The Low Effort, Forgotten Christmas Decor You Saw Everywhere In The 60s

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Creepy Santa dolls, ornaments made with toxic materials, and highly conductive aluminum Christmas trees — some vintage Christmas decor pieces are better left in the past. This is due to their tacky looks, impractical usage, or even downright dangerous elements. However, some of the classic festive items that have fallen by the wayside still offer some stylish and practical benefits. If you've found yourself searching for the perfect holiday decoration for a tabletop, kitchen counter, or bedroom, then you may want to look back to the ceramic trees of the 1960s and 70s for Christmas inspiration. 

Ceramic Christmas trees — small molded decor items — were originally popular for their charming, classic look and their small bulbs, which lit up individually. They are less well-known today, but still have a beautifully timeless look that is perfect for modern holiday displays. In addition, their compact size makes these quaint items a great holiday decorating idea for small spaces that don't have the dimensions for larger items. If you've got one of these retro beauties, or are considering getting one, it's a good idea to learn how to care for it and incorporate it into your current decor.

These clever holiday pieces are a great choice because they are easy to keep clean and are therefore relatively low-maintenance and long-lasting. To remove dust and everyday grime, you can simply wipe the exterior with a soft-bristle paintbrush — like this Wooster Softip paintbrush — to carefully clean out any ridges without scratching the paint. Keep in mind that ceramics are breakable, so keep them in areas where they are unlikely to be knocked over, such as on a table or bookshelf.

So, how can you style these classic '60s pieces in your modern home? One key element is choosing the right kind of ceramic Christmas tree for your style. For example, there are sleek, all-white options that are perfect for minimalist designs or modern and stylish Scandinavian bedrooms. Alternatively, if you prefer a decor spread with lots of color, you can opt for more colorful versions. Once you've selected your tree, you can either place it on its own as a centerpiece or amongst other holiday decor for a complete winter scene. Just make sure it has access to power so you can light it up whenever you need some festive cheer!