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Monochrome is so back
Thought Christmas was just a season for red and green? Think again. This year, a very different palette has been taking over — and it’s a little more dramatic than you might expect.
For 2025 we’re seeing a rise in monochrome Christmas decor. Its popularity comes at a time when 'Gothmas' is on the rise: this witchy, Wednesday Addams-inspired look, blends dark romantic aesthetics with vintage decor. According to Etsy, searches for Gothic wallpaper has more than doubled, while searches for antique decor has surged by more than 17 times, reflecting a wider trend.
If the idea of Gothmas doesn't appeal, however, rest assured. One of the wonderful things about black and white decor is its versatility. Sometimes pared-back and chic, glamorous and luxe, or wintery and snow-tipped – there are so many ways to style this palette at Christmas.
When asked about the appeal of a black and white aesthetic, Kunal Trehan, interior designer & founder of Touched Interiors, tells us, 'This palette has become a modern classic because it strips away the fuss and focuses on form, texture and mood. It feels effortlessly sophisticated yet strikingly bold, offering a refined alternative to traditional reds and greens.'
Need some inspiration? Discover five ways to bring a black and white Christmas theme to life.
Blend old and new elements with a classic Gothmas table setting. Here, contemporary stripes are paired with antique bottles and decorative skull figureheads. When it comes to nailing the monochrome look, Kunal recommends thinking in 'layers rather than excess. On the table, pair glossy black dinnerware with fine white linen and soft candlelight to create atmosphere'.
Pictured: Wednesday-Inspired Christmas Tree Decoration; Black & White Striped Paper Tablecloth; Ghost Shaped Candle; 12 Piece Black & Off-White Edge Bon Apetit Dinner Set; all Rockett St George
If you're seeking something a bit more modern this Christmas, leaning into bold geometrics is a great option. From high-contrast striped throws to black and white chequerboard decor, living rooms are often the perfect place to experiment with this look.
When it comes to styling black and white interiors, Lisa Hensby, founder & creative director of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio, tells us, 'It’s all about balance: clean, graphic, and a little bit glam. Embrace the drama – it’s Christmas, after all!'
Pictured: Black and white folding paper stars; Iridescent battery-operated star string lights; Star & LED candles centrepiece; Zoe plain mono stripe snuggle chair; all Dunelm
When it comes to decorating your tree, a black and white colour scheme is a great way to achieve a refined, chic finish, 'For your tree, mix black baubles with smoked glass and white frosted ones,' says Lisa. 'Add depth with black velvet bows and a scattering of silver or mirrored ornaments to bounce the light. The key is contrast – shiny next to soft, dark against pale – so it feels layered and inviting rather than flat.'
Pictured: Black/White stripey bows, Plush bauble Christmas onaments, Large velvet bow tree topper, Next Home
For those who find the contrast between black and white a little too stark, consider a snowy white palette instead. This look works beautifully for anyone wanting to elevate their mantelpiece display – crisp white stockings and ornaments pair effortlessly with lush foliage and gold vintage touches.
'A monochrome Christmas is about quiet luxury, where every detail feels intentional and beautifully composed,' says Kunal. Here, we think embracing this wintery look is a great way into that quiet luxury aesthetic.
Pictured: 7ft pre-lit cashmere green tree, Swoon Emlin coffee table, Pirro cream boucle armchair, faux fur sheepskin rug, Mellea broken wave rug, Anders sideboard, Italian cut velvet square cushion, knitted stocking, all John Lewis & Partners
Few things are as satisfying as a beautifully coordinated pile of presents beneath the tree. It’s the ultimate sign of someone who has Christmas all wrapped up. To get the look, reach for monochrome paper and a length of velvet ribbon.
Pictured: Get the look at Matalan
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