What Your Favorite 'Little Women' Sister Says About Your Christmas Decorating Style
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
If you’ve ever encountered Louisa May Alcott’s coming-of-age novel Little Women, or watched any of its many television and film adaptations, you know it’s nearly impossible to not see yourself reflected in one of the March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, or Amy. Or, more than likely, see snippets of each sister’s archetype mirrored in your own life.
I always related most to Jo, a bookish type who feels a little stir-crazy in her small social circle and narrowly defined role as a women. But then there’s the oldest sister in me that feels a camaraderie with Meg, a romantic who finds strength and power in her choice to marry and raise a family.
Perhaps that’s why the story of the March sisters is so enduring—we’re always grappling with how to be ambitious women. The real beauty of Alcott’s Little Women is that, of course, you don’t have to choose. The March sisters are just as complicated and nuanced as the women in your own life, navigating ambition, desire, and sisterhood.
But, in the spirit of Christmas merriment, you can choose which sister best represents your Christmas decorating style. Do you collect vintage Shiny Brights all year round? You’re a Beth! Can the reflection of your tinsel turn heads down the block? I see you, Amy. Perhaps you start making a dried-orange garland the day after Thanksgiving. You, my friend, are definitely a Jo.
Thankfully, nostalgic and handmade decor is trending this year, so no matter your style, you’ll find inspiration below that’s both of the moment and timeless. Curious to see how your favorite March sister affects your Christmas decor sensibilities? Fair warning, these ideas may inspire you add a festive tabletop tree (or two) to your Christmas decor, and they will definitely inspire a rewatch (or two!) of the Alcott classic—both the 1994 adaptation and the more recent 2019 version.
Meg: The Traditionalist
You love the finer things, and put tradition (think a classic red-and-green scheme) and family above all. Just like many eldest daughters before and after her, Meg follows in Marmee’s footsteps making a tree that feels warm and traditional (like the set for the filming of Little Women (which was based on Alcott’s childhood home in Concord Massachusetts).
This mini balsam tree, much like its muse, embraces traditional elements like a plaid bow, cranberry garland, and tartan ornaments, plus homey accents like clip-on candlesticks. A stoneware crock serves as a classic base.
RELATED: Take a Tour of an 1830s Log Cabin All Dressed Up For an Old-Fashioned Christmas
Jo: The Naturalist
Minimalist and no-nonsense, you gravitate toward a nature-inspired palette and more literary pursuits. You keep your decking-of-the-halls simple for ample time to spend as much of the holiday season as possible snuggled up with a book.
A sparse alpine balsam fir channels Jo’s less-is-more leanings, while an antique copper pot anchors the display with metallic heft. Bird and pine cone ornaments hit an organic note, while a dried-orange garland appeals to Jo's practical side
Beth: The Nostalgist
Sweet and sentimental, you relish holiday nostalgia and cherish all things handmade and handcrafted. Less drawn to grand adventures that your other sisters, you instead, feel the pull towards the simplicity and comfort of home.
A flocked spruce and ribbon-candy ornaments hit a nostalgic note. The happy-hued handmade button garland and vintage candy-tin base add simple homespun charm.
RELATED: 25+ Vintage Christmas Decorations That Will Never Go Out of Style
Amy: The Free Spirit
Fanciful and (a bit) frivolous, you love the glitz and glamour of the holidays. You likely have a soft spot for sparkle and shiny objects. Unafraid to speak your mind, or make your intentions know you have no trouble embracing the more-is-more approach to decor.
An all-white spruce serves as an eye-catching foundation for sparkling snowflakes, pastel baubles, putz house accents, and a sweet ice-skate topper. A hatbox as the tree holder evokes a bit of jet-set glamour.
You Might Also Like
