If you’re anything like us, you awake on Christmas morning with an extra spring in your step, ready to see what goodies under the tree bare your name (and because you must watch A Christmas Story for the 500th time). You ignore the after-effects of your Christmas Eve cookiesbinge and the one-too-many cocktails because, well, it’s Christmas. But just in case you need a little extra present-opening gusto, we’ve rounded up some iconic Christmas breakfast ideas so decadent and delicious, Santa is going to wish he delivered your gifts on Christmas morning.
Real Foot Dietitians
This veggie-filled casserole, made with homemade breakfast sausage, sweet potatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and spinach, will kick off the holiday on a healthy start. It reheats well too so you can make it the night before! (via Real Food Dietitians)
Clean Cuisine
Go easy on yourself Christmas morning with this delicious recipe that can be whipped up in minutes! Add your favorite toppings and prepare the night before! (via Clean Cuisine)
Crowded Kitchen
This vegan and gluten free breakfast is also nut-free, easy to make, and can be served cold or warm.
Vikalinka
Try something totally unique with this delicious millet porridge with honey glazed plums. (via Vikalinka)
Completely Delicious
This is a fun idea for everyone of all ages and relieves you of the heavy lifting. (via Completely Delicious)
The Original Dish
So much flavor in one bite, your crew will love this tasty yet simple recipe. (via The Original Dish)
Hello Little Home
Spice things up with this Shakshuka-style dish. (via Hello Little Home)
Kathryn's Kitchen
If you like things on the sweet side, this holiday breakfast is for you. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Vanilla and Bean
Surprise your morning crew with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese, salty parmesan cheese, spinach, and eggs, with a touch of nutmeg and pepper flakes. (via Vanilla and Bean)
Culinary Hill
Meat lovers will swoon over this rich bennie dish. (via Culinary Hill)
The key to mastering this eggnog-infused French toast for Christmas breakfast is using thick-cut brioche bread. Each slice eagerly soaks up the batter, creating a very succulent bite. Top everything off with caramelized oranges and a generous drizzle of toffee sauce for sweetness! (via Brit + Co.)
Even if bread pudding is reserved only for dessert, we'll still be eating it on Christmas morning. This recipe in particular yields a super sweet batch for the whole fam! (via Brit + Co.)
No need to make a Starbucks run – this Christmas breakfast recipe is for about 8 servings, and each bar is even better with a hot cup of coffee. (via Brit + Co.)
These fried eggs get their flavor from chili oil and feta cheese, but you can make them even more of a fit for Christmas breakfast by serving them with green avocado and red salsa! (via Brit + Co.)
For the holidays, switch up the typical banana-berry combo with this citrusy smoothie, which is pink from blood orange juice and protein-rich from Greek yogurt. Add a garnish of rosemary for a little Christmas-y flavor. (via Brit + Co.)
Even though PSL season is old news, it doesn't mean that pumpkin-infused foods aren't still delicious AF! These pumpkin rolls get baked in a handful of warm spices then drenched in icing for a sweet Christmas breakfast option. (via Brit + Co.)
This recipe is another play on one of Starbucks' fan-favorite snacks, the Lemon Loaf. The tangy flavors will definitely help you wake up on the big day. (via Brit + Co.)
You can try a trendybutter board or a spread of colorful toasts like green avocado and cucumber and raspberry and pomegranate for a colorful Christmas breakfast. (via Brit + Co.)
We love butter boards (after all, what's not to love?) but the mainstream butter board recipes you'll find on TikTok aren't usually vegan. Follow this plant-based Christmas breakfast recipe instead! (via Brit + Co.)
This light and fluffy frittata is packed with the classics and is sure to fill you up while also keeping you light on your feet this holiday season. (via Brit + Co.)
If you’re looking to host your friends and family forbrunch with minimal effort, consider this baked French toast. Throw it together in minutes, toss it in the oven, and use your extra free time to whip up a killer pitcher of Christmas cocktails. (via Brit + Co.)
Chocolatier Jacques Torres' recipe for hot chocolate is a must-try. Serve these decadent drinks alongside one of his perfect chocolate chip cookies. It's sure to become a favorite of all ages. (via Brit + Co.)
Most of us have some experience of growing up with a favorite pancake recipe, and if fresh fruit is involved, this dish is all the better. The best fruit on pancakes? We're torn between bananas and strawberries. Here, you can have both. (via Brit + Co.)
We're pretty sure croissants are one of the best things France ever gave us. This take on the French pastry turns your go-to croissants into French toast — with plenty of strawberries, cream, and jam to boot. (via Brit + Co.)
These easy, savory, veg-based pancakes are healthy, celiac-friendly and delicious. (via Brit + Co.)
Hannah Sunderani's Two Spoons cookbooknot only has this French chocolate-hazelnut crepe recipe, but tons of other breakfasts you can whip up to feel like you're living the French girl dream. (via Brit + Co.)
We love these baked egg boats for so many reasons. They are delicious, they reheat well, are easy to slice, and they’re just beautiful! But not too beautiful to eat – you’ll devour them. (via Brit + Co.)
Our red velvet brunch waffles also make for a sweet Christmas breakfast treat! If you have a Christmas-themed waffle maker, use that instead for the vibes. (via Brit + Co.)
A skinny pancake topped with your favorite preserves and a sprinkling of confectioners sugar... need we say more? (via For the Love of the South)
Zucchini bread and pancakes are two of our most favorite things. Now, we can enjoy them together! ‘Nuff said. (via Smitten Kitchen)
This pick may be classified as a dessert, but you can 1000% make this recipe for Christmas breakfast! It's reminiscent of strawberry lemonade, so it'll taste light and refreshing. (via Averie Cooks)
Sure, there are loads of butter and full-fat yogurt in this recipe, but these pancakes are also multigrain – so they’re healthy, right?! (via Smitten Kitchen)
These waffles just look like Christmas with their bright red pomegranate seeds and generous dollops of yogurt. (via Sprouted Kitchen)
Who doesn't love stuffed French toast? Once you taste the scrumptiousness of this recipe, you'll want to make it beyond Christmas breakfast for years to come. (via Completely Delicious)
This make-ahead Christmas breakfast recipe is sprinkled with everything bagel spice and fresh herbs. Oh, what fun! (via Half Baked Harvest)
This delicious one-pan breakfast recipe features all the best breakfast foods – potatoes, eggs, bacon and onions. (via Cozy Cravings)
We’re all for stick-to-the-ribs oatmeal and can’t wait to try this rich, eggy alternative. (via Betty Crocker)
Try serving up a warm quiche for the best Christmas breakfast that'll suit a morning crowd. (via Live Eat Learn)
Made with tons of homemade pumpkin spice and a dreamy cinnamon glaze, these vegan baked donuts are a gift for the tastebuds! (via Munching with Mariyah)
So easy for kids and adults to eat, these healthy egg cups are a versatile and gluten-free Christmas breakfast offering. (via Rachel Mansfield)
Few breakfasts are as hearty and delicious as a cheesy quiche. Add some spinach and onion, and you’ve got a five-star Christmas breakfast. (via Real Simple)
Image via Shutterstock
There’s something about bite-size holiday treats that we just love. And when it comes to these hearty (yet sweet) mini muffins, we just can’t get enough. (via Sprouted Kitchen)
You can make these sourdough bagels now, and freeze them until you're ready to eat on Christmas morning. Play with some seasonal toppings, like pumpkin spice or cinnamon. (via Calico & Twine)
These aren’t your typical blueberry muffins. Packed with whole grain flour, rolled oats, and flaxseed, they’ll keep you full all morning long. (via Real Simple)
These easy vegan cinnamon rolls are sweet, fluffy, and totally plant-based. (via Feel Good Foodie)
You can make these meaty bites ahead of time and freeze them for Christmas morning. This recipe adds a little maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. (via The Endless Meal)
Pumpkin and cinnamon are two flavors synonymous with the colder months. Whip up a batch of these confections and let yourself indulge a little! (via Smitten Kitchen)
A good-old southern Christmas breakfast almost always includes cheese grits. They're easy to make and are a satisfying way to fill everyone's bellies. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
Flaky buttermilk biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy is the ultimate Christmas comfort food. (via Culinary Hill)
With a combo of fresh cranberries, pecans, and maple syrup, this warm dish tastes exactly like the holidays. (via Feel Good Foodie)
While these may not be enough food to serve as a main course on Christmas morning, they’ll be perfect to munch on as you sip your coffee by the Christmas tree. (via Tartelette Blog)
This hash brown casserole has fluffy eggs, bell peppers, tender sausage, and of course loads of cheese – yum! (via Salt & Lavender)
Making granola from scratch isn’t as difficult as it sounds, thanks to this recipe. Stir in your favorite Greek yogurt and top with extra fruit for a filling meal. (via Green Kitchen Stories)
You could bake this ahead of time to minimize your to-dos on Christmas morning, or opt to eat straight from the oven with a smear of going-to-melt butter. (via For the Love of the South)
If they’re branded as "The Ultimate," they must be good. Embrace some Southern tradition with this uber-decadent stinky bun dish! (via Bon Appetit)
Because no Christmas breakfast would be complete without some eponymous granola! (via Green Kitchen Stories)
What do you get when you mix pumpkin, bananas and cinnamon? Yummy pumpkin banana bread bars, that's what. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Is it bread, or is it cake? Whatever you decide, expect a tender, fluffy, and bright lemon bread that is sweet and delicious. (via A Spicy Perspective)
This make-ahead recipe is equal parts breakfast and dessert. The best part? You can make it the night before, so all you have to do ion Christmas morning is throw it in the oven. (via The Kitchn)
Spice up your Christmas breakfast with jalapeño cheddar scones! If you're feeling it, add a scoop of scrambled eggs to turn them into artisanal egg and cheese sandwiches — with a kick. (via Smitten Kitchen)
Because one way would be boring. Add more flavor to a traditional croissant with blood oranges, spinach and feta filling, or ham and cheese. These make for an extra-fancy Christmas breakfast platter. (via Adventures in Cooking)
These are hearty and healthy scones that you can pair with just about anything, be it a side of scrambled eggs or your favorite jam. (via Green Kitchen Stories)
This recipe is an absolute classic when it comes to Christmas breakfast. We've always had it in a bundt cake pan, but you can use any vessel you'd like. (via Rachel Mansfield)
Image via Shutterstock
Turn your Christmas breakfast into brunch with these hearty burritos complete with protein, dairy, and lots of veggies and herbs. (via Sprouted Kitchen)
This delicious and beautiful tart is made with a crunchy gingersnap cookie crust topped with boozy eggnog custard. Garnish it with homemade gingerbread cookies, sugared cranberries, and fresh rosemary for an indulgent Christmas breakfast or dessert. (via Barley & Sage)
Image via Shutterstock
Paninis aren’t just reserved for lunchtime. Swap your deli meat for some eggs, and you’ve got a tastefully toasted breakfast fare. (via Sprouted Kitchen)
A puff pastry meets pizza that we will happily eat for breakfast any day. Prepare as is or top with scrambled egg whites for extra (and light) protein. (via Joy the Baker)
Two Peas and Their Pod
No one will pass up this lemony breakfast that tastes like dessert! (via Two Peas and Their Pod)
The Fast Recipe
Try an easy Hawaiian-inspired breakfast for your holiday meal. (via The Fast Recipe)
Bowl of Delicious
Sleep in and still impress your guests! (via Bowl of Delicious)
Barley and Sage
Forget coffee *and* donuts. Make coffee donuts for a perky morning! (via Barley and Sage)
Shutterstock
Upgrade your morning cup o’ joe with a homemade chai latte. The spices alone — cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg — will put you in the Christmas spirit. (via Sprouted Kitchen)
Try making this spiked hot chocolate recipe for the adults while the kids are playing after Christmas breakfast. Everyone will be in good spirits when it's time to open presents. (via Vanilla and Bean)
Christmas breakfast won't be complete without this sugar cookie martini! Combine Bailey's Irish Cream with a little vanilla vodka and other yummy ingredients to make this delicious martini that rivals Christmas cookies. (via Mixop)
Check out our online baking classes for more easy Christmas meal inspiration and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams and Meredith Holser.
Lead image via Completely Delicious
So, you've found your 2025 word of the year and are ready for the biggest reset of your life. Now all you have to do is map out how you're going to get there. You could opt for vague ideas that live only in your head, but when has that motivated you to achieve your goals in the past?
If you think we're putting you on the spot, we're not! We're here to encourage you to dream boldly by being detailed about what you actually want. Of course, we have the perfect list of deep questions and journal prompts so you can tap into the life you want to live.
Please don't throw eggs at us! We know you don't want to feel governed by a schedule like you're in grade school, but there are benefits to having something to guide you daily. According to Northwestern Medicine, you can "reduce stress" and even "get better rest" by having a routine.
If you've been promising yourself to improve in these areas, here are 5 questions to ask yourself:
Making time for your self-care is a part of your daily routine, but we want to dig deeper by sharing questions that'll help you reflect on how you treat yourself.
Brit + Co
We almost said, "Here comes the fun part," but that would be unfair for people who consider other areas of their lives more important to chasing a career. If you are focused on pursuing something you're passionate about or simply want to earn a new promotion, here's what you can ask yourself:
Brit + Co
Your home is anywhere that you live even if you're renting or living with your parents for the time being.
Have you been making excuses for toxic friends or ignoring red flags? If it's okay, we're going to sit by you and gently suggest it's time for a change. The kind of life you want to live can't be weighed down by old habits of yours or some of the people you've been spending time with, especially if you've been feeling uncomfortable.
Get a jumpstart on transforming your space for 2025 with easy feng shui tips!
We're excited about how cozy, enchanting, and yummy this holiday is going to be, and Christmas appetizers are a huge part of that. For us, Christmas appetizers bring forth the nostalgic feeling of endlessly snacking on peppermint bark and puppy chow as a kid. With starter recipes this easy, there's no reason to be a scrooge about making your holiday menu. Whether you're dreaming up a new lineup of Christmas cocktails or a festive dessert, you can get creative with merry mealtime –without giving yourself too much to handle. Here are some easy Christmas appetizers that will satiate for a lazy holiday at home.
Christmas involves a lot of prep, especially when you're hosting. Whether your family is all about those casual get togethers, you're helping Grandma with Christmas dinner, or you're throwing your first dinner party, the last thing you want is to be stressed over a ridiculously difficult recipe. That's where these easy Christmas appetizers (which can also double as side dishes) come into play! Not only will that take pressure off of you, but there are so many different options that you're sure to find a few sweet and savory recipes that everyone loves.
Brit + Co
Follow this exact recipe for a fully vegan Christmas appetizer, or choose your own adventure by making swaps for the plant-based picks. No matter how you make them, these savory hand pies will taste amazing for a pre-dinner snack.
Brit + Co
You'd never guess it, but certain kinds of chocolates and cheeses work well together, kind of like snack and wine pairings. This appetizer-ready recipe combines Parmigiano Reggiano and bitter dark chocolate for a mind-blowingly merry munchie.
Brit + Co
To make these bite-sized Christmas appetizers, you'll essentially stuff mushrooms full of the contents of Greek salad. That means this pick is super healthy, but also super customizable, too. If you'd rather stuff your mushrooms with melty cheese, there's nothing stopping you!
Brit + Co
This savory, layered snack takes flavor inspiration from Asian dishes, which will totally make it a standout among the more traditional holiday dishes you're serving this season.
If you make a butter candle as a Christmas appetizer, just know it's gonna be the talk of the table. When lit, it will not only generate some seriously melty butter to dip crusty bread in, but it will add to the cozy Christmas dinner ambience, burning warm light.
Brit + Co
All you have to say is "cheese dip," and your dinner guests will flock to the snack area. To complete the appetizer, make these easy bacon twists that are crafted with pre-made pastry dough. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Keto or not, you'll be blown away by this cheese ball. It's covered in chives and bacon crumbles, the ultimate duo to pair with crunchy crackers.
Brit + Co
Spinach dip is a no-fail Christmas appetizer. You can serve it hot or cold, and it's going to be delicious every single time.
Brit + Co
If you love sushi but don't want to eat a whole roll before Christmas dinner, this appetizer is the perfect pick for you. With smoked salmon, rice, avocado, and onions, everyone will want more of these delicious bites. They're super easy to customize too, so you can leave out (or add) whatever toppings you want.
Brit + Co
Meatballs are one of the greatest Christmas appetizers because they're bite-sized and delicious. We'd definitely consider that a win-win. This French-themed recipe features cremini mushrooms, garlic, and gruyere cheese for some seriously rich flavor.
Brit + Co
Butter boards are one TikTok trend that we can totally get behind, and this updated version gives the dish a sweet (and healthy) twist with vegan butter and plenty of berries. Coconut flakes and almonds add some texture, but if your guests have allergies, simply leave them off!
Brit + Co
This delicious Christmas appetizer is a great way to complement the all kinds of recipes that you'll be having throughout the holiday season. Since they take less than an hour to make, they're great as a pre-dinner snack while the ham is in the oven. They're easy, they're delicious, and they're Paleo!
Brit + Co
Add some vibrant color to your holiday appetizer game with this superfood dip. Dress it up with festive veggies like rainbow carrots, watermelon radish, and golden beets. Talk about eye candy!
Brit + Co
This holiday appetizer provides a mouthwatering balance between sweet and salty that will definitely make its way to your table year after year. Spice it up with some extra seasoning or leave it as-is based on your preference. Either way, don't worry about setting out the Tupperware — you won't have any leftovers!
Brit + Co
Baked brie is one of our favorite Christmas appetizers, but if you usually can't take part in the creamy goodness, have no fear. This vegan recipe swaps regular cheese for a cashew-based alternative. You can use cashews to make a convincingly creamy dip, and the nutritional yeast in this pick gives it a cheesy flavor that's almost too good to be true.
Food Lovin' Family
You can make these cream cheese and veggie pinwheels with any filling you prefer, making it a dish that gives you a ton of variety at the snack table. They're so colorful, too! Try this Christmas appetizer with different types of wraps or try filling them with fruit for even more snackage.
The Blond Cook
These flaky, cheesy, and spicy poppers are *the* go-to Christmas appetizer idea when you want big flavor, but are short on time. Use veggie cream cheese instead of regular to give this snack a fuller flavor.
Half Baked Harvest
What's more festive than cranberries and brie? Bright, cheery, and just a bit sweet, this Christmas appetizer recipe is exactly what any party needs to get going. And they're simple to make, too!
Greens & Chocolate
Baked brie is not only a fan-favorite Christmas hors d'oeuvre, but it's quick to throw in the oven while you're working on your other appetizers. This recipe uses caramelized onions and a little bit of wine to bring out the flavors of the cheese. We love eating this cheese with crackers and fruit.
Full of Plants
If you love the elegance of sushi but don't want to leave fish out all night, this might be the best Christmas appetizer recipe for you. You'll never guess what the vegan salmon is made from. These are also a great way to make sure any vegan family members at the party aren't excluded.
Greens & Chocolate
For something tangy and savory to snack on, look no further than this recipe. Besides being full of tasty flavor, telling your family that you marinated your own olives will make for a toothsome conversation starter!
Let's save the forks and knives for dinner! Finger foods are easy for both prep and clean up. All you need is a few small plates and napkins, and your friends and family can enjoy these holiday appetizers at their leisure. Finger foods are also great for kids because they're often bite-sized, but that doesn't mean that everyone can't enjoy them! From bacon-wrapped scallops to Chinese chicken egg rolls, don't be surprised if these Christmas appetizers leave your guests speechless.
Fit Living Eats
What's red and green and sweet underneath? These festive Christmas party appetizers topped with pomegranate seeds and guacamole! With so many different consistencies and flavors coming together, this recipe really provides an appetizer experience like no other.
Dinner at the Zoo
Shrimp cocktail is always a hit — especially when you serve it in a fancy glass! These shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce and to add that Mexican flair, they're topped with a refreshing tomato and avocado relish to make them a holiday appetizer recipe to remember.
Blissful Basil
Mushrooms were meant to be stuffed — and when you pop one of these tasty and easy holiday appetizers into your mouth, you'll agree. The nutty, herbaceous, and slightly sweet filling creates a palate pleaser that will wow all your friends.
Amanda Wilens
The only thing we love more than a Christmas appetizer is a themed Christmas appetizer, and this charcuterie wreath is just perf! It's a cute (and festive) take on the usual cheese board. Use plenty of rosemary sprigs for some greenery and throw in a few chocolate pieces for good measure.
Cooks with Cocktails
The bacon-wrapped scallop is kicked up with a creamy and dreamy Cajun sauce. This is one recipe that's tasty enough to be made all year long!
The Roasted Root
Warm, aromatic roasted nuts help you stay cozy when it's cold outside, and the maple and rosemary flavors in this holiday hors d'oeuvre work so nicely together. Not only do these make a tasty appetizer, but you can fill your go-to candy jar with them for a snack all holiday season long.
Half Baked Harvest
You've never seen egg rolls like this. The crispy egg rolls become swoon-worthy bites when mixed with the sweet, tart pomegranate dipping sauce. Since pomegranates are in season in wintertime, make sure to get a few to make some extra holiday recipes.
The Cozy Apron
We understand that people share a deep love for crock pots full of Swedish meatballs, but these babies take the cake. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, these meatballs will totally become a holiday tradition.
By the time Christmas Eve comes around, you've probably already made half a dozen appetizers for your office party, your friend's White Elephant gift exchange, and your family's Christmas dinner. If you're feeling burnt out on regular finger foods, go for a dip instead! Dips are a great way to make a customizable appetizer that everyone will be able to enjoy. Make some sweet and savory dips to give guests a few different options, and pair 'em with your favorite cracker, veggie, or even cookies. Chef's kiss!
What's Gaby Cooking
A party just isn't a party without a melty dip! Get ready for a little extra indulgence with this ooey-gooey mixture that's packed with plump artichokes and topped with toasty breadcrumbs for an easy Christmas appetizer. Our mouths are watering!
The Recipe Critic
A pop of dried cranberries makes this holiday cheese ball a tart and savory Christmas-themed appetizer to make for your next holiday bash. It's an unconventional take on a cheese ball that uses your favorite traditional holiday ingredients.
Pinch of Yum
Why have run-of-the-mill appetizers for a Christmas party when you can have curry hummus? This recipe is easy to follow, even if you've never made your own hummus before. We love to dip carrots and cucumbers, but the veggies you pick are totally up to you.
Cooks with Cocktails
The apple cream cheese dip paired with these fluffy and crunchy potato bites will add a nice, sweet touch to your Christmas dinner table. It's safe to say that no one else will have an appetizer quite like this!
Averie Cooks
What's better than tender chicken, mozzarella that help prepare your taste buds for Christmas dinner? We highly suggest you cook this easy recipe.
Crowded Kitchen
If you want something that's cheesy and gluten-free, try prepping these vegan jalapeño poppers for a spicy Christmas appetizer idea.
Kathryn's Kitchen
This tasty spinach dip is the icing on the cake for all the other holiday appetizers you'll be serving. Just ensure that you bake it to bubble perfection, that way your cheese pulls will be epic.
Pink Owl Kitchen
Fried green tomatoes are a southern staple that 1000% deserve a seat at your Christmas table this year. The salty, crunchy outer contrasts beautifully with the tender inner veg, but the real magic lies within the dipping sauce you make to serve this app.
Vanilla and Bean
If the idea of eating a finger sandwich doesn't sound fancy enough for your holiday soiree, this olive + artichoke crostini recipe is going to hit the spot. This Christmas appetizer is unbelievably easy too customize, too, so you can accomodate for the vegans and vegetarians in your life.
Woman Scribbles
This recipe is a take on Bonefish Grill's famous Bang Bang Shrimp – yum! What makes this holiday appetizer recipe extra-special is that it doesn't exclude those who may have a seafood allergy, using chicken instead.
Clamato
Should you have some seafood-lovers stopping by on Christmas, cater directly to them by whipping up this quick and easy shrimp cocktail recipe! Here's how to make it:
(via Clamato)
Ingredients:
Directions:
Find more recipes like these on our Pinterest and email newsletter! You can also check out our online cooking and baking classes for more inspo.
Additional reporting by Dana Sandonato, Chloe Williams, Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.
This post has been updated.
The '90s were a great time, according to millennials. It was a time of rollerblading, listening to cassette players, playing Super Mario Bros. on Nintendos, having birthday parties at Chuck E. Cheese, and more. Besides this and other pop culture moments that went viral before social media existed, the '90s gave us classic stores we used to frequent as kids.
Despite meeting their demise as the Y2K age took over, we'll never forget the fun memories (and maximalist vibes) these stores gave us!
Getty Images
Our hearts are hurting because we don't understand why one of the most popular decor stores is closing. The brand was apparently facing "financial challenges," according to it's CEO Barry Litwin (via CNN). There were other issues behind the scenes, but everything trickled down to money, or a lack thereof.
It's so shocking because some of us just picked up a few holiday items from Party City this month! It was one of the stores that seemed to have everything we needed before Amazon became the mega wholesaler that it is today.
I guess this means we should've cherished Party City a little more because it's officially gone.
Getty Images
Long before streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock existed, people used to spend Friday nights looking at rows of VHS movies to rent. If you were lucky, your parents would stop by Blockbuster before picking up pizza for dinner. It was the ultimate '90s treat…until it wasn’t.
When we want to remember what it felt like visiting Blockbuster, we fast forward to that one scene in I Am Legend where Dr. Robert Neville is going to 'rent' movies. It's a little cringe now that we think about it, but it's the closet memory we have of spending at least 30 minutes picking out the VHS or DVD to watch.
Getty Images
Raise your hand if you remember getting your first CD player or computer from Circuit City. The name alone conjures fun memories of running up and down the aisles pretending we could afford all the fun electronics. We watched desktop computers slowly morph into laptops, which seemed like an exciting time. Also, some of us watched our parents lament the cost of the required Texas Instrument calculators we needed for math class.
Although Circuit City isn't around like it used to be, we'll never forget watching the world change through its eyes.
Getty Images
If you wanted to be a part of the cool crowd, you visited the Virgin music store. We aptly remember the neon sign and memorable displays that beckoned to us. Although we could find some of the same CDs at Circuit City, the store’s design didn’t feel stuffy.
Getty Images
This one’s personal because we stood in lines with our parents when they bought their first cell phones and DVD players. Also, one of our parents may or may not have purchased a very coveted Bratz convertible that played music from Radio Shack.
Even though it wasn’t the biggest store, it gave us a taste of what the future had for us. Little did we know we’d lose this sweet store though.
As much as we love recommending books from Amazon and local bookshops, we miss when Border’s was around. There’s not much to say about this store besides how grown-up we felt when our parents would let us spend time there while they shopped at their favorite stores in the mall.
Getty Images
Aside from Toys ‘R’ Us, we also remember when K.B. Toys was popular. Not unlike today, there wasn’t such a thing as having too many toy stores. Sometimes we found things at K.B.s that felt like a treat. The cluttered aisles probably annoyed our parents, but we were always happy when we were allowed to pick something out.
Getty Images
Yes, Wet Seal made the list of stores we loved in the '90s. Unlike Goody’s, it was specifically geared towards pre-teens and teens who wanted to wear the latest fashions. It was one of the the places to discover your style at the time even if it meant leaving piles of clothes for weary store associates to put back (sorry!)
Though we miss it, we hope no one tries to revive it because we’re sure we’d see a few outdated fashion trends.
Getty Images
This was another store that screamed 'All American Teen Store.' Unlike Wet Seal, the store's layout and clothing were a little more 'sophisticated.' It spoke to teens who are now adults with a sleeker preppy style. It sounds like a reach, but it's not if you think about it. This store could give you logomania, tenniscore, or something that resembled the outfits from Saved By the Bell at the same time.
Were you really a '90s kid if your mom didn’t drag you to Goody’s? Shockingly enough, we hardly ever complained because it felt like a huge store we could play in. Plus, it had clothes for everyone.
And if there were a sale during BTS season? You could always count on our moms to leave the store with stuffed shopping bags.
Which '90s stores do you wish were still open? Let us know on Facebook!
When I moved into my '70s-era fixer, the first thing I changed were the walls. Tacky wallpaper, outdated slate around the fireplace, textured walls and popcorn ceilings all had to go. I had it painted all white to transform the place from a cigarette-scented eyesore to a clean, modern canvas. Five years later, going into 2025, I'm craving COLOR and pattern and more texture. Enter this swoon-worthy LA home designed by husband and wife duo Karan and Sapna Aggarwal of L.A. design firm Bungalowe.
Shade Degges
The Eagle Rock home in Los Angeles was beautifully remodeled with European design in mind, taking cues from their travels to France and England. Think romantic wallpapers from House of Hackney, warm paint hues in browns and blush but also a rich earthy greens, classic bead board and moulding, each offering so much inspiration for 2025 walls.
Shade Degges
Every passageway offers a unique pairing of color and pattern and texture. In this foyer, the moody color palette complements the softer shades found in the kitchen and baths. The Harlequin black and white checkered marble floors are classic and a bit of a showstopper throughout the home.
Shade Degges
This House of Hackney London Rose wallpaper is so gorgeous and romantic! Classic bead board and unlacquered brass fixtures accentuate the cozy, classic Euro aesthetic.
Shade Degges
Here, we transition from dark and moody tones to light and airy hues. The London Rose wallpaper continues into the kitchen with taupe cabinets, marble countertops, raw copper metals, and handmade Moroccan plumbing fixtures.
"The goal was to create spaces that felt both luxurious and lived-in, from the raw copper range hood and thin brick floors to the custom trim and dramatic lighting choices," says Karan.
Shade Degges
The warm clay-colored paint in the butler's pantry provides a little breathing room from the abundance of pattern. "These treatments, along with limestone accents and custom trim work, were intended to add depth and warmth to the home, creating a visual experience that feels cohesive yet unique in every room," says Sapna.
Shade Degges
The clé thin brick tile on the flooring is an unexpected choice, but I'm in love. The rustic minimalism with the earthy green cabinetry inspires Old-World elegance while still feeling fresh and modern.
Shade Degges
The rustic stone wall, used in this smaller kitchen, bedrooms, and laundry room, is giving Nancy Meyers vibes a la The Holiday English cottage. "We also drew inspiration from the majestic oak trees on the property, incorporating natural, earthy tones that reflect the outdoors throughout the house," says Karan.
Shade Degges
The bedroom instantly feels cozy with this natural stone wall texture.
Shade Degges
I love a laundry room that gets a little design love. Incorporating the same stone throughout the space creates a sense of cohesion and harmony within the home.
Shade Degges
What a lovely spot for a cozy warm bath. The stone wall adds to the charm of the rustic retreat, while the sleek modern tub and luxe marble floors add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the space.
Shade Degges
Here's more stone in the master bedroom paired with neutral linens, furniture and rug. Built-in bookshelves are functional and aesthetic, a perfect spot for more stoneware.
Shade Degges
The molding in the lounge, painted in the same earthy green as the dining room, subtly ties the spaces together while adding a touch of timeless elegance.
Shade Degges
The blush-painted molding in the kids' room is a sophisticated detail. While painting the walls alone can make an impact, the addition of molding brings extra dimension, elevating the entire space.
Shade Degges
Adore this sweet moment in the kid's room.
Shade Degges
Natural materials like leather and sheepskin strike the perfect balance, creating a cozy yet elegant space even in a kid's room!
Shade Degges
The perfectly imperfect look of this Zia Zellige Racing Green tile complements the natural, rustic yet refined elegance of the home.
Shade Degges
Here is the tile again in Pure White. Love the unlaquered brass fixtures paired with the natural imperfections of this handmade tile.
Shade Degges
This Desert colored tile is the perfect pairing for the marble bath. "Our wish list focused on creating a home that seamlessly blends modern functionality with timeless European-Craftsman charm," says Karan. "We wanted to design spaces that not only provided a sense of comfort and coziness but also incorporated luxurious, high-quality materials and thoughtful, design-forward details." Mission accomplished.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more home decor inspo!
