There are countless ways to decorate a Christmas tree, but a maximalist approach never goes out of style. Going all out with lights and ornaments not only makes a tree feel lively but allows you to personalize it with anything sentimental –because if we can't have fun over Christmas, when can we?
As we brainstorm Christmas tree ideas, we are getting some serious inspiration from Christie Brinkley, whose tree was decked out to the max in red, green, and yellow lights, as well as a variety of baubles and ornaments.
'For a couple of weeks, we have the magic of our Christmas trees dazzling us with sparkling lights…but step outside and see how the trees are holding up a sky full of sparkling diamonds all year long!' she says via Instagram.
Shop the look
Best-seller
Red Christmas lights are a classic for a reason, boldly illuminating trees and adding a festive pop to any space.
Patterned
These beautiful red and white ornaments are gorgeous for adding a classic aesthetic to any Christmas tree. Alternate your ornaments (as seen on Brinkley's tree), or try using just one color for a sleek and tidy look.
Personal
If you love personalization, you'll love this monogram piece. With its sophisticated gold detailing, the Aurelia Gold Monogram Ornament adds a personalized touch to your holiday décor.
Timeless holiday pattern
A closer zoom into Brinkley's tree shows that she's also no stranger to the most classic Christmas decor of all: candy canes. These striped ornaments are synonymous with Christmas – and since these are nonedible, they will look just as good for many holidays ahead.
Editor's choice
Decorative bows are once again this seasons must-have decor, but this time they come in smooth-to-the-touch velvet for a sophisticated look. Use them on Christmas trees, wreathes and garlands for a beautiful yet easy style.
Classic Christmas Color
While it's hard to pin just one color to Brinkley's Christmas tree, there's certainly no absence of red – and these velvet ornaments are the most sophisticated way to introduce the hue to any space. Their velvet texture is truly timeless.
According to experts, maximalist Christmas tree decor is a tried and true way to achieve a festive look in the home. However, there is some strategy involved when it comes to the decor process.
'I don’t believe you can ever go over the top with Christmas, and when it comes to fairy lights, more is more!' says Esme Amberg, head of design at The Roost.
'Begin decorating your tree by putting the (tested) fairy lights on first; start at the top and work down,' she says. 'The same applies to the baubles. Hang larger baubles closer to the center of the tree to give it more depth, and medium-sized holiday ornaments in the middle layers and the smallest ornaments on the outer tips of the branches – I like to group them in little clusters of three. Start with hanging your favorite pieces and evenly spread out keepsakes from grandparents, gifts from friends, or hand-made trinkets from the kids around the tree for a beautiful, sparkling tableau of joy and memories.'
She continues, 'If there are a few bare patches, raid the garden for branches and stems, spray them green or gold (there are plenty of foliage sprays out there, especially at this time of year), and simply plug the spaces to add fullness and texture.'