This Ethereal Aesthetic Will Turn Your Closet Into Wonderland

ethereal aesthetic airy styles pinterest predicts 2023

I am a girly girl to my core. Even in athletic shorts and a tee shirt, I always have dainty jewelry, glittery eyeshadow, or braids in my hair. The hottest trends of 2023 – from the Coquette aesthetic to the No Pants trend — are all about embracing your body and your personality in the most unconventional and beautiful ways. And my favorite aesthetic of the year (so far) is what Pinterest Predicts calls “Airy Styles”— not to be confused with what actual British people probably call Harry Styles.

Leading ladies like Legally Blonde's Elle Woods and Bridgerton's Kate Sharma exhibit strength and intelligence, without sacrificing any of their femininity in the process. Much like these heroines, the Airy Styles trend celebrates the complexity of traditionally femme looks while bringing in ethereal details I’ve dreamt about since I first watched The Lord of the Rings.

Spring is all about new life and new beginnings, so don’t be afraid to start fresh by adding some tulle, some ruffles, and some shimmer to your closet. Mix in some pastels and bold shades. Contrast it all with a modern edge. Whatever you do, treat your wardrobe with the Airy Styles renaissance it deserves. Welcome to Wonderland.

Are ruffles in style 2023?

Ruffles are definitely back in style. We love a ruffled blouse, but we’ll also always say yes to dresses, skirts, and pants.

​Is lace in style in 2023?

Lace is in style this year. While you can find it in overlays and outer layers, the real star of 2023 will be long sleeve tops that you can layer.

​Are maxi dresses in style 2023?

Maxi dresses are still going strong, but feel free to wear a voluminous babydoll dress on warm spring days. If you are looking for maxi dresses, feel free to swap your prairie-chic prints for shimmer or even some fringe.

The Basics

Image via Ron Lach/Pexels

Materials

To achieve this aesthetic, look for materials that are naturally light to translate the weightless euphoria Airy Styles represents.

  • Silk
  • Tulle
  • Lace
  • Satin

Colors

Even though pastels are the primary colors here, you don’t need to stick to them if they don’t feel like you. Opt for the above materials in neutrals, neons, or toned-down shades of your favorite colors.

  • Pastels
  • Neutrals
  • Neons
  • Jewel Tones

The Extras

Hair + Makeup

Create a pastel eye makeup look that matches your outfit, or braid pearls into your hair. These kinds of accessories will add texture without any rough elements.

Airy Styles Inspiration

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/404479610295370395/ expand=1 site_id=19876466]

www.pinterest.com

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44332377575229457/ expand=1 site_id=19876466]

www.pinterest.com

www.instagram.com

Chloe Williams on Instagram: "“How do you know I’m mad?" said Alice. "You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn’t have come here. 🎩"
[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/326651779239948303/ expand=1 site_id=19876466]

www.pinterest.com

[pinterest_embed https://www.pinterest.com/pin/28921622599108424/ expand=1 site_id=19876466]

www.pinterest.com

Shimmery dresses

Tassel Beaded Mini Shift Dress ($174, was $435)

These rainbow beads add an extra pop of color to a more neutral look. Basically, this dress has it all: color, shimmer, and texture, all in one gorgeous package.

Sachin & Babi Sequin Sanza Dress ($110 with Rent The Runway)

Thanks to the bold color and eye-catching sequins on this dress, you can keep your accessories to a minimum. Opt for a bold graphic liner or a barely-there eyeshadow to round out your Airy look.

That Girl Sequin Slip ($98)

Pairing the shiny, sleek feel of a sequin dress with a rich velvet blazer is the perfect combo, especially if you keep it monochromatic.

Altar’d State Peach Sequin Dress ($80)

The perfect spring picnic dress: found. The simple peach color really lets the sparkle overlay stand out, and adds an extra layer of romance.

Lace top long sleeve

FRENCH CONNECTION Juliet Mozart Lace Sleeve Sweater ($103, was $138)

Everyone needs a simple black, square-neck top, and this pick also happens to feature lace sleeves. It’s an elevated basic that you’ll wear all spring long.

hanky panky Women's Signature Lace Unlined Long Sleeve Top ($49)

Wear a thin, lace bodysuit under oversized layers for a light look with coverage. The coolest aspect of this top is definitely its versatility — it’ll feel edgy under a graphic tee and girly under a slip.

T TAHARI Kimono Sleeve Lace Top ($64, was $198)

Your classic button down just got an upgrade. This blouse proves lace long sleeve tops don’t have to just be tight or dark. We can’t wait to wear this with jeans and loafers.

MIHOLL Women’s Long Sleeve Tops Lace Casual Loose Blouses T Shirts ($26)

For a more casual outfit, go for a colorful sweater that you can wear with jeans on a coffee run or sweats inside the house. Even dressed down, the color will still have you feeling fab.

Tulle sleeves

By Anthropologie Mini Tulle Heart Layer ($140)

Thanks to Emily in Paris, we’ve already seen how fashion in the 2020s is all about wearing beautiful pieces because of their beauty. Add this tulle layer to bodysuits, bodycon dresses, or tanks.

Forever 21 Tulle-Sleeve Crop Top ($20, was $28)

Tulle sleeves add an upscale detail to this tank that can dress up your jeans and sandals. If you wanna go a little girlier, toss it on with a skirt instead.

Altar’d State Bella Puff Sleeve Bodysuit ($60)

Mother’s Day brunch or an afternoon city stroll calls for the perfect girly top: pink, flattering, and voluminous yet still streamlined. Bingo, baby.

MAJORELLE Baby Bye Bye Top ($158)

Whether you’re in need of a vacation outfit or you want something unique, this top mixes a sexy silhouette with playful polka dots for something that looks brand new.

Sheer pants outfit

RUEWEY Women See Through Mesh Flare Cover up Pants ($10+)

This bright chartreuse has us dreaming of sunnier days, making this sheer pair of pants perfect for spring and summer. Plus, it features ruffles on the legs, and you really can’t go wrong with ruffles.

ASOS Starlet Rose Set ($139, $191)

Sheer pants can feel inherently ethereal, but this darker take on the trend uses black fabric and deep red roses to ground the look. The perfect ‘fit to go with your new leather jacket, if you ask us.

Pacsun Dippin' Daisy's Palm Springs Pants ($42)

Make a statement with a punchy orange outfit that will have you feeling like you’re in Daisy Jones & The Six. They’re also the perfect thing to wear over your new swimsuit.

ASOS LUXE Bandeau Corseted Tiered Ruffle Top + Wide Leg Sheer Pants ($68, was $85 and $53, was $70)

This truly is the outfit of our dreams. Between the ruffles, the powder blue, and the corset-meets-power suit vibes, we’re in love.

Check out our Pinterest for more shimmery dresses and pastel colors, and our email newsletter the latest fashion tips and hacks.

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Tenniscore fashion is on the rise – but what is it? In a post-Challengers, pre-summer Olympics world, tenniscore means taking your typical athleisure to the next level.

Tennis as a whole has a very distinctive uniform, and the fashion world has realized that a lot of what’s worn on the court can also stun off of it.

This trend revival is private country club luxury at its core (very Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap), but it’s not so exclusive now. With big brands like Target, H&M, andFree People taking on tenniscore, everyone can sport it.

Tenniscore is primarily pleated skorts, polos, sporty white dresses, striped sweatervests, thick headbands, and sleek sneakers. I’ve rounded up 17 comfy-chic (and affordable) styles to help you get the look!

Gold Hinge Steel Pleated Tennis Skirt

Pleats are a quintessential part of tenniscore. Super-fine pleats (like the ones on this skort from Gold Hinge) are totally the way to go if you wanna nail the trend. This pick features stretchy spandex shorts underneath for added coverage, pockets on both sides, quick-dry fabric, and an adorable drop-waist detail to further flatter your figure.

The Pleated Tennis Skirt goes for $49. It is available in 21 different colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Free People Movement One More Serve Skortsie

What's better than a skort? A skort dress. This one from Free People is an absolute serve, boasting a playful strappy back and contrasting trim that'll have all eyes on you! The built-in shelf bra and shorts deem this tenniscore piece a true one-and-done since you won't need to layer anything underneath.

The One More Serve Skortsie comes in 9 colors and sizes XS-XL for $128.

Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater

This luxe-looking $48 sweater recalls the sport with a fine mesh knit, cap sleeves, and a pointy collar that zips up. The stark white color is tenniscore's perfect match, as a lot of the aesthetic leans into opulence, and therefore, cleanliness. The wider waistband can be worn tucked in or outside of skirts or shorts, depending on your preference.

This Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater is on sale for $48 (was $80) and is available in sizes XXS-XXL.

Golden Hour Santa Barbara Tennis Association Cotton Graphic Baby Tee

If you're a bit unsure about going full-out into tenniscore with a short pleated skirt, ease into the aesthetic by sporting something more subtle, like this graphic baby tee! The illustrative lettering on the front feels opulent as ever, even though this is a super-cozy and casual style you could wear every single day.

This tee is currently on sale at Nordstrom for $10 (was $24) and is shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

Abercrombie & Fitch YPB sculptLUX Polo Mini Dress

The polo collar! The zipper! The sporty material! This butter yellow dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has it all. It's crafted from their sculptLUX active fabric, which is designed to hold you in and sculpt your bod in the best ways. The half-zip detail along the neckline allows you to get a lil' cheeky with your look, too. This mini features built-in shorts so you can feel appropriately covered up when you're on the go.

The Polo Mini Dress is available in three other easy-to-match colors and sizes XXS-XXL for $80.

Adidas Gazelle Sneakers

Any tenniscore 'fit absolutely warrants a sporty sneaker to match, and the Adidas Gazelles answer that call to a tee. The flat soles echo that of technical tennis shoes that the pros wear, while the rest of the silhouette aligns with the modern shoe trends we're seeing today. The triple-striped design on the sides is undeniably iconic, too!

The Adidas Gazelle sneakers come in 16 other color combos for $120.

Venus Williams x Bombas Quarter Sock 3-Pack

You'll surely need some socks to pair with your tenniscore-approved shoes, and there's no question that these Bombas ones made in collaboration with *the* Venus Williams are the ones to snag! Venus employed her pro-level understanding of the sport to create these practical socks that boast strategic cushioning, arch support, and a sweat-wicking material to leave you with a cozy step – on and off the court.

This 3-pack of socks goes for $57 and is currently available in sizes S and M.

H&M Oversized Sports Sweatshirt

For the perfect sporty outer layer to work, it needs to breathe. Luckily, this oversized pullover from H&M boasts a fast-drying cotton fabrication that surrounds the entire look. Casual dropped shoulders and long cuffed sleeves add to the laid-back vibe of tenniscore, and the front even boasts a motivational message – "move" – to keep you going!

The Oversized Sports Sweatshirt is shoppable in 4 other colors and sizes XS-XXL for $35.

Gold Hinge Bone 2-Toned Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt

This tennis skirt is uniquely designed with a more scalloped hem –rather than a straight one – which provides ample coverage for your every move! The two-toned colorway adds some visual interest without feeling too out-of-place, plus this pick has built-in spandex shorts with pockets for conveniently storing your phone and other courtside essentials.

The Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt is $54 and shoppable in sizes XS-XXL.

Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan

Target recently collaborated with Prince for a very tenniscore fashion collection, and it's everything! This cable knit cardi is a definite staple for rocking the sporty trend on chilly days. The buttoned front allows you to wear this cropped cardigan buttoned up or unbuttoned, or you could tie this striped baby around your shoulders for a true touch of luxury! The blue and red stripes are so classic, too.

The Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan comes in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Kate Spade New York Sweetheart Delicate Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet

I love a tennis bracelet as much as the next person, but I don't always love how expensive they are. Luckily, this gold-plated design from Kate Spade is fairly priced at $128, and it has adorable little hearts instead of the classic square cut. It clasps easily around the wrist with a tongue-and-groove closure, so it'll stay on when you're out and about (or even making moves on the tennis court)!

Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts

These terry shorts host a very vintage feel, which pairs excellently well with more nostalgic tenniscore pieces, like a polo tank or sweater vest! The Adidas logo and side stripes really seal the deal on the sheer sportiness of these bottoms as well. The elastic waistband hits high on the body, securing further with a drawstring.

The Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts go for $45 at Nordstrom and are available in sizes XS-XL.

Athleta Momentum Seamless Polo Tank

This Athleta polo tank is clean, sleek, and summery – perfect for nailing down the more luxe side of tenniscore! It flaunts a seamless construction to ensure total comfort when you're wearing it. The silhouette is designed to fit snugly against your body, though take note that the fabric is fairly see-through. You'll likely need a racerback sports bra for extra coverage and support!

The Momentum Seamless Polo Tank costs $55 and is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL.

Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress

The contrasting white lining that adorns this sporty dress looks just like the lines on a tennis court. Your look will be a great match for, well, your next match! This wide-pleated, strappy-back mini is an easy 'pull on and go' type piece that'll look stunning for every outdoor occasion. It even comes in a bright red color that your doubles partner could twin in!

The Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress is available in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts

These mid-rise shorts feel oh-so 70's, and I am obsessed with the stark color blocking between the hem and the rest of the piece. They're an easy on-and-off, boasting a wide elastic waistband. They're made from a "sporty tech poplin" that emphasizes the utmost breathability.

The Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts cost $30 and come in sizes XS-XXL.

Oomiay Tennis Huggie Earring

Turn your accessory game to total tenniscore with this sweet racket earring! The tiny charm dangles delicately from a snapping hoop, helping you step up your serve even more. This $55 piece is sold in one piece (as opposed to a pair, with two pieces), but when you bundle 3 or more Oomiay jewelry pieces, each one is just $33.

Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress

The compressive unitard lining under this athletic mini dress keeps your look collected and expertly sculpted, no matter what movements you're doing. The sweetheart neckline and strappy back elevate it to be more fashion-forward, so you could easily dress it up further with more formal outerwear and accessories.

The Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress comes in 5 colors total and sizes XXS-6XL for $88.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more trending styles!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Soft Girl Season is upon us yet again, and we're taking it as our cue to trade in our leather for something a little lighter. What started as a blink-and-you'll-miss-it TikTok trend (albeit one of our favorites) has evolved into a yearly ritual of celebrating the softest sides of ourselves.

At its core, this ethereal aesthetic (AKA soft girl era) is known for romanticizing life, slowing down to enjoy the little things, and embracing all the frills and femininity. Aesthetically, her style is quite literally soft to the touch — so break out all of your velvet, lace, and fur!

In a post-Barbiecore world where Y2K is embraced more than ever, this year's soft girl is making her sweet return with an added infusion of girlhood elements. She's still channeling pastels, hearts, and bows while rediscovering everything we loved while we were young (lockets and butterfly clips, your time has come!).

Everything You Need For Your Soft Girl Era

Oomiay Bonbon Ring

Heart-shaped jewelry never looked so good! This colorful ring is essentially Claire's, but for grown-ups.

Nevermore Peekaboo Bow Tights

Featuring three soft girl staples (bows, pearls and lace!), these cutout tights are the epitome of the ethereal aesthetic. They'll take your bow outfit to the next level!

Made By Mary Oval Locket Necklace

Whether you're adding photos of your partner or your pet, lockets are the OG way to keep your loved ones close. Choose a classic style for unlimited layering potential!

Urban Outfitters Velvet Rosette Skinny Scarf

The options are endless with this rosette. Wear it as a choker, headband, or a belt – or even tie it around your ponytail!

Baby Gold Heart Hoop Earrings

We love this heart-shaped twist on the classic hoop earring.

Elsie Rosette Heart Necklace

This drape-y, layered necklace features details that feel extra elegant and feminine: fine ceramics and pearls. The additional bits and bobs make this piece perfect for the soft girl ethereal aesthetic.

Sock Candy Repeat Floral Sock

Wear your sandals year-round with an intentional sock choice. We love these ones from Sock Candy that feature a sweet print, delicate frills, and bows.

PDPAOLA Bond Necklace

This sweet padlock necklace is the perfect layering piece! Pretty and delicate, without being overpowering. Add a personalized touch with monogram details.

Dr. Martens Adding Platform Shoes

A little extra height is always a good idea! Embracing the platform trend has never been easier than with this pretty lilac shade.

Velvet + Textured Scrunchies Set

Oversized scrunchies are aesthetically pleasing *and* practical. Keep your style in place with a velvet or teddy hair tie.

Lolly Bracelet

The soft girl will never say 'no' to some heart jewelry. In this piece, a delicate heart clasp is joined by some eye-catching pearl beads that emit feminine vibes.

Ten Wilde Pave Pearl Initial Choker

Pearls are classic femininity at its finest, and we love this choker's personalized and shimmery touch.

Chillhouse Sea Siren Press-On Nails

Get a soft girl manicure in under five minutes with these press-ons! This sea foam color gives a part velvet, part glossy finish for added soft girl sweetness.

Free People Oversized Bow Choker

While bows are fun, we don't always have the energy to tie them just right. This clip-on bow necklace is lazy girl-approved!

Out From Under Ribbed Long Leg Warmer

These cozy leg warmers add some straight-up comfort to the ethereal look.

A New Day Elise Micro Handbag

Small purses speak to the delicate aspect of the soft girl's ethereal aesthetic. All this baby blue piece needs is a little bow tied on the strap with ribbon!

Casa Clara Penelope Earring

We adore the vintage feel of these oversized heart earrings.

Beaded Pearl Collar

Feeling like your outfit isn't girly enough? This removable pearly collar is here to save the day!

Tasha Imitation Pearl Beret

Bucket hats may be the topper of the year, but the beret is the feminine yet sleek accessory we all need.

Vagabond Delia Flats

Mary Janes flats are the soft girl's shoe of choice. They're a throwback to grade school in all the best ways.

Los Angeles Apparel Lace Ankle Sock

A few lacy layers are all that's needed to dress up your footwear this season.

Local Eclectic Marli Beaded Earrings

We love a beaded accessory moment, and these oversized bow earrings are a soft girl vibe.

Sandy Liang Regalo Socks

If 3D frills are a bit too fussy for everyday life, a printed design (like the ones featured on these bow socks) works just as well!

Urban Outfitters Textured Soft Headband

The soft girl aesthetic calls for simple, clean, and wearable hairstyles. This darling lace headband keeps hairs out of the way to enhance the look.

Emi Jay Sweetheart Clip

Clipping your hair back has never been so fun! This hair clip is adorned with beaded mini ribbons for some added balletcore vibes.

Which soft girl accessories will you be adding to your winter wardrobe? Shop more on-trend picks with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Christmas cookie decorating is holiday tradition for us here at B+C, so we were so stoked to find this recipe for paleo cookies that adds a healthy twist to this classic holiday dessert. These sweet treats will shine among the rest of your Christmastime tablescape, and they are super easy to make. Plus, they'll pair well with just about any Christmas dessert. Just combine your paleo-friendly ingredients to prep the dough, let it sit overnight, then bake for ten minutes! The best part about this recipe is of course, all of the fun holiday-time shapes you can cut. Consider this recipe your go-to for healthy cookies, though, since you can make them year-round in any shape you like. Let's get to decorating!

Ingredients for Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

For the cookies:

  • 1/2 cup grass-fed salted butter, softened
  • 6 tablespoons raw honey
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the frosting:

  • 6 tablespoons coconut butter or coconut manna
  • 1/4 cup cacao butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey
  • Plant-based food coloring
  • Vegetable-dyed sprinkles, for topping*
* Look for vegetable and fruit-dyed food coloring and sprinkles in natural grocery stores or online, and avoid artificial colors to keep these cookies Paleo friendly!

How to Make Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

  1. Add the softened butter and honey to a large mixing bowl. Cream the mixture together using a handheld mixer until it is smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract and whisk until they are well combined. Pour in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, and continue mixing until the batter has come together smoothly.
  2. Separate the dough into two, and place each one on top of a piece of plastic wrap. Roll each dough into a ball, then flatten to a thick disk, cover completely with the plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one of the dough discs from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic and place the dough on top of a piece of parchment paper, then top it with another piece of parchment paper. Use a roller to flatten out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch thick. Work quickly with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters, and use a thin spatula to lift the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the cookies in the oven for 10 minutes. Let them cool for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack for further cooling. Gather the leftover scraps back into a ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it back in the refrigerator, while working with the other piece of dough. Do this in batches to keep the dough from getting too warm and so you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
  5. While the batches of cookies are baking, use a small saucepan to lightly melt the coconut butter and cacao butter together over low heat on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat when the ingredients have just melted together. Stir in the desired amount of honey, then set aside to cool and thicken up slightly. If you are using food coloring, add in the desired amount into the frosting mixture (1-2 teaspoons of green or red should do the trick). If you plan on only using white frosting, only use a small amount of honey, as it can make the frosting an off-white or light brown color.
  6. After the cookies have completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting and sprinkles as desired. If you don’t have any professional piping tools, an easy fix is to place the frosting in a plastic sandwich bag and remove all the air when sealing the top. Cut a tiny tip off one corner of the plastic bag, then gently squeeze and pipe over the cookies. Use one plastic bag or piping bag for each color of frosting. Top with corresponding sprinkles and enjoy!

Is your mouth watering yet? Check out our newsletter for more delicious holiday recipe ideas!

Recipe development and photography by Sarah Anderson.

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.