Prior to last year’s festive season, Christmas tree ribbon ideas really didn’t get that much attention as we used ribbon almost exclusively for wrapping presents. Meanwhile Christmas bows were just a basic Christmas decoration one might throw into the mix with the others. But all that’s changed now.
Following last year’s explosion of the bow and ribbon trend onto the fashion scene, the look has then filtered through into home decor and finally into Christmas tree trends. And a year later, the Christmas decor trend has gotten even bigger and better as people love adorning everything from their best artificial Christmas trees to the mantelpiece with ribbons and bows.
‘Ribbons and bows have this way of making a tree feel polished and elegant while still being personal,’ says Sam Sutherland, Flitch interior stylist. ‘Plus, with sustainability on everyone’s mind, they’re a reusable option, which is a big win. And let’s be honest, there’s something really satisfying about styling them – they can completely transform the look of your tree, whether you’re going for traditional charm or something more modern.’
But as there are so many different ways to approach this trend, we’ve rounded up our favourite and the most popular ones for you to try out this Christmas season.
Where to shop for Christmas bows and ribbons
- Anthropologie: a trendy yet luxe offering of bows and ribbons
- Dunelm: budget-friendly and differently patterned ribbons and bow decorations
- Cox & Cox: luxurious ribbons in a wide variety of finishes, colours and styles
- John Lewis: a wide range of bows and ribbons of various sizes and finishes
- Next: unique bow designs at affordable prices
Christmas tree ribbon ideas
‘Bows and ribbons are definitely on-trend and it’s all due to their versatility and elegance,’ says Lucy Mather, interiors expert at Arighi Bianchi. ‘They offer endless scope for customisation. Social media and designer-inspired trends have also amplified their appeal, showcasing how ribbon can transform a tree. They can be easily reshaped or repositioned, so they’re ideal for experimenting with.’
Ultimately, this trend’s greatness lies in how easy it is to do, while also letting you get creative with your ideas and Christmas decor. So most importantly, just don’t forget to have fun with it.
Our current favourite Christmas ribbons and bows
Sporting the traditional Christmas colour scheme of red and green, this velvet trio from Dunelm is the perfect classic design that's easy to attach with the back clips.
Pink is currently the most popular trending colour for this Christmas. And this supersized velvet bow goes big on both the pink and bow trend at the same time.
If you want to create beautiful layered bows then this set of two differently coloured velvet ribbons of various widths is perfect for that. We love the idea of pink layered on top of red but there's also a red option if that's more to your liking.
Metallic shades of the Christmas disco trend are big this year which explains why this gold sequined bow from John Lewis is flying of the shelves. There's also a silver version that's just as popular so better be quick.
Anthropologie is one of the best places where to buy Christmas decorations as they always somehow manage to create just the thing that we go crazy for. This time, it's these adorable clip-on velvet bows which come either in this sweet pink or sophisticated black.
This unusual tree topper design is made from multiple bows which at the bottom roll out into cascading, spiralling ribbons that adorn the entire length of your tree, no more decorations needed. Genius!
We love this set of variously coloured velvet ribbons from Oliver Bonas, specifically designed and intended for Christmas tree decorating. This set just checks all of our Christmas tree ribbon needs!
Go for a tulle ribbon design for a light, delicate look reminiscent of ballet skirts. After all, The Nutcracker ballet is intrinsically linked with Christmas so it's perfectly on theme.
Last year, the M&S oversized bow sold out almost instantly. And this year, it happened again. But luckily, John Lewis comes to the rescue with their almost identical version of the giant velvet bow. But it's currently selling like hot cakes on the retailer's website so snap one up while you can!
1. Go for velvet
Velvet is almost the default go-to for a Christmas bow or ribbon these days – but for good reason. As nothing will make your tree look as luxurious and elevated as velvet bows.
‘Velvet ribbons are a favourite - those deep jewel tones like emerald or ruby feel so luxurious and festive,’ Sam at Flitch says.
Lucy at Arighi Bianchi adds, ‘Use velvet ribbons for luxe texture. Use wider ribbons, measuring around 2 to 4 inches, for dramatic impact and narrower ones for accents and layering.’
2. Make an oversized bow the star
Oversized Christmas tree decorations are one of the biggest festive decor trends of this year. And nowhere does this ring more true than when it comes to bows and ribbons. So much so that content creators have started using everything from bed sheets to dust sheets and even pillows with pillowcases to make the most supersized bows that intentionally take over their tree.
‘Tie the whole look together with a large statement bow at the top or base of the tree to echo the gift wrapping of the presents underneath,’ Lucy says.
3. Layer multiple ribbons
Why stick to just one ribbon? Instead, you can make a single bow with two ribbons for a layered look that will create a more intriguing and considered look.
‘If you layer different ribbons - maybe a wide satin one with a narrower metallic one on top - you get this lovely dimensional look,’ Sam at Flitch says.
Lucy agrees, ‘Mixing up multiple ribbon styles - think pairing sheer fabrics with metallic edges - has become a key trend for added depth and dimension to your décor scheme.’
4. Curl the ends
This year, a more draped approach to Christmas tree ribbons is trending. And you can achieve this look by leaving the ends of your bows cascade or even curling them.
‘Instead of going for a symmetrical look, try opting for a more natural, draped vibe, with ribbons loosely woven into the tree. Cascading ribbons that flow down in soft, graceful lines are a beautiful way to add a sense of movement and elegance to your tree,’ Lucy says.
Sam continues, ‘For something a bit more playful, curling the ribbons and letting them spiral down is always a winner.’
But if you’re not up for this DIY Christmas decorating idea, you can also purchase it ready-made in the form of Next’s Bow Christmas Tree Topper.
5. Choose a scheme that complements
As we're putting our trees into rooms that have existing Christmas colour schemes it pays to consider ribbon colours that will complement your look and the style of your home. A Victorian terrace will have a different feel to a new build home for example and will have a more traditional aesthetic.
'Ribbons are a great way to introduce festive flair into your living space,' says Joanna Baumard, co-founder of Purlfrost. 'For those looking to create a nostalgic aesthetic, it’s a good idea to incorporate ribbons with a mix of patterns and textures for an eclectic feel.'
'This can work exceptionally well when paired with existing, layered patterns within the room like a window dressing or scatter cushions. The assortment of colour and texture will provide depth, unveiling a cosy and warm feel that’s perfect for this time of year,' she says.
6. Vary your bow size
This is a really subtle but clever design trick that will ensure your Christmas tree ribbons will look fabulous whatever size tree you have. 'Choose smaller bows for near the tip of the tree and let them gradually increase in size as you work down towards the base,' advises Lucy Kirk, creative and photography manager at Lights4Fun.
Apply this method even if you're using multiple coloured ribbons on tree – sometimes the seemingly smallest hacks yield the best results!
7. Try the no-bow method
Think bows look a bit fussy but love ribbons? This Christmas tree ribbon trick is a great alternative approach, it works rather like hanging silver lametta that's also having a resurgence in popularity as a budget Christmas decorating idea right now. The key is to use wired ribbon like this wire edge satin ribbon from Hobbycraft, so you get a stiffness that ensures each strand will stay on the branches.
Simon Temprell, interior design lead at Neptune, agrees. 'One of the simplest ways to decorate a Christmas tree is to use lengths of coloured ribbon that can be simply tied to the end of branches, without a bow, so that the ribbon hangs casually. Wired ribbon can be a very effective way of ‘filling out’ your tree with structured bows or you can wind the wired ribbon through the tree branches and mould it into shape with your fingers, as you would with a strand of tinsel.'
Narrow ribbon works best for this look and you can choose a couple to go with your scheme. 'Wired organza ribbon works particularly well as it allows the lights to shine through and it has a delicate appearance,' adds Simon.
8. Style a rustic look
If you're a lover of the 'cabincore trend' then your festive colour scheme will most likely be more rustic – deep oranges, taupes, chocolate and ivory.
Rustic Christmas decorating ideas are generally a more pared back, but one you can still use Christmas tree ribbons for. There are a couple of options; you could go with a deep shade for your ribbon, something inspired by nature like dark brown or berry, or go lighter with a gold tone that will brighten up the darkest areas of your tree branches.
9. Get weaving with organza ribbon
If you're opting for an alternative Christmas tree this year, such as a small tabletop tree or a potted one this year then the thought of tying bows to many thin branches might not fill you with joy!
Instead, consider weaving organza style ribbon (we recommend going about three inches wide like this organza ribbon from Amazon) under the branches instead, similar to how you'd decorate your tree with tinsel. Paler colours will have more impact and will prevent the overall look from being too dense visually. Twist the ribbon as you go for extra pattern.
10. Use pretty pastels
When it comes to deciding how to decorate your Christmas tree, frosted trees offer a softer look when it comes to festive themes and so your ribbon choices can be prettier too. For a more unconventional look and if you love a lighter colour theme choose pastels.
Sky blues and pale pinks in different widths will add subtle colour, and it works well for a romantic, fairytale look. You can mix them in with silver and gold baubles for added texture and keep the lights low-key.
11. Attach your baubles with ribbons
Tired of fiddling with the faff of fine thread on your baubles? We love the idea of cutting them off (yippee!) and rethreading them with narrow ribbon instead, a Christmas tree ribbon idea that popular during Victorian times.
'Set the scene for a classic Christmas, with nods to age-old traditions and décor by mixing traditional and contemporary baubles, with beaded or flocked finishes,' says Anna Badger, seasonal designer at Dunelm. 'Using different sized ribbons to tie baubles adds a contemporary touch, and you can even use them as decorations themselves to add a crafty vibe to your tree.'
Pick ribbon that's thin enough to fit through the bauble hanging, and use multiple colours for a colourful scheme.
12. Make the ribbons the main event
For a thoroughly contemporary look go for super bright ribbons and make them the star of your living room Christmas decor. Choose simple warm bulb tree lights and glass baubles for a dazzling effect.
'You can either commit to the bow and go all out in a colour scheme of bows or if you only want to dip your toe into the trend, switch your statement bauble for a large bow in a singular colour and display them in a checkerboard pattern across the tree,' says Danielle LeVaillant, head of photography and film at Cox & Cox.
For this kind of look, make sure your ribbons are all the same length for cohesion and cut the ends at a diagonal with fabric scissors.
13. Mix ribbons and bows together
If you favour plains with subtle pattern for living room decor is then jazz it up for the festive season by choosing bold tree decorations and large paper hanging designs.
'What better time to inject some irreverent fun into your home than at Christmas?' says Gisela Lancaster, head of buying at Sofology. 'This year we’re seeing people go bold with their holiday decor, using oversized decorations, bright colours and chichi bowls to inject some magic into their homes.
One way to double up with your tree decorations that ties in with our tree ribbon theme is to use large bow-tie designs as well. 'Choose a style that will complement your living room scheme and enhance other cherished Christmas decorations that you already own. Embrace a mix of decor that works in harmony with your seating and furnishings to create a stylish and fun-filled space for Christmas,' adds Gisela.
FAQs
How do you make ribbon look good on your tree?
'The best way to make ribbons look good on a tree is to use ready-tied bows with wire on the back for a consistent scheme,' advises Danielle, Cox & Cox. 'Otherwise, create your own bows using ribbon (wire-trimmed ribbon offers more styling possibilities). Tie the bow first, then add your wire to the back. That way, the bows will face the right way without twisting, and the process is much easier for involving the kids. Just pop on the branch and twist the wire.'
'Using ribbon is such a simple but effective way of adding that extra festive touch to Christmas trees – and there are plenty of styles, thicknesses and materials to choose from to complement the décor theme you've chosen!' says Clare Harman, merchandising manager at Hillier Nurseries.
'Last year, the trend of decorating tree light hacks in an up-and-down motion, instead of swirling around, emerged – this works well for ribbon too! Doing this switches up from a traditional spiral, giving a more modern twist.'
What is the best ribbon for a Christmas tree?
There are two options here – firstly, if you're happy to tie the bows yourself then satin or velvet ribbon will look great.
'Velvet will bring a touch of luxury – particularly in deep, forest green or ochre-gold – or for something a little softer, try bows of red satin,' suggests Lucy Kirk at Lights4Fun.
If you want a little extra help then source ribbons that are pre-wired as you'll be able to gently bend the ends to suit your look and the bows will be malleable.
Have fun with your Christmas ribbon and bow decorating!
