For those of us who like to deck the halls as early as November, the countdown to Christmas can feel like a marathon – and as the anticipation builds, so does my eagerness to host a truly spectacular holiday gathering. (What can I say; I just can't wait to finally show off my Christmas table decor ideas). This year, however, one particular design feature will be making its debut in my home: dining chair bows, inspired by Shea McGee.
Having already crowded my mood board with images of Shea McGee's 'festive farmhouse' table, it's safe to say that I was thrilled to get another peek at Shea's Christmas setup for 2025. But in a recent Instagram post from Studio McGee, it wasn't the tableware that caught my eye: this time, I was won over by the silk velvet ribbons adorning Shea's Marisol dining chairs. Channelling the nostalgic luxury of the Ralph Lauren Christmas decor trend, this simple detail brings instant elegance to any table, and I can't wait to recreate it.
'Designing a dining space is all about balance,' writes Shea in the caption of the post. 'We want it to feel comfortable enough for everyday meals, but special enough to gather and celebrate.'
To me, this is what a simple addition like a velvet bow can add to a tablescape: a sense of effortless opulence, creating a setup that feels elevated and yet utterly inviting. The Christmas bow decor trend is as popular as ever this year, and tying a few oversized bows onto your dining chairs is a quick and affordable way to get the look.
'I've gone a little bow-tastic this Christmas, so naturally, Shea's look is right up my street,' says H&G's Style Editor, Charlotte Olby. 'I've got a set of vintage pine chairs with a heart carved out of the back, so I'm going to try and follow Shea's new Christmas bow tutorial and create some oversized bows to loop through the hearts.'
Shea McGee proved that bows are back for Christmas after using them to accessorize both her tree and her mantel – she even took to displaying them on her porch (Shea's outdoor Christmas bows are a real beauty).
I must admit, though, that the dining chair bow look is my favorite take on the trend: it's totally customizable, and it adds the perfect finishing touch to your table, whether you create a pared-back look or a maximalist masterpiece. Below, I've set out everything you need to recreate Shea's look, so you can add some flair to your dining space this Christmas.
Shop Everything You Need to Create Shea McGee-Inspired Dining Chair Bows
Shea uses this velvet ribbon to create her chair bows, and I think it's the secret to creating a truly timeless look. Nothing says Christmas quite like red ribbon, after all.
Available in two different sizes, these ornaments are a brilliant option if you're looking to add a metallic touch to your dining area. Simply tie some twine to your chairs and clip the bows on for a speedy setup.
'While I love Shea's traditional red ribbon, I have a butter yellow dining room, so I'm setting my sights on chocolate brown bows,' says Charlotte. 'I love to lean into edible, earthy tones.'
To really nail the farmhouse look, opt for a natural material like burlap. I've already added burlap bows to my Christmas tree, but I'm tempted to incorporate a few into my tablescape, too.
Skip the fiddly ribbon tying and invest in these vibrant velvet bows if you want a particularly speedy take on Shea's look. You could even use them to accessorize a mantel garland or wreath.
If bold red hues aren't your style, you can't go wrong with a forest green color palette. Finish with gold accents and touches of greenery for a woodland-inspired scheme.
Finding new ways to show off velvet ribbons isn't the only design lesson I've learnt from Shea McGee's holiday home this year – take it from me: Shea's hydrangea Christmas tree decorations don't disappoint.
