Halloween Decor I’ve Collected This Year
If recent holiday trends have taught us anything, it’s that consumption is at an all time high & people feel a need or possibly a *pressure* to buy all new every year.
While that’s its own thing…
That & I believe there’s a hankering for a nostalgia each holiday for what is classic, multitasking, and nostalgic.
There’s a big topic of conversation on TikTok around wanting a “nostalgic” Halloween this year and the examples are ranging from vary illustrative charm from the 50s & 60s to orange lights and plastic masks that were popular when I was a kind. It’s kind of wild to see. I think think what people are actually saying is they want to see what they miss from when we they were a kid.
Well I don’t feel that pressure & this is why:
I feel very lucky to have grown up with a mum who bought a few key pieces each year, and held onto it. Layered each years finds with each other to creat something special each year. And I have adopted this concept in my own life and collections.
Each holiday, I allow myself to buy 1-2 larger investments pieces, and then smaller more inexpensive finds. I can mix & match with my inherited collections from my mum (that I love from my childhood) and creat something new each year without breaking the back or feeling any pressure to start over every year.
This year’s conversation around Halloween decor highlights a growing trend: many people are seeking nostalgia, craving decorations that remind them of simpler times from their childhoods in the 50s and 60s. This nostalgia manifests in classic orange lights, vintage-style plastic masks, and other iconic seasonal items that evoke memories instead of succumbing to the latest trends. Amid the seasonal overconsumption, some people—including those on platforms like TikTok—express fatigue over the constant push to buy brand new decorations every year. This sentiment resonates with the idea of combating overconsumption by curating a collection that builds over time rather than starting fresh annually. By blending inherited pieces with a few select new purchases, it’s possible to craft a more personalized and meaningful Halloween environment. A practical approach is to allow yourself to invest in just one or two larger Halloween decor pieces each year, then complement these with smaller, budget-friendly items. This strategy helps keep the collection fresh without breaking the bank or falling victim to yearly shopping pressures. It’s about layering years of finds—holding onto decor that appeals and discovering new elements that enhance your collection. This mindful buying philosophy not only supports sustainability but encourages creativity and reminiscing. For those building their Halloween decor, reflect on the classics that bring you joy and memories. Vintage orange string lights and plastic masks are inexpensive but impactful. Additionally, mixing these with your inherited decorations offers a warm, layered aesthetic that transforms your space with depth and character every Halloween season. Ultimately, real charm comes from thoughtfully combining old and new, avoiding hype-driven consumption cycles, and creating an inspired, nostalgic Halloween atmosphere that honors your past while welcoming new traditions.