Source: [How to style your Christmas tree like a pro | Christmas Trees Oxford](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/guides/style-your-tree/)

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The Christmas journal 

# 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.

From the Christmas Trees Oxford family · 6 min read · 18 November 2024

A softly lit Nordmann Fir styled in a cool, quiet sitting room

In this field note [All field notes](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/guides/)

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

- Hang large statement ornaments first, spacing them evenly. 
- Fill with classic baubles in complementary tones. 
- 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.

Keep the inspiration going 

## A little more Christmas know-how.

[Explore the field notes](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/guides/)[The tree care essentials](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/tree-care/)

A softly lit Nordmann Fir styled in a cool, quiet sitting room

The next chapter 

## A little care. A lovely long season.

Keep your Nordmann Fir looking its best, from the first day to after the festivities.

[Care for your tree](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/tree-care/)[Plan your visit](https://www.christmastreesoxford.com/visit/)