Queer Eye’s Carson Kressley reveals the Thanksgiving decor mistakes that look tacky, and says cheap is the way to go
FOR haute holiday decorating dos and don'ts, just take a page from reality star Carson Kressley's guidebook.
Keeping up with this will save you from tacky Turkey Day decor.
"You don't just need to stick with commercial-looking figurines - or get locked into thinking it needs to have a particular color story," he said in an exclusive interview with The U.S. Sun.
"You can add greenery or whatever from your backyard.
"No matter what shades you use, it will look festive."
The star, who was an original cast member in Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, pulls out all the stops when it comes to decorating at his very collectively curated .
As he explained, his space is really the star of the show.
When it comes to saving money, Carson reminds people to shop in their own closets before buying decor.
"I always look around my house before buying anything," he explained.
"Believe me, you also have something - or many things - laying around."
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According to Carson - who currently hosts RuPaul's Drag Race - it all starts with setting the holiday table which he explained creates a mood.
"Feel free to go crazy and mix and match plates and table chargers," he said.
"Eclectic - when done in a curated way - can look chic and classic.
"As long as there is a common motif, don't be afraid to mix things up."
The fashionista, who has even designed his own home collection with furniture company Ballard Designs, said it also adds an element of fun.
"It's almost a conversation starter - who has which plate, and what's the story behind it," he said.
He also loves pops of colors and decadent designs: "Everything should be a feast for the eyes."
Carson especially appreciates weaving in family heirlooms for a personal touch.
Another pro-tip: monogrammed dinner napkins can easily double as place mats.
For those who prefer to keep things simple, he recommends a buffet-style dinner.
The style star is also a big fan of decorative statement pieces.
"If you have a crystal bowl, fill it with something colorful like pomegranates or add a collection of something fall-inspired up and down the table."
For those thinking ahead, Carson follows this same tip for Christmas - just with nutcrackers.
"Use fruit from your garden as a centerpiece if you want," he said.
A three-tiered cake dome also adds a striking style element.
"There are no wrong answers here. You can also show off your interests.
"You can even use a garden stool to act like a cocktail table.
"I collect a lot of silver serving pieces and horse trophies so when it comes time I put them on display and fill them with things like magnolia.
"Just make sure everything is spaced around or in curated groupings.
"You don't want things to start looking cluttered."
Just upgrading your tablecloth or linens can make a difference as well.
"You don't have to spend a lot to make your table look expensive."
Creativity can also add some extra chicness.
"Pinterest is great for getting ideas if you want to visualize things more."
Carson previously shared his "cheap and chic" decor dos and don'ts with The U.S. Sun.
He will soon be reuniting with the original cast of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy for a one-night-only live event taking place next month in Pennsylvania.
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The members of the groundbreaking LGBTQ show will be sharing behind-the-scenes stories, most memorable moments, how they have impacted culture and society, and of course, style, design, and decorating tips.
