TThe Christmas season is nearly here. After turkey and Thanksgiving, we’ll welcome the comforts of the holidays — stockings, trees, lights and maybe even a dusting of snow for those of us who rarely see it. It’s the perfect time to get into a festive mood and let go of any Scrooge-like tendencies.
West Elm Christmas Stockings
My fireplace is getting ready for the holidays too — I recently updated the tile on the face and hearth, just in time for hanging stockings. I’ll share that project once the mantel is officially dressed next week.
Although we usually wait until after Thanksgiving to hang stockings, I don’t mind an earlier start. I enjoy thinking ahead about how our mantel will look. Stockings are such a simple but meaningful decoration, and they add personality to a room. I’ve been gathering inspiration and wanted to share some stocking ideas you might like.
West Elm Owl Christmas Stockings
Make It and Love It (Burlap Stockings)
Pottery Barn Knit Stockings
Pottery Barn Velvet Stockings
Stockings come in so many styles, and you can personalize them to match your home and family. Sweater-knit stockings feel cozy and warm; velvet and faux-fur cuffs add a touch of elegance. I own white velvet stockings similar to some Pottery Barn styles and also one with a fur cuff — I love the versatility.
Velvet Stockings
A few years ago I invested in simple white velvet quilted stockings as a neutral base that can evolve over time. They work as-is or as a canvas for embellishments. Each year you can change the look by adding a pop of color, mixing in different textures, or dressing them up with trim.
One year I added lace doilies to the cuffs for a vintage touch. Other easy ways to personalize stockings include adding flowers, faux fur, brooches, buttons, embroidered monograms, name tags or natural accents like pinecones and sprigs of greenery. These small changes can refresh your mantel without replacing everything.
West Elm Felt Snowflake Christmas Stockings
Eab Designs on Etsy — charming handmade stockings