Bows made of ribbon have long been a staple of elegant gift wrapping, but in recent years they’ve made their way into other parts of the home (and fashion) world. No longer just reserved for the holidays, bows have become a popular design motif on everything from earrings to mugs to artwork.

Since Christmas and bows are an inherently popular duo, combining the home decor trend with your holiday decorating is a no-brainer. To help you deck your halls (and tables, mantels, and wreaths) with bows and ribbon, we’ve curated a list of creative ways to incorporate these delicate, cheery accessories into your decor this holiday season.

1. Add Bows to Your Christmas Tree

When it comes to decorating your Christmas tree, bows offer endless possibilities for both style and functionality. For a unique twist, use ribbon tied into bows to hang your ornaments instead of traditional metal hooks for a touch of elegance that’s still practical. Bows can also replace or complement ornaments—simply place them throughout the tree in your chosen color scheme for a cohesive look. Consider different ribbon tail lengths, as short tails create a chic, minimalist feel, while long tails lend a more dramatic, flowing effect. For an eye-catching finish, consider an oversized bow as a statement tree topper, or layer multiple bows for a bold appearance.

2. Elevate Holiday Place Settings

This year, level up your holiday tablescape with place settings featuring beautiful bow accents. Wrap both ends of a Christmas cracker with velvet bows for a sophisticated and timeless favor, or place a small wrapped gift with a classic bow beside each plate—perfect as both festive decor and a thoughtful present for guests to take home. For an added layer of charm, tie bows around napkin rings, silverware, wine glasses, or candlestick holders.

3. Add Color to a Garland

Use ribbon or florist wire to secure garland throughout your home, decorating banisters, mantels, large mirrors, doorways, and even outdoor features like mailboxes and porch railings. Once the garland is in place, tie large bows with cascading tails at each point between the curves. Space the bows evenly and experiment with alternating colors, patterns, or finishes.

4. Personalize Christmas Stockings

Add a personalized touch to your Christmas stockings by adorning them with bows that complement your holiday theme. Tie a large and elegant bow around the top of the stocking and secure it tightly. For a touch of whimsy, layer smaller bows among the large bow in various finishes, patterns, or tail lengths, or incorporate charming accessories like the first initial of the stocking’s owner or a tiny pom-pom garland. Hang stockings on your mantle, staircase, or along a wall.

5. Spruce Up Your Wreaths

A timeless way to incorporate bows into your Christmas decor is by adding one to a wreath, whether it’s displayed on your front door or hung indoors. Secure the bow with florist wire at the top or bottom of the wreath and allow the tails to cascade gracefully down the greenery for a polished look, or keep them short for a more playful one. If you have mini wreaths, use ribbon to hang them from chairbacks or in front of mirrors with draping bows at the top of the loop.

6. Turn Picture Frames into Holiday Artwork

Subtly use bows in your Christmas decor by embellishing your picture frames with them. Regardless of size, a bow makes your existing wall decor look thoughtfully decorated for the holidays. Use a broad variety of ribbons for each framed piece, whether that’s with finish, size, or pattern. Tie them in different fashions as well; wrap one frame like a gift, and add bells or mistletoe to others.