Malliett.

mantel decorated with garland and dried oranges

Credit:James Schroder

Hand-Blown Glass Balls

These classic orbs originated in Germany and added an elegant touch to Victorian trees.

Joyelle West

9.

According to Ritz Malliett, these early Christmas cards often featured flowers and animals.

three paper ornaments in Christmas tree

Credit:Carson Downing

Ball & Albanese

10.

She also highlights that a jolly, rotund Santa is not keeping with the era.

Frequently Asked Questions

Victorians also celebrated with mistletoe.

antique desk with Christmas stocking and Christmas cards adorning it

Credit:Joyelle West

The postcard-sized greeting said, A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year to You.

The Victorians at Christmas.Ashmolean Museum Oxford.

Detail of Christmas decorations hanging on tree.

Credit:Ball & Albanese