How to Decorate with Dried Oranges Like a Designer for an Elegant Christmas
Dried oranges are the under-the-radar, designer-inspired holiday detail you didn’t know you needed—here’s how to use them.
If you want to take your Christmas decor up a notch this year, dried oranges are your new best friend. Sounds a little odd, right? Dried fruit in your garlands and wreaths—how could that possibly work?
But if you haven’t already fallen for them, let me show you just how luxurious and unique this little decor detail can be. I won’t call it a trend, because dried oranges have been around forever—but designers have recently revived them in the most beautiful way.
In this blog post, I’m walking you through all things dried oranges—what they are, how to decorate with them, where to buy them, and even how to DIY your own. Let’s get fruity!
Why Dried Oranges in The First Place?
Dried oranges aren’t some Pinterest-era trend—they’ve actually been around for centuries. Surprising, right? Back in the Victorian era, oranges were considered a luxury. They were often gifted during Christmas, especially when studded with cloves to create natural air fresheners. Thoughtful and beautiful!
You’ll also find traces of this tradition in Scandinavian and German holiday decor, where dried fruit played a big role in the earthy, handmade, and minimal aesthetic we now associate with “designer Christmas.”
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Thanks to their organic texture and old-world charm, dried oranges have become a designer favorite when it comes to Christmas decor.
They’re unexpected, effortlessly chic, and totally natural—all at once. And let’s not forget the color. That soft amber-orange tone adds just the right warmth to all the festive greens, cozy wood tones, and rich reds of the season.
Source: Pinterest
Popular Ways to Use Dried Oranges This Holiday Season
Now that we’ve established that dried oranges are the way to elevate your classic Christmas or holiday decor, let’s look at some chic, creative ways to bring them in.
1. Wreaths
You can either tuck a few dried orange slices into a fresh or faux wreath, or go all in with one made entirely of dried oranges. Either way, it’s a beautiful way to make a great first impression—especially if you hang it on the front door.
And for something a little unexpected? Try adding mini dried orange wreaths to the backs of your counter stools. Trust me, it’s such a cute moment.
Source: Pinterest
Where to Shop
2. Garlands
Staircase banisters, Christmas trees, over the mantle, even as part of your tablescape—a dried orange garland works beautifully just about anywhere. It’s perfect for layering with pine garlands or any of your classic Christmas greenery. And honestly? There’s no such thing as too much layering here.
But if you’re more of a minimalist, just add a simple strand of dried oranges to a basic pine garland—and you’re all set. Subtle, cozy, and so designer.
Source: Pinterest
Where to Shop
3. Gift Wraps
The best part about Christmas are the gifts, no matter how old you are. As a kid, it was all about what’s inside the package. But now it’s all about the wrapping. Dried orange slices are one of the easiest ways to elevate your gift wrap without doing too much.
Got a vintage, classy vibe going on? A dried orange slice adds the perfect touch. Keeping it simple with brown kraft paper? Add a slice of orange and suddenly it looks minimal, intentional, and beautifully personal. It’s a small detail, but it really makes your gifts stand out.
Source: Pinterest
Where to Shop
4. Christmas Tree
And of course—the ultimate way to decorate with dried oranges is on the Christmas tree. Whether you go all in with a full garland or just sprinkle a few as ornaments, they’re an easy way to make your tree feel warm, cozy, and curated.
If you’re not ready to commit to an entirely dried-orange-themed tree, ornaments are a great low-effort way to try the look. Want something a bit more intentional? A dried orange garland (especially when layered with wood beads or greenery) is such a beautiful, designer-approved touch.
Source: McGee & Co.
Where to Shop
4. Mantel Decor
I already touched on how you can layer your fireplace mantel with dried orange garlands, but I had to show you a few stunning inspirations. See how they instantly add a pop of color and freshness—without overpowering the whole setup?
Whether you're going for a minimal look or full-on festive layers, don’t be afraid to play with this combo. Dried oranges bring such a beautiful, natural contrast to all the greenery and brass tones we love during the holidays.
Every Christmas, I find myself scratching my head wondering what new decor style to try—without drifting too far from that classic Christmas charm. Because without the cozy, nostalgic touches, it just doesn’t feel like Christmas, right?
If you’re the same, dried oranges might be the perfect way to mix things up without going overboard. They’re simple, beautiful, and still feel timeless.
I hope this post gave you everything you need to know to use dried oranges like a designer.
Wishing you the coziest Christmas and a beautiful New Year ahead!
