So far this season, we've taken a peek at how you might fashion a festive palette from silver and blue, and pink and purple. But how about the rich and regal colour combo of red and gold?

To be honest, it's a pairing that's so predictable I've rarely given it much thought in my own holiday decor; but there's something to be said about the understated elegance of this tree:

(And no, we're not enjoying an unexpected heatwave at the moment -- I actually snapped these shots at the Home Depot's holiday preview back in July!) Although this tree is quite elegant as-is, I'd love to add an element of softness to it... A string of 3/4-inch red pompoms as a DIY garland, perhaps? Or maybe some feathered plumage to play up the birds that are already dotted throughout the tree? Photography by Brett Walther.

 Not only do the gold and bronze ornaments lend a bit of holiday sparkle, but they also introduce a really tactile element, with treatments ranging from conventional glitter-coated finishes to "touch me!" textures like these distinctive ridges and swirls. Photography by Brett Walther.

 The commitment to a Christmas palette extends well beyond the tree, of course. Here, a rustic side table plays host to a charming vignette of a baubles, a mirror-finish red nutcracker, and a striking oversized ornament -- all from The Home Depot's holiday lineup. Photography by Brett Walther. 

 An ornate antique frame serves as a brilliant backdrop for this Martha Stewart Living wreath -- a total steal at just $30. Photography by Brett Walther.