How To Decorate A Christmas Tree – 14 Ways To Style It Like A Pro

Discover in this post how to decorate a Christmas tree.

Most people intuitively decorate their Christmas tree. But what if there were more ways you never thought of?

Whether you love traditional, minimalist, or whimsical styles, a beautifully decorated tree will transform your home into a warm space.

The key to creating a stylish Christmas tree is to combine cohesive colors, thoughtful ornaments, and just the right amount of sparkle!

In this guide, you’ll discover how to decorate a Christmas tree like a pro. From choosing your theme to layering ornaments, you’ll create an elegant and refined decoration!

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How To Decorate A Christmas Tree

Learn how to decorate a Christmas tree to wow your family this holiday season!

1 – Choose A Theme

A Christmas tree in a rustic living room.

Before you begin decorating your Christmas tree, decide on a theme. To find what your theme is, go to Pinterest and create a “Christmas Tree” board.

Then, pin to your board images that you like. I recommend pinning Christmas trees, colors, ornaments, and Christmas decorations that inspire you.

Once you’re done, see which colors, shapes, and decoration types pop out the most. You now have your Christmas tree theme! You can even name it like “Winter Wonderland” or “Traditional & Luxurious”

2 – Select A Harmonious Color Palette

A white and red Christmas tree.

After you’ve selected your theme, you’re going to pick your matching color palette.

Choose two to three shades and repeat them across your ornaments, ribbons, and wrapping paper.

For a winter wonderland tree, pick dark and bright blue, white, and light silver shades. While for a traditional and luxurious tree, pick red, black or dark brown, and gold shades.

3 – Make Your Christmas Tree Fuller

A woman decorating a Christmas tree.

A well-shaped tree will look so much better! Separate each branch gently, bending them outward to fill empty spaces and create volume.

If you use an artificial tree, this step is key. Because you’ll go from a faux-looking tree to an almost real one. Step back often to check symmetry.

A full Christmas tree will make it much more lush and alive.

4 – Wrap The Lights With Depth

A Christmas tree with string lights.

Wrap the lights starting from the base and move upward, weaving them in and out of branches rather than circling the tree.

This layered approach will add depth and softness to your Christmas tree.

If you want an elegant and cozy look, select warm string lights. For a festive and colorful touch, multicolored lights are a must!

5 – Add Ribbon Bows

A Christmas tree filled with ribbon bows.

Ribbon bows will add depth and movement to your Christmas tree. Create soft ribbon bows with silk or velvet fabric. Then, tie them all over your Christmas tree.

You can make them different heights or widths, depending on the look you’re going for. But if you want a harmonious and traditional look, I recommend keeping them the same height and width.

6 – Incorporate Ornaments In A Balanced Way

A Christmas tree with many ornaments.

Start with your largest ornaments, placing them deeper within the branches to create dimension. Then, add medium and small ones closer to the tips.

Combine matte, glossy, and glitter finishes to give depth and charm to your Christmas tree. Repeat your colors in a triangular pattern to create a cohesive tree.

7 – Add Natural Touches

A Christmas tree with dried oranges.

Put pine cones, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, and red berries to give a lively and cozy touch to your Christmas tree.

If you have a rustic home or want to give a nostalgic and comforting feel to your interior, I think they are a must!

8 – Place Picks

A Christmas tree with red berries picks.

To fill any sparse areas, insert decorative picks, such as frosted leaves, red berries, or sparkling fern stems. It’s perfect to give a bright and warm touch to your Christmas tree.

Just make sure to pick them based on your theme and color palette to create a cohesive tree.

9 – Choose A Distinctive Tree Topper

A Christmas tree with an angel topper.

Your tree topper is the icing on the cake. Select it based on your theme as well. A bright star is perfect for a classic and traditional tree. While a red velvet bow will look amazing on a modern and minimalist tree.

Avoid oversized toppers that will overpower your tree decoration. Always make sure that your tree topper completes and balances out your Christmas tree!

10 – Decorate The Base Of Your Christmas Tree

A Christmas tree with a woven basket collar.

Select a beautiful tree skirt or collar to add a charming and warm finishing touch.

Choose a faux fur skirt for an elegant and luxurious tree, a woven basket collar for a rustic and sturdy tree, or a linen collar for a natural and minimalist tree.

Match it with your gift wrap to create a cohesive look!

11 – Create A Gift Display That Complements The Tree

A Christmas tree with gold and warm toned gifts.

Use wrapping paper that matches your tree’s color palette and theme. Finish each package with ribbons or natural touches, such as pine branches or pine cones.

Group gifts of varying sizes in small clusters to create a balanced and harmonious feel.

A beautifully styled base will elevate your whole Christmas tree, making it the statement of this holiday season!

12 – Consider A Signature Scent

A woman holding a horse ornament.

If you have a real tree, you don’t necessarily need it. Because a pine tree already has its strong signature scent that makes us feel nostalgic.

However, if you have an artificial tree, insert pine-scented picks or light a cinnamon candle nearby. It’ll create a really cozy and warm atmosphere in your home.

13 – Add A Personal touch

Christmas ornaments.

Your Christmas tree must reflect your personal tastes, and it can also reflect your life story. Incorporate ornaments that are meaningful.

It can be handmade crafts that you’ve made, heirloom ornaments, or travel souvenirs. These details are what will make your Christmas tree truly unique.

14 – Step Back And Refine

A Christmas tree and a cat.

Once you’re done decorating your Christmas tree, take a few steps back and look at your tree from every angle. Adjust spacing and rotate ornaments to ensure balance and harmony.

FAQs

How Do I Make My Christmas Tree Look Fuller?

Fluff every branch and layer ornaments from deep inside to the outer edges. Adding floral picks or ribbon bows will help fill gaps without cluttering your decoration.

What Color Lights Will Make My Christmas Tree Look Elegant?

Go for warm white lights to give a timeless and soft touch to your tree. If you want a more romantic or vintage look, combine gold-toned lights to add more depth.

How Many Ornaments Do I Need For My Christmas Tree?

A general rule is about 10-15 ornaments per foot of tree height. But balance matters more than quantity. Mix sizes and finishes to add variety and depth to your Christmas tree.

Should Ribbon Bows Go On Before Or After Ornaments?

Do you want your ribbon bows or ornaments to stand out more? Begin with the element you’d like to be subtler.

How Can I Make A Cohesive Theme Without Buying All New Decor?

Group existing ornaments by color, add ribbon bows in a matching tone, and incorporate a few natural touches, such as pine cones or dried oranges.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to decorate a Christmas tree, you’ll finally be able to create your dream tree!

With thoughtful ornaments, natural touches, and a harmonious color palette, your Christmas tree will be warm and refined.

Remember to enjoy the moment! After all, decorating a Christmas tree is a tradition in a lot of families. So take your time and make beautiful memories!

Discover More Christmas Decor Ideas!

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Hi, I'm Anna!

Welcome to Astrapearl! This blog is for women who love home decor, seasonal decor and organization. Beautify your small house with weekly ideas and inspiration!
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