13 Creative Christmas Decor Ideas for Tree Styling

Christmas is coming and you know what that means – it’s time to make your tree the star of the show. But let’s be real: Staring at the same old red-green combo every year gets boring, doesn’t it?

I’ve spent years experimenting with wood decor (some attempts were… questionable :/ ), and I’ve learned that a little creativity goes a long way. Whether you’re going for cozy farmhouse vibes or full glam, these 13 ideas will help you style a tree that will actually make people stop and say, “Wait, did you do that yourself?”

Let’s jump in.

1. Go Monochrome for Maximum Impact

Here’s the thing about monochrome trees: they’re effortlessly elegant. Pick one color – white, gold, silver, even blush pink – and stick with it. The key is to vary the textures and finishes within the one color palette.

I tried this last year with all white ornaments and honestly? It looked like something out of a magazine. Mix matte, glossy and sparkling ornaments in your chosen colour. Add ribbons in the same shade but different textures. The uniformity creates a sophisticated look that feels intentional and advanced.

Pro tip: Monochrome doesn’t mean boring. Create different shades of the chosen color for depth.

2. Embrace the Rustic Farmhouse Aesthetic

If you like the cozy, lived-in atmosphere, farm decor is your best friend. Think jute ribbon, wooden ornaments and checkered accents. I’m talking buffalo check everything.

Here’s what works:

• Galvanized metal ornaments for that vintage touch
• Twine-wrapped balls instead of traditional glass
• Small wooden signs with holiday sayings
• Cotton stems or faux eucalyptus tucked into branches

The beauty of farm style? It is forgiving. Nothing has to be perfect – in fact, it looks better when it isn’t.

3. Create a Candy-Themed Wonderland

Remember when you were a kid and thought your tree looked good to eat? Make that dream come true. A candy tree is fun, nostalgic and surprisingly versatile.

Load up on:

• Oversized lollipop ornaments
• Candy cane garlands
• Peppermint swirl balls
• Gingerbread man decorations

I added real wrapped candy (the fake plastic kind that doesn’t melt) to my tree a few years back and my nephews lost their minds. FYI, this theme works especially well if you have kids – or if you’re just young at heart.

4. Layer Your Lighting Like a Pro

Let’s talk about something most people get wrong: lighting. You can’t just wrap a thread around the tree and call it a day. Want to know the secret behind that magical glow?

Layer the candles. Start with your base layer near the trunk, then add another layer midway on the branches, finishing with light on the outer tips. This creates depth and makes your tree look fuller and brighter.

Use warm white lights for a classic feel or mix in some colored lights if you’re feeling adventurous. Trust me, this technique is a game-changer.

5. Bring Nature Indoors

Why spend a fortune on decorative items when nature provides the best decor for free? A tree inspired by nature feels organic and timeless.

Element	Where to Find	Effect
Pinecones	Your backyard or park	Rustic texture
Dried orange slices	Make them yourself	Pop of color
Cinnamon sticks	Grocery store	Festive scent

Add some fresh or fake greenery such as pine branches or holly. Tie everything together with jute or natural fiber ribbon. The result? A tree that looks like it belongs in a winter forest.

6. Try a Ribbon Cascade

Forget small arches. I’m talking ribbons cascading down your tree in graceful waves. This technique adds movement and fills in gaps between ornaments.

Here’s how I do it: Start at the top and tuck the ribbon into the wood, letting it drape naturally as you work your way down. Use cable ties so it holds its shape. Mix widths and patterns for visual interest—perhaps a wide velvet band paired with a thinner metallic one.

Ever wondered why designer trees always look so full? This is their secret weapon.

7. Create an Ombre Effect

Ombre isn’t just for hair anymore. An ombre Christmas tree transitions from one color at the top to another at the bottom, and it’s absolutely fantastic.

Try white with silver or gold with bronze. Start with the lighter embellishments at the top and gradually work your way down to darker tones. The gradient effect creates a modern, artistic look that photographs beautifully.

IMO, this works best with metallics, but you can also do it with jewel tones.

8. Go Big with Oversized Ornaments

Sometimes bigger really is better. Oversized ornaments make a bold statement and actually make decorating easier because you need fewer of them to fill the tree.

Place your largest ornaments deeper in the tree and closer to the trunk. This adds dimension and prevents your tree from looking flat. Mix in some medium and small ornaments against the outer branches for balance.

I picked up some 6 inch ball ornaments last year and they completely transformed my tree. Three of these bad boys did the work of a dozen common trinkets.

9. Add Unexpected Textures

Want to know what separates a “meh” tree from a showstopper? Texture. And I’m not just talking about different types of ornaments.

Consider adding:

• Feathers for softness and movement
• Felt ornaments for a handmade touch
• Wood slices for rustic appeal
• Velvet ribbon for luxury
• Metallic mesh for sparkle

The contrast between smooth glass decorations and rough natural elements keeps the eye moving around the tree. That’s visual interest 101.

10. Create a Theme That Tells a Story

Here you can get really creative. Choose a topic that means something to you – maybe it’s travel, music, books or your favorite hobby.

I once saw a travel themed tree decorated with mini suitcases, vintage postcards and ornaments from different countries. Another friend made a music theme with miniature instruments and sheet music. The point is to make your tree uniquely yours.

Think about what you love and how you can represent it through your decor. Your tree should spark joy and conversation.

11. Master the Art of Tree Topper Selection

Don’t sleep on your tree topper—it’s the crown jewel of your whole setup. The traditional star is fine, but have you considered alternatives?

Options that wow:

• Oversized bows (seriously underrated)
• Floral arrangements
• Ribbon sprays
• Vintage-inspired angels
• Modern geometric shapes

I switched to a massive velvet bow last year and people couldn’t stop talking about it. Your tree topper sets the tone for everything else, so choose wisely.

12. Fill in the Gaps with Picks and Sprays

Professional decorators know this trick: flower picks and sprays are your best friends. They fill in empty spots and give volume without weighing down branches.

Look for:

• Berry picks in red or white
• Glittered twig sprays
• Pine and eucalyptus picks
• Seasonal flower stems

Insert these into bare spots on your tree. They blend in with your other decor while adding volume and texture. It’s like contouring your Christmas tree 🙂

13. Don’t Forget the Tree Skirt

Why does everyone decorate their entire tree and put an old rug under it? Your wooden skirt also deserves attention.

Match it to your theme – a faux fur skirt for glam, burlap for farmhouse or a quilted one for traditional. Or skip the skirt altogether and place your tree in a stylish basket or wooden box. You can even surround the base with wrapped gifts posed as decor.

The area under your tree is prime real estate. Use it.

Final Thoughts

Styling a Christmas tree isn’t rocket science, but it does require some thought and planning. The key is to choose a direction and commit to it. Whether you go monochrome, rustic or completely over-the-top with candy and glitter, make sure it reflects your personality.

Don’t stress about perfection – some of my favorite tree moments came from happy accidents. The decoration that won’t stay put? Move it. Those lights that keep getting tangled up? Take a breath and fix them.

Your tree should make you happy every time you look at it. If it does, you’ve made it.

Now go make some magic happen. Your tree is waiting.