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Designer-Style Christmas Trees
When the holidays roll around, lots of us go for the same old tree ornaments — but if you want a Christmas tree that feels designer, intentional, and elevated (perfect for a classy holiday aesthetic or for showing off on Instagram), you can get that look with some thoughtful choices. Here’s how to build a Christmas tree that feels luxe and cohesive — even if you’re working with a simple artificial tree from last year.
✨ Step 1: Pick a Christmas Color & Theme
A “designer Christmas tree” often starts with a well-chosen palette — think about what mood you want: classic elegance (rich golds, deep reds, greens), soft metallics (champagne, pewter, bronze), or maybe something a little more whimsical and nature-inspired.
Because you love red, green, and gold, a classic palette can be timeless — but if you lean more modern, consider adding metallic ornaments or even adding texture with velvet or natural accents.
🎄 Step 2: Invest in Quality Christmas Ornaments and Coordinated Pieces
Designer-style means that your tree doesn’t look sloppy & haphazard. Choose ornaments that harmonize — same finishes or complementary styles — to give the tree a cohesive & curated feel.
Here are a few ornament sets and pieces that work beautifully on a “designer” tree:
- Crate & Barrel Textured Metallic Glass Ball Ornament Set — A chic choice if you want your tree to glimmer with subtle sheen rather than loud glitter; metallics like gold, silver, and pewter add sophistication.
- Vintage Style Handmade Gold Glass Christmas Ornaments (Set of 30) — If you’re going for a high-end, full-tree look (especially on a larger 7–9 ft tree), a large set like this gives richness and depth.
- Pottery Barn Mixed Ornament Set — A lovely balanced set blending red and gold — ideal for classic holiday vibes.
- Michael Aram Pomegranate Glass Christmas Ornament — Use unique, statement ornaments like this to give your tree personality and a touch of elegance.
- West Elm Modern Brownstone Ornament — For a more modern or neutral holiday décor, mixing in earthy or understated ornaments can elevate the look.
- Anthropologie Handpainted Floral Glass Ornament — Adds an artistic, handcrafted feel — perfect if you value unique, boutique-style touches.
- Handmade Velvet Christmas Ornaments Set — Velvet ornaments bring in cozy texture and softness — especially pretty if your room has rich fabrics or a vintage vibe.
Mixing a few of these sets — but staying within a coordinated palette — helps make the whole tree look intentional and polished (rather than “store bought random”). While there’s nothing wrong with “store bought random or memorabilia” maybe consider a tree dedicated to these items – after all they deserve to have their own spotlight.
🌿 Step 3: Add Texture, Light & Depth — Not Just Christmas Ornaments
Beyond ornaments, layering in ribbons, garlands, and natural elements (pinecones, dried orange slices, faux greenery) adds dimension and richness.
When it comes to lighting, decorators recommend wrapping lights inside the branches first, then spiraling outward — this gives a warm “inner glow” and makes the tree look more luminous and professional. Yes – it certainly can be a pain to unwrap branches if your string of lights stop working but the reward outweighs the risk.
Also, scale matters. If your tree is tall (say 7–9 ft), use oversized ornaments in some spots, balanced with smaller ornaments and garlands — that gives a high-end “designer” feel rather than a cluttered or toy-like look.
🎨 Step 4: Personalize & Make It Yours
What makes a tree truly “designer” isn’t just expensive ornaments — it’s thoughtful details. For instance, if you enjoy mixed media, you might weave in handmade touches: little fabric bows, custom ornaments, your own crafts, or small decorations that tell a story. This adds personality and sentiment. Many experts say unique or unexpected touches — like natural elements, homemade ornaments, or nontraditional shapes — can make a standard tree feel luxurious.
Why This Works (and Feels Luxe)
By combining a curated color palette, quality ornaments, layered lighting and texture, and a few standout pieces — you’re not just decorating, you’re styling. The effect is visually cohesive and intentional, giving a “magazine-ready” holiday tree. Even if your base tree is a simple artificial spruce, the overall result can feel like a professional decorator’s work.
TIP: For more ideas of about Christmas decorating check out my recent blog post: How to Create a Cozy & Stylish Home for Christmas
