Vintage & Retro Christmas Cards: Get the Look Without the Dust

Aim for timeless warmth, not clutter. Use classic palettes, period-friendly type, and texture-rich paper—and let AI supply the era-specific scene if you don’t have the props.

Hallmarks of vintage/retro style

• Palette: Deep reds/greens, cream, muted gold; or 50s pastels (mint, blush, pale blue) for retro.
• Type: Elegant serifs or mid-century sans; avoid modern scripts.
• Texture: Matte or uncoated stock; subtle grain feels authentic.
• Imagery: Soft light, slight vignette; minimal props.

Photo approach

• Shoot with window light; turn off overheads.
• Soft, even exposure; gentle warmth.
• Simple poses—seated, side glances, hands holding ornaments.
• If your space isn’t era-correct: upload and generate vintage/retro scenes in 60 seconds—export 5x7, 300 DPI.

Design tips

• One photo; classic frame/border if desired.
• Keep text short; use period-friendly type; no modern gradients.
• Consider subtle texture overlays (grain/paper) but keep legible.

Paper and finish

• Matte/uncoated 130–150 lb; recycled or cotton stocks feel classic.
• Rounded corners if it fits the era; avoid glossy unless intentionally retro-foil.

Messaging

• “Wishing you a warm and joyful Christmas” fits the era better than slang.
• Keep it sincere and brief; handwrite a line for authenticity.

Print specs

• sRGB, 300 DPI, 5x7; faces/text 0.25" inside edges; add bleed if required.
• Proof if possible to ensure colors print muted, not dull.

If you want both vintage and modern convenience

• Generate the retro backdrop with AI, drop your clean photo in, and print on tactile stock.
• Mail a small batch to collectors; send digital to others to reduce cost/impact.

Classic doesn’t mean old-fashioned execution—blend intentional design with modern tools for an authentic vintage feel minus the dust.