Everything You Need to Know for Decorating a Christmas Tree

There’s nothing quite like the sparkle and glow of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree to make the season feel magical. But if you have a specific vision in your head about how you want it to look, it’s important to know the formula to get it right. Whether you’re a seasoned holiday decorator or trimming a tree for the very first time, knowing how many ornaments you need — and choosing the right style — can make the process much easier and way more enjoyable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect tree size, how many ornaments you’ll need, and how to pick a style that reflects your holiday spirit.

Choose the Right Tree Size

Before you hang a single ornament, the first step is picking the right tree size for your space. Here’s a quick guide to help:

• 3-4 ft trees – Ideal for small apartments, side tables, or secondary trees.

• 5-6 ft trees – Great for lower ceilings or cozy rooms.

• 7-7.5 ft trees – The most popular size, perfect for average living rooms with 8-9 ft ceilings.

• 8-12 ft trees – Make a grand statement in larger rooms with tall ceilings.

• 15+ ft trees – Perfect for commercial spaces, hotel lobbies, and large venues.

Once you know your tree’s height, you’re ready to figure out the fun part — how to dress it up!

How Many Ornaments Do You Need?

One of the most common decorating dilemmas is figuring out how many ornaments to buy or hang. The right amount depends on a few factors: the height of your tree, the size of your ornaments, and how full you want your tree to look. Some people love a minimal, light touch. Others prefer a lavish, every-branch-covered look.

Let’s take a 7.5-foot tree as an example. Here’s how many ornaments you’d need depending on your preferred look (see the full chart below):

Pro Tip: If you're mixing sizes, aim for a balance — use large ornaments for depth and focal points, medium for coverage, and small ones to fill in gaps and add sparkle.

Also, remember: if you're using tree picks, ribbons, extra-large statement ornaments, or heavy lighting, you might need fewer ornaments to achieve a full look.

Choose Your Style of Ornaments

This is where the fun and personality come in! Your Christmas tree should reflect your personal taste, traditions, or even a theme. Whether you love a classic look or something totally unique, your ornament selection sets the tone.

Ornament Brands to Explore

Looking for high-quality ornaments that stand the test of time? These beloved brands are favorites for a reason. Explore more about them in our Best Christmas Decoration Brands guide.

• Kurt Adler – Famous for detailed, themed, and novelty ornaments, from unique food and wine creations to nutcrackers and gnomes with personality.

• Old World Christmas – Known for hand-blown glass ornaments that range from the traditional to the whimsical. Great for collectors and lovers of old-school charm.

• December Diamonds – Celebrated for their bold designs, these eccentric ornaments are perfect for adding a splash of personality and flair to your tree.

Shop by Color Themes

Color is one of the easiest ways to set the mood for your Christmas tree. Whether you’re going for cozy, glamorous, playful, or modern, choosing a color theme creates visual harmony and brings your holiday vision to life.

• Red & White – Think peppermint swirls, cozy plaid ribbons, candy canes, and snowflakes. This combo is cheerful, nostalgic, and totally timeless — perfect for families who love a classic Christmas vibe with a playful twist.

• Silver & Gold – Elegant, luxurious, and glowing with warmth. Silver and gold together create a tree that sparkles like a winter gala. Add in crystal or glass ornaments for a sophisticated, refined look.

• Pink – Soft pinks and blush tones create a dreamy, romantic tree that feels both modern and whimsical. Add rose gold accents, feathers, and florals for a fairytale effect that’s as sweet as it is stylish.

• All White – Clean, minimal, and oh-so-elegant. A white-themed tree gives snow-covered forest vibes. Mix in ivory, frosted glass, or glittery white ornaments for a winter wonderland feel.

• Multicolor – Bright, bold, and bursting with personality. A multicolored tree brings joy and energy into any space. Mix shiny ornaments in every hue, add rainbow lights, and top it off with fun and quirky baubles for a tree that makes everyone smile.

Creative Theme Ideas

Want your Christmas tree to tell a story or reflect your personality? Go beyond traditional color schemes with a themed tree! Here are some creative directions you can explore:

• Hobbies & Interests – Decorate your tree to match your passions! Love music? Add miniature instruments and sheet music ribbon. Travel enthusiast? Use suitcase ornaments, passport tags, and globe baubles. From fishing to yoga to photography, your tree can showcase what you love most.

• Sentimental – Filled with meaning and memories, these trees often feature handmade ornaments, photo frames, heirlooms, and keepsakes from past holidays. Perfect for families, this tree grows more meaningful each year and brings warm nostalgia to your holiday decor.

• Peppermint Style – Bright red and crisp white rule here, with stripes, polka dots, and candy-themed decorations. Think peppermint candy ornaments, cupcake baubles, and gingerbread cookies. It’s playful, sweet, and especially magical for kids (and anyone who loves a little sugar and spice!).

• Food & Drink – Perfect for foodies, bakers, and anyone who’s obsessed with all things delicious. Decorate with pizza slices, donuts, coffee mugs, wine glasses, and even taco ornaments! It’s fun, funky, and sure to be a conversation starter.

• Kid-Friendly – Soft, shatterproof ornaments, plush characters, colorful ornaments, and animated themes make this tree fun and safe for little ones. Think cartoon characters, animals, bright lights, and interactive elements — ideal for creating magical moments and Christmas morning excitement.

Explore Other Christmas Tree Accessories

Ornaments may be the stars of the show, but don’t forget the supporting cast! These tree accessories can elevate your tree and tie everything together beautifully.

• Tree Picks & Sprays: Add texture and fullness by tucking decorative picks into branches. Choose glitter sprays, faux berries, or metallic leaves to enhance your theme.

• Lights: Whether you love warm white or multicolor magic, lights are essential. A good rule of thumb: use 100 lights per foot of tree. So, for a 7-foot tree, aim for 700 lights.

• Tree Skirts: Not only do they hide the tree stand, but they also complete the look. Choose one that complements your theme.

Conclusion

Decorating your Christmas tree doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it should be part of the holiday fun! By choosing the right tree size, using our ornament count guide, and picking a theme that speaks to your heart, you’ll create a tree that feels both festive and personal.

Ready to start trimming? Explore our collection of ornaments, tree picks, lights, and accessories to bring your dream tree to life.