The Ultimate Christmas Tree Decorating Guide

Whether you're into the classics or looking to try something fresh and trendy this year to decorate for christmas, this guide will help you pick the perfect theme, colors, and decorations that fits you perfectly.

HOLIDAYSDECORCOZY DECOR

La Maison

Start with choosing a theme

Choosing a theme is like setting the vibe for your entire holiday decor. It makes everything work together seamlessly, giving your tree that polished, cohesive look.

For a traditional Christmas tree, think about embracing the classic red and green ornaments, plaid ribbons, and a classic star topper. This style brings a nostalgic warmth and works beautifully in any home. Picture vintage-style ornaments, a glowing star, and that cozy feeling of holiday magic—it’s like a comforting hug in tree form.

If you prefer something more minimalist, the Scandinavian style might be the way to go. It’s all about keeping things clean, cozy, and simple. Natural elements like wooden ornaments, white lights, and dried orange garlands create that relaxed, hygge feel. The neutral colors make it beautiful in its simplicity, offering an understated elegance that makes any room feel welcoming.

On the other hand, if you want to make a statement, a glam gold and silver tree could be perfect for you. Gold, silver, and white ornaments can create an elegant, shimmering look that’s truly eye-catching. Glittery ribbons and crystal accents add that extra bit of glam, making the tree feel luxurious and full of holiday sparkle.

For those who love a rustic feel, a farmhouse-style Christmas tree might be the ideal fit. Burlap ribbons, wooden accents, pinecones, and animal-shaped ornaments all contribute to that down-to-earth, farmhouse aesthetic. With natural colors and textures, this style feels authentic and charming, offering a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere.

And if you’re decorating with kids, why not go whimsical? A Candyland-inspired tree brings bright colors, oversized candy ornaments, and quirky decorations into play. It’s playful and joyful, creating space for colorful tinsel garlands, creating an atmosphere that’s full of fun and festive cheer. After all, who doesn’t love a bit of holiday whimsy?

Once you’ve found a theme that speaks to you, let’s dive into the colors that will really bring it to life.

Pick your color palette

Color trends for Christmas trees are always evolving, and 2024 is bringing some beautiful, unexpected combinations that you’re going to love.

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, icy blue and silver are the perfect duo. These cool tones create a frosty, magical feel—like your tree came straight out of a snowy fairy tale. The silver accents add a touch of sparkle that will light up your living space. You can pair these with a flocked tree, as it will match perfectly for a frosty look.

If you want something elegant yet fresh, blush pink paired with a champagne gold tree is the perfect mix of sophisticated and cozy. The soft pink ornaments combined with golden ribbons create a balanced look that’s both modern and warm.

For a nature-inspired look, deep emerald green combined with gold offers a luxurious vibe. It’s rich, classic, and effortlessly stunning. This combination will make your tree feel lush and grounded while still having that festive shine.

Of course, there’s always the classic red and white combo. It’s timeless, cheerful, and perfect for creating that nostalgic holiday vibe. Picture red and white stripes, peppermint-inspired decor, and cozy textures—this combination will always bring smiles.

And for those who love a more natural look, neutral colors like soft beige, cream, and brown are ideal. Pairing these with natural materials like wood and burlap gives your tree an earthy, understated charm. It’s all about creating a calm, organic holiday atmosphere that feels beautifully authentic.

Tree Toppers and Skirts

Every beautiful tree needs those finishing touches to make it truly shine. Your tree topper and skirt are essential for pulling everything together.

A classic star topper always works well, no matter the theme. It’s that iconic finishing touch that immediately evokes the holiday spirit. If you want something softer, cascading ribbons as a topper can be lovely, especially for a glam or romantic tree. There’s also something incredibly charming about an angel topper—if you’re going for a nostalgic feel, this is perfect.

As for tree skirts and collars, these details can really help complete your tree. If you’ve chosen a farmhouse theme, a burlap skirt will add just the right rustic touch. For a glam tree, a faux fur or sequined skirt will add the luxurious look you’re aiming for. It’s all about making sure these finishing touches complement the overall vibe of your tree.

Setting the mood with lights

Lighting makes all the difference when it comes to creating the perfect festive atmosphere. Warm white lights are always a good choice for a cozy, traditional look. They provide that welcoming glow that makes everyone feel right at home. If you’re going for something more playful, colorful lights can add a fun twist—especially if you’re working with a whimsical Candyland theme.

Twinkling lights are another great option for adding a bit of magic. They work beautifully with glamorous or winter wonderland themes, giving your tree a sparkling, enchanting effect that’s almost mesmerizing. Some new lights have a remote so you can choose the colors to light up your tree!

For a minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired tree, fairy lights are perfect. They're smaller and add a soft, delicate glow that feels simple yet elegant.

Ornaments and Garland: Creating Depth

Layering your decorations is key to making your tree look full and inviting.

Start with the lights, then add garlands to fit your theme—beaded for classic, burlap for rustic, or metallic for glam. Mix larger statement ornaments with smaller fillers for depth and balance.

This is where you can add personal touches like family photos or handmade decorations to make your tree uniquely yours.

Trends to Watch for This Christmas!

This year, several standout trends can take your tree to the next level.

Sustainable decor is on the rise. Eco-friendly decorations made from natural or recycled materials are perfect for those wanting a greener holiday.

Maximalism is also trending—don’t hesitate to go all out with bold colors, layered textures, and plenty of decorations for a joyful explosion of festive spirit.

Nature-inspired elements are another big trend. Incorporating pinecones, dried flowers, and wood ornaments helps connect your tree to the natural world, bringing a serene, grounded feel to your decor.

Decorating your Christmas tree should be a joyful, creative experience that reflects your style. Whether it’s a classic look or something trendy and modern, let this guide inspire you to mix, match, and create a magical centerpiece for the holidays. Ready to get started?

Check out our Christmas color ideas before you go!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support my blog and allows me to keep creating content like this. Thank you for your support!

Feeling tired of the same old Christmas decorations every year? Ready to mix things up and make your holiday feel fresh and exciting again? This guide is here to help you transform your Christmas tree into something that’s new, unique, and totally you—bringing the festive magic back into your home.

The Christmas tree is the heart of your holiday decor—symbolizing joy, warmth, and togetherness. Decorating your tree is an exciting way to showcase your style and embrace the magic of the season. Whether you're into classic or trendy looks, this guide will help you find the perfect theme, colors, and decorations for your tree.