1. Use lots of greenery. Natural greenery like boughs of pine and fir played a major role in Victorian holiday decor - in fact, holiday parties centered around "the hanging of the greens" were a standard of the day. Pine and fir are traditional holiday greenery, and branches of shiny, long lasting magnolia and laurel leaves look lovely on their own or in combinations.

2. Raid the pantry. Fresh fruit was considered a treat in the midst of a Victorian era winter, and it was enjoyed for its beauty as well as its taste. Tuck a few sprigs of green and some ribbon bows into a sparkling glass bowl of shiny red and green apples or clove studded oranges for a thrifty dash of period charm.

Walnuts, almonds, chestnuts and hazlenuts were also traditional Victorian Christmas treats that look great in bowls or among the greens in centerpieces and floral arrangements.

3. Raid the sewing basket. The Victorians loved embellishment and added it wherever possible. Try pinning or hot gluing lace or fabric store fringe around the center of inexpensive satin christmas tree balls for period flare. Simple bows of cheap by-the-yard lace make delicate and lovely additions to the tree, and broad lace, ribbon, or lengths of fabric can be twined among the greens in arrangements.

More sewing room ideas: ropes of cheap "pearls" or beads sold by the yard or precut on cards are a perfect Victorian accent almost anywhere. Drape them on the tree, twine them into wreaths and greens, or wrap them around white candles. Cut them into 4" lengths and sew or glue several together at one end to create gorgeous tassels for on the tree or mantlepiece.

4. Use lots of candles. Though gas lighting was common during the Victorian period, candles were still used for elegant illumination. Groupings of long, slender tapers arranged among greens and flowers were typical of the day.

5. Think beyond the standard red and green. Deep jewel tones like burgundy red and forest green were popular during the Victorian era, and set off with accents of white, silver, or gold they add both elegance and period style. Plaids and paisley prints in tones of wine, deep greens, intense blues, and purple were also Victorian favorites.