Latest christmas tree decorations
70 Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas
Monica Buck
It's time to switch it up from the same old Christmas decorations you use to adorn your tree every year. If you feel like your tree could use a little refresh this holiday season, you're in the right place. We rounded up some fun Christmas tree decorations to inspire your tree direction this year. Whether you want it to look understated, rustic, glam, totally over-the-top, colorful, or all-natural, one of these Christmas tree decor ideas is sure to give you major inspiration.
COURTESY OF KATE LESTER INTERIORS
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Go for a Cozy and Natural Combo
To get a natural, wintry look, focus on a simple color palette of brown and white accents on a green tree. Make it cozy—as designer Kate Lester did here—with fluffy sheep-shaped ornaments, brown pinecones, and leafy greens. Finish it off with muted brown bells and white ribbons.
SHOP NOW White Wool Ball Ornament, $11
MEGAN STEEELE
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Mix Velvet & Paper Ornaments
To create a minimalistic yet moody Christmas tree display, designer Jess Weeth of Weeth Home mixed paper teardrop and velvet ball ornaments in rich shades of red, brown, and black.
SHOP NOW Velvet Ball Ornament Set, $23
Stella Yang Photography
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Hang Ornaments With Ribbon
Ditch little hooks in favor of securing ornaments onto your tree with ribbon. Here, designer Nicole Salceda of Eye for Pretty added silver ornaments in multiple shapes that are each hung with a thick light brown ribbon tied into a bow on top.
SHOP NOW Tan Velvet Ribbon, $10
Peter Frank Edwards
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Cover the Tree in Ornaments
For an eclectic, over-the-top display that screams Christmaximalism, completely cover your tree with ornaments and lights. The lack of green space and variety of ornaments will fascinate anyone who even glimpses at it. Place the tree in a painted vessel as designer Matthew Bees did here for an unexpected touch.
SHOP NOW Glass Nutcracker Tree Topper, $20
Annie Schlechter
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Use Metallic Leaves
Pare back on ornaments in favor of metallic leaf accents, bunches of orange berries, and natural garland.
Boost the overall chic look with a white faux fur tree skirt.
SHOP NOW Glittered Artificial Leaves, $13
Anastasiia KrivenokGetty Images
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Focus on Neutrals
Brown, tan, and beige ornaments with spherical and bell shapes give this Christmas tree a welcoming feel. Garland and ornaments above it make up for the lack of a tree topper.
SHOP NOW Glass Ball Ornament Set, $25
Tim MacphersonGetty Images
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Turn Sugar Cookies Into Ornaments
Bake your own ornaments with leftover cookie dough. Use food coloring pens to draw on them, or leave them blank for a natural look. Remember to cut a hole into each one so that you can attach metallic string to it for easy hanging.
SHOP NOW Silver String, $6
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Add Texture
Break up simple ornaments with textural pieces, like a thick white garland, faux flowers, and frosted branches as San Diego-based designer Nikki Klugh once did for her tree.
SHOP NOW Beaded Glitter Garland, $15
Anastasiia KrivenokGetty Images
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Play With Shapes
From stars and hearts to cacti and presents, this tree is packed with wooden ornaments in multiple shapes. Globe lights give the frosted tree a dreamy glow.
SHOP NOW Cactus Ornaments, $15
FiordalisoGetty Images
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Lean Into Barbiecore
Anyone who is into Barbiecore and disco balls needs to combine the two trends to create the most vibrant, shiny Christmas tree yet. Add small white ball ornaments for a bit of contrast.
SHOP NOW Disco Ball Ornaments, $17
Gordon Beall
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Make It Purple
Forgo classic red and green ornaments for purple and pink ones. Take the unexpected look a step further by doing it on a small tree placed on a pedestal.
SHOP NOW Purple Christmas Ball Ornaments, $10
CreativaStudioGetty Images
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Maximize Florals
Faux poinsettias in brown and silver tones give this Christmas tree fullness.
Classic ball ornaments and dove-shaped ones complete the look.
SHOP NOW Velvet Artificial Poinsettia, $39
Erica George Dines
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Opt for Teal
Teal ornaments stand out on this tree in a cozy living room. Matching presents with brown paper and burlap accents give it a whimsical yet organic feel.
SHOP NOW Teal Ornaments, $16
Anna EfetovaGetty Images
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Go for a Frosted Theme
If a frosted tree is a little too much for you, opt for frosted ornaments. Incorporate frosted pinecones and gold and white ornaments with an ombré effect.
SHOP NOW Frosted Pinecones, $19
COURTESY OF WYNN MYERS
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Let Other Decor Stand Out
Take a minimal route with a frosted faux tree decorated with a few green ball ornaments. With a simple and sophisticated tree, the rest of your home's Christmas decor will stand out—from your tablescape to your mantel.
SHOP NOW Frosted Faux Pine Tree, $999
Annie Schlechter
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Go Classic
It doesn't get more timeless than a Fraser fir trimmed with an angel topper, red ribbon, and classic ornaments. And of course, string lights!
SHOP NOW Red Ribbon, $10
She Keeps A Lovely Home
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Use Citrus Fruit
Use dried citrus fruit along with purple roses and other natural accents for an elegant, plastic-free tree this year.
Get the tutorial at She Keeps A Lovely Home.
SHOP NOW Black String, $8
Courtesy of Inspired By Charm
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Make It Ombré
This gradient rainbow tree is anything but drab. Stray away from classic red and green accents and incorporate the entire rainbow. Start with pink and red on the bottom and end with glowing gold ornaments on top near the star.
See more at Inspired By Charm.
SHOP NOW Colorful Ornaments, $7
Pernille Loof
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Stick With Blue & White
Forever committed to your favorite color palette? This room is proof you don't have to give it up for Christmas.
Better yet, it's the ideal color scheme if you celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah.
SHOP NOW Blue and White Ornaments, $20
David Hillegas
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Go for Southwestern Chic
It's the opposite of a winter wonderland. The American Southwest inspired this festive space. Turns out, cactus ornaments and sunset-colored gift wrap provide plenty of Christmas cheer.
See more at Country Living.
SHOP NOW Cactus Ornament, $12
Gordon Beall
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Decorate With Sweets
Skip the traditional ornaments and decorate your tree with cookies, ribbon candy, gumdrops, and other delicious candies that people can eat right off the tree.
SHOW NOW Live Savers Gummies, $14
Courtesy of Sugar & Cloth
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Pom Pom It Up
These pom pom ornaments will make any tree look like it came straight out of Whoville. Make it multi-color or stick with one color throughout.
See more at Sugar & Cloth.
SHOP NOW Pom Pom Garland, $55
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Try Old-Fashioned Allure
Candles give a Christmas tree old-fashioned charm. To avoid a serious fire hazard, though, use candle lights instead of the real deal.
SHOP NOW Candle Tree Clips, $30
Courtesy of Sugar and Charm
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Add Some Berries
Keep it simple and decorate your tree with a few sprigs of red berries. It will add an earthy, fresh look to your living room.
See more at Sugar and Charm.
SHOP NOW Berry Stems, $8
Cottage in the Oaks
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Show Off Your Family Photos
Use your tree as an excuse to show off family photos! You can turn them into Polaroid-style snaps or design them to look like tags with festive strings attached.
See more at Cottage in the Oaks.
SHOP NOW White Paper Tags, $6
Courtesy of Sugar & Cloth
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Have a White Christmas
Skip the tree full of ornaments and opt for a simple frosted white tree with a garland instead.
You'll have your Christmas decorating done in seconds with this one!
See more at Sugar & Cloth.
SHOP NOW White Tree, $44
Courtesy of The House That Lars Built
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Make DIY Paper Ornaments
These paper candles are insanely chic and perfect if you're looking for a longer project to work on as opposed to buying clip-on candle lights.
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
SHOP NOW Gold Clips, $13
Courtesy of Lia Griffith
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Use Plum Hues
If you want to keep to traditional holiday colors but are so over red, try plum. It's a similar shade, but slightly more jewel-toned.
See more at Lia Griffith.
SHOP NOW Purple Ribbon, $7
Courtesy of Tessa Neustadt for Emily Henderson Designs
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Add Some Pink
Switch it up with pink this year. Pair pink ornaments with a fake white tree–along with a touch of gold–and you'll be set.
See more at Emily Henderson.
SHOP NOW White Tree, $189
Courtesy of Old Brand New
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Monogram It
If you love a good monogram, this one is for you. Mix in some initials with your ornaments this year. You can add one for every family member, roommate, or pet.
See more at Old Brand New.
SHOP NOW Initial Ornaments, $20
65 Best Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas and Pictures 2022
Evgeniia SiiankovskaiaGetty Images
There are so many ways to get into the holiday spirit. For some, it's all about listening to Christmas songs on repeat. Others might prefer to curl up with a Hallmark movie (in matching family pajamas, of course) or take a drive around the neighborhood to marvel at the Christmas lights. No matter what your tradition, there's nothing like festive holiday decor to really get you into the mood—and for most that starts with a special family Christmas tradition: tree decorating.
Whether you gravitate toward over-the-top opulence—like something a professional might design for a restaurant—or prefer a more rustic farmhouse vibe that transforms your own home into a winter wonderland (think: flocked trees), creating a statement-making tree is key to jumpstarting the cheer and spreading it all season long.
But before you pick your fir, browse through these elegant Christmas tree decorating ideas for inspiration. From the trendy blue and silver ornaments that are popular for 2022, to traditional red and green multicolor lights, and modern, glitzy rose gold ribbons, there's a unique Pinterest-worthy idea (and photo) here for everyone—even your unicorn-loving toddler.
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Farmhouse-Style
Love Grows Wild
For a sophisticated Farmhouse-style tree Chip and Jo would be proud of, pair natural elements like pinecones and flocked branches with burlap and oversized white ornaments.
Get the tutorial at Love Grows Wild.
SHOP ORNAMENTS
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Family Silhouettes
Home Made Lovely
For a truly personal and unique touch, DIY silhouettes of your family members—pets included!—and place them into framed ornaments.
Get the tutorial at Home Made Lovely.
SHOP FRAME ORNAMENTS
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Unexpected Greenery
Keys to Inspiration
Trim a flocked tree with colorful ornaments, then tuck unexpected greenery—like eucalyptus leaves—into branches for a whimsical, yet elegant look.
Get the tutorial at Keys to Inspiration.
SHOP ORNAMENTS
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Plaid and Natural Wood
The Turquoise Home
Navy and green plaid ribbon combined with natural wood ornaments looks sophisticated atop a fully flocked tree.
Get the tutorial at The Turquoise Home.
SHOP WOODEN ORNAMENTS
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Silver and Gold
A Pumpkin and a Princess
For a stunning tree that looks professionally decorated, stick to elegant elements like glass ornaments, mercury glass, and glitter berries in silver and gold.
Get the tutorial at A Pumpkin and a Princess.
SHOP MERCURY GLASS ORNAMENTS
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Red, Blue, and Gold
Craftberrybush
Rich, classic tones like red, blue, and gold make any evergreen look supremely sophisticated.
Get the tutorial at Craftberrybush.
SHOP NAVY RIBBON
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Minimalist
The Merry Thought
Embrace the saying "less is more"—pick up a fluffy evergreen, then wrap it in a soft, white tree skirt and decorate the branches with a simple wooden garland and white polymer clay ornaments.
Get the tutorial at The Merry Thought.
SHOP WOODEN GARLAND
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Sweet Treats
The Paper Mama
For a sweet treat, decorate this year's tree with an array of food-inspired ornaments. Bonus points for DIYing a doughnut-inspired tree skirt.
Get the tutorial at The Paper Mama.
SHOP DOUGHNUT ORNAMENT
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Black and White
Craftberrybush
Create a unique textured tree with gold ornaments, faux magnolia, whimsical bird cage ornaments, and a black and white garland.
Get the tutorial at Craftberrybush.
SHOP GARLAND
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"Snow"-Covered
Dream a Little Bigger
To fill out a sparse-looking artificial tree, consider a small DIY project: flocking, or covering it in an artificial powder made to look like snow.
Get the tutorial at Dream a Little Bigger.
SHOP INSTANT SNOW FLOCK
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Pom-Poms
Aww Sam
This unique Christmas tree decorating idea looks surprisingly elegant—especially if you stick to a neutral color palette.
Get the tutorial at Aww Sam.
SHOP POM-POMS
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Winter Wonderland Glam
Design Dazzle
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Fill your fir with snow branches, gold and cream ribbon, gold and white flowers, and plenty of seasonal bling.
Get the tutorial at Design Dazzle.
SHOP GLITTERED SNOWFLAKES
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Rustic Chic
A Pumpkin and a Princess
For a look that's straight out of your favorite ski town, opt for neutral white ornaments, natural elements like pinecones, and a bold red buffalo check ribbon garland.
Get the tutorial at A Pumpkin and a Princess.
SHOP RIBBON
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Floral
A Beautiful Mess
Buck tradition with a snow white tree wrapped in an array of beautiful blooms more reminiscent of spring than winter.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
SHOP FAUX FLOWERS
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Tree Branches
The Merry Thought
Who ever said your tree has to look like everyone else's? For a low-effort decorating idea, bring a nice big tree branch to life with a few festive ornaments.
Get the tutorial at The Merry Thought.
SHOP VASE
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Green and White
A Pumpkin and a Princess
For something a little more muted than the traditional red and green holiday palette, skip the red.
Instead, pair plenty of white baubles with additional decor in soft shades of green.
Get the tutorial at A Pumpkin and a Princess.
SHOP GREEN ORNAMENTS
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Pink Florals and Gold Metallics
Design Dazzle
For a tree with plenty of shimmer and shine, fill branches with gold metallic accents, like ornaments and ribbon. Then, for the finishing touch, tuck in a few fresh flowers.
Get the tutorial at Design Dazzle.
SHOP GOLD ORNAMENTS
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Potted Tree
The Merry Thought
Don't cramp a small space with a monstrous fir—you can pull off a similarly festive vibe with a simple potted tree wrapped in craft paper, trimmed with wooden accents, and assembled in a sweet vignette.
Get the tutorial at The Merry Thought.
SHOP WOODEN GARLAND
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Unicorn
Dream a Little Bigger
Here's a fun Christmas tradition to start this year: Craft mini trees for each of your children's bedrooms to infuse their space with holiday spirit filled with personality.
Get the tutorial at Dream a Little Bigger.
SHOP WHITE RIBBON
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White, Pink, and Gold
Sugar & Cloth
Though not your typical holiday color scheme, this muted tree fits right in amongst all of your favorite trimmings.
Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth.
SHOP GOLD ORNAMENTS
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Sunflower
Dream a Little Bigger
If your goal is to go truly out-of-the-box this year, swap the traditional evergreen for a bright and cheerful cascade of sunflowers wrapped in a black-and-white plaid ribbon.
Get the tutorial at Dream a Little Bigger.
SHOP RIBBON
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Typographic
The Paper Mama
It doesn't get more unique than this: An artificial white tree with contrasting baubles in a bold purple and a punny DIY typographic garland.
Get the tutorial at The Paper Mama.
SHOP PURPLE ORNAMENTS
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Citrus
A Beautiful Mess
Another minimalistic idea with big pay-off that's perfectly suited for small spaces. Simply dry orange slices and string them from evergreen branches propped in an amber vase.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
SHOP AMBER VASE
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Red and White
Design Dazzle
If you're the more is more type, you'll love this professionally-decorated tree. Each and every branch is filled with festive red and white accents.
Get the tutorial at Design Dazzle.
SHOP CHECKERED RIBBON
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Balloons
Sugar & Cloth
Infuse your holiday with a touch of whimsy by assembling a tree made completely of pastel-colored balloons.
Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth.
SHOP BALLOONS
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Spray Painted
Design Improvised
No matter the size of your faux fir, a coat of spray paint does wonders to bring it to life.
Get the tutorial at Design Improvised.
SHOP SPRAY PAINT
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Ombre
Lovely Indeed
Regardless what color ornaments you choose, this is an easy decorating idea with big payoff.
Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.
SHOP ORNAMENTS
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Silver Tinsel
Aww Sam
A sparse, slim Charlie Brown-type tree doesn't look quite so bare when covered in silver tinsel and colorful ornaments.
Get the tutorial at Aww Sam.
SHOP ARTIFICIAL TREE
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Red Plaid
Craftberrybush
A variety of traditional red ornaments, ribbons, and berries make this tree a timeless choice.
Get the tutorial at Craftberrybush.
SHOP PLAID ORNAMENTS
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Honeycomb Ball Tree
Design Improvised
When faux is the way to go, mimic the shape of a traditional tree by crafting a pyramid of green honeycomb balls.
Get the tutorial at Design Improvised.
SHOP HONEYCOMB BALLS
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Blush and Copper
Craftberrybush
Create a magical indoor winter wonderland by liberally placing tufts of fluffy poly-fil fiber throughout the entire tree.
Get the tutorial at Craftberrybush.
SHOP POLY-FIL
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Glittery Green and Gold
Inspired By Charm
Shades of green and gold shine bright against a white tree. The look strikes a lovely balance between modern and traditional holiday decor.
Get the tutorial at Inspired By Charm.
SHOP GREEN ORNAMENTS
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DIY Felt Wall Hanging
Jeff Mindell
Such a fun holiday idea for a little one's room. (The ornaments are attached with Velcro so you can move them around!)
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
SHOP FELT FABRIC
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Light-Up Marquee Letters
Lia Griffith
Make your Christmas extra bright this year by adding light-up marquee letters to your tree. You can spell out something simple like "joy" or "cheer" or decorate with the first letter of your last name—just choose letters in varying sizes.
Get the tutorial at Lia Griffith.
SHOP MARQUEE LETTERS
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All Vintage Everything
Inspired By Charm
How can you not feel happy looking at this tree? A mix of vintage ornaments feel especially right when paired with a metallic tinsel tree.
Get the tutorial at Inspired By Charm.
SHOP TINSEL TREES
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Dazzling Disco Balls
Jeff Mindell
No string lights are needed when your tree is made of disco balls. (Talk about a bright idea!)
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
SHOP DISCO BALL ORNAMENTS
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Festive Feather Tree
Jeweled Interiors
Fluffy white feathers lend softness and visual interest to an otherwise classically decorated tree. (We also love that they sort of mimic snow!)
Get the tutorial at Jeweled Interiors.
SHOP WHITE FEATHERS
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Rose Gold Accents
Parties for Pennies
Swap out traditional yellow gold in favor of rosy metallic accents for a sweet and modern vibe. (And don't forget to coordinate your gift wrap to match!)
Get the tutorial at Parties for Pennies.
SHOP ROSE GOLD RIBBON
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Simple Macrame Tree
Lia Griffith
The best part of this cute macrame DIY from the taleneted Lia Griffith? The shelves make it easy to change up the look. Keep it simple with candles and greenery as she did here or pepper in glittery accents for added drama.
Get the tutorial at Lia Griffith.
SHOP MACRAME CORD
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Piled-On Prettiness
A Pumpkin and a Princess
Sometimes, more is more—and this stunning tree proves it. You can hardly even see the tree's branches thanks to a generous mix of silver, bronze, and green ornaments and wooden accents.
Get the tutorial at A Pumpkin and a Princess.
SHOP METALLIC ORNAMENTS
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Paper Candle Tree
CLARA SUMSION
Love the look of a tree decorated in candles but not the risk? This DIY featuring paper candles is for you.
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
SHOP GOLD GLITTER
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Woodsy Winter Wonderland
Inspired By Charm
Channel winter wonderland vibes wherever you are with a flocked pencil tree adorned with cute wooden ornaments and rustic accents. (And glitter. Don't forget the glitter.)
Get the tutorial at Inspired By Charm.
SHOP WOODEN ORNAMENTS
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Flurry of Snowflakes
The Yellow Cape Cod
Decorate your tree in snowflakes of varying sizes for a simple—yet high-impact—look.
Get the tutorial at The Yellow Cape Cod.
SHOP SNOWFLAKE ORNAMENTS
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Chalk It Out
Crafted Sparrow
How fun is this chalkboard-inspired tree from the Crafted Sparrow? We love the pops of turquoise and how the overall look pairs with her light grey walls.
Get the tutorial at Crafted Sparrow.
SHOP CHALKBOARD ORNAMENTS
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Candy Striped
A Thoughtful Place
When it comes to Christmas decorating, you can never go wrong with a candy cane-inspired color palette.
Get the tutorial at A Thoughtful Place.
SHOP CANDY CANE ORNAMENTS
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Greatest Tree in the Galaxy
Jennifer Perkins
Christmas trees don't have to be all glitter and gold. The Star Wars mega fan in your life will be delighted by this DIY tree inspired by the beloved film franchise.
Get the tutorial at Jennifer Perkins.
SHOP WHITE TREES
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Pretty In Pink
Craftaholics Anonymous
Large pink blooms beautifully complement the rose gold trimmings and soft creamy accents on this unapologetically feminine tree.
Get the tutorial at Craftaholics Anonymous.
SHOP SILK FLOWERS
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It Takes a Village
Lolly Jane
Trimmed in vintage bottle brush trees and Putz houses, this darling tree packs a nostalgic punch. A white tree is a must for pulling off the look (the decorations just wouldn't pop as much against green.)
Get the tutorial at Lolly Jane.
SHOP BOTTLE BRUSH TREES
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Candy Land Tree
Lines Across
This tree couldn't be more fun with its candy colored- palette, treat-inspired trimmings, and gummy bear "star."
Get the tutorial at Lines Across.
SHOP CANDY ORNAMENTS
50
Gold On Gold On Gold
Sugar And Charm
Go for the gold this Christmas with a monochromatic metallic theme.
It'll work with any interior style, from minimal to traditional and everything in between.
Get the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.
SHOP GOLD TREES
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Wintry Mix
Maison de Pax
Woodsy trimmings, like pine cones, acorns, and a snowy garland pair with pops of red to set a whimsical winter wonderland scene.
Get the tutorial at Maison de Pax.
SHOP PINE CONES
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Blue and White Tree
Making Home Base
Blue and white is always a good idea—even at Christmas! Anyone can pull of the look, but the non-traditional palette works especially well with coastal-inspired decor.
Get the tutorial at Making Home Base.
SHOP BLUE ORNAMENTS
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Family Photo Tree
Bless 'Er House
Put memories of Christmas' past to work by printing favorite photos in black and white and using them to trim your tree.
Get the tutorial at Bless 'Er House.
SHOP PHOTO PAPER
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Flower Power Tree
Design Love Fest
Wire faux blooms in your favorite color palette onto tree branches to create this happy garland look.
Get the tutorial at Design Love Fest.
SHOP SILK FLOWERS
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Black Buffalo Plaid
The Wood Grain Cottage
Black isn't a hue you see often in holiday decorating, but we love the way this buffalo check garland ups the cozy factor of this otherwise traditionally decorated tree.
Get the tutorial at Wood Grain Cottage.
SHOP PLAID RIBBON
56
Woodland Creature Tree
Decor Asylum
A moose-printed garland, tree stump tree stand, and cute forest critters make for a woodsy display perfect for the nature lover.
Get the tutorial at Decor Asylum.
SHOP ANIMAL ORNAMENTS
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DIY Flocked Tree
House By Hoff
Have a green artificial tree that's seen better days? Give it the DIY flocked treatment like April from the blog House By Hoff did to create this coastal-inspired tree.
Get the tutorial at House By Hoff.
SHOP SNOW SPRAY
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Plush Ornaments
Nesting With Grace
This snow-covered tree brings a bit of childhood whimsy thanks to a selection of plush trimmings, twinkle lights, and a chunky yarn garland.
Get the tutorial at Nesting With Grace.
SHOP PLUSH ORNAMENTS
59
Pom-Pom Tree
Sugar & Cloth
This colorful tree makes a strong statement but actually couldn't be easier to put together.
Simply buy or make pom-poms in a mix of sizes and attach them to your tree. Lights are optional.
Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth.
SHOP YARN
60
Vintage Shiny Brites
House By Hoff
Add midcentury appeal to your home this Christmas by decking out your tree in an assortment of vintage Shiny Brite ornaments. These happy-hued collectibles will never steer you wrong.
Get the tutorial at House By Hoff.
SHOP VINTAGE SHINY BRITES
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Metallic and Navy
Design Love Fest
A mix of navy blue ornaments pop against a metallic backdrop. Blogger Tamara Anka even goes so far as to match her living room decor to her tree decorations.
Get the tutorial at Citrine Living.
SHOP NAVY ORNAMENTS
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Rustic Farmhouse Tree
Clean Living Clean Eating
A palette of neutrals make for a stunning tree display.
Cascading burlap ribbons drive home the casual-chic vibe.
Get the tutorial at Clean Living Clean Eating.
SHOP BURLAP RIBBON
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Scandanavian-Inspired
Daniella Witte
If you prefer more of a quiet, clean aesthetic, a Scandanavian-inspired tree might be the holiday look for you. To pull it off, opt for a sparse, natural-looking tree and outfit it minimally in lights and ornaments.
Get the tutorial at Danielle Witte.
SHOP STRING LIGHTS
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Red, White, and Blue Tree
Linda Visser
Showcase your patriotic spirit with a red, white, and blue holiday theme. This palette pairs especially well with coastal decor.
Get the tutorial at Pencil Shavings Studio.
SHOP RED ORNAMENTS
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Ice Cream Social
melodrama
What's sweeter than a tree decked out in all things ice cream? (We especially love this idea for a kid's room!)
Get the tutorial at Melodrama.
SHOP PINK TREES
Laurren Welch Laurren Welch is a freelance editor, writer, and creative who covers lifestyle, interiors, entertaining, fashion, and more.
How has the fashion for Christmas trees and toys changed over the past hundred years
What is the New Year without a Christmas tree? Even if you are no longer a child, the festive surroundings will add brightness to gray everyday life. The case is small: choose, bring, dress up. But how to dress up? The fashion for the decoration of the main New Year's tree is as changeable as any other, and always reflects the passage of time. We tell you how the appearance of Christmas trees and toys has changed over the past 100 years.
Decorators say that the fashion for jewelry returns every four years, but the fashion for retro never goes away. So it's up to you to decide whether to get old "family" toys or buy newfangled ones. nine0005
A bit of the history of the Christmas tree Image: free-images.
com The real fashion for beautiful Christmas trees came to Europe in the 16th century, and decorations were edible: candies, fruits, cookies and waffles. The role of garlands was performed by candles. In the 18th century, prototypes of modern toys appeared: gilded cones, eggshells, brass figurines. It is believed that the tradition itself was invented by Martin Luther back in the 15th century, but for another 100 years only candles served as decorations, and Christmas trees were very small, so that they could be put on the table. nine0005
The first Christmas balls were made in the town of Lauscha (Germany), they were made of glass and covered with lead from the inside already in the 17th century. It is believed that the idea with balls came in the year of a bad harvest of apples, which were usually hung on a Christmas tree, and glassblowers made artificial apples.
The Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, the USA took up the production of toys. Until the beginning of the 20th century, luxurious Christmas trees strewn with toys, tinsel and gimp (thin silver threads) were in fashion.
At the beginning of the 20th century, minimalism and manufacturability came into fashion, German factories began to produce toys in the form of airships, steamships, carriages and musical instruments. In Russia, icicles, balls, beads, toys made of fabric, cotton and papier-mâché were very popular. Americans at that time preferred to decorate Christmas trees with apples and stylized corn kernels, as well as figurines of wizards who rang and scared away evil spirits. nine0005
Christmas tree in the 30s and 40s
During the First World War in Russia, the tradition of decorating Christmas trees was not supported, because it came from Germany, which at that time was an enemy. In the 1920s, Christmas trees were also not particularly welcomed, being considered a "bourgeois relic". The new life of the New Year holidays began already in the 30s, when they became not Christmas, but Soviet. Christmas tree outfits are back, but with a very specific theme: balls with portraits of leaders, toys with revolutionary symbols, paratroopers and conquerors of the North.
In Europe and America at that time, the classic Christmas symbols, large light bulbs, balls and tinsel were popular. nine0005 Image: free-images.com
During the Second World War, people tried to find decorations for the Christmas tree, despite the difficult situation - the New Year holidays gave strength and hope for victory. Soldiers and tanks, pistols, figurines of service dogs and stars hung on the "military" Christmas trees.
After the war, a kind of visualization appeared - the time was hard and hungry, so Christmas trees were decorated with fruits, vegetables, berries. Fairy-tale characters appeared: Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden, heroes of Pushkin's fairy tales, Aibolit, forest animals and birds. nine0005
In Europe, two-sided toys made of cardboard were popular, which made three-dimensional, pictures using the lithography technique, which were pasted on cotton wool or wire, as well as fragrant gingerbread.
New Year's fashion in the 50s and 60s Image: free-images.
com The era of minimalism began in Europe, simple balls became popular, a new material was introduced - foam rubber, and it was then that glass toys began to be replaced with plastic ones, it seemed practical and innovative. In the USA and Russia, "aluminum" Christmas trees have become very popular. Openwork white and silver trees had a minimalist design. nine0005
Colorful glass Christmas tree garlands - 50s fashion. In Russia, after the release of the film "Carnival Night", toys in the form of clocks that stopped at 23:55 became fashionable.
In the early 60s in Russia, corn and rockets hung on the Christmas tree - agricultural and space topics were the main ones and were always discussed. The first electric garlands appear - the bulbs were colored, large and did not blink yet.
How the Christmas tree was decorated in the 70s and 80s Image: free-images.com
At that time, large toy factories were set up in Russia, so there was less individuality in jewelry.
Many identical balls and cones, icicles and bells appeared.
Toys on clothespins, multi-colored “rain” and fluffy tinsel have become fashionable. The fashion of the beginning of the 20th century returned, in the sense that it was again customary to decorate Christmas trees very “richly” - the tree itself was not visible behind the toys and tinsel.
At the end of the 80's people's attention was captured by horoscopes, and this could not but be reflected in toys. There were balls with zodiac signs and symbols of the year, which remain fashionable even now. nine0005
Christmas Tree of the 90s and Millennium Image: free-images.com
In the 90s, handmade toys appeared in Russia, many of which were made independently - from felt, hanks of wool, felt.
Retro fashion appears, and cotton and glass toys of the 1940s are taken from grandmother's mezzanines. Of the more modern ones, balls with a “middle” were popular - specially pressed in and decorated on one side.
In the 2000s in Russia, Christmas trees decorated with toys of one or two colors, such as red and gold balls, blue and silver, began to come into fashion. Christmas trees were considered stylish without Soviet relics - tinsel and rain, although, of course, they did not disappear at all. nine0005
In Europe, "ice toys" were very popular - they created the impression of an ice coating on the Christmas tree, as well as simple transparent balls. There were also more and more Christmas trees that were decorated with flowers. In the United States, traditions were followed at that time: large colored balls, sweets and more garlands.
Modern trends: everything is fashionable Image: free-images.com
Modern trends proclaim absolute freedom, so everyone who wants to decorate the Christmas tree has a huge scope for creativity. But still, mini-trends appear every year. They no longer concern the choice of toys, but rather interesting styles. The Christmas tree can be decorated in a spiral in one color scheme (those who are not looking for easy ways can try a gradient).
The rainbow transition of colors looks good. As for retro, it is always in fashion. nine0005
New trends do not affect traditional toys, which each country has its own, as well as those that are always hung for good luck.
So, in Germany it is a nutcracker, in Scandinavian countries - a Christmas goat, in Finland - candles and flags, in Brazil - a piece of cotton, in the USA - an angel figurine, in Japan - hand-embroidered temari balls.
How do you decorate the Christmas tree? What must be on it?
history of the creation and development of toys, photographs, glass, plastic, paper. nine0001
Publications of the Traditions section
In the 21st century, it has become fashionable to decorate a Christmas tree with handmade toys. Today, balls are sewn from felt and rags, knitted from thread, folded from paper or even Lego. But still, with special trepidation and love, we take out old balls that have been preserved from grandmothers and great-grandmothers.
Stanislav Zhukovsky. Night before Christmas (Interior with Christmas tree) (detail). 1918. National Art Museum of the Republic of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus
“A tree lit by lanterns or candles, hung with sweets, fruits, toys, books, is the joy of children who have already been told that for good behavior and diligence on a holiday there will be a sudden reward ...”
Ekaterina Khlebnikova. Illustration for the novel by Ernst Hoffmann "Adventure on New Year's Eve". 2020. Kaliningrad Regional Museum of Fine Arts, Kaliningrad
Ekaterina Khlebnikova. Illustration for the novel by Ernst Hoffmann "Adventure on New Year's Eve". 2020. Kaliningrad Regional Museum of Fine Arts, Kaliningrad
Ekaterina Khlebnikova. Illustration for the novel by Ernst Hoffmann "Adventure on New Year's Eve". 2020. Kaliningrad Regional Museum of Fine Arts, Kaliningrad
The first Christmas decoration in Rus' was designed to demonstrate abundance, so New Year trees were decorated with burning candles, apples and dough products.
And in order for the Christmas tree to become bright and sparkling, decorations shimmering in the light were added: tinsel, gimp (thin metal threads), sparkles. In combination with burning candles, the effect of the play of light made the green beauty even more radiant and solemn. nine0005
Since the middle of the 19th century, special artels began to operate, which were engaged in the production of garlands, Christmas decorations, as well as chains made of thin foil, tinsel and rain.
"The Christmas tree was bent from a variety of toys and sweets, glowing with a cheerful happy fire, firecrackers were crackling, sparklers suddenly flashed and scattered with stars"
Glass toys
. Wedge. Photo: P. Prosvetov / photobank "Lori"
Shop "Toys". Miass, Chelyabinsk region, 1975. Photo: Viktor Surodin / City Museum of Local Lore, Miass, Chelyabinsk Region
An old Soviet Christmas tree toy-airplane in the Klinskoe Compound Museum of Christmas tree decorations.
Wedge. Photo: P. Prosvetov / photo bank "Lori"
The first glass toys: balls, beads, spherical mirror objects in the form of searchlights and icicles - appeared on Russian Christmas trees in the middle of the 19th century. They were heavier than modern ones because they were made of thick mirror glass. Initially, most of the glass jewelry was foreign-made, but very soon they began to be made in Russia as well. nine0005
“Buying a glass toy for a Russian citizen of the late 19th century was the same as buying a car for a modern Russian”
It was in Rus' that they came up with the idea of decorating a fir tree with women's jewelry - glass beads. The whole family was engaged in their production: small balls were blown by master glassblowers, women painted beads, and children strung them on a thread. This craft was most widespread in the Klin district, where the Yolochka factory was later founded, and now it produces New Year's garlands. nine0005
In the late 1930s, heroes of children's literature appeared on Christmas trees - Ivan Tsarevich, Ruslan and Lyudmila, brother Rabbit and brother Fox, Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, Crocodile with Totosha and Kokosha, Dr.
Aibolit. After the premiere of the movie "Circus", circus-themed figurines became popular. In honor of the development of the North, Christmas tree paws were decorated with figurines of polar explorers. At the same time, filigree and hand-painted ornaments on an oriental theme appeared: Aladdin, the old man Hottabych, the sorcerer Chernomor.
New Year's composition. Photo: S. Gavrilichev / photobank "Lori"
Konstantin Bezborodov. Postcard "Happy New Year!". 1956. Novocherkassk Museum of the History of the Don Cossacks, Novocherkassk
Old Christmas decoration in the form of a Soviet airship. Photo: Y. Zaporozhchenko / photo bank "Lori"
During the war years, figurines of tank planes, Stalin's armored cars were hung on Christmas trees. They also made figurines from military shoulder straps and improvised materials, such as medical bandages.
It was only after 1947 that the production of toys on a "peaceful" theme began: New Year's trees were decorated with fairy tale characters, forest animals, fruits and vegetables.
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After the release of the film "Carnival Night" in 1956, the famous "Clock" toys appeared - with hands set five minutes before midnight. In the 70s and 80s, cones, bells and houses were the most popular.
In addition, in the USSR, the Christmas tree was decorated with toys reflecting the ideals and aspirations of the communist state. So, vegetables and fruits, spaceships and submarines, figurines of men in national costumes of different peoples, factories and plants, domestic and wild animals, and athletes coexisted on the same Christmas tree. nine0005
See also:
- How the New Year was celebrated at the Institutes of Noble Maidens
- Winter holidays in the Romanovs' house
- New Year tree
Papier-mâché
Museum of Christmas tree toys. Wedge. Photo: S. Lavrentiev / photobank "Lori"
Museum of Christmas decorations "Klinskoye Compound". Wedge. Photo: S. Lavrentiev / photobank "Lori"
Museum of Christmas decorations "Klinskoye Compound".
Wedge. Photo: S. Lavrentiev / photo bank "Lori"
In the Soviet Union, papier-mâché (dense substance consisting of paper pulp mixed with glue, plaster or chalk) was widely used in the Soviet Union. In the USSR, the production of toys from papier-mâché was manual and consisted of a number of lengthy operations: molding, puttying, priming, grinding, painting, painting with intermediate drying at a temperature of 20 to 60 °. The range mainly consisted of realistic figurines of people and animals. The berthollet salt coating made the surface of the toys denser and gave them a soft sheen. With the help of vacuum casting, New Year's masks and large figures for the Christmas tree (Santa Claus and Snow Maiden) were created. Such toys were light in weight, but not inferior in strength to pressed ones. nine0005
Today, in the circles of numerous collectors of Christmas decorations, preserved papier-mâché toys are the most valuable.
Cartonage
Christmas tree cardboard toy “Hedgehog”.
