This super simple holiday decor idea is everywhere right now – here are our favorite ways to work this retro look

Decorating with bows is everywhere this festive season. From creating a traditional look by using ribbon bows as Christmas tree decorations, to styling them in more unusual ways on a festive tablescape, bows are a great way of bringing a retro look to your home. 

But it's not just Christmas that bow decorations can be used for; bows can be styled right throughout the festive season, and they're the perfect way to elevate your hosting setup with an on-trend look.

Decorating with ribbon bows is incredibly straightforward too. You can use whatever ribbon you like in whichever color best suits your decor style. By simply tying the ribbon into a classic bow, you'll be ready to adorn your home with this stylish decor idea.

Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite ways to style bows throughout the home – perfect if you're looking for last-minute Christmas decor ideas that are quick and easy to create.

1. Add ribbon bows to festive foliage

As a Christmas decor idea, bows can be added to Christmas foliage for a timeless, traditional look. Interior designer Anne Sage shows how you can create 'greenery and ribbon swags' in a few easy steps by tying the ribbon into a bow and then securing it to cut foliage. Alternatively, you could decorate a Christmas tree with bows, or secure it to a Christmas garland for a similar retro-inspired look.  

2. Elevate taper candles with bows

'You can put a bow on literally anything,' says co-founder of homeware brand Glassette Laura Jackson. 'Menus, crackers, and even candles. I love coordinating the ribbon color and the candle color. Have a little play around with the placement and the length of the ribbon too. This is an easy host-trick that takes your table from zero to hero in seconds.'

From Christmas table decor to mantel decor, adding ribbon bows to your candles can elevate the whole scheme. If you do opt to style ribbons on candles during the holidays, don't keep them attached once the candles are lit. 'It’s for decorating only,' advises Laura. 

3. Create party-ready glassware by adding bows

Lastly, as a way of elevating the look of your glassware this festive season, adding tie bows to the stems of your cocktail glasses creates a fun, party-ready look, as shown here by artist Poppy Deyes. Opt for a thinner ribbon for this idea so it doesn't get in the way too much. 

Feeling inspired to bring some bows into your festive displays this holiday season? Shop the ribbons below to create the look.