Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the most magical parts of the holiday season, but choosing a theme can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. With so many beautiful styles out there—from moody and dramatic to whimsical and colorful—it’s hard to know where to start.
The good news? There’s no wrong way to decorate a tree. Whether you’re drawn to vintage charm, nature-inspired simplicity, bold color palettes, or elegant metallics, there’s a Christmas tree theme out there that will help your home feel festive, cozy, and completely “you.”
In this post, I’m sharing some of my very favorite Christmas tree themes—many from trees I’ve decorated over the years, others from Details Home and Garden (my forever source of inspiration), and a few stunning ideas from fellow creators whose trees deserve all the love. You’ll find decorating tips, color palettes, ornament ideas, and easy ways to bring each theme to life in your own home.
If you’re looking for Christmas tree themes, different Christmas tree styles, or new themed Christmas tree ideas to inspire your holiday decorating this year, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!
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1. Moody Christmas Tree Theme
A moody Christmas tree is all about deeper colors and a cozy, dramatic feel. Instead of the usual bright reds and greens, this look features rich shades like burgundy, navy, emerald, olive, chocolate brown, plum, and charcoal.
It’s warm, inviting, and makes such a beautiful statement without trying too hard.
How to Decorate a Moody Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Choose matte, velvet-finish, and mercury glass ornaments in dark, saturated shades.
Ribbon: Velvet ribbon is the star here. Layer two widths for dimension—one wide cascading ribbon and one thinner accent ribbon tucked in.
Florals & Picks: Faux branches, dried hydrangeas, cedar sprigs, or dark eucalyptus stems add fullness.
Lighting: Warm white lights enhance the rich tones and keep the tree from feeling overly dark.
Tree Topper: A dark velvet bow, oversized metallic star, or even a cluster of dramatic branches and stems works beautifully.
This theme is stunning on any size tree, and looks gorgeous with dark woods, brass accents, and warm candlelight.
2. Blue and White Christmas Tree Theme
Blue and white is one of those Christmas color combinations that never goes out of style. If you love blue-and-white patterned dishes (like I do!), you’ll appreciate this look.
It’s fresh, calming, and works with just about anything—cottage, coastal, wintery, or more traditional decor.
How to Decorate a Blue & White Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Mix glossy, matte, patterned ceramic, and mercury glass ornaments in navy, cobalt, powder blue, and classic white.
Ribbon: Try chinoiserie-inspired prints, blue velvet, or white satin ribbon for a layered look.
Florals & Picks: White hydrangeas, winter berries, frosted greenery, or icy picks add a snowy touch to this palette.
Lighting: Cool white lights emphasize the crispness; warm white adds a softer coastal glow.
Tree Topper: A white star, chinoiserie bow, or clusters of white floral stems.
This look is pretty but still relaxed—perfect if you love that fresh, crisp winter color palette.
3. Natural Neutral Christmas Tree Theme
If you love calm, nature-inspired decorating, a natural, neutral Christmas tree is such a great choice. It’s all about warm, earthy tones and simple, organic touches that give your home a peaceful, understated holiday feel.
How to Decorate a Natural Neutral Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Choose wooden ornaments, paper ornaments, white ceramic balls, jute stars, wicker pieces, and handcrafted details.
Ribbon: Linen ribbon, cotton ribbon, kraft paper ribbon, or frayed-edge styles look beautiful tucked throughout the branches.
Lighting: Warm white lights bring out the cozy glow of the natural textures.
Tree Topper: A simple star, rattan topper, wooden snowflake, or a neutral bow.
This theme is budget-friendly, easy to adapt, and always feels fresh and timeless.
4. Ralph Lauren Inspired Christmas Tree Theme
Classic American holiday style comes to life with rich plaids, a touch of equestrian charm, mixed metals, and those timeless, traditional colors. A Ralph Lauren–inspired Christmas tree feels warm, nostalgic, and beautifully layered.
How to Decorate a Ralph Lauren Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Deep red, hunter green, navy, and gold ornaments, along with plaid balls, metallic bells, and vintage-style baubles.
Ribbon: Tartan plaid ribbon is a must. Mix one bold plaid with a thinner ribbon in velvet or satin for contrast.
Florals & Picks: Magnolia leaves, blue or gold berry stems, pinecones, and classic greenery.
Lighting: Warm lights complement the traditional palette.
Tree Topper: A tartan bow, gold star, or magnolia arrangement.
This style gives off total “cozy evening by the fire” vibes—classic, warm, and so inviting.
A flocked metallic tree is bright, sparkly, and full of holiday shine. The snowy flocking gives it a soft, cozy feel, while the metallic ornaments add that extra bit of sparkle.
Lighting: Multicolored lights or warm white lights for a slightly toned-down look.
Tree Topper: A whimsical star, oversized bow, or quirky topper that matches your theme.
A colorful Christmas tree gives you all the creative freedom you want—no rules, just pure holiday fun.
7. Red and White Whimsical Christmas Tree Theme
If you love a cheerful, candy-shop-meets-winter-wonderland vibe, a red and white whimsical Christmas tree is always a fun choice. This theme is playful, bright, and perfect for adding a little holiday magic to any room.
How to Decorate a Red & White Whimsical Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Classic red balls, white ceramic ornaments, peppermint swirls, candy canes, snowflakes, and novelty ornaments like Santa hats or mittens.
Ribbon: Red-and-white striped ribbon, polka dots, gingham, or wide red velvet paired with narrow white satin ribbon.
Florals & Picks: Red berry stems, white floral picks, snowy branches, and whimsical spirals.
Lighting: Warm white lights add a cozy glow; multicolored lights create a playful feel.
Tree Topper: A metal or glittered star, big red bow, or oversized candy cane topper.
This look is festive without feeling overdone, and it always brings out the smiles.
8. Jewel-Toned Christmas Tree Theme
A jewel-toned tree is vibrant, rich, and full of gorgeous color. Picture deep gemstone shades like emerald, amethyst, sapphire, ruby, teal, and bronze all glowing together on one beautiful tree.
How to Decorate a Jewel-Toned Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Mix glossy, matte, glass, and metallic ornaments in deep jewel hues.
Ribbon: Velvet ribbon in emerald or plum, sheer gold ribbon, or layered jewel-tone patterns.
Lighting: Warm white lights enhance richness; cool lights sharpen the jewel-like effect.
Tree Topper: A gold star, jeweled crown-style topper, or lush velvet bow.
A jewel-toned Christmas tree feels luxurious but still totally approachable—such a pretty way to bring a little extra style to your holiday décor.
9. Garden-Inspired Christmas Tree Theme
Perfect for anyone who loves gardening, florals, or cottage style, a garden-inspired Christmas tree theme brings blooming beauty to the holiday season. It’s full of texture, nature, and soft winter romance.
How to Decorate a Garden-Inspired Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Floral ornaments, botanical prints, bird ornaments and birdhouses, garden tools and watering cans, butterflies, vegetables, and soft pastel balls.
Ribbon: Floral-print ribbons, green and white striped ribbon, soft velvet in blush or sage, or gauzy taupe ribbon.
Lighting: Warm lights complement the romantic floral look.
Tree Topper: A floral bouquet, bird topper, or soft pastel bow.
This theme brings a fresh, botanical twist to Christmas decorating, blending your love of gardening with holiday charm.
10. Dried Hydrangea Christmas Tree Theme
This is one of the most loved Christmas tree themes out there, and it’s easy to see why—it’s gorgeous, full of texture, and totally unique. Dried hydrangeas add the prettiest soft fullness and bring a natural, romantic touch to any tree.
How to Decorate a Dried Hydrangea Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Simple ornaments work best so the hydrangeas shine—pearls, clear glass balls, white, green, or cream ornaments.
Ribbon: Soft linen ribbon, ivory or green velvet ribbon, or subtle gold accents.
Florals & Picks: The dried hydrangeas are the main floral element, but you can also add frosted greenery or natural branches.
Lighting: Warm white lights create a gorgeous glow through the petals.
Tree Topper: A cluster of hydrangeas, a simple bow, or a neutral star.
This theme feels soft, organic, and timeless—and every tree looks different depending on the blooms you have.
11. Winter Wonderland Christmas Tree Theme
A winter wonderland tree brings all that snowy magic inside with frosty whites, icy metallics, and lots of shimmer. It’s crisp, pretty, and perfect if you love that soft, snow-dusted holiday look.
How to Decorate a Winter Wonderland Christmas Tree
Ornaments: White ornaments, pearl baubles, white birds, iridescent snowflakes, frosted glass balls, and ice-inspired shapes.
Ribbon: White satin, silver mesh, or sheer snowy ribbon adds ethereal movement.
Lighting: Cool white lights enhance the wintery feel; warm lights soften the palette.
Tree Topper: A snowflake, sparkling star, or frosted floral cluster.
This tree theme creates a peaceful, glowing winter moment—beautiful day or night.
12. Red and Lime Christmas Tree Theme
Bright, cheerful, and full of holiday energy, a red and lime Christmas tree is such a fun choice if you want something bold and festive. The mix of red and lime green gives it a fresh, modern feel that really pops.
How to Decorate a Red & Lime Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Red, lime green, and white ornaments; oversized balls; red cardinals: novelty ornaments; and modern shapes.
Ribbon: Lime mesh or velvet ribbon, red velvet, striped red-and-lime ribbon, or glitter ribbon.
Lighting: Warm white lights keep the palette from feeling too electric.
Tree Topper: A large red bow, whimsical star, or fun topper that pulls the theme together.
If you love bold color, this theme is fun, joyful, and a little unexpected in the best possible way.
13. Vintage-Inspired Christmas Tree Theme
A vintage Christmas tree theme is nostalgic, warm, and full of old-fashioned charm. Retro ornaments, classic shapes, and those timeless materials all come together to give you that sweet “Christmas from years past” feeling.
Lighting: Warm white lights or even faux “candle clip” lights to enhance the nostalgic vibe.
Tree Topper: A vintage-inspired star, angel, or brass bell cluster.
If you love thrifting, estate sales, or decorating with handed-down ornaments, this theme brings together all those special memories with a little holiday magic.
14. Silver and Gold Christmas Tree Theme
Silver and gold are such a classic holiday combo—pretty, bright, and elegant without feeling too flashy. The mix of warm and cool metallics gives the whole tree a gorgeous, glowing look.
Florals & Picks: Metallic eucalyptus, frosted branches, gold berry stems, and pearl picks.
Lighting: Warm lights highlight the gold; cool lights enhance the silver—choose based on your preferred effect.
Tree Topper: A gold star, shimmering bow, or metallic floral arrangement.
This style feels elegant but still relaxed, and it looks beautiful on both flocked trees and classic green ones.
15. Candy Cane Christmas Tree Theme
Sweet, cheerful, and fun for all ages, a candy cane–themed Christmas tree is such a classic. It’s playful and full of personality, but it still has that traditional holiday charm everyone loves.
How to Decorate a Candy Cane Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Red and white ornaments, peppermint candies, lollipops, striped baubles, and whimsical shapes.
Ribbon: Red-and-white striped ribbon, polka dot ribbon, or layered red velvet with thin white satin.
Florals & Picks: Candy-cane sprays, red berries, white florals, and whimsical spirals or curly picks.
Lighting: Warm white or red lights add an inviting glow.
Tree Topper: A candy-cane bow, peppermint swirl topper, or classic red star.
This theme is easy to create on a budget and instantly recognizable.
A plaid Christmas tree theme is cozy, timeless, and really easy to make your own. With so many great plaid patterns—tartan, buffalo check, windowpane, herringbone—you can pull together a look that feels classic but still totally personal.
How to Decorate a Plaid Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Red, green, gold, and navy ornaments pair beautifully with plaid accents. You can also find plaid-patterned ornaments or wrap inexpensive balls with plaid ribbon or fabric.
Ribbon: The star of this theme! Choose one or several plaids for a layered look.
Florals & Picks: Magnolia branches, pinecones, berries, and simple greenery keep the look grounded.
Lighting: Warm white lights pair best with the cozy, lodge-like feel.
Tree Topper: A big plaid bow, gold star, or rustic arrangement.
Plaid is one of the most flexible Christmas tree themes out there because it works so well with other styles—coastal, rustic, vintage, traditional, you name it.
17. Flocked With Gold Christmas Tree Theme
A flocked-with-gold Christmas tree mixes the soft look of snow-covered branches with the warm glow of gold accents. It’s elegant but still really cozy—a beautiful combo for the holiday season.
How to Decorate a Flocked Gold Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Gold, champagne, pearl, and warm metallic ornaments shine against the snowy branches.
Ribbon: Champagne velvet, gold satin ribbon, or sheer ribbon with metallic accents.
Lighting: Warm white lights add a golden glow that feels magical on a flocked tree.
Tree Topper: A champagne star, floral cluster, or metallic bow
This style gives you the perfect mix of brightness and softness, and it blends really well with any metallic décor you already have around your home.
18. Coastal Christmas Tree Theme
A coastal Christmas tree theme is light, calm, and inspired by ocean views and beachy textures. It’s a great fit if you love softer color palettes, natural materials, or anything with a seaside feel.
How to Decorate a Coastal Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Seashells, starfish, glass fishing floats, driftwood ornaments, sea-inspired shapes, and pale blue, turquoise, coral, and sandy neutral balls.
Ribbon: Linen ribbon, aqua velvet, gauzy white ribbon, or soft striped ribbon reminiscent of nautical style.
Florals & Picks: Dried grasses, frosted greenery, white berry stems, or soft coastal florals.
Lighting: Warm white lights create a soft glow; cool lights add a crisp, ocean-inspired vibe.
Tree Topper: A starfish, coastal-style bow, or driftwood star.
This tree style feels peaceful and uplifting—perfect if you’re dreaming of a calm, seaside-style holiday.
19. Rustic Outdoors Christmas Tree Theme
A rustic outdoors Christmas tree brings in all the cozy vibes of winter cabins, forest walks, and lodge-style decorating. It’s warm, woodsy, and full of natural charm.
How to Decorate a Rustic Outdoor Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Woodland animals, pinecones, wooden ornaments, bark stars, plaid balls, lantern-shaped ornaments, snowshoes, trees, white berries, and rustic bells.
Ribbon: Burlap ribbon, plaid ribbon, jute ribbon, or twine-wrapped accents.
Lighting: Warm white lights give a golden, fireside glow.
Tree Topper: A wooden star, rustic bow, birch star, or antler topper
This is one of the easiest (and most budget-friendly) Christmas tree themes to pull off. You can recreate the whole look with simple natural elements and a few fun DIY touches.
Copper and burgundy look so beautiful together. The colors are warm, rich, and elegant without feeling stuffy, and they give your Christmas tree so much depth and interest.
How to Decorate a Copper & Burgundy Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Copper, rose gold, bronze, and deep burgundy ornaments; matte, metallic, and mercury glass textures.
Ribbon: Burgundy velvet ribbon layers beautifully with copper mesh or metallic ribbon.
Florals & Picks: Copper eucalyptus, burgundy berry stems, magnolia leaves, and dark florals.
Lighting: Warm white lights enhance the richness of the colors.
Tree Topper: A copper star, velvet bow, or dramatic floral cluster.
This style looks great on any type of tree—flocked, classic green, or even lightly frosted—and it somehow manages to feel modern and timeless at the same time.
21. Bottle Brush and Floral Christmas Tree Theme
This whimsical theme mixes the sweet, vintage look of bottle brush trees with pretty florals for a soft, cottage-style vibe. It’s unique, creative, and full of fun texture.
How to Decorate a Bottle Brush & Floral Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Mini bottle brush trees (in neutrals or pastels), floral ornaments and garland, pearls, metallic accents, and soft-hued balls.
Ribbon: Blush and lilac velvet, ivory satin, soft gold ribbon, or gauzy floral-pattern ribbon.
Tree Topper: A floral bouquet, layered bow, or whimsical bottle brush cluster.
This style has a dreamy, storybook feel—perfect if you want a Christmas tree with lots of personality.
22. Dried Orange Christmas Tree Theme
A dried orange Christmas tree is warm, natural, and full of that old-fashioned, nostalgic charm. It’s a lovely twist on traditional, handmade holiday décor—perfect if you enjoy simple, meaningful touches.
How to Decorate a Dried Orange Christmas Tree
Ornaments: Dried orange slices, wooden ornaments, gold bells, natural jute ornaments, white feathery ornaments, cinnamon sticks, and handcrafted pieces.
Ribbon: Linen ribbon, natural twine, burlap ribbon, kraft paper ribbon, or simple cotton ribbon.
Florals & Picks: Cedar stems, eucalyptus picks, pinecones, dried florals, and woodland touches.
Lighting: Warm white lights create an amber glow that enhances the dried citrus.
Tree Topper: A twig star, natural bow, or handcrafted topper.
This theme is simple, budget-friendly, and so easy to DIY — perfect for a cozy, organic holiday style.
23. Burgundy and Gold Christmas Tree
If you love a classic look with a little extra richness, a burgundy and gold Christmas tree is such a beautiful choice. The deep burgundy tones pair perfectly with warm metallics, giving your tree a really timeless feel.
Ribbon: Burgundy velvet ribbon layered with thin gold ribbon or gold mesh ribbon tucked throughout.
Florals & Picks: Gold berry stems, deep plum florals, burgundy eucalyptus, and warm greenery.
Lighting: Warm white lights enhance the richness of both colors.
Tree Topper: A gold star, a velvet bow, or a dramatic floral-and-metallic topper.
This theme is cozy, rich, and perfect for an elevated holiday style.
More Christmas Tree Theme Ideas
Here are a few more Christmas tree themes for you to think about—simple, creative ideas that you can easily make your own, no matter your style or budget.
Scandinavian Christmas Tree Theme: Simple, minimal, and nature-inspired, focusing on clean lines and soft neutrals. Decorate with wooden ornaments, white stars, paper snowflakes, wool garlands, and natural greenery.
Elegant Pink Christmas Tree Theme: Soft, romantic, and feminine, bringing a dreamy glow to the holiday season. Decorate with blush ornaments, rose gold accents, pearl baubles, velvet ribbon, and delicate florals.
Gingerbread Christmas Tree Theme: Warm, homey, and nostalgic. Decorate with gingerbread house ornaments, cookie-shaped ornaments, candy accents, and warm white lights.
Pom-Pom Christmas Tree Theme: Whimsical, cheerful, and full of texture, fun, and budget-friendly. Decorate with handmade pom-pom garlands, colorful pom-pom picks, playful ornaments, and soft ribbon.
Book Christmas Tree Theme: A unique theme for book lovers — or anyone wanting a truly one-of-a-kind Christmas display. Decorate with: stacked book “branches,” mini book ornaments, literary characters, ribbons of printed pages, or actual books forming the “tree.”
Christmas Village Tree Theme: A magical, nostalgic theme that transforms your Christmas tree into a little holiday town. Decorate with: small village houses, tiny streetlamps, glittery churches, snowy trees, and miniature figurines.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Christmas tree theme should feel fun, not stressful. Whether you love rich, moody colors, whimsical, candy-inspired décor, vintage treasures, or something totally unexpected, the best tree is always the one that brings you joy when you plug in those lights for the first time.
There’s no rulebook here — mix styles, blend textures, borrow ideas, try new color palettes, or keep things cozy and classic. A themed Christmas tree doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, either. A few ribbon changes, a handful of ornaments, or a new color scheme can completely transform your holiday look.
Most of all, let your Christmas tree reflect your home, your memories, and what makes the season feel special to you. If one of these Christmas tree theme ideas sparked inspiration, you’re already halfway there.
Wishing you the coziest, most magical holiday decorating season!
Until next time,
Happy Tree Trimming!
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7 Comments
So many beautiful Christmas trees and ideas. thank you for sharing these awesome photos.
Kim, this was the best post I have ever read! I loved every single one, but my absolute favorite was the coastal! I truly loved this!!! Feliz Navidad my sweet friend!
Kim – this has to be the Best collection of inspiration trees I have ever seen! Our Christmas tree is a tradition of ornaments passed from generation to generation and others we have collected over the years. As much as I love our traditional tree, I wish I could do something different. This post has inspired me! I will be starting a collection of mini trees around the house that can be as different and gorgeous as each one you’ve chosen to show! Thank you.
I’ve never seen so many stunning trees in one place, Kim! I seriously struggle every year putting up the tree so I really enjoyed all these fabulous ideas. They just blow me away! Big hugs, CoCo
So many beautiful Christmas trees and ideas. thank you for sharing these awesome photos.
Kim, this was the best post I have ever read! I loved every single one, but my absolute favorite was the coastal! I truly loved this!!! Feliz Navidad my sweet friend!
These are all so beautiful! Wish I had room for all of them in my home too! I couldn’t choose a favorite!
Kim – this has to be the Best collection of inspiration trees I have ever seen! Our Christmas tree is a tradition of ornaments passed from generation to generation and others we have collected over the years. As much as I love our traditional tree, I wish I could do something different. This post has inspired me! I will be starting a collection of mini trees around the house that can be as different and gorgeous as each one you’ve chosen to show! Thank you.
I love this post. So much inspiration the first one and the garden inspired one are so creative and I love the candles and tinsel one too. Beautiful?
Kim,
You are so sweet to share not one but two of my trees. I appreciate you so much.
I’ve never seen so many stunning trees in one place, Kim! I seriously struggle every year putting up the tree so I really enjoyed all these fabulous ideas. They just blow me away! Big hugs, CoCo