The 1980s - a decade of big hair, big phones, and even bigger Christmas decorations. If you're feeling nostalgic for the neon-lit, festive vibes of your childhood, you're in luck. We're about to take a trip down memory lane and explore 7 retro ways to decorate with 80s Christmas lights.
Think back to the holidays of your youth, when houses were aglow with colorful lights that seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy. These iconic lights have become synonymous with 80s holiday decor, and for good reason. They add a playful, retro touch to any room, and are sure to get you and your loved ones in the holiday spirit.
Getting Your Groove On with 80s Christmas Lights
Before we dive into our top 7 retro decorating ideas, let's take a moment to appreciate the humble 80s Christmas light. These babies were built to last, with their durable construction and long-lasting bulbs. And let's be real - there's just something special about the way they seem to glow with an extra-cool, retro light.
The Magic of Mini Lights
One of the defining characteristics of 80s Christmas lights is their mini size. These tiny bulbs were often used to create intricate, web-like designs on trees, mantels, and walls. To recreate this look, try draping mini lights over a decorative screen or room divider. You can also use them to create a festive "canopy" effect on your dining table or mantel.
Retro Decorating Ideas to Try This Holiday Season
Now that we've got our 80s Christmas lights, it's time to get creative! Here are 7 retro decorating ideas to try this holiday season:
1. Neon Tree Trim
Give your Christmas tree a radical 80s makeover by draping neon-colored lights around its branches. You can also add some retro flair with oversized ornaments and a star-topped tree topper.
2. Mantel Magic
Create a festive focal point in your living room by decorating your mantel with 80s Christmas lights. Try arranging them in a geometric pattern or using them to spell out a holiday message.
3. Retro Room Divider
Add some 80s charm to your holiday decor by using Christmas lights to create a retro-inspired room divider. Simply drape the lights over a decorative screen or room divider, and enjoy the cozy ambiance.
4. Glowing Garland
Give your staircase a nostalgic glow by creating a garland with 80s Christmas lights. You can also add some retro flair with oversized bows and decorative picks.
5. Nostalgic Village
Create a whimsical holiday village on your mantel or side table by arranging 80s Christmas lights around a collection of vintage houses, shops, and churches.
6. Festive Window Display
Add some 80s flair to your holiday window display by using Christmas lights to create a festive border around your windows. You can also add some retro decorations like vintage Santas and reindeer.
7. Retro Outdoor Display
Take your 80s Christmas lights to the great outdoors by creating a retro-inspired holiday display on your front porch or lawn. Try arranging lights in a geometric pattern or using them to create a festive "ICICLE" effect.
Making Your Retro Holiday Decor Shine
Now that you've got your 80s Christmas lights, it's time to make them shine! Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your retro holiday decor:
- Mix and match: Combine 80s Christmas lights with other retro decorations like vintage ornaments, garlands, and decorations to create a truly one-of-a-kind holiday display.
- Experiment with textures: Add some depth and interest to your retro holiday decor by incorporating different textures like burlap, velvet, and tinsel.
- Don't be afraid to get creative: The 80s were all about expressing yourself and having fun. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and try new things with your retro holiday decor.
Wrapping Up the Holiday Season in Retro Style
As the holiday season comes to a close, we hope you've enjoyed this trip down memory lane with 80s Christmas lights. Whether you're a die-hard retro fan or just looking for some inspiration to spice up your holiday decor, we're sure you'll find something to love in this nostalgic collection.
So go ahead, get your groove on, and deck the halls with 80s Christmas lights. Your holiday decor - and your inner child - will thank you.
We'd love to hear from you! Share your favorite retro holiday decorating ideas in the comments below, and don't forget to follow us for more fun and festive content.
What are some popular retro Christmas decorations?
+Some popular retro Christmas decorations include vintage ornaments, retro-themed cookie jars, and old-school holiday decorations like tinsel and garlands.
How can I make my holiday decor more retro-inspired?
+To make your holiday decor more retro-inspired, try incorporating vintage items like old cameras, vinyl records, and vintage postcards into your display. You can also use retro-themed decorations like neon lights and oversized ornaments to add a fun and festive touch.
What are some fun ways to use 80s Christmas lights in my holiday decor?
+Some fun ways to use 80s Christmas lights in your holiday decor include creating a neon-lit garland, making a retro-inspired wreath, or using them to create a festive border around your windows or mantel.