The 1970s was a decade characterized by bold styles, vibrant colors, and a blend of traditional and modern elements. This unique era left its mark on many aspects of life, including holiday decorations. As Christmas approached, homes across America and beyond transformed into festive wonderlands. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back in time to explore the popular Christmas decor trends of the 1970s.
Aluminum Christmas Trees
One of the most iconic symbols of 1970s Christmas decor was the aluminum Christmas tree. These shiny, artificial trees became the centerpiece of many living rooms. Often adorned with colorful glass ornaments and illuminated by rotating color wheels, these trees reflected the era’s fascination with futuristic design. Unlike traditional green trees, aluminum trees were available in a variety of colors, including silver, gold, pink, and blue.
Bubble Lights
Bubble lights were a quintessential Christmas decoration in the 1970s. These lights featured small vials filled with liquid that bubbled when heated by an internal bulb. The colorful, bubbling lights added a touch of whimsy and magic to Christmas trees and mantels. Their soft, mesmerizing glow was a hit among both children and adults, making them a staple in many households during the holiday season.
Shiny Bright Ornaments
Shiny Bright ornaments, which had been popular since the 1940s, continued to be a favorite in the 1970s. These glass ornaments came in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, often featuring intricate designs and reflective surfaces. They added a touch of nostalgia and elegance to Christmas trees, blending well with both modern and traditional decor themes.
Handcrafted and Homemade Decorations
The 1970s saw a rise in the popularity of handcrafted and homemade Christmas decorations. Macramé, crochet, and other craft projects were common, reflecting the era’s DIY spirit. Families often spent time together creating unique ornaments, wreaths, and garlands. These personalized touches added a warm, homemade feel to holiday celebrations and were cherished year after year.
String Lights with Large Bulbs
String lights have been a Christmas staple for decades, but the 1970s favored larger, more colorful bulbs. These lights came in a variety of colors and often featured C7 or C9 bulbs, which were larger and brighter than today’s mini lights. Whether draped around the tree, along the roofline, or around windows, these vibrant lights brought a cheerful glow to holiday displays.
Ceramic Christmas Trees
Ceramic Christmas trees, often with built-in lights, became popular decor items during the 1970s. These tabletop trees were typically adorned with tiny, colorful plastic bulbs that emitted a soft glow when the tree was plugged in. They were perfect for adding festive cheer to smaller spaces, such as apartments or offices, and have since become cherished vintage collectibles.
Plastic Blow Mold Decorations
Outdoor Christmas displays in the 1970s were often dominated by plastic blow mold decorations. These large, hollow figures were made from molded plastic and featured characters such as Santa Claus, reindeer, snowmen, and nativity scenes. Lit from within by a bulb, these decorations were durable, weather-resistant, and added a whimsical touch to lawns and porches.
Flocked Christmas Trees
Flocked Christmas trees, covered in a spray-on material that mimicked the look of snow, were a popular trend in the 1970s. These trees brought a wintry feel to holiday decor, even in regions where snow was rare. Flocking added texture and depth to the tree, creating a stunning contrast with colorful ornaments and lights.
Tinsel and Garlands
Tinsel and garlands were essential components of 1970s Christmas decor. Tinsel, made from thin strips of metallic foil, was draped over tree branches to create a shimmering effect. Garlands made from popcorn, cranberries, and beads were also popular, often handcrafted by families as a festive activity. These decorations added a sense of tradition and continuity to the holiday season.
Christmas Villages
Miniature Christmas villages gained popularity in the 1970s, with families setting up intricate displays featuring tiny buildings, figurines, and landscapes. These villages often depicted charming winter scenes, complete with snow-covered houses, ice skaters, and horse-drawn sleighs. They provided a delightful focal point for holiday decor and sparked the imagination of both young and old.
Wrought Iron Candle Holders
Wrought iron candle holders became a popular Christmas decor item in the 1970s. These candle holders often featured intricate designs and were used to hold large, colorful candles. Placed on mantels, windowsills, or dining tables, they added a touch of elegance and warmth to the holiday atmosphere.
Poinsettias and Other Holiday Plants
Poinsettias were, and still are, a classic Christmas plant. In the 1970s, these vibrant red and green plants were used extensively in holiday decor. Other popular holiday plants included Christmas cacti and amaryllis. These plants brought a touch of nature indoors, enhancing the festive spirit with their bright colors and beautiful blooms.
Advent Calendars
Advent calendars were a beloved tradition in many 1970s households. These calendars, often made from cardboard and featuring festive illustrations, had 24 small doors, each hiding a surprise for each day of December leading up to Christmas. The surprises ranged from chocolates and candies to small toys or messages, adding excitement and anticipation to the holiday season.
Conclusion
The 1970s brought a unique blend of creativity, tradition, and innovation to Christmas decor. From shiny aluminum trees and bubbling lights to handcrafted ornaments and ceramic trees, the decorations of this era continue to evoke fond memories and inspire modern holiday designs. As we deck the halls each year, we can appreciate the lasting influence of 1970s Christmas decor on our contemporary celebrations.
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