Holiday Decor: Ideas for Decorating the Mantel for Christmas

Decorating our homes for Christmas is a wonderful way to catch the spirit of the holiday season. Because the fireplace is in many instances the focal point of a room and Santa's big entrance, decorating it with holiday décor is a must. Here are everyday tips on decorating your fireplace mantel and a few basic elements you may want to incorporate when creating your Christmas look:

* Display holiday stockings {with care}.
* Hang a live wreath over or garland around a mirror on the wall.
* Lay or hang live garland or pine branches along the mantel.

Continue to add and layer holiday items - pinecones, ornaments, candles, ribbon, seashells - that best communicate your design style.

Here's a collection of mantels decorated in a variety of styles for the Christmas holiday. From opulent to simple, classic to rustic, and monochromatic to colorful, hopefully you will find one that inspires you.