Wondering how to choose a Christmas tree theme? It can be tricky to get that perfect, designer inspired Christmas tree look. But learning the top Christmas tree themes and color schemes, you’ll be able to decorate your tree like a pro!
In this Christmas tree theme & color scheme guide, I’ve got some great articles to help you decorate a Christmas tree you’ll love. Check them out below:
Basic Christmas Tree Themes
Did you know that there are 8 main Christmas decorating themes? It may seem like themed Christmas trees are just a random mix of colors and creative styles.
But in reality, any Christmas tree that looks well put together will have at least one general theme. When Christmas product designers start on a new collection, these are the 8 main Christmas tree themes that they use:
- Traditional (reds, greens, plaids)
- Winter Wonderland (all white)
- Farmhouse (buffalo check, burlap)
- French Country (pastel colors)
- Vintage (anything antique or retro inspired)
- Elegant (velvet, jewel tones)
- Eclectic (whimsical themes)
- Rustic (nature inspired)
Because of this, when you go to shop for Christmas decorations, you’ll see items from these main themes! Once you decide on a theme or two to use, it makes shopping that much more simple.
Now you don’t have to stick with decorations in just one Christmas tree theme. In fact, the most creative Christmas trees will often feature elements from two or more Christmas tree themes.
But it helps to get started by focusing on one Christmas tree theme and building out your tree decorations from there. Check out the articles above to learn more details about each Christmas tree theme.
What Is My Christmas Tree Theme?
Not sure how your Christmas tree decorations fit with the 8 main Christmas tree themes? Here is how to categorize your Christmas tree decor:
- If you decorate a tree with just a bunch of random and/or vintage ornaments, string lights, topper, etc. then you have a “Vintage” style Christmas tree.
- If your tree is more curated looking, with specific colors, ornaments & styles, then it probably falls into one of the “classic” Christmas tree themes: Traditional, Rustic, French Country, Farmhouse, Elegant & Winter Wonderland.
- If your tree is curated looking, but doesn’t fall into a “classic” Christmas tree style then it’s considered “Eclectic”.
Christmas trees can be a mash up of different styles, so don’t get too hung up on the details. It’s just a basic way to categorize many of the Christmas decorations you’ll see online, in stores and on Pinterest.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to decorate a Christmas tree! These are just some Christmas theme ideas to get you started.
Christmas Tree Color Basics
Now that you have a better idea about Christmas tree theme ideas, let’s discuss color schemes for Christmas trees.
How Do I Choose a Christmas Color Palette?
There are a couple different ways you can choose a Christmas color palette:
- Use the colors and shades in a holiday decorative object (ornament, ribbon, etc.) that you enjoy.
- Use the color and shades in a holiday photo, painting or wrapping paper you admire.
- Use similar shades to a Christmas tree you saw in a photo, in a store, at an event, etc.
- Pick a Christmas tree theme and stick with the color palettes typical for that theme.
Use different Christmas tree decorations you already have on hand when coming up with a Christmas color palette. Make a list of new decorations to shop for to add to your collection.
How Many Colors Should be on a Christmas Tree?
Unless you’re going for a really eclectic look or a vintage Christmas tree, you want to use a maximum of 4 colors on your Christmas tree. Use up to 3 different colors and a neutral tone or metallic shade to pull it all together.
Of course, you can use only two or three colors on your Christmas tree too. Also, mono tone color schemes for Christmas trees can look nice as well.
Final Thoughts – Christmas Tree Theme Ideas
So how do you choose a Christmas tree theme, color scheme and decorate your tree? Use these simple steps:
- Decide on the main color scheme you want to use. This will help you narrow down decorations and come up with Christmas decoration theme ideas.
- Decide on the main Christmas tree theme elements you want to use. Are you going to stick with one Christmas tree theme or combine a few?
- Shop your storage area first. See what you already have on hand to use for your Christmas tree.
- Shop in stores and online for any missing elements.
- Decorate your tree! How did it turn out?
- Return any unused decorations.
I hope this article series on Christmas tree themes gives you a good starting point for creating a beautiful Christmas tree this year. Check out the articles here:
- Traditional Christmas Tree Ideas For A Classic, Timely Look
- Winter Wonderland Christmas Tree Ideas For A Beautiful Snowy Look
- Farmhouse Christmas Tree Ideas For A Simple, Country Look
- French Country Christmas Tree Ideas For A Simple, Stunning Holiday
- Vintage Christmas Tree Ideas For A Vibrant, Colorful Retro Look
- Elegant Christmas Tree Ideas For A Glam, Luxurious Look
- Eclectic Christmas Tree Ideas For a Unexpected, Unique Look
- Rustic Christmas Tree Ideas For a Simple, Nature Inspired Holiday
- The Big List of the Best Christmas Tree Color Schemes
- Popular Christmas Trends for 2023/24 You Need to See
- Popular Christmas Trends For 2024/25 You’ll Want To Know
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