Exclusive: Here’s How Camille Styles Decorates for the Holidays
If you can hardly wait to start the holiday cheer, you’re in good company. The festive spirit is already alive and well in the Austin, Texas, home of Camille Styles, entertaining blogger and home style expert for Target. If you’re looking for ideas to get cozy and enjoy the season, we have an exclusive look at Camille’s space, with tons of holiday inspiration to be had.
“My favorite day of the season is when we transform my home into a winter wonderland,” Styles shares in the video above. She talks about her family traditions, including trimming the tree, filling an advent calendar, and decorating Christmas cookies with the kids.
But not everything has to be traditional; this year, Styles has swapped the classic red and green for a jewel-toned palette of pinks, teals, and gold—hues prevalent in Target’s boho-inspired Opalhouse collection—which is definitely a fresh take on the holiday.
We chatted with Camille about her favorite holiday entertaining tips, and whether she’s team real tree or faux, and what’s on her wish list this year.
Apartment Therapy: What are your tips on creating the perfect tablescape?
Camille Styles: Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements: A big bowl of pomegranates or a ceramic pitcher filled with evergreen branches are five-minute centerpieces that require zero floral skills!
Set out big platters of food on the table and let everyone dig in family style – it makes things easier on the host and the food takes center stage and doubles as a decor element.
Place a rosemary or berry sprig on each napkin and tie on a little card with guests’ names for a personalized touch at each place setting.
AT: What’s your favorite holiday Target find that looks super high-end, but is surprisingly affordable?
CS: This Opalhouse Gold Metal Leaf and Flower Wreath looks and feels really expensive–like a true vintage heirloom–but it’s just under $25. It also doubles as a great nontraditional centerpiece when styled flat!
AT: What’s the most impactful place in the home to decorate?
CS: I love going all out with the tree! We have one in the corner of our living room, and it instantly transforms our space into a winter wonderland. Just add ornaments (Wondershop has a wide selection with lots of fun options!), hot chocolate, and holiday tunes, and I basically never want to leave my house all season.
AT: What are your favorite ways to decorate the front door?
CS: I love a classic look, so I look to lanterns, a simple wreath, faux greenery garlands and white twinkly lights to give the exterior of my house a cozy holiday glow.
AT: Mantel?
CS: I start with a foundation of garland (can you tell I love greenery?) and add stockings for each member of the family. This year I’m adding some unexpected jewel tones with these glass candlestick holders. Pink, teal, and gold are taking my usual palette from predictable to traditional with a twist.
AT: Dining table?
CS: A textured table runner topped with a festive metallic vase, evergreen branches, and tons of flickering candles of varying heights.
AT: Are there any strong entertaining trends you’re seeing in holiday decorating this year?
CS: I think the Danish concept of hygge is still going strong, especially when it comes to the holidays. When friends and family come over, I’m all about making them feel welcome. To make my house feel extra inviting and cozy, I toss around a few extra throw pillows and drape big fuzzy blankets over couches and arm chairs for guests to easily grab. There’s a wreath on the door and wintery scented candles burning–I think when seasonal decor is done right, it engages all the senses.
AT: Real tree or faux? Why?
CS: I grew up getting a real tree every year, but as an adult I’ve realized the convenience of a faux tree–there’s no watering, no clean-up, no allergies! This one from Wondershop is gorgeous in our living room and totally passes as the real deal.
AT: What’s your go-to hostess gift this holiday season?
CS: I love to set aside one day early in the holiday season to DIY some gifts to give to hostesses all season long. This year I’m making loaves of this rosemary and apple zucchini bread to bring with me to parties, along with festive appetizer plates, for hosts to enjoy the morning after! A cute set of ornaments is another foolproof, yet thoughtful, gift.
AT: What’s on your wish list this year?
CS: A pottery-making class (I’ve always wanted to learn!) and this side table for my bedside–I’m obsessed with anything rattan.