10 Ways to Spice Up Your Christmas Tree Theme

We all have our own distinct Christmas tree themes, whether we know it or not. Yours might be built around favorite colors, family crafts, or even eclectic items (anything goes!). And while your aesthetic may have served you well, it might be time for a change. This year, why not try an exciting new theme that adds some sparkle and novelty to your home’s décor?

Holly Blain, a Brooklyn, Michigan-based interior design influencer, suggests how you can have both. “Our ‘family’ tree holds special meaning, growing each year as we add collectible and handmade ornaments, each one telling a part of our story,” she says. “Alongside it, I always incorporate a second themed tree, where the style evolves every year to reflect my changing Christmas inspiration.”

So, whether you choose to have one Christmas tree or two, here are 10 stunning Christmas tree themes to light up your holidays.

1. Old fashioned

To style a Christmas tree with an old-time theme, Blain suggests starting with classic ornaments, such as wooden figurines, glass baubles, and vintage-inspired metal pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Add depth by layering with fabric or lace garlands, cranberry strings, or old-fashioned popcorn chains. Mix in some handmade ornaments or antique finds to customize it, and use soft white or candle-like lights. Finish the look with a burlap or velvet ribbon as the topper.

2. Sugar and spice

A “sugar and spice”-themed Christmas tree should incorporate natural elements, such as dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise, to bring warmth and fragrance to your décor. Pair these with rustic wooden ornaments, warm-toned baubles, and twine or burlap ribbons for a cozy, homespun feel. String cranberries or use cinnamon-scented pinecones as garland to add natural texture. For a whimsical finish, add candy cane- or gingerbread cookie-inspired ornaments, and top the tree with a simple star or bow to keep the theme sweet and inviting.

3. Nordic woodland

Blain advises focusing on natural, minimalist elements to create a Nordic woodland-themed Christmas tree. Start by using neutral-colored ornaments alongside wooden animals, sleds, pinecones, and small forest-inspired figures, such as owls or deer. Incorporate greenery or eucalyptus garlands to enhance the organic feel, and drape simple, warm white lights to create a cozy glow. For a natural garland, twine or felted wool works beautifully, while the tree topper could be a wooden star or a simple, understated bow. Add touches of faux fur or knitted ornaments for extra texture and warmth.

4. With love from Paris

Embrace the elegance and romance of the City of Light! Begin with a base of soft, shimmering ornaments in hues of blush pink, gold, and ivory. Then, incorporate Eiffel Tower-themed ornaments, miniature chandeliers, and vintage-style postcards or French script decorations for a touch of French flair. Delicate satin or velvet ribbons in pastel tones can be draped as garland, adding a luxurious feel. Consider adding elements like lace, feathers, or pearls to evoke the sophistication of Paris. Finish the tree with a glimmering star or Chanel-style bow.

5. Winter in New England

A New England-themed Christmas tree brings to the fore the rustic charm and coastal influences of the region. Start by decorating with classic ornaments, such as red berries, wooden sailboats, lighthouses, and seashells, to represent the region’s nautical heritage. Add pinecones, plaid patterns, and tartan-patterned bows to evoke the cozy feel of a New England winter. For the tree topper, a rustic star made of twigs or driftwood adds the perfect New England touch, tying the coastal and countryside elements together.

6. Silver and gold

For a simple silver-and-gold-themed Christmas tree, start with a mix of shiny silver and gold ornaments, such as baubles and stars. Add a metallic garland or ribbon in silver or gold to wrap around the tree. Keep the lights warm white to create a soft glow that complements the metallic tones. Finish with a simple star or bow on top for a polished, elegant look that feels festive without being overdone.

Trend alert! Tinsel has made a comeback, so look for it in vintage shops and sprinkle it evenly over the entire tree. (Make sure you harvest it for next year before dismantling the tree.)

7. Reds and roses

This romantic palette calls for bold shades of red and soft pinks, Blain suggests. Decorate the tree with red glass ornaments, roses (real or faux), and pink- or blush-toned baubles for a delicate contrast. Incorporate deep red ribbons or velvet garlands to add texture and richness. You could even add some floral or rose-shaped ornaments for a more romantic touch. Use warm white or soft pink lights to give the tree a gentle glow, and top it with a red bow or rose bouquet for an elegant and vibrant finish. You can also switch out the roses for poinsettias.

8. Country Christmas

To capture a country Christmas tree theme, focus on rustic, natural elements that evoke a cozy, farmhouse feel. Start with simple, homespun ornaments like wooden stars, burlap bows, and plaid ribbons. (MacGregor or buffalo plaid is a good choice here.) Add touches of nature with pinecones, berries, and handmade ornaments, such as salt dough shapes or dried oranges or antlers. Use garlands made from twine, popcorn, or cranberries to keep the look traditional and down to earth. Warm white lights will give the tree a soft, inviting glow, and for a tree topper, look for angels made of natural materials, such as grapevine or corn husks.

9. Made by hand

You and your family can celebrate the charm of DIY and crafted ornaments. Decorate the tree with handmade treasures, including ornaments made with such as felt, yarn (such as crocheted snowflakes, wood, or clay; they can be made by you or an artist you love. Incorporate paper crafts, such as origami stars or homemade garlands from string and beads, or even popcorn and cranberries for a classic, homespun touch. Use strips of cotton fabric scraps tied together to wrap around the tree, or knot them onto tree branches for a quilted effect. For the topper, a hand-sewn or knitted star, or even a large paper or fabric bow, adds the perfect finishing touch.

10. BONUS IDEA

How to create a “Family Time” tree like Blain’s…

“Start with classic colors, like red, green, and gold, to evoke a cozy, festive feeling,” she advises. “Then, add personal ornaments, such as family photos, kids’ crafts, or ornaments collected over the years, to reflect your shared memories. You can even have a fun tradition of adding a new one each year! We love adding our favorite family Christmas movie, ‘Christmas Vacation,’ ornament each year.”

Wrap the tree in a simple garland, such as ribbons or a homemade string of popcorn, cranberries, or dried oranges. Finish with soft, warm lights to create a gentle glow, and top the tree with something meaningful — a star, angel, or even a family heirloom that represents unity and love.

“With these simple touches,” Blain says, “your tree becomes a special symbol of togetherness and holiday cheer.”