How to Style Your Holiday Tree Like a Professional Designer

The holiday season is one of the most joyous times of the year, and nothing embodies the magic of the season more than a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. For many, decorating the tree is a cherished tradition, a time to bring family and friends together, and a way to add festive cheer to the home. But for some, the thought of styling a tree might seem daunting. With the abundance of ornaments, lights, and decorative choices available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

What if you could transform your tree into a professional-looking masterpiece, just like the ones you see in stores or magazines? Styling a holiday tree like a professional designer isn’t as difficult as it may seem. By following a few key principles, paying attention to the details, and planning ahead, you can create a stunning, cohesive tree that will be the centerpiece of your holiday decor.

In this article, we will take you through the steps to style your holiday tree like a professional designer, from the foundation of the tree itself to the final finishing touches. We will cover everything from choosing the right tree and lights to selecting and arranging ornaments and adding personal accents that make the tree uniquely yours.

1. Start with a Quality Tree

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The foundation of any well-designed holiday tree starts with the tree itself. Whether you prefer a real tree or an artificial one, choosing the right tree is essential for setting the tone for the entire look. Here are some key considerations when selecting a tree:

Real vs. Artificial Tree

Both real and artificial trees have their advantages, so the choice depends on your preferences. Real trees have the traditional smell and beauty of nature, but they require maintenance and can be messy. Artificial trees, on the other hand, are more convenient and reusable, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.

Real Trees: Choose a tree with strong branches, a full shape, and a fresh appearance. When picking a real tree, make sure the needles are pliable and do not fall off easily. Common types include Fir, Pine, and Spruce, each with its own texture and fragrance.
Artificial Trees: Look for a tree that mimics the appearance of a real tree. Modern artificial trees are made with materials that closely resemble real pine needles. Look for trees with hinged branches, which are easier to shape and fluff. Pre-lit options can save you time, but make sure the lights are evenly distributed.

Tree Size and Shape

When choosing a tree, consider the size of your space. A large, expansive tree might be beautiful, but if the room is small, it could overwhelm the space. Measure your room’s height and width and select a tree that complements it. As for shape, trees are available in various styles, including slim, full, and conical. Full trees work well in spacious rooms, while slim trees are great for tighter spaces.

2. Plan the Color Scheme

A cohesive color scheme is one of the easiest ways to make your tree look professionally styled. When selecting your colors, think about the overall aesthetic you want to create in the room. Here are a few classic and trendy color palettes to consider:

Traditional Red, Green, and Gold: This classic color scheme creates a nostalgic holiday atmosphere. It’s timeless and festive, and it works with nearly any decor style. Red and green are the quintessential Christmas colors, while gold adds elegance and warmth.
Monochrome Elegance: Opt for a chic and minimalist approach with shades of one color, such as white, silver, or gold. This creates a modern, sophisticated look that is both simple and luxurious.
Winter Wonderland: Soft whites, silvers, and blues evoke the feeling of a snowy winter day. This color palette works well for a serene and calm holiday tree.
Rustic and Natural: Incorporating earthy tones like brown, green, and copper can give your tree a rustic and cozy feel. This style often includes natural elements like wood, burlap, pinecones, and dried flowers.
Bold and Bright: For a vibrant, fun tree, go for bold and contrasting colors like hot pink, turquoise, and lime green. This is a playful and lively approach, perfect for those who want to infuse their holidays with energy and joy.

Once you’ve selected your colors, make sure to incorporate them consistently across the tree. This ensures that all the elements—lights, ornaments, ribbons, and garlands—work together to create a cohesive look.

3. Light Up the Tree

Lighting is one of the most important elements in tree styling, yet it’s often overlooked. A tree that is dimly lit or poorly illuminated can detract from all your hard work. To create a beautifully lit tree, follow these steps:

Choose the Right Type of Lights

There are two primary types of lights to consider: incandescent and LED.

Incandescent Lights: These traditional lights give off a warm, yellowish glow that is soft and cozy. They tend to be more energy-consuming but can be ideal for creating a classic, warm holiday ambiance.
LED Lights: LED lights are energy-efficient and come in a variety of colors and styles. They are brighter and have a cooler, bluish tone. LED lights are often available in string lights, icicle lights, and other creative shapes.

How to String the Lights

The key to lighting your tree like a pro is to avoid putting lights only on the outer branches. To achieve a rich, glowing effect, string lights deep into the tree. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Start at the Bottom: Begin by placing the light string at the base of the tree and work your way up.
Wrap the Lights Around the Branches: Drape the lights around the trunk and inner branches first, then move outward toward the tips. This will create depth and a more dynamic glow.
Keep the Lights Evenly Spaced: For a uniform look, make sure the lights are evenly spaced and distributed. Avoid clumping them together or leaving areas of the tree too dark.
Test the Lights: Before you finish decorating, plug in the lights to make sure they are working properly. Check for any burnt-out bulbs and replace them.

Consider Layering Lights

For added dimension, you can use different types of lights. For example, start with white or soft golden lights as a base, and then add a second layer of colored or twinkling lights to create a more intricate effect.

4. Add Ribbon and Garlands

Ribbons and garlands are essential for adding texture and depth to your tree. They can help fill empty spaces and create a sense of movement and flow. Here’s how to incorporate them into your design:

Ribbon

Choose a High-Quality Ribbon: Opt for a wide ribbon (2-4 inches) with a soft, flexible material. Wired ribbon is ideal for tree decorating because it holds its shape and can be easily manipulated.
Create Flowing Drapes: Start at the top of the tree and drape the ribbon down in flowing curves. You can either spiral the ribbon around the tree or create loose loops hanging from the branches. Avoid placing the ribbon too symmetrically; instead, aim for a natural, cascading effect.
Combine Different Textures: For added interest, use a combination of solid and patterned ribbons. For example, combine a solid velvet ribbon with a metallic or plaid ribbon for a contrasting effect.

Garlands

Beaded or Sequin Garlands: Add some sparkle with beaded garlands. These can be strung around the tree in a simple loop or zig-zag pattern, or you can drape them over branches for a more opulent look.
Natural Elements: A garland made from pinecones, berries, or dried citrus slices can complement a rustic or natural theme. These organic touches bring a sense of the outdoors inside, adding texture and interest.
Fluffy Flocked Garlands: For a winter wonderland effect, consider using flocked garlands that resemble snow. These garlands add a soft, frosted effect that enhances the seasonal feel.

5. Choose and Arrange Ornaments

Ornaments are the heart of your tree decoration. The key to making them look professionally styled is to arrange them thoughtfully. Here’s how to do it:

Select a Mix of Ornaments

Size Variety: Use ornaments in a variety of sizes. Place larger ornaments toward the inner branches and smaller ornaments toward the outer tips of the tree. This creates depth and prevents the tree from looking too top-heavy.
Textures and Materials: Incorporate ornaments with different textures—such as glass, metal, wood, and fabric—to add variety. You can mix shiny, matte, and glittery finishes to create a balanced look.
Themed Ornaments: Consider adding a few special or themed ornaments that hold sentimental value, like family heirlooms, travel souvenirs, or handmade decorations. These elements add a personal touch and tell a unique story.

How to Arrange Ornaments

Start from the Inside: Begin by hanging ornaments on the inner branches. This will help avoid overcrowding on the outer branches.
Balance the Colors: Place ornaments of similar colors in clusters to create balance, but avoid grouping all of one color together.
Use Different Hanging Techniques: Vary how you hang your ornaments—some can be hung with ribbon or hooks, while others can be nestled into the tree branches for a more natural look.
Add a Focal Point: Consider placing a standout ornament or a beautiful, oversized piece near the top of the tree or at eye level to draw attention. This could be a star, angel, or large decorative bauble.

6. Finishing Touches

Once your tree is fully decorated, take a step back and assess the overall look. Adjust any elements that seem out of place or that need balancing. Here are a few final touches that can take your tree from beautiful to professional:

Tree Skirt: A tree skirt is a great way to hide the tree stand and add a finishing touch to the bottom of the tree. Choose a fabric or material that complements your tree’s color scheme. It could be a plush velvet, burlap, or even a knitted cover for a cozy effect.
Tree Topper: The tree topper is the crowning jewel of the tree. Popular options include stars, angels, bows, or large decorative flowers. Make sure the topper is proportional to the size of your tree.
Scented Elements: To create an even more immersive holiday experience, add scented elements like cinnamon sticks, dried pinecones, or essential oils. This can enhance the ambiance and fill the room with holiday fragrance.

Conclusion

Styling your holiday tree like a professional designer is about more than just slapping on a few ornaments. It’s about creating a cohesive, visually striking design that brings joy and warmth to your home. By carefully selecting your tree, lighting, color scheme, ornaments, and finishing touches, you can create a tree that looks curated, polished, and personalized.

So this holiday season, take the time to design your tree with intention, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re going for a classic look, a modern twist, or something entirely unique, styling your holiday tree like a professional designer will undoubtedly elevate your home and bring festive cheer to all who gather around it. Happy decorating!