A few weeks ago when my beau and I discussed Christmas tree options, and I was given free rein to go in any direction I chose (yes, my jaw dropped a little too), I immediately put on my misfit cap and began pondering ways in which to break a few rules with this project. Though it wasn’t hard to mentally gather a few ideas in this direction, as I naturally gravitate to a mix of traditional and nontraditional when it comes to decor.

If you’ve taken a look at my DIY Christmas Wreath, you already have an idea for my love of mixing styles this Christmas season. Also, with unrestricted design control, I could have easily made a beeline to the array of gorgeous sparkling pastel ornaments released this holiday season at many Christmas decor providers.

Instead, I wanted to craft a glamorous Christmas tree that we both loved, and could possibly re-invent, and build-upon in the years ahead.

While completing the tree, I stuck to a few rules of my own in creating a well-rounded design. Upon completion of the tree I received a question or two from friends and family about their own trees and thought I’d document the fundamentals in what I like to call, the 5 Essentials for a Glamorous Tree. 

I think these rules can be used across the board, with any Christmas tree plan in order to make it a bit easier on you, the designer. You’ll also see how I chose to break the rules, though with a chic twist (if I do say so myself). So let’s get to it.

The 5 Essentials for A Glamorous Christmas Tree

1. Theme

Ever see a Christmas tree that catches your eye and each piece just seems to be in harmony with the others? In part, this is due to the theme chosen. Each glamorous Christmas tree has a well planned theme. Even if the theme chosen is simply “traditional.” The theme I chose for our tree was “Black Tie Winter.” As you see just about anything can be your theme. This guided everything I chose for the tree, from the black and silver ornaments, to the tree twigs and deer wrapping paper. This is also where my misfit gene played a role. I chose non-traditional colors of black, grey, and silver with splashes of white. Dark colors tend to blend into Christmas trees and work against you. However, when combined with a bit of sparkle, your dark colors are actually complemented and begin to take center stage.

 

2. Sparkle

This one is pretty easy. Every glamorous tree needs a little sparkle, whether gained from the Christmas tree lights or chosen ornaments. Sparkle catches the eye, especially when complemented by a few contrasting elements, which I’ll get to later. For our tree, silver and black ribbon used in combination with silver and chrome ornaments knocked this essential rule out of the park.

 

3. Ribbon

This essential is also a basic fundamental of glamorous Christmas trees. Ribbon has long been used to add a bit of glamour, and as I like to say, fanfare, to any creation. As I mentioned above, I chose black and silver ribbon, which gave the tree a classic and chic look with a touch of glamour as well. I also used black and white striped ribbon spirals in various areas. Ribbon can also be used as a guide in decorating any tree, once in place. In our process, ribbon was placed on the tree first. I then used the open areas as a guide for where I wanted to place my larger and smaller items, and went from there.

 

4. Texture and Contrast

Texture and contrast are used to complement the more striking pieces of each tree. For example, the shiny and sparkling pieces of a tree such as round glass ornaments and glittered pieces can be contrasted with pine cones and matte ornaments. Texture and contrast also round out a tree design, giving the glam a little reality I like to say. For our tree, I chose textured and matte ornaments to complement the glittered and shiny ornaments, as well as pine cones and tree twigs to give the tree a little reality. I also threw in a few chalkboard ornaments for a personalized touch.

 

5. Presents

This truly is an ultimate essential of a glamorous Christmas Tree. Why? Simply because this gives us another area to kick up the fanfare a notch, with the use of wrapping paper, more ribbon, and miscellaneous items. Don’t have presents yet? Grab a few empty shoeboxes and wrap them up to get you started! Yes, I’m serious. We misfits do what we must to get the job done. Trust me, once you place a few “theme” wrapped presents under the tree, your Christmas mood will instantly boost, and you’ll be ready to warm up a hot cup of cocoa and sit back in awe of your work, while enjoying some Christmas tunes.

I hope I’ve given you a little inspiration to jumpstart your glamorous Christmas tree decorating ideas. If you have too many ideas, that’s the best problem to have. Feel free to send me a message with your themes and any questions, and we can tackle this together.