Change up your interior

Festive holiday decorators tend to have a flair for the unusual - maybe it's an exotic feathered wreath, an heirloom serving dish or a kitschy ornament collection from many seasons past.

Manhattan-based interior designer Libby Langdon says this year's holiday decorating trends are centered around glitter, sparkle and putting natural elements on display indoors.

Glitz and glitter. 'We're all used to Christmas ornaments with glitter,' says Langdon, the design expert on HGTV's 'Small Space, Big Style.' 'But this is full-on glam, upscale sparkle.'

People are tying crystals on chandeliers or hanging them in windows. They're also laying mirrors flat on a table or hanging up stockings studded with sequins.

Think 'over-the-top shine and sparkle,' Langdon says.

Nature: Twigs, greenery, pine cones ... anything that can be found in your backyard can be used to decorate your home. 'Pick one natural element and use tons of it,' Langdon says.

Imagine a big pile of pine cones in a glass bowl surrounded by a bunch of candles, or arranging a thick bundle of twigs in a tall glass vase on the floor, or placing lots of pepperberries on a mantel surrounded by candles.

Decorate in numbers: For a harmonious look throughout your home, pick something and do it big. 'It looks a little more modern and updated,' Langdon says.

For a fresh take on a traditional fireplace mantel, stock up on white candles in all sizes (fat, skinny, tall, short) and intersperse them with everything. Try the same trick with pomegranates or pears.