Jack-o'-lanterns are great for Halloween decorations, but the humble pumpkin certainly has a lot to offer once the holiday's over. In the U.S. alone, 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are thrown away after Halloween every year. Once trashed, wasted pumpkins end up occupying a lot of space in landfills and producing harmful amounts of the greenhouse gas, methane.
Because of this, it's important to consider making some more sustainable moves after spooky season ends. Turns out, many varieties of pumpkins you'll find in stores this fall are actually bred for carving, and aren't safe for consumption – each pumpkin will often be marked if they're inedible. Try looking out for pumpkins that *can* be eaten so you can make the most out of the pumpkin guts: Cherokee Bush, Casper, Cinderella, and Fairy Tale pumpkins are all great choices.
Consider composting your pumpkins after Halloween, too. If you don't do at-home compost, there are likely to be community compost pick-ups or drop-offs near you.
The most sustainable (and delicious) way to use leftover pumpkin is to make some recipes with it! We've gone far beyond pumpkin pie and roasting pumpkin seeds (although we'll happily do that, too) to bring you some creative ways to make use of the insides of yourjack-o'-lanterns after their flames have burned out. We're scooping out over a dozen creative ways to use the whole thing, guts and all.
Recipes To Make With Pumpkin Guts
Brit + Co
Spiced Pumpkin Cider
Swap out the pumpkin puree with your own pumpkin goodness to make this luscious Halloween drink.
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Rolls
These luscious pumpkin rolls make for the ultimate cozy weekend breakfast! To make use of your pumpkin leftovers, swap the canned pumpkin puree for your own homemade version.
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Pasta
Get us a spoon! Nothing says comfort food like mac and cheese, but this pasta takes things up a notch. Fall is no better time than fall to nosh on homey eats that carry *all* the fall flavors.
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Curry
Make this pumpkin-packed curry however spicy you'd like it for a *totally* warming bite when it's chilly out!
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These paleo-friendly baked bites scream fall, especially when you decorate them in jack-o'-lantern fashion.
Brit + Co
Chocolate Pumpkin Banana Bread
Freshly-baked banana bread is made for the fall season, so why not doctor things up with some pumpkin? Leverage your leftovers for a sweet little treat!
The Pioneer Woman
Homemade Pumpkin Puree
Grab your pumpkin and get to work, because the good stuff is on the inside. Slice, scoop and de-seed your way to homemade pumpkin puree that'll knock *any* canned pumpkin product out of the patch.
Oh She Glows
The Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Once you've spilled the guts, work on gathering all of those pumpkin seeds. Not only do pumpkin seeds have nutritive value, they're excellent for munching on their own.
Taste & Tell
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
So, yeah… pumpkin, cinnamon and maple cream cheese all infused into a warm, sticky bun. We'll take two, please.
A Beautiful Mess
Overnight Pumpkin Butter
Once you've had the sweet and spicy taste of warm pumpkin butter hit your taste buds, you'll never look at a pumpkin the same way again. Grab a pumpkin and get digging, because these guts make something quite grand.
Modern Farmer
Hard Squash Hummus
Creamy chickpeas and raw pumpkin (instead of squash) combine for a flavorful spin on the classic dip. Reap the rewards of the pumpkin and score some 'oohs' and 'ahhs' by roasting the seeds for a crunchy garnish.
Ambitious Kitchen
Honey Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins
If you're a pumpkin lover, get on this recipe! They're perfect for dunking into chilis and stews, or if you like your cornbread on the sweet side, add a drizzle of melted butter and warm honey. (via Ambitious Kitchen)
Pizzazzerie
Pumpkin Bisque
Learn how to use a pumpkin as a serving vessel and flavor enhancer for superb dishes like this crisp fall bisque.
Martha Stewart
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling
Martha knows a thing or two about pumpkin… like how excellent it is when you bake it into pillowy cookies sandwiched around sweetened cream cheese.
Skinnytaste
Pumpkin Ice Cream
It's October, and that means pumpkin-flavored everything hits supermarket shelves. If you live in a warmer area, you can forget the fuzzy sweaters and hot apple cider. Get your fall fix with this creamy sherbet that's perfectly spiced, made with milk, pumpkin puree, and spices.
She Wears Many Hats
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
You're drooling, right? This pumpkin dessert just might make it into your regular rotation.
Purely Twins
Pumpkin Pie Fudge Truffles
For the love of pumpkin and chocolate! These bite-sized truffles are basically magic in the mouth. Bibbity-bobbity-boo, do spread the love for a treat, and share this recipe with your friends.
The Girl On Bloor
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos
Starbucks is life, but if you want to save some money this week, whip up this delicious pumpkin spice Frappuccino recipe at home! Mash up your leftover pumpkin guts to make a puree that'll serve as the base for this fall drink.
The First Mess
Black Bean Dip with Roasted Squash, Garlic, Pumpkin Seeds and Chipotles
Your nachos are waiting for you to dip them into this delectable black bean dip with roasted squash, garlic, pumpkin seeds and chipotle peppers.
Half Baked Harvest
6-Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter
Step up your pumpkin butter game with this recipe. It's a perfect alternative if you want to have a spiced buttery spread to top your breakfast toast or croissant.
The First Mess
Vegan Pumpkin Smoothie with Ginger and Cardamom
This vegan pumpkin smoothie with ginger and cardamom is the fall drink you didn't know you needed to make.
Barley & Sage
Pumpkin Stuffed Shells
Let your pumpkin's guts help you create the creamy puree that gives this stuffed shell recipe a burst of fall flavor.
Salt & Lavender
Pumpkin and Cauliflower Soup with Ginger
This pumpkin and cauliflower soup with ginger is great comfort meal on the cold, rainy fall days. (via Salt & Lavender)
Fancy Peasant
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Let your kids help you scoop out out the guts of your pumpkins so you can bake this sweet treat. They'll love eating this yummy twist on a traditional dessert.
Rachel Mansfield
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Crumb Cheesecake
Bake this gluten-free pumpkin crumb cheesecake for Thanksgiving, and watch as it slowly becomes your family's favorite dessert.
Takes Two Eggs
Dog Birthday Cake
It's time to celebrate your fur baby's birthday with this delicious cake. It's filled with yummy and safe ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter and apple sauce!
Recipes For Your Dog, Made With Leftover Pumpkin
White on Rice Couple
Pumpkin Dog Treats
Ifyour dog is as sweet as pumpkin pie, why not give him a bone that's packed with the flavor and nutrients of pumpkin?
DIY Self-Care With Pumpkin Guts
Brit + Co
Pumpkin-Honey Baking Soda Scrub
Welcome the fall season and brighten your skin without the aid of sunshine with this pumpkin body scrub. Rich in vitamins A and C and various enzymes, raw pumpkin is the secret ingredient to radiant skin.
Freutcake
Pumpkin Sugar Body Scrub
Want to try something magical on your skin? DIY thisbody scrub packed with natural enzymes that fight free radicals, slough away dead skin, and leave you feeling rejuvenated. Get to the kitchen and begin mixing nutrient rich, raw pumpkin with coarse sugar or salt, a bit of honey and sweet almond oil for a body scrub that packs a punch.
If you love pumpkin as much as we do, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest from Brit + Co!
This post has been updated.
Now that we're fully into Scorpio season, it's time to really dig in deep — especially when it comes to this week's horoscope. Scorpio loves to delve deep, explore hidden truths, and face necessary changes with honesty. However, embracing change in life requires courage and is seldom easy. Often, we endure considerable discomfort before reaching the point of saying, “No more!” or “I’m ready!”
Wanna know more about what that means for your week ahead? Read your horoscope for your sun and rising zodiac signs below!
Weekly Astrology Forecast For November 3-10
This week, we can draw strength and inspiration from the planetary movements. As mentioned last week, intense energies are in play, and global events may be volatile, possibly even violent. The U.S. elections are this week, adding to the tension. It’s wise to exercise caution and avoid confrontations where possible. Stay grounded and focused on making a positive impact.
In your personal life, channel this intense energy into actions that improve your life and those around you. Mars, the planet of action, opposes Pluto, the planet of transformation. This opposition will repeat on January 3 and April 26 in 2025. The coming five months may be challenging, but they also offer an opportunity for a paradigm shift toward living in alignment with your true self. The key to navigating this period successfully is to stay grounded, centered, and resolute. If feelings of weakness, indecision, or doubt arise, take a step back, recenter yourself, and restore your balance. Activities such as meditation, walks, nutritious meals, dancing, creating art, or listening to music can all be helpful.
On November 3, Venus, the planet of love, opposes Jupiter, the planet of abundance and joy. This beautiful opposition encourages us to nurture what we love. There may be a heightened desire to socialize and indulge in life’s pleasures. If you've managed your finances well, this can be a chance to celebrate. However, if finances are tight, avoid extravagance and instead find joy in life’s simpler pleasures. Spend time connecting with your playful side by dancing, playing games, or taking a walk in nature. Spend quality time with children or animals. Whatever you do, just find a way to more fully embrace your life right now.
Also on November 3, Mars enters Leo, where it will remain until June 17. This transit includes a retrograde period from December 6 to April 19, when Mars will dip back into Cancer from January 7 to April 29. With Mars in Leo, we’re encouraged to be bold leaders in our lives, a theme that aligns with the Mars-Pluto opposition. Embracing change and stepping into authenticity takes courage. Professionally, it's time to take charge and lead — even if your “team” is just yourself! When making decisions, tap into your heart for guidance.
If you practice yoga or meditate, focus on keeping your heart chakra open and clear, as it connects our higher and lower selves. During the retrograde months when Mars is in Cancer, practice kindness and address family matters with compassion, offering an opportunity for healing any ancestral wounds.
If you need motivation, a harmonious trine between the Sun and Saturn early in the week encourages discipline and responsibility. Saturn’s influence reminds us that navigating the Mars-Pluto opposition requires self-control and effort. This alignment can also help fine-tune your approach to routines and hard work.
Toward the end of the week, Venus squares Neptune. While this transit can bring confusion or illusion, it also calls for increased compassion and understanding of others' perspectives. Let go of control and expectations, be flexible, and embrace creative expression, whether through art, journaling, or simply staying grounded.
Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs
Brit + Co
Aries (March 21 – April 20)
Your horizons are expanding, with opportunities to travel or learning something new. Don't have time for a big getaway?Shorter day trips may bring fresh experiences outside of your day-to-day reality. No matter how long your visit, be sure to document your journey, whether through journaling or photography. An added bonus could be to spend some time with your siblings or reconnect with your family this week, too! The whole point is to just connect with your community and the world around you.
Brit + Co
Taurus (April 21 – May 21)
Are you feeling financially secure? Now is a great time to consult a financial planner and develop a solid plan that brings peace of mind. You wanna seek ways to create stability in case of unforeseen changes — nothing's worse than getting caught off guard by a surprise vet bill or other unexpected expenses. Like a bamboo forest, if you create a solid base, you'll be able to sway with the wind to remain flexible. You may even find valuable lessons in how your elders managed their own security, so don't be afraid to ask trusted loved ones for advice. Emulate their experiences, or go the opposite direction to create your own stability.
Brit + Co
Gemini (May 22 – June 21)
This week, discipline at work will pay off. Even if you're feeling frustrated or burnt out, staying on schedule and focusing on details will yield substantial rewards and recognition from your superiors. Don’t get distracted by anything outside the task at hand...no matter how tempting the TikTok doomscrolling gets. Just approach your work with a joyful attitude — hard work is more rewarding when paired with genuine delight.
Brit + Co
Cancer (June 22 – July 22)
Are you prioritizing self-care? This week is perfect for recharging at home and embracing healthy habits. Tap into your creativity. Practice discipline by eating well and exercising more regularly (and yes, your Hot Girl Walk counts). Find your perfect skincare routine before it gets too cold. As winter approaches, building these habits now will benefit you in the coming months — especially when the nights get longer and motivation gets increasingly harder to find. And if you're looking for some accountability buddies, share your knowledge about a healthy lifestyle with your loved ones.
Brit + Co
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
With Mars in your sign, courage will come more easily this week. It's a fantastic time to take on leadership roles and bring joy to those around you whenever you can. The lighthearted attitude you have now will inspire others, so shine on! If new ideas arise, share them with confidence, overcoming any shyness you might feel because your thoughts matter and can make a major impact! Stay grounded, though — effective leaders inspire others without letting ego interfere and you don't wanna isolate anyone.
Brit + Co
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Did you successfully achieve work-life balance last week? Continue those efforts, as distractions may persist — and you really don't wanna fall back into old habits and end up struggling with burnout. Outside of the office, relationships might require extra attention, but don't sacrifice your equanimity to others. You can show love and respect to other people without forgetting about yourself in the process. So, prioritize routines that sustain you — especially as winter approaches — because balance remains essential to building resilience and strength.
Brit + Co
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
This week offers chances for you to travel and expand your horizons, Libra! It's important to keep an open mind and practice compassion toward others. Your willingness to understand and support people — especially your friends — will be met with kindness in return. And if they're being a little...annoying? Just remember how truly magnanimous you can be! The energy you put out will be reflected right back to you in the end. Stay positive!
Brit + Co
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
It’s time for deep personal insight and vulnerability in your relationships this week — as gritty as that may sound. Really though, embrace this opportunity for personal growth and release any power struggles you've got floating around right now. Instead, find contentment in everyday events, like the way the leaves fall in autumn, or how good your morning coffee is. Greet the intensity with these small joys and a resolve to achieve your goals. Oh, and your financial matters may finally find resolution — it's an excellent time to work toward stability and security.
Brit + Co
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Expressing love and devotion feels especially fulfilling for you this week, so soak in all those sweet vibes. You might feel overly generous and go overboard in your display of affection with your friends or S.O...just be mindful not to overindulge. Joyful connections with loved ones don’t need to be extravagant — small acts of kindness and creativity can be just as meaningful. So take your bestie out to lunch! Grab that book your partner's been meaning to buy for themselves! Remind the people you care about that you see them in all the small ways, too.
Brit + Co
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
This week really emphasizes health and routine for you, Capricorn. Even though mundane needs like this aren't always exciting, try channeling your energy into creating positive habits. Make and freeze meals to help ease you through the week. Get up a little earlier to listen to your favorite podcast on the treadmill. Grab a good book instead of your phone first thing in the morning. These minor changes can have a major impact for you! Also, acts of service and connecting with your spirituality will be rewarding during this more intense, Scorpio-driven period. Dig in and share your wisdom with others.
Brit + Co
Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)
Your career is a source of security, so continue working toward financial stability during this time. Take responsibility for your own comfort and confidence, leaning on all the effort you've already put in. And don't worry about marching to the beat of anyone else's drum while you're at it — apply your originality to build a solid future that works for YOU. Use your creativity to establish balance, focus on your priorities, and resist external distractions. You've got this!
Brit + Co
Pisces (February 20 – March 21)
Are you thinking of refreshing your home? You have plenty of energy for home improvement projects, but make sure to plan well and communicate clearly with anyone you’ve hired — or asked — to help you. Whether going big or sticking to a modest update, prioritize organization to avoid stress and debt. You can create the home you want — you just need to make sure you know what you want, so you can go after it accordingly! This is gonna make your space feel more like a haven and less like a burden.
Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!
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We are officially consuming pumpkin-flavored things faster than leaves can fall off trees, and we can't wait to try out some of our newest creative pumpkin carving ideas. To keep the momentum going with our Halloween decor obsession, we've rounded up the best of the best in pumpkin design. So whether you're getting intricate with it or just want to drill a few holes, these unique ideas will get you carving and embellishing creatively this Halloween.
Image via Brit + Co
Flamingo Pumpkin
It's always a bit easier to just paint them, right? And you can easily add everything you need to make a flock of them for your living room.
Shutterstock
Make this cute fox by slicing spots for cardboard ears and tails and painting a little heart face!
Image via A Beautiful Mess
Daisy Pumpkin
Celebrate the Summer of Love all the way into October with this boho, no-carve pumpkin design.
Image via Handmade Charlotte
DIY Cat Drilled Pumpkin
Opting for a repeating pattern and some paint creates a fresh look without having to spend hours carving out a ghoulish face.
Image via In My Own Style
Candy Jar Carved Pumpkin
Turn your pumpkin into a candy jar with some knife skills and chalkboard paint.
Shutterstock
Nightmare Before Christmas fans can make these 'kins with black and white paint!
Image via A Beautiful Mess
Thanksgiving Pumpkin
White pumpkins are versatile, and this simple fabric paint DIY will carry you through from Halloween to Thanksgiving.
Textured Clay Bow Craft Pumpkin
Go ghostly with your own textured bow from clay for a unique décor piece! (via Michael's)
Image via Design Improvised
Modern Geometric Pumpkin
Since you won't be carving, stick to a smoother faux pumpkin for this DIY. Its less-pronounced ridges will make it easier to apply these vinyl pieces.
Image via Dans Lakehouse
Turquoise Pumpkin
Rhinestones make everything prettier, and we love this DIY teal-painted take on the orange classic.
Image via Brit + Co
DIY Animal Pumpkins
Invite the girls over to spend an afternoon carving woodland creatures. They'll thank you later.
Image via Brit + Co
Finding Dory Pumpkins
Ya know, for the kids in your life. Don't forget to do Hank the Septopus!
Image via Brit + Co
Gold Leaf Patterned Pumpkin
Yes, you can add a chic touch to your decor with a *pumpkin*.
Image via Brit + Co
Cosmic Pumpkins
Those pre-painted plastic versions are the perfect backdrop for a night's sky or the Milky Way.
Image via Brit + Co
Emoji Head Pumpkins
Bring those keyboard faves to life this year with a stoop full of emojis.
Image via Brit + Co
Anatomy Pumpkins
Rather than hanging a skeleton outside the door to spook trick-or-treaters, carve these pumpkins for a more original take on the tradition.
Image via Aww Sam
Cross-Stitch Pumpkins
Take your hobby to the next level this season with these charming & ghoulish designs.
Image via Paper & Stitch
Creepy Cat-Eye Pumpkin
This one doesn't need to be big to make a statement. The multitude of eyes staring back at you as you walk across the room is creepy enough.
Skeleton Diorama Pumpkin
Love this diorama idea! Choose your theme and add some sparkle. Make it a party! (via Michael's)
Image via Sarah Hearts
Scalloped Pumpkin
Have some tissue confetti left over? Excellent. Layer it to create a fish-scale effect.
Hocus Pocus Pumpkins
Image via Lovely Indeed
Hocus Pocus Pumpkins
Thackery Binx would be proud to sit by these while guarding the book and the black flame candle.
Image via Handmade Charlotte
Tetris Pumpkin
AKA Pumpktris, this carved and LED-equipped 'kin is perfect for the throwback gamer in all of us.
Image via A Bubbly Life
Retro Label Maker Pumpkins
Live your office supply dreams all season long with a label maker.
Image via Delineate Your Dwelling
Simple Tassel Pumpkin
There are never enough ways to use all the cute tassels in the world. This is ideal for adding texture to the waxy ones.
Image via Design Improvised
Pom Pom Pumpkins
Living colorfully is a 24/7 kind of lifestyle. Embrace the trend this fall with a collection of rainbow pumpkins.
Image via Hello, Wonderful
Hot Crayon Pumpkin
Don't bother with melted crayon art. Instead, use the technique on these tiny little ones. They'd make a stylish centerpiece and are a way to get the kids involved.
Image via Hello Wonderful
String Art Pumpkin
String us along anytime for an art project that combines bright fabric, metal, and organic materials.
Image via Lovely Indeed
Gold Geo No-Carve Pumpkins
These geometric gold pumpkins may look fancy, but they only require you to use a gold pen.
Image via JoJoTastic
Boho Agate Geode Jack-O-Lantern
Incorporate crystal magic into your Halloween decor-scape with agate slices that glow deep blue when candlelit.
Pumpkin Flower
This may not be for novices, but it's a totally different take on pumpkin carving for those at home with a scalpel.
White Moon
Simple yet refreshingly different, this white pumpkin carving is perfect for beginners.
Day of the Dead
Day of the Dead
Inspired by El Día de los Muertos, this skull pumpkin is more adorable than spooky.
Which creative pumpkin carving idea do you like best from this list? Share pictures of your pumpkins with us on Twitter and join our newsletter for more creative inspiration!
This post has been updated.
Margot Robbie has a son! The Barbieactress and her husband Tom Ackerley welcomed their first baby in early November after a very busy year (after all, she announced she'd star opposite Ryan Gosling again in an Ocean's Eleven prequeland boarded a Sims & Monopoly adaptation as producer).
The Sirens producer proved she has impeccable pregnancy style at Wimbledon and a red carpet, and I just know she's going to have amazing mom style too. Here's everything you need to know about this new family of three.
How many kids does Margot Robbie have?
Margot Robbie and Tom Ackerley have one child, a son! A source confirmed to People that the couple had welcomed their baby boy on November 2.
People also confirmed Margot Robbie is expecting a baby in July, the same day images of the actress showing off her growing baby bump went viral on X (formerly Twitter). In the images, Margot's standing with Tom on a dock, wearing black trousers, a black blazer, and a white tee rolled up to rest above her stomach. Leave it to Margot Robbie to make chic pregnancy wear look effortless!
Margot Robbie later attended the L.A. premiere of My Old Ass — produced by Robbie and starring Aubrey Plaza — on September 9, 2024. The ever-elegant star rocked a muted, off-the-shoulder bodycon dress (hello, fall style inspo!) and some adorable strappy heels! Her simple hair, makeup, and jewelry allowed her most major accessory to shine here — her bump! This is the first time we've really seen Robbie since her Wimbledon appearance, and it's no surprise that her look absolutely did not disappoint.
Who is Margot Robbie's husband Tom Ackerley?
Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
Margot Robbie married Tom Ackerley in 2016 after they met on the set of Suite Française in 2013. Tom is an actor (he appeared as an extra on the first three Harry Potter movies), and a film producer. The two also co-founded their production company LuckyChap Entertainment in 2014 and have worked on movies like I, Tonya,Promising Young Woman,Maid, and Saltburn.
What have Tom Ackerley and Margot Robbie said about their relationship?
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Margot Robbie and Tom Ackerley love spending time together, and Tom told The Sunday Times they spend "24 hours a day together."
"It’s seamless," he continues. "We don’t have a toggle on, toggle off. It’s all become one thing.”
“Being married is actually the most fun ever, life got way more fun somehow," Margot told Porter in 2018. "I have a responsibility being someone’s wife, I want to be better."
Margot has also been vocal about how frustrating it is to constantly be asked about children, telling Radio Times in 2019 that, "I'm so angry that there's this social contract," she says. "You're married, now have a baby. Don't presume. I'll do what I'm going to do."
What is Margot Robbie's baby name?
Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for FIJI Water
Margot and Tom haven't officially shared their baby's name yet, but we're all ears should they choose to do so.
How old is Margot Robbie?
Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images
Margot Robbie just celebrated her 34th birthday on July 2. Tom Ackerley turned 34 on June 13, so there's only a one-month age gap between this celeb couple.
We're sending all the best wishes to Margot Robbie and Tom Ackerley! Check out Hilary Duff Officially Gave Birth To Baby #4! for more adorable baby news.
This post has been updated.
Don't get me wrong, tacky holiday decorations can be a lot of fun, from ugly sweater parties to Griswold-style outdoor lights. I love strolling the neighborhood for the most OTT holiday houses and thinking creatively what I'll wear to my friend Marie's annual corny Christmas party. I'm here for all the intentional tacky decor.... just not in my home. Tacky can also mean plastic and wasteful and just well hard to look at if you're going for any sort of non-tacky decor aesthetic. If you want to invest in more natural holiday decor this year (fresh pine wreaths, linen tree skirts, beeswax candles), steer clear of these tacky holiday decorations!
Super-Sized Yard Decor
Fionnula Bumble Lighted Display
As much as my kiddo loves these over-the-top inflatables and animated light-up figures, I have to say no to the super-sized lawn ornaments, like Santa riding a motorcycle, enormous snowmen, or this Bumble Lighted Display from the movie classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." They can be pricey and take up a ton of storage, but for those who love them the more the merrier!
Christmas Light Explosions
Shutterstock
Covering every square inch of your house, trees, and yard with twinkling, multicolored lights or flashing LEDs can look chaotic and well crazy. It's an art form to get it right, but when done well it can bring holiday cheer to the block. When done wrong, well, it's sort of a waste of time and money.
Tinsel Snot
Amazon
Amazon Christmas Icicle Tinsel
Is tinsel making a comeback? Please say it isn't so. It not only looks tacky IMHO, but it makes it harder to recycle your natural tree. (Our Girl Scout chapter picks up our trees the day after Christmas for recycling - but not if there's tinsel on it!). Anyway, if you have nostalgia feels for tinsel, go for it sparingly and avoid this drippy snot look. We want to see that pretty tree!
Ugly Christmas Sweaters
Tipsy Elves
Tipsy Elves Women's Ugly Christmas Sweater
Ugly Christmas sweaters are intentionally tacky, but what's with all the stores capitalizing on them? I liked it back when you could get creative and DIY your holiday sweater, but now you can find racks full of garish colors, clashing patterns, and glittery appliqués. Maybe we can rein it in this year?
Overly Trad Decor
Faux Lighted Wreath
The angels, the harps, the bells, the Merry Christmas sign, oh my! Overly trad Christmas decor can make a home feel dated. Sure, if you have some childhood favorites, toss them into the mix of modern-day neutral holiday decor, like natural linens, fresh garland, and naturally scented candles.
Metallic Garland
Amazon Metallic Garland
Can we just skip the metallic garland this year? It's wasteful, it's hard to wrap and unwrap around your tree (so much so you just want to toss it in the trash after), and it just makes your tree look like a blast from the past.
According to Stanford University's Waste Reduction, Recycling, Composting and Solid Waste Program, household waste increases by more than 25 percent during the holidays with additional waste like packaging, wrapping paper, and one-use decorations contributing an additional 1 million tons of landfill trash each week from Thanksgiving to New Year's. Better alternatives? Satin ribbons, dried orange slices, cranberry garlands, and felt garlands that you won't throw away. Even the classic construction paper chain link would be an upgrade!
Corny Theme Pillows
Christmas Theme Pillows
I'm on the fence about the Buffalo plaid too, but it's a classic pattern (we just see it everywhere now). The pillows on the other hand are a little much, no?
Chair Covers
Christmas Chair Covers
Why do we need these? Maybe just tie a velvet ribbon with mistletoe or add Scandi-style sheepskin to your chairs and call it a holiday.
Christmas Character Themes
Grinch's Christmas Tree Decorations
The Grinch's green isn't quite Christmas green, putting it even higher on the tacky spectrum. Anything with characters says tacky to me and sort of distorts the meaning of the holidays.
Bathroom Decorations
Christmas Theme Bathroom Decorations
If you want to make your guests giggle, this tacky set will do the trick.
Kitschy Tea Towels
Amazon Christmas Towels
The jokes just don't quite hit the way they should. Also, the traditional red and green are killing me! But of course, there's a time and place for tacky Christmas decorations and bringing a little joy to the season. Happy holidays!
Find holiday decor on our Pinterestand check out our email newsletter for more holiday inspiration!
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