With Christmas just around the corner, if you haven't trimmed your tree already, it's time! Whether you opt for a fully lit falsie or the real thing (cut down of course at a Christmas tree farm), the decorations you hang on your tree set the tone for the season.
But Christmas trees aren't all red, white and green. In fact, many designers are experimenting with bright neon colors, white trees and monochromatic ornaments.
Whether your home is ultra-modern or country chic, today's vast array of ornaments and accessories make it easy to incorporate Christmas tree decorations into your overall home décor.
Modern loft. High ceilings mean your space can handle a big tree with large, bold ornaments and a tall tree topper. Wood floors, exposed brick and ductwork on display are the perfect backdrop for a modern twist on a traditional tree. Once the tree is lit, trim the branches with mostly white and silver balls, then sprinkle in some of your favorite colors as accents. Add bows, tinsel and an architectural tree topper to finish it off.
Vintage apartment. Living in a small apartment doesn't mean forgoing a Christmas tree altogether, but it does mean you might want to downsize, so you don't overwhelm the space. Instead of the traditional 6-foot-tall Douglas fir, opt instead for something on the smaller side. A fake miniature tree in white brings a hint of modern flair to a vintage apartment, and its small stature is perfect for apartment living. Choose something three or four feet tall and adorn with brightly colored ornaments — they'll really pop against the white tree.
Midcentury modern. Play up your home's mid-century design with a Christmas tree draped in vibrant colors. Think outside the red-and-green box and instead choose baubles in bright pink, a color that's on trend for 2013. Accent the pink ornaments with silver and gold, two staples of any Christmas décor. Wrap the tree in pink ribbon and tinsel, then finish off with a simple silver tree topper. Once lit, the tree will emit a soft, rosy glow against the pink ornaments.
French country charm. If your home has a country cottage vibe, there's no better accent then a traditional Christmas tree. But this old stand-by doesn't need to be boring — kick it up a notch with natural pine cone, flower and feather accents. For a modern twist on this country classic, adorn your tree with neutral gold and ivory ornaments. Add gold beaded garland, glittery birds and the pine cones, flowers and feathers. Top the tree with a gold ribbon and let the ends of the bow cascade down the tree.
Ilyce Glink is an award-winning, nationally syndicated real estate columnist, blogger and radio talk show host, and managing editor of the Equifax Finance Blog. Follow her on Twitter @Glink.
