The Lunar New Year is around the corner, ushering in a chance to adopt a new spirit animal — a fresh style for the year ahead. Monkeys, oxen, pigs — each in the lineup comes with its own charm, but 2025 belongs to the Snake — dare I say the most seductive of the bunch. Chic, enigmatic, a touch edgy — this isn’t just an animal (to be fair, it’s actually a reptile); it’s an attitude shift. A style reset. A vibe.
Snakes symbolize transformation, rebirth, and renewal — a theme that feels almost too on-the-nose after the whirlwind of the past few days (months, year). Shedding old skin sounds just about right. And stylistically, snakes have much to offer: their sinuous curves, hypnotic scales, those sharp flicking tongues — sleek, slinky, and effortlessly cool, this is the home décor I'm after, forever and always.
So long, Dragons. Farewell, 2024. Snakes are officially in. For the record, I’m a Horse (a certified horse girl to the nth degree), but right now, even I’m willing to swap saddles for scales. Vipers on my coffee table? Sounds dangerous (and super chic) — I’m in.
Price: $190/set of 4
These serpent napkin rings by L’Objet are less table setting, more statement. With their intricate etching and sinuous form, they push a tablescape's energy toward elegance and edge. Pair them with crisp white napkins for an ethereal look, or go bold with jewel tones or black for amped up drama.
Price: $178
Anthropologie’s curtain panels take a quieter approach. The embroidered snakes — soft green and pink against a light-filtering backdrop — feel more playful than menacing. Coquette cobra, anyone?
Price: $465
The Lunar New Year may be rooted in Chinese tradition, but snakes have slithered their way into cultures far and wide. Enter this ‘Pantheon Hydra’ earthenware candle, whose coiled snake lid and classic form channel ancient Greek sculptures. The scent is smoky Vetivert with a lift of freshness — not that it matters when the vessel looks this good.
From: $169
Designed in collaboration with the ever-eclectic Martyn Lawrence Bullard, this Ruggable rug features mirrored snakes weaving through intricate florals on a moody charcoal backdrop. Striking enough to double as a tapestry, it’s almost too gorgeous to step on — but go ahead, it’s washable.
Price: $179/set of 2
These black serpentine andirons by CB2 aren't the least bit kitschy. Stripped of scales, eyes, or tongues, they reduce the snake motif to its essential form — fluid, elegant, and modern. It’s a refreshing take on a design often associated with maximalism.
Price: $50
When I think of snakes in design, Jonathan Adler's “Eden” collection immediately comes to mind. Particularly this high-fired porcelain trinket tray, which glitters in vibrant poppy orange and real gold accents. Packaged in a beautiful box, it’s a great gift for the Snakes in your life — though let’s keep it to the zodiac variety, shall we?
2026 will celebrate the Year of the Horse, so why not get a head start on the "old money" aesthetic with Livingetc's equestrian décor edit.
-
I'm a Professional Kitchen Designer — These Are the 7 Storage Hacks I'll Always Share With My ClientsStorage is an important part of the home, especially the kitchen, and this designer says there are a few things you should keep an eye out for.
-
How Is Crystal Made? I Went to Waterford to See (and Even Try My Hand at It)There's more than meets the eye when it comes to crafting beautiful pieces
-
Italy Called, and It Looks Like Lulu and Georgia's Latest Outdoor Collection AnsweredVilla views, vespas, and Sarah Sherman Samuel’s signature touch — this lineup captures the sights of a European summer
-
Which Anthropologie Collection Are You? Pick Between These 3 Spring 2025 Looks and We'll Tell You What It Says About YouModern Romantic, Artful Aesthete, or more Curated Cottage Charm? There really is something for everyone at Anthro
-
The Women Defining Design — 11 Female-Founded Home Brands to Know (and Shop)Meet the fierce, female-led home brands that are shaping the way we decorate, dine, and design in 2025
-
This Genius Stack Goes From Decor to Plate Set, and Back — And It's on Sale at SaksModular design meets table settings in a 1970s design known as 'La Boule'
-
Every Party House Needs Good Martini Glasses — I Just Found Cool, Design-Forward Ones From a Surprising SourceThe art of the perfect Martini relies on a good glass, and these ones will be the stars of the show at any cocktail evening hosted at home
-
"They're From Where?!" — I Scrolled Through 304 Table Lamps From a Surprising Store to Find the Best 9 StylesSmall, but mighty. These tasteful table lamps are the perfect finishing touch to any room in your home
-
The Corner Conundrum, Solved — The Triangular Storage Ottoman Turns Awkward Spaces Into Built-In SeatsNeglected nooks, meet your match
-
I Found Some of the Most Expensive-Looking Ceramics in a Place I Wasn't Expecting — Shop 12 Surprising FindsThey look like one-of-a-kind treasures from a summer abroad, but with zero risk of breaking in your suitcase — all found at Walmart
