Creativity, Tradition, and a Twist for This Year
A 3-minute read. Prefer to listen? Click below to hear the audio version.
Not Your Average Holiday Tree
It’s that time of year—the house smells of pine, lights are twinkling everywhere, and trees of all shapes and sizes are being decorated in corners of homes. Except at my house.
You see, I don’t actually do a tree. Not a real one, anyway. My version of “trimming the tree” involves something entirely different: a Victorian-inspired wire dress mannequin. I call her my holiday muse—always the centerpiece, always dressed for the occasion.
Every year, she’s transformed into a festive ballgown straight out of a holiday fairytale. There’s typically garland greenery cascading into a full skirt, lights twinkling like starlight, sheer netting creating volume, and a ribbon sash that ties it all together. She’s elegant, lavish, and a little bit magical.
But this year…she’s breaking tradition…
A Simpler “Dress” for a Busy Season
Let’s be honest: this holiday season has been a whirlwind of to-do lists, ideas, and projects—and there just wasn’t enough week to make the magic happen. So, my holiday muse got a makeover, but with a modern twist.
She’s sporting a minimalist cocktail dress vibe this year. Picture this:
- A sleek silhouette with ornaments placed just so around the wire skirt edge.
- A big, sparkly red ribbon sash tied at the waist (because of course she needs a bow).
- Bold flowers and ornaments at the shoulders—simple, striking, and festive.
She may not be dripping in lights and garland, but she’s proof that sometimes less really can be more. Modern. Minimalist. And dare I say…elegant?
(I’ve included photos from this year—and a peek back at the extravaganzas from the last two years.)
Why Creativity Sometimes Needs to Take a Breath
Truth be told, this simplified design reflects more than just my busy schedule. It’s a little creative pause—proof that not everything needs to be “bigger” to feel beautiful. It’s a reminder that traditions can evolve, creativity can take new shapes, and sometimes, a fresh perspective feels just right.
Looking Ahead: Changes Coming to the Blog
Speaking of fresh perspectives, this feels like the perfect moment to share something I’ve been thinking about for a while.
The Weekly Creative Buzz—will be wrapping up at the end of the year.
Don’t worry; the posts will stay right here on the website for future readers and anyone looking for creative inspiration. But as I’ve been watching and listening to what resonates most with my audience and looking at the data I get telling me who actually clicks over to read the article…it’s become clear: it’s time for a shift.
Starting in 2025, I’m excited to fully embrace my new podcast: The Textile Creative with Virginia Wygal. It’s a space where creativity, fabric and fiber, and community can come together in a new way—one that allows me to share my voice (literally!) and connect more deeply with you.
The podcast will officially launch on Christmas Eve (next week’s post will have all the details!). And just like my dress form’s new look, it feels like the perfect way to evolve while still staying true to my creative heart.
Traditions, Twists, and What Matters Most
Whether you’re trimming a tree, dressing up a mannequin, or skipping the décor altogether, I hope this season brings you moments of creativity, joy, and maybe a few delightful surprises.
Sometimes creativity is over-the-top and extravagant; other times, it’s simple and quiet. And either way? It’s beautiful.
Next week, I’ll share the official podcast announcement and wish you all a magical holiday season. For now, I’d love to hear:
Do you have any holiday traditions with a creative twist? Drop a comment below—I’m always looking for inspiration!
Stay creative, stay cozy, and let’s embrace the magic of this season.
– Virginia