Top Christmas Tree Decor Ideas for Truly Joyful and Cozy Holidays
Decorating a Christmas tree is an old tradition passed on between generations for centuries. Although pagan in its roots, the custom has been widely accepted in Christian culture. Are you wondering when and how to decorate a Christmas tree, and what decorations to use? Check the best Christmas tree inspirations and find out what a green tree might look like.
What is the origin of Christmas tree?
Decorating a green tree is a pagan tradition originating in Germany. According to historical sources, it was known in its current form as early as the 16th century. The custom was initially cultivated only in this country. In time, it was spread to other regions – at first to France, then across Europe, and finally to other continents, including America.
The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree was accepted in the Catholic Church in the 19th century. It was acknowledged as a symbol of rebirth. But the decorations quite looked different from their contemporary equivalents. Apples and paper ornaments were the most popular elements. The tips of Christmas trees were decorated with candles instead of electric lights.
The meaning of the Christmas tree – Catholic traditions
When the Catholic Church adopted the Christmas tree as a symbol of its religion, decorating it became one of the most important Christmas traditions.
The tree itself in the Catholic culture is treated as a symbol of new life. Its green color signifies hope. Particular ornaments hanging on the tree have their meanings as well.
- Colorful decorations signify the joy of the coming of Christ.
- Nuts symbolize life force and wealth.
- The lights are supposed to deter evil.
- Garlands are the symbol of familial relations and unity of people who love each other.
Decorating a Christmas tree – when can you begin?
According to tradition, a Christmas tree should be decorated on Christmas Eve, December 24. But currently, this custom is rarely cultivated in households. Some decide to decorate their Christmas trees a week before the holidays. True Christmas enthusiasts begin decorating Christmas trees as early as 1 December.
Christmas tree decor – the order of tasks
Decorating the Christmas tree is definitely easier if you decide to do each task in a certain order. It’s best to start from small decorations such as ribbons, charms, wooden decorations, baubles and paper ornaments. Next, you can add garlands – hang them starting from top to bottom. Do the same with the lights. Putting a topper or a star is the last step.
How to decorate a long-trunk Christmas tree?
A long-trunk Christmas tree is a very characteristic element. Although it’s quite tall, the surface left to decorate is not as extensive as in classic Christmas trees. It looks beautiful when decorated in minimalist style – with only several baubles or dried orange slices. A simple string of lights perfectly complements the arrangement.
Of course, you can decide on colorful Christmas tree decor, but note it might not look as good in this version. Sometimes less is more – especially if the tree is small.
How to decorate a modern Christmas tree?
If you want your Christmas tree to look truly modern, focus on proportions. It’s best to hang the smallest baubles hang at the top, and the lower you go, the increase their size. Using few baubles and replacing them with other decorations is also a good idea.
Christmas trees decorated with wooden ornaments and large ball-shaped lights. Monochromatic Christmas trees look equally interesting.
Gold and white Christmas tree inspiration
A gold and white Christmas tree is one of the biggest and most popular trends. It’s a very safe option, as it matches basically any interior design – regardless of its style.
Such a color combination is easy to achieve and difficult to ruin. Because of this, it’s a perfect option for those who have never decorated a Christmas tree before and want to experiment – but are afraid of failure. Check the inspirations below and see how fascinating a gold and white Christmas tree can look.
A white and silver Christmas tree design
Are you not a fan of gold color, but still want your modern Christmas tree to be bright and look elegant? Check this idea – perhaps a white and silver Christmas tree is something for you. It looks perfect in modern spaces, as well as interiors decorated in glamour style.
A blue and white Christmas tree
Blue is a color whose trend recurs every few seasons. Because of this, it’s not a surprise that many people decide on a blue and white Christmas tree. In this case, a darker shade of this color is a better option. Indigo and cobalt blue are perfect for this purpose.
A white and pink Christmas tree decor
A white and pink Christmas tree is a perfect option for those who adore pastel colors. Such a cute Christmas tree adds a lot of warmth and positive energy into a room. You can also combine it with gold. All three colors look perfect against the background of dark green coniferous branches.
A red and gold Christmas tree idea
A red and gold Christmas tree on one hand is a classic option, and on the other a “bold” inspiration for adventurous people. If you decide on it, think about how it will look with other elements of the interior. If the design is bright and quite neutral, you can decide to use more red. Darker or multicolor rooms will benefit the most from a domination of gold.
📍 Decorating a Christmas tree – where does the tradition come from?
The tradition of decorating Christmas trees comes from Germany. It used to be a pagan tradition, adopted more broadly in Christianity in the 16th century. The custom spread from Germany to France, and later it became popular all over the world.
📍 Decorating a Christmas tree – when is the best time?
According to tradition, Christmas trees should be decorated on Christmas Eve, December 24. The custom was obeyed by many people for a long time. But currently, many people want to enjoy the Christmas tree for longer, and begin decorating it at the beginning of December.
đź“Ť How to decorate a Christmas tree outside?
Decorating a Christmas tree is not only about indoor, but also outdoor trees. Decorating them looks quite different. Using only lights is a popular and simple option.
đź“Ť How to decorate a small Christmas tree?
Decorating a small Christmas tree is not very different from decorating a large one. Make sure to keep the ornaments in moderation, in this case. If you overdo the decorations, your Christmas tree might not be very aesthetic.
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