Red and green are Christmas’ classic colors. Red Christmas ornaments are bold, festive and they instantly bring holiday cheer. From glossy baubles to glittering stars, red ornaments never go out of style.
Have you ever wondered why red and green are such traditional colors for the holiday? Well I think I know the answer (although these are just my thoughts as I’ve done absolutely no research on this!). I think it’s because of holly!
When you think back to images of Christmases gone past one enduring vintage image is of children collecting holly to decorate their homes for the holiday season. The beautiful berries of the holly are red and the leaves are green so when we put red Christmas ornaments on to our traditional green trees we’re creating our own version of decorating with holly aren’t we?
Red & White Christmas Tree Ornaments
A Classic Christmas Theme
Red & white Christmas ornaments are a classic way to decorate Christmas trees and go back to when candy canes were added to trees to decorate them and also provide a treat for family members over the holiday season.
You can add ornaments that include both red & white as well as a mixture of plain red ornaments and plain white ornaments for a great looking Christmas tree. Another idea is to actually add red Christmas ornaments to a white tree for a stunning centerpiece for your room.
Sleek, chic and dramatic, black ornaments instantly elevate your tree into something sophisticated and modern.
Pair black with gold, silver or bronze for a glamorous metallic effect or combine them with red and white for a bold and festive statement.
Black also works beautifully with jewel tones like emerald or burgundy for a rich, luxurious look.
The themes you can have with black ornaments are vintage Hollywood, black tie sophistication or Gothic celebration.
Vintage Hollywood Glam Christmas Tree
Combine black Christmas ornaments with silver ornaments to add a little sparkle to the tree. You can also find Christmas ornaments featuring director’s chairs, old film cameras or clapper boards.
Add a few ornaments featuring your favorite Golden Age film stars such as Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Frank Sinatra or Marilyn Monroe.
Styling Tips for your Hollywood Glam Christmas Tree
Use fairy lights for a lovely glow or the oversized bulb style of lights to emulate the lights around a dressing room mirror.
Include glitter and matte ornaments for depth and also see if you can use some black or silver ornaments that also have rhinestones on them.
Use a feather boa in black, silver or white in place of a garland.
Add floral picks and sprays to fill in gaps, add texture and enhance the luxurious appearance
As a topper find one that is dazzling and sparkling to off-set the black ornaments or use a vintage star to complete the Hollywood glam theme.
Drape a plush, fabric tree skirt around the base as though it was a wrap that was worn to the Oscars (you could even use faux fur if you wanted)
If you ever have to wear a tuxedo or a little black dress the chances are you’re heading to a black tie event which means sophistication. Black Christmas ornaments can be used to create a really sophisticated tree. Adding glimpses of a metallic like gold Christmas ornaments adds to the sophistication.
Styling Tips for a Sophisticated Black Tree Decor
Use fairy lights to add a glow to the tree.
Mix up the ornaments to include matte, glossy and glitter finishes together for texture and depth.
Add gold ribbon to soften the dramatic effect.
Place mirrored or glass ornaments nearby to reflect the light from the fairy lights and balance the darker tones of your ornaments.
Gothic Inspired Christmas Tree
Most people who are thinking of having a Gothic Christmas tree will gravitate towards a black tree, but you can get a touch of Christmas Goth by using black ornaments and adding splashes of rich color with Christmas ornaments in burgundy, deep purple or emerald green.
The look is really easy to create and can look great for Halloween or Christmas.
Styling Tips for a Gothic Christmas Tree
Use eerie lighting to cast a dramatic glow on the dark ornaments and decorations, think purple or red fairy lights.
Using black ornaments as your base you can complement it with rich dark jewel tones such as deep purple and emerald green as well as metallic colors like silver and gold.
Incorporate contrasting textures – mix shiny and matte ornaments with velvet ribbons and faux pearls to create a rich, layered look.
Incorporate mini skulls, bats and spider Halloween ornaments.
Use black beaded strands or garlands of white pearls in place of traditional garlands or tinsel.
Add dark floral picks and black roses to enhance the spooky aesthetic.
Design a custom tree topper – get a star topper and paint it black; or get a cluster of dark floral picks and connect them together to create a dramatic topper; or find a Halloween skull and use that.
When it comes to the tree skirt a black velvet fabric would be amazing.
Black Christmas Ornament Ideas
Black is a color that mixes so well with others that there are so many ways these ornaments can be incorporated in a Christmas tree theme. I personally have black on my family Christmas tree as my husband is a Kiwi so we have an All Black Santa and some black baubles with silver ferns on them as a nod to his heritage (and love of rugby).
Here’s a few more ideas for using black ornaments for your Christmas tree:
Black & White (or cream) Christmas tree – this can be very dramatic and very sophisticated
Black and metallics – pairing black ornaments with luxurious metallic accents like gold or silver can create a dramatic and glamorous look.
Add black to bold, vibrant colors like pinks or teals for a modern vibe.
Red and green with black ornaments as the contrast can be a lovely twist on traditional Christmas, dd in plaid ribbons and wooden ornaments if you want to turn traditional Christmas to Farmhouse Christmas with a twist.
When you think of Aqua Christmas ornaments you generally think of them bringing a fresh, coastal charm to your holiday decor, but they are so much more than that.
Aqua pairs really well with a number of different colors to create some stunning Christmas tree effects.
Keep scrolling for Winter Wonderland, Victoriana, Coastal Charm and Peacock Christmas ideas that are all enhanced by gorgeous aqua Christmas ornaments – you’ll wonder why you don’t already have aqua ornaments in your collection!
Coastal Charm with Aqua Ornaments
Aqua ornaments with their soft, sea-inspired shade makes them perfect for anyone celebrating Christmas in the sunshine or wanting to create a breezy, beachy feel indoors.
Pair aqua with silver and white ornaments to create the crisp, frosty look of waves pounding the shore or add touches of gold and coral for a tropical twist.
Styling Tips for a Coastal Theme
Use white garlands or ribbons to highlight the ornaments’ soft tones.
Add seashells, starfish or driftwood ornaments for a full beach-themed tre.
Incorporate plenty of sparkling fairy lights to bring aqua ornaments to life.
Winter Wonderland with Aqua Ornaments
When you combine aqua and silver ornaments on a tree (especially a white tree or a frosted tree) it makes me think of a winter wonderland and I can imagine the Snow Queen from fairytales decorating her tree this way (if she had one).
Pairing aqua and silver ornaments together works absolutely brilliantly for this theme (as a bonus tip adding aqua and silver ornaments on a black tree, while not winter wonderland, can look stunning and dramatic).
When it comes to the aqua ornaments you use I would have include some cracked glass or decorated glass ones in different shapes.
Styling Tips for an Aqua Winter Wonderland Theme
Include a mix of aqua, metallic silver, white and crystal ornaments including icicles and snowflakes.
Use white gossamer ribbons or white satin garlands.
Pinecones and wooden ornaments can add a nice touch if you want to go with a woodland wonderland. If you’re doing this you can also add white owl ornaments and sprigs of white and silver foliage.
Use various ornament finishes such as matte, glossy, glitter to add some depth to your tree along with different sized ornaments.
Use a faux fur tree skirt to add a cozy, luxurious finish.
Victorian Themed Christmas Tree with a Dollop of Aqua
When we think of a Victorian themed Christmas tree we are usually thinking of natural elements, homemade ornaments, luxurious trims combined with cameo ornaments and vintage filigree ornaments.
This theme can work really well with aqua ornaments, combine these with soft pink, silver or champagne for a romantic and elegant Victorian aesthetic. Alternatively you can decorate your Victorian tree with more opulent colors like reds, gold, purples and other gem tones and add the cooling color of aqua as a gorgeous contrast.
Styling Tips for an Aqua Victorian Theme
Use plush velvet, satin or organza ribbons for draping and add twisted tin tinsel to the tree.
Add Christmas lights that look like candles.
Introduce pinecones and other natural elements, also old fashioned sweet themed ornaments.
Add some punched paper or tin ornaments among the more modern baubles, also beaded ornaments.
Aqua & Peacock Christmas Theme
Around 2011 Peacocks were a very popular Christmas tree theme and I have to say I thought some of them looked amazing. The peacock theme usually centers around teals and purples and aqua combines really well with these colors.
If you wanted to modernize the peacock theme for your tree I would certainly consider adding aqua ornaments.
Styling Tips for a Peacock Theme with Aqua Ornaments
Decide on your color palette from royal blue, teal, emerald green and purple and think about what colors you are going to pair with these from, gold, bronze and rose gold. The aqua will work well as an accent color – adding pops of these can add contrast and depth.
Use warm fairy lights.
Use cascading ribbons to help create a peacock tail effect.
Add some peacock ornaments and decorative picks to add to the ornaments.
Tuck sequined and glittered feather sprays deep into the branches to add more texture and catch the light.
More Aqua Christmas Theme Ideas
Aqua Christmas ornaments work really well with a number of other colored Christmas ornaments for some striking effects.
Add aqua ornaments to other shades of green or blue ornaments for a monochromic tree or even an ombre theme.
Aqua and black ornaments together on a green or white Christmas tree are a lovely look.
Aqua and purple ornaments work well on any color tree.
Aqua and lime green ornaments look stunning on a white tree.
Aqua and orange ornaments were born to be placed alongside each other on any type of Christmas tree.
The Christmas tree may be the centerpiece of holiday decorating, but what about the base? A beautifully decorated tree can look unfinished if its stand is left exposed. That’s whereChristmas tree skirts and alternatives come in. Whether traditional fabric skirts, modern collars or creative DIY solutions, dressing the bottom of your tree elevates the entire look.
This guide explores everything you need to know about tree skirts and their alternatives, from history and styles to creative ideas and buying options.
A Brief History of the Christmas Tree Skirt
Originally, tree skirts weren’t about decoration at all.
19th Century Origins: In the 1800s when real Christmas trees were used and were decorated with real, wax candles Christmas skirts were practical. They were designed for catching the dripping wax and the fallen needles.
Transition to Decor: By the early 20th century as electric lights replaced candles, skirts became for decorative. Christmas tree skirts were often handmade, quilted or embroidered with festive motifs.
Today’s Purpose: While wax catching is no longer necessary and more and more people are using artificial Christmas trees we are still finding tree skirts an essential Christmas tree accessory. They now play a part in hiding stands, protecting floors and adding a great finish to your tree decor.
Classic Christmas Tree Skirts
Traditional tree skirts are circular fabric pieces with a slit to wrap around the trunk or stand.
Materials and Styles
Velvet or Velour: This style feels luxurious and soft, it works really well with a classic, sophisticated style of tree. Check out some of the classic velvet tree skirts available at Amazon.
Plaid or Tartan: This can suite a more rustic, cozy look that is still classic and traditional.
Felt or Wool: Great for a more simple and durable look that will suit a number of different styles of tree.
Sequined or Metallic: This is definitely for a glamorous sparkle of a look – it will look good with neon colors for a fun or retro themed tree. This also would suit a more glamorous or dramatic look.
Size Guide: How Big Should a Tree Skirt Be?
It’s all very good deciding that you need a tree skirt, but you need a size guide or it just will not work!
For trees up to 6 feet: a 42-48″ skirt works.
For trees over 6 feet up to 8 feet: go for 50-60″.
For very large trees, 9 feet and over: choose a 70-72″ skirt.
Tip: The skirt should be wider that the tree’s full base diameter for balance.
Modern Alternatives: Collars, Crates & More
Traditional skirts aren’t the only way to cover your tree base, let’s explore some other options.
Tree Collars
Tree collars are rigid covers that encircle the base. Popular materials for these collars are:
Woven wicker or rattan: these offer a natural, rustic feel to your tree.
Galvanized metal: this style certainly adds to a farmhouse chic style.
Wooden slats: these are sturdy and timeless and suit a wide range of tree styles.
Fabric covered or even chunky cable knit collapsible collars: these are easy to store and the chunky cable knit collars add a very warm, cozy feel to your Christmas tree.
Wooden Crates & Barrels
For a farmhouse or rustic look, some people build or by wooden crates to surround their stand. As well as being stylish these are also sturdy and can be pet proof and even baby proof.
For a DIY option you can repurpose pallets or vintage crates.
Decorative Baskets
Large woven baskets can be cut to fit around a tree stand, creating a cozy base. Another great idea if you use a woven basket is that you can incorporate something else to the base as well – fabric, burlap, faux fur, chunky blankets etc – any of these can be used to be in the basket and draping over for a sumptuous, rich cozy look
Creative & Budget-Friendly Alternatives
You don’t need to buy a skirt or collar to dress your tree. Many people use:
Sheepskin Rugs: These create a lovely soft, Scandi-inspired look that is cozy and on-trend.
Chunky Knit Blankets: Wrap these around the stand for a hygge vibe (they also double up as a wrap for when watching Christmas movies on the couch)
Faux Fur Rugs: These give off a luxe and festive feel and go with so many different tree styles.
Layered Fabric or Burlap: This gives off rustic charm and is perfect for farmhouse appeal – the burlap is also great for a coffee inspired tree or a woodland animal inspired tree.
Quilts or Tablecloths: Repurposing these textiles for a unique look is a great idea. I love to look in the post Christmas sale for things like Christmas tablecloths or bedding as they are greatly reduced and then repurposing them the following year for things such as your tree skirt is a great and budget friendly idea.
DIY Christmas Tree Skirt Ideas
For crafters, making your own tree skirt can be fun and cost-effective.
No-Sew Felt Skirt: Even non crafters can make this. Simply cut a large circle of felt, snip a slit and you’re done.
Quilted Skirt: If you’re a quilter this can look amazing, there’s so many different holiday fabric squares you can find to make a festive patchwork design.
Repurposed Materials: You can use all different types of material for very creative skirts from old denim, blankets or curtains. If your family wear Christmas t-shirts you could even repurpose these for a very special keepsake Christmas tree skirt.
Practical Considerations for a Christmas Tree Skirt
Before choosing a skirt or alternative please think about the following:
Floor Protection: Especially important for real trees with water stands.
Pets & Kids: Collars or crates can prevent pets and young kids from playing in the water or tugging at the fabric.
Storage: Fabric skirts will fold flat so if storage is at a premium these are the best option. If you have the space then you can look to collars and crates.
Where to Buy Tree Skirts & Alternatives
You can purchase both budget-friendly and luxury tree skirts or alternatives online at Amazon. If you’re after a more personalized Christmas tree skirt then it’s worth checking out Zazzle. For handmade and unique skirts and alternatives check out Etsy and local craft markets.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a classic velvet skirt, a rustic wooden crate, or a cozy sheepskin rug, dressing the base of your tree is the finishing touch that completes your holiday decor. With so many styles and DIY options, there’s a solution for every taste and budget.
For many families, nothing says Christmas like the twinkle of lights on a decorated tree. Christmas trees aren’t just seasonal decor, however, they are steeped in history, tradition and even a bit of debate. Should you buy a real tree or go with artificial? Is it worth keeping a tree up year-round and decorating it for different holidays? What’s the best way to store it when the season’s over?
This guide dives into everything you need to know about Christmas trees – from their fascinating history to the rise of artificial trees, creative decorating trends and practical storage solutions.
A Brief History of the Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree we all know and love today has deep roots in history. Let’s dive into them:
Ancient Evergreen Traditions (Pre-Christian Symbolism)
Long before Christianity, evergreens were symbols of life and renewal. Ancient Egyptians, Romans and Druids all decorated their homes with greenery in the winter months to ward off evil spirits and celebrate the return of the sun.
16th Century Germany and the First Decorated Trees
The modern Christmas tree tradition began in 16th century Germany. Devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes, often adorned with apples, oranges, nuts and candles to symbolize paradise and light.
Queen Victoria, Prince Albert & Popularity in England
The custom spread across Europe, but it was Queen Victoria and Prince Albert who made the Christmas tree a beloved symbol in the 1800s. An illustration of their family gathered around a decorated tree appeared in the Illustrated London News, inspiring households across Britain and America to adopt the practice.
The Christmas Tree in America
German immigrants brought the tradition to the US. By the late 19th century, decorated trees – often with hand-blown glass ornaments – were a staple of holiday celebrations. Over time, new innovations like electric string lights made decorating even easier.
Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: Which is Better?
The great Christmas debate: should you buy a real tree each year or invest in an artificial one? Both have their charms, but let’s break it down.
The Tradition of Real Trees
Fresh scent: Nothing quite matches the smell pf pine, spruce or fir filling your home and bringing back childhood memories.
Family Tradition: Many families enjoy the ritual of choosing a tree together.
Natural beauty: Real trees have unique shapes and textures which can’t be replicated with an artificial tree.
Environmental considerations: Trees are grwon as crops, not cut from forests and may are recycled after the season.
The Rise of Artificial Christmas Trees
Mid-20th century boom: Aluminum trees were trendy in the 1950s and the PVC trees gained popularity in the decades that followed.
Today’s options: Modern artificial trees are incredibly realistic. Some even come pre-lit, flocked with snow or designed with color-changing lights.
The Debate: Real vs Fake Trees
Real Trees
✅ Natural scent and charm ✅ Supports local farms ❌ Need watering and cleanup (fallen needles) ❌ Can be costly year after year ❌ Disposal required
Artificial Trees
✅ Reusable for 10+ years ✅ Cost-effective in the long run ✅ Easy to set up, take down, and store ✅ Safer (less fire risk, no allergens) ❌ No natural scent (though scented ornaments or sprays help) ❌ Made of synthetic materials
If you’re looking for convenience, cost savings and eco-friendliness over time, artificial trees are the clear winner.
Advantages of Artificial Christmas Trees
Artificial trees are the go-to choice for millions of households and for good reason. If you live in a warmer climate a real tree won’t always survive very long. I must confess I also like having a uniform shaped tree which is why I go for an artificial tree. Let’s look at some of the main reasons:
Cost-Effective Over Multiple Years
A high-quality artificial tree can last 10-15 years. Even if you spend $200 upfront, that averages to less than $20 per year – far cheaper than buying a $60-$100 real tree annually
While real trees are biodegradable, artificial ones reduce waste when reused for a decade or ore. Pairing one artificial tree with eco-friendly ornaments and LED lights is a sustainable choice.
What to Do with a Real Christmas Tree After the Holidays
If you still prefer a real tree, the challenge is what to do once the season ends. Let’s look at your options:
Recycling and Composting
Many local councils offer curbside pickup for real trees, turning them into mulch or compost for parks.
Replanting a Living Tree in the Garden
If you purchase a potted tree with roots, you can replant it in your garden after Christams. With care, it can grow year after year, becoming a beautiful part of your landscape.
Donating to Zoos or Farms
Some zoos and farms accept donated trees as enrichment for animals. Elephants, goats and big cats enjoy playing with or eating the branches.
Local Disposal Programs
Check your local recycling centers – many have drop-off points for tree mulching.
Year-Round Christmas Trees and Seasonal Decorating Trends
Why limit your tree to December? More families are keeping their artificial trees up year-round, decorating them for holidays and seasons. Here are some of the common ones celebrated:
Valentine’s Day Trees
Decorate with red, pink and white ornaments, hearts and ribbons.
St Patrick’s Day Trees
Green and gold baubles, shamrocks and rainbow garlands bring Irish cheer to your tree.
Easter and Spring Trees
Pastel ornaments, flowers and bunny figures transition your tree into springtime. Decorated eggs are a beautiful addition for Easter.
4th July Trees
Red, white and blue ornaments, flags and star toppers make a patriotic statement with your tree.
Halloween Trees
These are becoming increasingly popular, some people use their Christmas trees while others have a dedicated Halloween tree (often black in color). Use orange, black and purple ornaments, along with pumpkins, bats and spider webs to create spooky vibes.
Other Year Round Trees
A beach themed tree for summer is a great idea.
I’ve seen someone with a year round sunflower themed tree.
Embrace in between seasons with a coffee lovers tree or a tea drinkers tea.
A farmland animal tree or safari tree could be used year round as well.
Celebrate smaller holidays that are important to you – birthdays, anniversaries, mother’s day, father’s day, grandparent’s day etc.
A year-round tree not only spreads joy beyond Christmas but also gives you a chance to use your ornaments in creative ways (or an excuse to buy more ornaments!)
How to Store an Artificial Christmas Tree
Proper storage extends the life of your tree and makes set up easier next year. A friend of a friend actually had a tree sized cupboard built into her house design when she was building and simply leaves her tree decorated in the cupboard throughout the year. This isn’t an option for most of us however!
Collapsible and Foldable Designs
Most modern trees disassemle into sections and fold for compact storage.
Tree Storage Bags and Boxes
Special storage bags (often wheeled) keep your tree dust-free and protected. Plastic tubs or cardboard boxes can also work.
Labeling and Organizing by Size/Branch
Mark each section (bottom, middle, top) so that reassembly is simple. Some trees do have markings already on them when you purchase them.
Preventing Dust and Damage During Storage
Keep the tree in a dry, cool space if possible. Traditional Christmas decoration storage places such as the garage and the attic are not optimal as temperature swinges can cause damage to your tree.
Buying an Artificial Christmas Trees
When looking at online retailers, Amazon have a huge selection with fast delivery.
Specialty Brands
There are three specialty brands that I would look for when purchasing a Christmas tree and they are:
Balsam Hill – this brand is knwn for ultra-realistic, luxury trees.
National Tree Company – this brand offers affordable, durable options.
Vickerman – this brand offer large, decorator-quality trees.
Budget vs Luxury
Budget: Great for first-time buyers, rentals or smaller trees.
Luxury: Higher upfront cost, but exceptional realism and durability.
A good artificial tree can last 10-15 years with proper care and storage.
Are artificial trees more eco-friendly than real ones?
Yes, when reused for a decade or longer. While they’re made of synthetic materials, the long lifespan offsets environmental costs compared to cutting down a real tree each year.
How do you make a fake tree look more realistic?
Fluff the branches thoroughly, use plenty of ornaments and lights and add natural touches like pinecone picks, ribbon or garland. Some people even use pine-scented sticks for authenticity.
How can you recycle an artificial Christmas tree?
While they can’t be composted like real trees, some recycling centers accept artificial trees for parts, or you can donate them to thrift stores, churches or schools.
What size tree is best for my room?
Measure your ceiling height and allow at least 6-12 inches clearance for a tree topper. Slim or pencil trees work well in small spaces, while full trees are ideal for larger living rooms.
Final Thoughts
Christmas trees are the heart of holiday decorating – whether you prefer the natural scent of a real tree or the convenience of an artificial one. While real trees carry nostalgia, artificial trees offer affordability, safety and ease of use that make them the more practical choice for most households.
Also, with today’s trends, your tree doesn’t havve to stay in the attic 11 months of the year. From Valentine’s Day to Halloween, a year-round tree can bring joy to every season.
So whether you’re choosing your first artificial tree or upgrading to a more realistic style, remember the Christmas tree isn’t just decor. It’s a tradition, a memory maker and the centre piece of holiday cheer.
