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How to style your Christmas tree like a pro

Our stylists share the layering formula for lights, ribbon, and ornaments to achieve a balanced, photo-ready tree.

Published 18 Nov 2024 6 min read
Close-up of a styled Christmas tree with layered ribbons and ornaments

A beautifully styled tree follows a simple rhythm: illuminate, layer, and finish with statement pieces. Here’s how we guide customers in the barn when they pick up their trees.

Step 1: Start with the lights

Unwind your lights fully and test them before wrapping. Begin at the base and work upwards, placing half of the lights deep inside the branches and the rest near the tips for depth. Aim for 100 lights per foot of tree.

Step 2: Add ribbon or statement stems

Choose a primary ribbon in a wide fabric such as velvet or gauze, then layer a contrasting narrow ribbon or accent stems. Weave diagonally from top to bottom, tucking into branches to avoid a “bandaged” look.

The secret to balance is repeating your colour palette in odd numbers: threes and fives help the eye travel.

Step 3: Ornaments in three rounds

  1. Hang large statement ornaments first, spacing them evenly.
  2. Fill with classic baubles in complementary tones.
  3. Finish with specialty pieces and picks to add texture.

Step back frequently and rotate the tree to catch gaps. Keep extra hooks, floral wire, and a soft cloth handy for polishing glass pieces as you go.

Finishing touches

A tree skirt or basket instantly grounds the look, while scent sticks nestled discreetly in the branches can boost fragrance if your space runs warm. Share your finished tree with us on Instagram using #christmastreesoxford; we love featuring customer creations.

Looking for more ideas?

Explore the rest of our guides for styling tips, tree care, and farm updates.