50 Stunning Ways to Decorate Your Mantel for Christmas

The mantel is where you hang your stockings with care, but there's so much more that can be done to this space—whether there's a TV on top, a fireplace underneath, or none of the above. In fact, we'd venture to say neglecting your mantel is a real missed opportunity to add festive Christmas decorations to your home.

You don't have to be a professional decorator to get it right. There are tons of Christmas mantel decor ideas that are simple enough for novices, but make a serious statement above your fireplace.

If you love the rustic farmhouse or country aesthetic, lean on traditional colors, vintage signs, and natural elements like birch. If your space is more modern, and you have a TV above your mantel, hone in on contemporary ideas—like using jewel tones instead of the more customary reds and greens. And, if you simply like to indulge your inner child during this time of year (who doesn't!), why not go for something truly whimsical—like placing rainbow-colored felt garland or even a fun holiday DIY, like a marquee sign, on your mantel?

The moral of the story: If you can dream it, you can do it—and these inspirational images are proof.