We Gave 4 Designers $50 — Here’s Their Stylish Holiday Decor Haul from Target

A living room or entryway vignette should make a statement, and this nutcracker would definitely get noticed. “How dapper and kind of mysterious is this flocked nutcracker?,” asks designer Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN. “It’s unexpected, but can fit into a lot of different scenes.”

Ornaments that show off your personality always make for a nice touch, even if they’re not exactly part of a “winter wonderland” aesthetic. “I am definitely more of a ‘summer’ than a ‘winter’ girlie,” Malek Barney says. “This pool float ornament brings a sunny disposition to a playful tree.”

Those who are sticking to a Christmas tree theme should pick out ornaments in a cohesive palette. “This set of ornaments looks classy and expensive, and is an absolute steal at $15,” says designer Linette Dai of Linette Dai Design. “I especially love the teal, gold, and slate color combination for a fresh alternative from the traditional green and red.”

“This beautiful faux garland is a charming addition to stair railings or draped over a mantel,” Dai says. “I love the little snowberries that bring it to life.” Once your garland is in place, you can complete the look with flameless candles. And stockings, of course.

“The simplicity of fairy string lights creates a magical ambience,” Dai adds. “They can be layered over greenery, draped over a credenza, or hung on stair railings for a festive vibe.” This option is battery-operated, which makes them more flexible for your plans.

If Thomsen were on a Target run, she’d start with one of these gold and amber hurricanes and tea lights. “The gold and amber tones bring a festive touch without feeling too traditional,” she says. “To arrange them, I’d place two or three hurricanes down the center of the table. If you have a round table, you can cluster them in the center. Then, surround the hurricanes with a fresh garland. You’ll have a layered, textured centerpiece that feels cozy and elevated.”

If you’re hosting a party, Thomsen recommends grabbing a set of these jewel-toned goblets. “They bring personality to a holiday gathering and feel more fun than standard wine glasses,” she says. “These goblets are also versatile. They’d look just as beautiful at a summer dinner party as they do during the holidays.”

For a bookcase, console, or vanity, these bottle brush trees would add an easy holiday charm. “[They’re] playful, nostalgic, and timeless,” Geanopulos says. “They embrace the holiday spirit without being overwhelming.”

An unexpected design element is always appreciated, which is why Geanopulos would add this deer head to the mix. “I love anything that can light up around the holidays, and this deer head would be adorable when grouped with two pieces of art in a powder room,” she says.

For decor that’s as functional as it is festive, Geanopulos would also stock her kitchen cabinet with this holiday mug. “Nothing is more festive to me than having a morning tea in a holiday themed mug,” she says. “The fair isle print reminds me of a cozy sweater but in stoneware.”