It’s still technically fall (the first official day of winter isn’t until December 21), but with windchill temps in the 20s some days here in Chicago, it certainly feels like winter. And since I’ve had pumpkins and hay on my porch for months, I’m about ready for a change. Swapping out my porch decor is one of my favorite ways to transition seasons and it really doesn’t have to be very complicated (though if you have the brains and wallet for complicated porch decor, I will certainly come by with my heart eyes).
Winter is definitely one of the best when it comes to front porch decor. And with a few easy swaps, you can create a big impact when it comes to curb appeal. I love safely hitting up Trader Joe’s and Costco for some fresh, seasonal greenery as a first step. And then, I’ll add one of each from the below categories: wreaths, garland, doormats, and accents (well, maybe more than accent). Top off with your favorite outdoor twinkle lights, and your front porch will be good to go for the next few months. In fact, if you choose a holiday-neutral doormat and accents, you can keep this same decor through the end of winter—which, in Chicago, will be sometime towards the end of May. 😉
Keep reading for four quick and easy ways to decorate your front porch for winter.
1. Wreaths
Wreaths add a lush look to your door, regardless of what season it is. If you’re fortunate to have a covered porch, your options here are really endless—whether you want a green winter look or full-on holiday, you can’t go wrong with a wreath.
Red Berries Wreath
Add a warm accent to your door this year with this long-lasting wreath of faux red berries.
Lamb's Ear Wreath
This artificial lamb's ear wreath makes farmhouse holiday decor easy—plus, it's available in multiple sizes, including a mini version.
Dried Boxwood Wreath
Lush and leafy, this dried boxwood wreath will look amazing on your front door during the holiday season and beyond.
White Ilex Berry Wreath
We love the modern, subtle look of this white berry wreath, which sports hand-painted berries and natural twings.
Green Spruce Wreath
This artificial green spruce wreath with pinecones will add extra texture to your porch decor this season.
2. Doormats
Even if you do nothing else, swapping your regular doormat for a seasonal one can make you feel as if you’ve got your act together. However, this can backfire if you then leave your seasonal doormat out long enough that it’s the next season (ahem, not that I’ve ever done that or anything).
Snowflakes Doormat
If you're looking for a hand-painted doormat that spreads seasonal cheer, look no further than this coir snowflake mat.
It's Lit Hanukkah Doormat
Celebrate Hanukkah in style this year by placing this festive menorah doormat on your porch or at the entrance to your home.
Hope You Brought Wine Doormat
Hosting this holiday season? Make sure your guests know what to gift you this year with this cheeky doormat.
Buffalo Plaid Rug
Perfect for layering and featuring a reversible flip side, this buffalo check rug will spice up any doorway.
Christmas in the Country Doormat
Light up your entryway from top to bottom this year with this stenciled doormat from Pottery Barn, which has LED lights in its wintery stars.
Happy Holidays Doormat
This happy holidays doormat from Target is subtle and classic, and sure to last you for years to come.
Source: @jlgarvin
3. Garlands
Garlands can be used above doorways or around railings and columns to add a festive winter punch. Similar to wreaths, you have many more options if you have a covered porch, but there are still plenty of great weather-resistant outdoor garlands available.
Pre-Lit Kingston Garland
Transform your porch into a winter wonderland with this pre-lit Christmas garland, made with faux fir branches.
White Ilex Berry Garland
This gorgeous, hand-crafted, 6-foot white berry garland will look beautiful draped over your doorway this season.
Smokey Pine Garland
The wire base of this smokey pine garland makes it perfect for twisting and posing in any way you like on your porch.
Pre-Lit Christmas Garland
Red berries and plaid bows adorn this pre-lit Christmas garland, making it extra festive with a pop of color.
Red Berry Garland
For a farmhouse-inspired garland, this classic red berry and artificial pine garland will make for the perfect piece of decor.
4. Accents
A few solid outdoor accents help to tie together the whole look, and again, these can be holiday-themed or not. Personally, I lean towards lanterns, lights, and candles to add some warmth and coziness to winter.
Potted Artificial Tree
Complete with a timer on its LED light and a festive wooden base, this potted artificial tree will look amazing on your porch or front steps.
Personalized Sled
We're obsessed with personalization this holiday season, and this festive sled wreath does personalized perfectly.
Threshold Lantern
Hang up this metal lantern or scatter them around your porch to create a well-lit winder wonderland.
Outdoor Pillar Candles
Set your patio aglow without worrying about actual flames with these timer outdoor candles from Crate & Barrel.
This article was originally published in November 2019. It has been updated for timeliness.
