What Are The 12 Christmas Colours
Whilst there isn't a single authority or individual who has definitively decided that there are 12 Colours of Christmas, there are at least this many colours that are traditionally associated with Christmas.
Their reasons for their use and the colour meanings have evolved from historical, religious, and cultural contexts across the globe.
So, this year, as you prepare to decorate your home for the festive season, understanding the (supposed) 12 Christmas Colours can perhaps add deeper meaning to your overall festive celebrations.
Let's explore the 12-colour palette that will bring extra Christmas cheer to your life this year, we hope you enjoy the read.
Traditional Christmas Colours

For centuries, Christmas has been celebrated with special colours. These hues hold deep cultural and religious significance. They enrich your festive decorations and create a warm, joyful atmosphere.
What Are The 12 Christmas Colours?
- Red
Red represents warmth, love, and energy during the holiday season. It's linked to holly berries and Santa's iconic suit. This bold colour energises your environment and enhances the holiday mood.
- Green
Green embodies life, renewal, and eternal hope. It brings a sense of nature's resilience to your Christmas décor. It's inspired by evergreen trees that remain lush throughout winter.
- Gold
Gold symbolises wealth, prosperity, and divine light. It evokes warmth and richness that enhances your holiday décor. Gold in ornaments, ribbons, or lights creates an elegant atmosphere.
- Silver
Silver adds a touch of elegance and modernity. It complements traditional colours while offering a cooler, reflective quality. Silver brings sparkling vibrancy that captures the magic of the season.
- White
White stands out as a symbol of purity and peace. It represents the fresh beauty of snow. White invites simplicity and elegance, balancing the brighter hues around it.
- Blue
Blue brings a deep sense of calm and tranquillity. It's a symbol of peace and serenity. This colour represents quiet, snowy nights and the promise of harmony during the festive season.
- Purple
Purple carries deep historical and spiritual significance. It symbolises royalty and reflection. Its rich hue enhances the festive atmosphere while encouraging a sense of reverence.
- Pink
Pink offers a delightful modern twist. This vibrant hue brings warmth and playfulness to your festive arrangements. It creates a stylish contrast to classic reds and greens.
- Burgundy
Burgundy offers a sophisticated alternative to bright red. It brings a sense of luxury and depth. This rich wine-coloured hue creates a cosy, intimate feeling in your Christmas decorations.
- Copper
Copper combines the warmth of red with the richness of gold. It's a versatile, earthy tone. Copper decorations catch the light beautifully and add a rustic elegance to your festive home.
- Teal
Teal brings a refreshing coastal vibe to Christmas. It pairs wonderfully with silver and white. This blue-green shade offers a contemporary twist while maintaining a wintry feel.
- Brown
Brown grounds your Christmas palette with natural warmth. It reminds us of wood, pinecones, and cinnamon. This earthy colour creates a rustic foundation for your festive decorations.
How to Use Christmas Colours in Your Home

Mix and match these colours to create your perfect Christmas scheme. Traditional combinations include red and green, gold and purple, or silver and blue. You might prefer a monochromatic look with various shades of a single colour.
Think about your existing décor when choosing. Pick colours that complement your home's style. This creates a cohesive look rather than a jarring contrast.
Layer different textures in the same colour family. Velvet, satin, and matte finishes in the same hue add depth. This technique creates visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Creating New Colour Traditions
Christmas colours evolve with time. Don't be afraid to break tradition. Choose colours that bring you joy and reflect your personal style.
Consider a theme that tells your family's story. Perhaps blues and silvers reflect winter holidays you've enjoyed together. Maybe burgundy and gold remind you of a special Christmas from your past.
The most important thing is creating an atmosphere that feels festive to you. The best Christmas colours are those that make your home feel magical and welcoming.
What Are The 12 Christmas Colours | EXPLIANED!
Well, there you have it, these colours, each rich in tradition and symbolism can help create the joyful atmosphere that defines Christmas.
But Christmas, of course, is what you make it, and there are many more important facets of the festive period such as spending time with family, goodwill to name just two.
Here at Villers Hotel we always Christmas decorate with a colour palette that is chosen from the base 12 Christmas Colours, and this year will be no different. Wonder what colours it’ll be this year?
Why not come and find out for yourself this December by attending one of Buckingham’s Best Christmas Parties!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most traditional Christmas colours and why? Red and green are the most traditional Christmas colours. Red represents Santa's suit and holly berries. Green symbolises evergreen trees that stay alive during winter. These colours date back centuries in Christmas traditions.
Can I use non-traditional colours for Christmas decorations? Absolutely! While traditional colours have symbolic meaning, modern Christmas décor embraces all colours. Pink, teal, and copper have become increasingly popular. Choose colours that make you happy and match your home's style.
How do I create a cohesive colour scheme with Christmas decorations? Choose 2-3 main colours plus a metallic accent like gold or silver. Use these colours consistently throughout your decorations. Match your tree ornaments, wrapping paper, and table settings. This creates a polished, designer look that feels intentional rather than random.