If you’re ready to start shopping for this season’s holiday decor but aren’t in love with the items you’re seeing at your usual stores, you’re going to want to keep reading. There are actually so many retailers beyond the typical big-box stores that sell fantastic seasonal pieces to fit your unique aesthetic. Odds are you order from several of these places on the reg already—you just may not have realized that their offerings extend to holiday decor! When it comes time to deck my apartment for the season, these are my favorite places to source outside-the-box holiday decor:
1. H&M
H&M is an under-the-radar gem for chic and affordable holiday decor. Back when I called D.C. home, I was lucky enough to live near a location that carried their Home collection in-store, but if you’re not within shopping distance of any of the brick-and-mortar shops, fear not. You can find all of the products available in-store and then some online, too. A few years back, I scooped up some gorgeous gold cocktail glasses from H&M Home during the holiday season, and I still receive frequent compliments on them. This year’s lineup includes adorable finds like this candy cane-inspired candle holder and a holiday banner that reads charming, not cheesy.
Velvet Striped Pillow Cover
3 colors available
Wool-Blend Throw
2-Pack Christmas Ornaments
Stoneware Candle Holder
Holiday Pennant Banner
2. Zara
First things first, if you weren’t aware that Zara Home exists, you’ve been missing out. I’ve scored so many gorgeous pieces of furniture from this website over the years, and my order always ships out super quickly, which I particularly appreciate in this era of supply chain delays galore! While I love perusing the Zara Home website all year long, I always look forward to checking out the retailer’s holiday decor, too. If I had one word to use to describe their items, I’d immediately say chic. Last year, I scooped up a few of the dried flower wreaths, but I’m also swooning over the idea of hanging this mini olive wreath over my bed.
Christmas Ornament Lamp
2 colors available
Golden Tree Candle
XL Christmas Wreath
Faux Olive Leaf Wreath
Leaf Garland
3. Urban Outfitters
Did you know that Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie are owned by the same company? That explains why UO’s home items are so great—they sell a lot of Anthro lookalikes for slightly less, FYI! Urban’s holiday decor leans more quirky and trendy, so if traditional style isn’t your thing, this is the place for you. For example, this disco ball ice bucket is calling my name for New Year’s Eve (how fun would it look on a bar cart topped off with a bottle or two of bubbly) and I’m going to refer my Hanukkah celebrating friends to this absolutely beautiful menorah.
Disco Ball Ornament Set
Colorful Pampas Grass Tree
Star Paper Lantern
Kantha Holiday Stocking
Cat Stocking Holder
4. Nordstrom
Here’s another well-known retailer that is lesser known when it comes to the home goods department. Yep, that’s right, your go-to retailer for stylish clothing staples is also full of fantastic decorative items, both during the holiday season and all year long. Santa, if you’re reading this, I would love: 1) These festive twisted candlesticks, 2) this blue checkered stocking (splurgey, yes, but something to cherish for many years to come), and 3) this marbled ornament because hello, gorgeous!
Sapin/Pine Tree Candle
Clip-On Tree Candles
Checkered Tree Skirt
Gold Glass Trees
Pre-Lit Artificial Tree
5. World Market
I grew up with a World Market near my house and definitely didn’t realize it was such a big chain until many years later… but it’s been one of my favorite places to browse and shop for well over a decade! I even remember visiting the store with my childhood BFF to get presents for our parents and siblings when we were in high school. In short, World Market knows how to do the holiday season. This year, I’m eyeing this gorgeous wooden light up Advent calendar (am I too old for one of these?! I hope not!) and this classy wreath for my apartment’s front door.
Rainbow Trees Pillow
Merry Coir Doormat
Gold Wood Bead Garland
Antique Star Tree Topper
Woodcut Star Garland
6. Paper Source
Shopping at a stationery store for holiday decor? Hey, why not! While Paper Source is known for its wide variety of cards and gifting supplies, it’s full of adorable decor, too. The stores go all out with their seasonal displays, so I always like to stop by ahead of a holiday. I recently popped into my neighborhood location and picked up this pine-scented candle, which smells heavenly. Other items I’m eyeing include this festive dish towel (an easy hostess gift) and these glass bulb string lights that feature mini bottle brush trees inside (too cute!).
Christmas Countdown Wall Hanging
Holiday Tree Serving Tray
Ceramic Sweater Mug
Rainbow Pom Trim Stocking
Mini Cityscape Snow Globe
