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Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree - what color will you be this year? Red and green again? Maybe some Silver Bells? Will that dusty box of mismatched ornaments make its way out of the attic only to create the same old holiday look for the gazillionth time?
This season, there really is no excuse for dull and redundant holiday decor. If you are like most people, you are probably tightening up your purse strings and sticking close to home this season. But that's no reason to have your home look tired and uninspired. With all we've been through this year, this is the perfect time to energize the home with some smashing new holiday styles and colors.
So break away from traditional red and green and go for something new. Don't feel like you have to make all new purchases to create a new look. Start with what you have, pick a theme that works well with some of your existing items and add to it. If you plan carefully enough, your new decor could very well take you into the New Year (minus the tree and fruitcake, of course.)
Here are some color and style ideas to get you started:
This combo is very kid-friendly with its high contrast and geometric accents. It's crisp and clean and a third color can easily be introduced. Elements from this scheme can easily be brought from tree to table to bedroom. Keep everything light and playful and you can't go wrong!
 | Fitz and Floyd Dinnerware | Macy's |
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Looking for a little glamour? What's more glamorous than the metallic glow of gold? This is a great monochromatic look for the sophisticated home. If you have a collection of silver ornaments and accessories you can easily create the same look in silver. Try to keep the metallics down to a low roar however, or you risk getting into tacky territory. Remember - a little sparkle goes a long way! Check out the gold tree from Macy's.
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 | Kurt Adler Champagne Tree | Macy's |
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Want to stay somewhat traditional by decorating with green, but looking for a little more punch? Lime is the perfect solution. It adds a freshness to the holidays and can still be used with traditional accents of silver and white. This is an exceptionally frugal way to decorate if you have anything green growing outside. Clip off a few tree branches, or pick up a some green apples from the market and use them everywhere from the dining table to the fireplace mantle. Throw in a few new purchases shown below and voila - you have Lively Lime!
This holiday theme is beautifully subtle with its warm earth tones and matte silver accents. It's a reminder that the holiday home doesn't have to be overrun with garland and tinsel. Everyday items can be used within this color scheme, such as books, candles, and vases. Some fresh flowers and a tabletop Christmas tree are festive enough to suggest a special season, but subdued enough to carry over into the New Year.
What's more striking than the contrast of black and white? This color combination lends itself to a modern look with an element of drama. Add some pops of silver for sparkly elegance, or throw in some earth tones for a softer, cozier feel. If you really want some attention, start with a black Christmas tree, like the one shown below. This is another holiday theme that can easily make it's transition into the New Year.
 | Monochrome Christmas Inspirations | DZD |
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The combination of blue, white and silver can be both ethereal and fun. It's definitely a little unexpected, but is quite beautiful. For a subtle version, stick with softer silvery blues mixed with creams and whites. If you are feeling really daring, go for bold turquoise, which can also be mixed with any metallic. You'll definitely create a new energy with this palette!
Now that you've got some new ideas, get out your holiday boxes and start coming up with a plan. While you are at it, don't be afraid to recycle, donate or toss anything that is dated or broken. It's time to ring out the old holiday decorating and bring in the new with colors! Remember, there are no rules except one - always use the colors YOU love, the colors that make YOU happy. 
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