If you love the nostalgic feeling of Christmas, you may be wondering how to make your Christmas more charming. Choosing the right decorations, movies, music, and activities can help you have a cozy vintage Christmas.
By Jayne Turner – Staff Writer
Decorations
Paper chains: Making paper chains for the holidays has been traditional since the Victorian era. Children often made paper chains, since it is a relatively simple craft. They were easily made of repurposed material, like newspapers.
Wreaths: These were often made of natural greenery, but some people chose to spray paint them to match their theme. They were often adorned with pine cones, holly berries, or small glass ornaments. They can also be made of cellophane, aluminum, or knit.
The long-reigning tradition was homemade everything – lean into it! The key is to get creative and have fun. Make memories and decorations!
The Christmas Tree
Garlands: Cranberries, popcorn, and tinsel were all popular choices for the garland around the tree. Making the garland by hand was a popular activity, too. Children were recruited to string popcorn along the wire, creating beautiful (and eco-friendly) décor. A non-food option would be beads, which were also used to make DIY garlands.
Ornaments: Brightly colored, uniquely shaped ornaments were popular in the 1950s. Oftentimes, they were made of glass or were handmade. While holiday shapes such as bells and stars were favorites, the key aspect of a vintage tree is showcasing your personal style!
Don’t forget the fabric tree skirt and tree topper! These can also be handmade.
Read more about the health benefits of chocolate here.
Movies
It’s a Wonderful Life: This 1946 movie follows a man named George who has dedicated his life to helping others. Selfness as he is, he begins to wonder what it’s all for. That is when an angel, Clarence, comes to show him what his life would look like without his family and friends. Emphasizing the importance of community, kindness, and a positive outlook, this movie is a Christmas classic.
Miracle on 34th Street: This 1947 movie is about a man named Kris Kringle, who is hired to play Santa Claus in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He soon finds himself in the presence of a skeptical mother and child, for whom he has to be Santa. Spreading kindness, belief, and Christmas spirit, the heartwarming conclusion of this movie will fill your heart with joy.
White Christmas: This 1954 movie with a score by Irving Berlin is a Christmas classic. WWII veterans, Bob and Phil, who became successful entertainers after the war, meet sister act Betty and Judy. They all put on a show together to save the old inn. And of course, they fall in love. With themes of love, friendship, and the spirit of giving, this movie is sure to give you that cozy Christmas feeling.
Any movie that makes you feel warm and cozy inside will do.
Check out quick fixes if your Disney+ keeps crashing here, so you don’t miss a second.
Music
Avoid new Christmas music and lean into the classics. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Frank Sinatra, “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams, “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole… you get the picture. Check out this playlist of my vintage favorites! All upbeat, right for a party.
—
Author: Jayne Turner is a freelance writer from Orange, California. She has a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience with an emphasis on language and cognition. She has ten years of musical theatre experience and a lifelong love of reading. Utterly excited by the brain, she brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to the topics that intrigue us most
