Decorate for Christmas like a First Lady
By Gina Saverino
Everyone is diving into their Martha Stewart-inspired Pinterest boards to curate the ultimate Christmas aesthetic. But let’s be honest— no one captures the holiday spirit quite like a First Lady. Each December, the White House is transformed into a magical holiday spectacle, creating one of the most iconic Christmas displays in the world.
Of course, First Ladies have access to an abundance of resources. From expert curators and skilled designers to hundreds of volunteers, their toolkit for crafting holiday perfection is incomparable. However, despite the support, each First Lady plays a pivotal role in selecting themes, colors, and decorations that embody her individual style. While some choices shine as timeless- others are better left in the past, like last year’s nightmarish display under First Lady Jill Biden.
Still, holiday decor at the White House isn’t just about style; it’s about tradition. From the National Christmas Tree lighting to themed ornaments that tell a story, these decorations serve as a bridge between history, unity, and personal expression.
While most of us don’t have a team of experts or the ultimate mansion as our canvas, we can still draw inspiration from the First Ladies’ approach to decorating. Thoughtful details, timeless traditions, and a touch of personal flair can transform any space into a cozy holiday haven. Keep reading to discover traditions and tips on how to bring First Lady-level elegance into your Christmas decor.
First Lady Jackie Kennedy pioneered the tradition of selecting a theme for the official White House Christmas tree, setting a precedent that continues to this day. This practice became a symbolic way for First Ladies to showcase artistry, attention to detail, and a unique sense of style that symbolized what their husband’s administration stood for.
Themes inspired by First Ladies:
Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker has proven to be one of the most popular themes in White House holiday decor, chosen for its magical appeal. This iconic ballet graced the halls of the White House during four separate holiday seasons: Jackie Kennedy first introduced it in 1961 and revisited it in 1962, followed by Barbara Bush in 1990 and Hillary Clinton in 1996.
You can recreate this enchanting look at home by embellishing your tree with ornaments that pay homage to the beloved story. Incorporate delicate porcelain ballet slippers, charming nutcracker soldiers, shimmering sugarplum fairies, and whimsical mouse king figurines to bring the spirit of the play into your holiday decor. This theme effortlessly combines nostalgia, elegance, and the magic of the season.
An Old-Fashioned Christmas in America
Betty Ford set the stage for a heartfelt and nostalgic holiday aesthetic with her 1975 theme, “An Old-Fashioned Christmas in America.” Her approach shares similarities with Nancy Reagan’s 1988 tree. Both First Ladies emphasized traditional Christmas colors and adorned their trees with cascading waves of shimmering tinsel, creating a warm and timeless ambiance.
To replicate an old-fashioned Christmas tree inspired by these First Ladies, focus on incorporating homemade garlands and ornaments crafted from diverse textures and natural materials. This can include dried flowers, fruits, acorns, pinecones, wood, straw, and yarn.
For an added touch of storytelling, include a display at the base of the tree. One popular option, as seen in Nancy Reagan’s design, is a miniature train encircling the tree alongside a quaint Christmas village. This nostalgic element enhances the tree’s charm.
Melania Trump’s Christmas Spectacular
My favorite White House Christmas decor was undoubtedly the years under First Lady Melania Trump. Her Christmas displays were nothing short of spectacular, embodying elegance and a timeless charm.
Melania’s themes, such as Time-Honored Traditions, American Treasures, and The Spirit of America, beautifully celebrated heritage and patriotism. Though regardless of the theme, Melania’s aesthetic remained consistent: a sophisticated blend of class and elegance. I can’t wait to see a return to such breathtaking themes, characterized by refined lighting, shimmering details, and perfectly placed bows.
To achieve this look, opt for decorations that embrace simplicity, focusing on classic Christmas tones like red, green, and gold, paired with sparkling white lights. This approach creates a cohesive, enchanting display that exudes timeless holiday charm.
Make a gingerbread house display
The earliest known gingerbread cottage displayed in the white house was under the President Johnson era in 1968 which was gifted by Edward E. Shapiro of Bedford Hills, New York. The gingerbread display continued under the Nixon family when Assistant Executive Chef Hans Raffert crafted a German A-frame style gingerbread house. Over the years, this tradition has evolved, with each gingerbread creation becoming increasingly intricate and elaborate.
I love the charm of a tradition that remains constant year after year, creating memories that continue throughout future generations. You can bring this tradition into your own home by dedicating a night to building gingerbread houses with family or friends. Display your creation as a festive reminder of the season, just like the White House does.
Keeping Christ in Christmas
The most important White House holiday tradition is the Nativity scene, which beautifully captures the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring over 40 figurines, many dating back to the 18th century, the crèche has been a centerpiece of White House Christmas décor since 1967. Donated by Mrs. Charles W. Engelhard, Jr. of Far Hills, New Jersey, this exquisite display was crafted in Naples, Italy, using terra cotta and carved wood. It’s showcased in the East Room each holiday season, serving as a reminder of the spiritual heart of Christmas.
While Santa Claus, reindeer, twinkling lights, and festive bows bring plenty of joy, displaying the nativity ensures that the celebration of Jesus Christ remains at the center of it all. This enduring tradition transcends administrations, offering a timeless message of faith and hope.
Gina Saverino is a fashion industry professional based in New York. She specializes in merchandising and financial planning for women’s apparel.
