Cultivate a greater sense of calm this holiday season with simple, streamlined—yet still 100% festive—decor.

Photo by: Kitch Studios

Each year, it seems like no sooner do we wave farewell to the last trick-or-treater than out come the life-size lawn ornaments—and all of a sudden, it's all holiday everything. Flashing colored lights. Dancing animatronic Santas. Carols blasting from every storefront. Sure, it's festive, but it can also be overwhelming—even for the die-hard holiday lovers among us. Whatever happened to those silent nights? If you're hoping to cultivate a greater sense of calm this holiday season, don’t fret: There are simpler ways to display your cheerful spirit. We’ve rounded up seven decorative items that will add a tasteful, understated touch of merriment to your home in the coming months. Because in a season that often celebrates “more is more,” sometimes the real beauty is in saying “happy holidays” with less.

A pared-down tree

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Forget the pink aluminum. If you’re in the market for a truly eco-friendly tree, consider this laser-cut stunner, which is made from 100% recycled cardboard. Adorn yours with a handful of carefully curated ornaments or leave its branches bare for an ultra-minimalist look. In the Scandinavian tradition of functional simplicity, the six-piece design can also be dismantled and laid flat for easy storage during the off-season.

Delicate ornaments

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Not ready to give up that fresh-cut fir smell? Then try trimming your natural tree with coordinating laser-cut birch ornaments in neutral hues. Start with a set of delicate snowflakes and complete the wintry scene with a cheerful pair of skates and mittens or an adorable polar bear and North Pole duo. Bonus: If you pride yourself on your present wrapping skills, these trinkets double as charming wooden gift tags.

A simplified wreath

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A single golden hoop twined with a handful of faux olive branches makes this statement-making wreath a minimalist hit. Be sure to give this showstopper plenty of space to shine: It may be more dainty than a lush evergreen wreath, but its impact is just as dramatic.

A modern menorah

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Up your Hanukkah decor game with this gorgeous menorah in crisp white ceramic. The perfect modern complement to a traditional window display, this sleek fixture would look divine year-round as part of a stylish tablescape.

A streamlined putz village

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Put your stamp on a DIY classic with this delightful saltbox putz house kit. Begin with a clean, blank frame and add as much (or as little) embellishment to this New England-style ornament as you see fit. The end product will be simple, sweet, and completely to your own specs.

A graceful garland

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A tasteful eucalyptus garland is an elegant alternative to bright red poinsettias, and puffs of raw cotton give this beauty an even softer touch. Drape it across a dinner table or a mantel lit with candles to achieve an elevated rustic effect.

A straightforward stocking

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Lighter than their plush velvet counterparts, these natural cotton stockings in cream canvas bring a bit of sophistication to the annual fireside ritual. The smaller 6-inch size also serves as an effective reminder to be mindful—and minimal—when stuffing with treats for the holidays.

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