Reds and greens are in, and browns, mauves and purples are out, experts say.

Jane Lee, owner of Crown Import in Phoenix, says no more faux Tuscany this year. Instead, “people want traditional trees with multicolored lights and glass balls.”

Forget ornaments that resemble comic-book characters, television stars or weapons of any kind, says Gabriele Edgell, publisher of Selling Christmas Decorations, a trade publication for the holiday-decorating industry.

Outside, expect to see more nativity scenes and fewer inflatable snowmen, she said.

Nationwide, experts say people will spend more money on decorating the interiors of their homes this season than on the outsides.

The exception could be metro Phoenix, with its particular proclivity toward massive outdoor-light displays.

Christmas lights entrepreneur Jamie Limber attributes the phenomenal displays to the weather. “It’s a lot easier putting up lights when it’s 75 degrees than when its zero and your roof is covered with snow,” he said.

Those displays will feature an increasing number of LED lights, despite their high cost.

“They’re a big hit with consumers looking to be green,” he said.

Donna Albus, co-owner of Christmas in Prescott, said LED lights in metallic colors are particularly popular.

“Everybody up here wants to save energy,” she said.

-Max Jarman

[Thanks: http://www.azcentral.com]