# Shift in Holiday Decor Trends: From Ducks to Owls Designers are moving away from traditional waterfowl motifs toward whimsical owl-themed holiday decorations. - **Source:** [Apartment Therapy](https://www.apartmenttherapy.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/14997ade-0f22-4ee7-9006-5f41ff296228 ## Evolving Holiday Aesthetic Trends The holiday season is witnessing a notable shift in tabletop decoration preferences among interior designers. While duck-themed ornaments and figurines have long dominated traditional festive displays, a new trend favoring owl motifs is emerging. This transition reflects a broader desire for whimsical and unique elements in seasonal home decor arrangements. ## The Appeal of Whimsy Designers are increasingly prioritizing playful and character-driven pieces to create engaging holiday environments. Owls, often associated with wisdom and mystery, offer a distinct visual appeal compared to the more conventional waterfowl designs. This stylistic pivot allows for more creative storytelling on dining tables, moving beyond standard seasonal tropes into imaginative territory. ## Curating the Festive Table The current market features six specific decor finds that highlight this transition toward avian-inspired themes. These pieces range from intricate ceramic owl figurines to stylized textile accents that incorporate woodland aesthetics. By integrating these specific items, hosts can transform their holiday tables into curated displays that feel both modern and charmingly nostalgic. ## Designers Driving Market Shifts Professional decorators are actively influencing consumer choices by showcasing these owl-themed items in high-profile holiday spreads. Their shift in focus from ducks to owls signals a departure from rustic farmhouse styles toward more eclectic and character-focused interior design. This movement encourages homeowners to experiment with diverse animal motifs during festive gatherings. ## Material and Texture Choices The transition involves more than just the subject matter; it also highlights changes in material preferences for holiday decor. Designers are selecting textures that complement the owl theme, such as brushed metals, matte ceramics, and soft felt fabrics. These materials add depth to the table, creating a tactile experience for guests. ## Context of Seasonal Decor Holiday decor often follows cyclical trends that balance tradition with novelty. While ducks have been a staple for years due to their association with classic winter scenes, the rise of owl motifs represents a search for fresh visual narratives. This evolution demonstrates how small changes in tabletop accessories can redefine seasonal aesthetics. ## Impact on Consumer Behavior As these owl-themed pieces gain visibility, consumers are likely to seek out similar items to update their existing collections. The shift suggests that buyers are becoming more adventurous, opting for decor that reflects personality rather than sticking to rigid traditional themes. This trend highlights the growing influence of niche design aesthetics. ## Future of Tabletop Styling Looking ahead, the movement toward character-based holiday decor is expected to continue evolving. Designers will likely explore other woodland creatures to maintain the whimsical atmosphere established by the current owl trend. For now, the focus remains on these six specific finds, which serve as the foundation for this year's festive tabletop transformations. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/thanksgiving-birds-decor-trend-37697537?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Category%2FChannel%3A+main — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._