25 Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas for Every Style

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Your Christmas tree sets the tone for the whole season. These Christmas tree decorating ideas cover every style and colour scheme, plus the professional tricks that make any tree look magazine-worthy.

The Pro Method

1. Lights first: about 100 bulbs per foot of tree, wrapped deep into the branches.

2. Ribbon or garland next, in cascading lines.

3. Big ornaments deep inside, smaller ones on the tips.

4. Fillers like picks, berries and florals last.

Classic Trees

1. Red and Gold

Classic red and gold Christmas tree with plaid ribbon

Timeless and festive. Add tartan ribbon for a Highland twist.

2. Silver and White

Icy, elegant and sparkling.

3. Green and Gold

Rich and sophisticated.

Modern & Minimal

4. Scandinavian Tree

Scandinavian Christmas tree with wooden and straw ornaments

Wood, straw, paper and white lights.

5. Flocked White Tree

Snow-dusted and soft.

6. Japandi Tree

Sparse branches, few ornaments, natural materials.

Colourful Trees

7. Pink Christmas Tree

Pink and gold Christmas tree in a glamorous living room

Playful, glam and very Pinterest.

8. Blue and Silver

A wintry, frosty palette.

9. Jewel Tones

Emerald, sapphire and ruby for maximalists.

10. Rainbow Tree

Joyful and great for families with kids.

Vintage & Rustic

11. Vintage Glass Ornaments

Vintage Christmas tree with colorful glass ornaments and tinsel

Mercury glass, tinsel and coloured bulbs feel nostalgic.

12. Rustic Farmhouse

Burlap, buffalo check and wooden ornaments.

13. Woodland Tree

Pinecones, birds, mushrooms and feathers.

14. Victorian Tree

Velvet bows, fruit and candles.

Natural & Eco Trees

15. Dried Orange and Cinnamon

Christmas tree decorated with dried oranges and cinnamon

Smells amazing and costs almost nothing.

16. Real Branches Tree

A minimal "tree" of branches in a vase.

17. Potted Living Tree

Replant it after the holidays.

Theme Trees

18. Gingerbread Tree

Gingerbread ornaments and candy canes.

19. Kids' Tree

Kids Christmas tree in a bedroom with handmade ornaments

Handmade ornaments and felt decorations.

20. Travel Memories Tree

Ornaments collected from trips.

Finishing Touches

21. Ribbon Waterfall

Vertical ribbon streams look high-end.

22. Statement Topper

A star, angel or oversized bow.

23. Tree Collar

A woven or metal collar is cleaner than a skirt.

24. Floral Picks

Add berries, eucalyptus and glitter sprays to fill gaps.

25. Presents as Decor

Christmas tree with presents wrapped in matching paper

Wrap gifts to match the tree.

More Christmas Tree Ideas

26. Slim Pencil Tree for Small Spaces

Slim pencil Christmas tree in a small apartment corner

A narrow tree fits tight corners without losing the festive feel.

27. Black and Gold Tree

Glamorous black Christmas tree with gold ornaments

Dramatic and glamorous for modern homes.

28. Upside-Down Tree

Upside down Christmas tree hanging from a ceiling

A quirky talking point that saves floor space.

29. Two Trees, Two Themes

Two Christmas trees with different themes in one room

A classic tree and a kids' tree can share one room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Christmas tree should I buy?

Leave at least 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) between the top of the tree and the ceiling, plus room for the topper.

Real or artificial Christmas tree?

Real trees smell wonderful and are recyclable; artificial trees are reusable for years and come pre-lit. Both can look beautiful.

How many ornaments does a tree need?

Roughly 10–15 ornaments per foot (30 cm) of tree height for a full look.

Final Thoughts

Pick a palette of two or three colours, light generously and layer from the inside out. Pin your favourite tree style for this season.