For the last couple years, I’ve published a roundup of Christmas tree decorating trends and ideas for the upcoming season, and it’s always one of my most popular holiday posts. This year it’s back and updated with the top trends I’ve been noticing for 2025. Let’s dive in…
While our upstairs tree is typically reserved for our sentimental and handmade ornaments, coming up with a new theme for our living room tree is something I look forward to most each year. I’m always saving inspiration and love sharing the creative ideas and patterns that catch my eye. Here are the standout Christmas tree trends and decorating for 2025.
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Ralph Lauren Aesthetic
If you’ve been online at all in the last few months, you’ve probably seen the trending ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic’ everywhere.
It’s the epitome of classic, aspirational Americana Christmas: elevated, cozy, and refined.
While it’s currently surging in popularity, this style is rooted in traditional elements of design: tartan plaid, bows, velvet, polished silver and brass, berries, rich reds, green and navy. You can also incorporate certain features while adding your own spin (like this elegant + rustic forest style below).
Ralph Lauren style embodies the “old money” vibe that’s also trending in fashion. It’s intentional, luxurious, and perfectly curated. Which brings me to the next trend…
1990s Christmas
Perhaps in response to the curated Ralph Lauren aesthetic, there has been a millennial outcry for a return to a simpler, more relaxed “90s Christmas” that we grew up with.
Think jumbo multicolor lights, tinsel, handmade and mismatched ornaments passed down from your grandparents. Letting the kids help pick out a tree to cut down and decorating it together, imperfectly and joyfully.
The 90’s Christmas is about reusing what you already have, and unwrapping the same decorations each year that hold your family’s unique story and memories.
In a world that feels anything but simple, it’s no wonder we’re longing for that kind of comfort again—before social media made everything a comparison game. I fully support this movement!
Fairy lights
Christmas is about creating magic, and nothing does that quite like twinkling “fairy lights”. These micro-lights took social media by storm a few years ago with their captivating sparkling effect, and the they continue to be the must-have tree feature.
It all started with the viral Home Depot tree which, not surprisingly, is already sold out again this year. Fortunately, I discovered an alternative that lets you keep your existing tree—these budget-friendly LED string lights with a variety of lighting modes. See them in action in my reel!
My kids and I loved the twinkle lights so much, I actually bought a new twinkle tree for our living room (see my comparison of 3 popular trees in this reel). If you’re looking for a little extra magic on your tree this year, this trend is well worth trying.
Bows and ribbon
Yep, the bow trend is still going strong. There’s just something endearingly sweet and classic about a bow on Christmas.
From oversized to small and dainty, you won’t find many trees on Instagram these days without at least a few bows.
Bows can be a more cost effective alternative to ornaments and garland, as they just require a bit of ribbon. You can create them from any color, size or style ribbon, making them an easy and simple way to express your creativity.
Last year, I made an oversized bow for our back door, and I also made one for our daughter’s bedroom tree. Retailers have caught on to the trend this year and you can now find plenty for sale, but they’re also relatively easy and fun to DIY!
Red and burgundy Christmas trees
Red has been trending in interior design in recent years and it’s also a Christmas classic, so this one just makes sense.
There’s something so festive about the color red, along with its moodier sibling burgundy.
Red is also a quintessential Ralph Lauren color, so you can expect to continue to see lots of red ribbon, ornaments, gift wrap and more.
Florals & Botanicals
Florists and display designers have been adding flowers and stems to Christmas trees for ages, but it has become more mainstream lately.
Whether you go all in or add just a few accents, incorporating botanicals is an easy way to make your tree feel more natural and organic.
I love using fresh eucalyptus stems from Trader Joe’s that stay green all season long, and mixing in faux berry and baby’s breath picks.
Frozen Wonderland
Here’s a Frozen obsession meant for grown-ups—icicle ornaments:
Similar to tinsel, these hanging crystal baubles reflect light and create a sparkling effect.
The style can range from glam to rustic, minimalist to maximalist, all while adding undeniable elegance. I used these on my “snowy forest” themed tree last year, and love the wintery effect.
Candlelit Trees
Once upon a time, families clipped real candles onto their (highly flammable) real trees. Thankfully, we now have the technology to achieve a similar effect without the fire hazard.
I started using these battery powered LED flicker candles on our tree a couple years ago, and I ordered these taper candles for our new tree. Now I’m noticing them everywhere (it was also one of my most popular holiday reels!)
I can’t imagine our tree without them—they add such a nostalgic, old-world charm. The soft flicker of candlelight makes the whole room feel cozy and romantic. I’m planning to add even more to my trees this year.
Dark and Moody Christmas Trees
The shift in popularity to dark and moody interiors has transitioned into holiday decor.
I love a good moody moment, so this is one trend I’m here for.
Achieving this look is simple—stick with dark colored ornaments (brown, navy, black, burgundy) and darker accents like ribbon, garland and floral sprays.
The rich, deep tones allow the branches and lights to really stand out, and create a cozy atmosphere.
Psst: You can find even more ideas and inspo on my Holiday Decor Pinterest board.
On the hunt for a realistic faux tree? Try these top rated favorites:
Find ornaments, ribbon, garlands and more at The Holiday Shop:
I hope you’ve enjoyed these inspiring Christmas trees and decorating ideas! Have you put up your Christmas tree yet this year, or do you wait until after Thanksgiving? Our family is coming into town for Thanksgiving, and we’re starting our holiday decorating this weekend. Stay tuned for my Holiday Gift Guides, coming next week!
Karen B. says
This is great! The time to get out the tree and create is almost upon us. I love the RL Christmas moment this year. I’m always thrilled to change a few things up to make the traditional tree look a little different.
Happy Thanksgiving and upcoming Christmas.
Karen B.
Sarah says
Loved this post so much. PS Pinterest delivered me your post from years ago about aging the stool to look old. And that brought me to your blog. Happy to have found it 🙂
Jenna Sue says
Yay, welcome Sarah! Glad you’re here 🙂
Jen C says
Thank you for this post. Fantastic work and very inspirational. I have the LED lights that you listed and they are beautiful. I just ordered the icicles as a new addition this year. Thanks again.
Peggy says
Thank you, Jenna, for your thoughtfulness and effort putting this together. Simply wonderful content – much to consider. It was all so magical.
Jenna Sue says
The pleasure is all mine! Glad you enjoyed this roundup Peggy 🙂
Zaun Bestellen says
I’m particularly drawn to the vintage-inspired decor and the idea of incorporating natural elements like dried citrus slices. It’s refreshing to see a blend of traditional charm with a modern touch. The step-by-step guide and the stunning visuals make it feel like I’m on a festive journey through your own winter wonderland.
Lolly pop says
I came across several videos where girls were imitating Kim’s Christmas decorations. Which is, each branch of a Christmas tree has to be wrapped around with a LED lights. Looks nice, but takes all the time in the world to finish it. I think your “Minimalist Trees” section gives similar vibes though – something simple and yet so pretty.
Denisa says
Love these trees, especially the decor by Studio McGee! This year has been extra special, though. We rescued a cat momma who had five little kittens with her. They’ve grown so much already. I can’t wait to see their little faces when they see our Christmas tree. I’m imagining just big round eyes and little paws reaching out to touch the branches 🙂
Jenna Sue says
Awww that’s too sweet! Enjoy your Christmas! <3
L Parrish says
Loved the diversity of the tree decorations. Just beautiful and a tree choice for each and everyone.
Marian says
Love all of the designs and decorations, truly inspiring! Can’t wait to get started ❣️
Jennifer @ Town and Country Living says
Thanks for featuring my Christmas tree at Town and Country Living. All of these trees are beautiful so it’s an honor to be included!
Amy Sparks says
Thank you, Jenna, for this beautiful post. You have made my day. I like the dark and moody collection and will try something like that this year. Thanks for the inspiration!
Karen says
I surprised myself. I loved the Charlie Brown sparse trees. What a beautiful job you did posting so many trees.