Whether you prefer simplicity or sparkle, make sure your tree looks exquisite by following our top tips for trimming the tree. 

Pick a perfect pine

Your tree is your canvas, so choose wisely. Whether your tree is real or artificial you want full, even branches, which taper towards the top. The tree should be around a foot shorter than your ceiling and there shouldn’t be lots of visible space between each layer.

Colour it Christmas

Christmas is colourful and having a colour scheme in mind will make your tree look elegant and complete. There’s nothing wrong with sticking to classic Christmas colours – reds, greens and golds – but don’t be afraid to try something new. Metallic colours are big this year or why not create a winter wonderland look using colours like blue, silver, purple, or simple white décor.

Lead with lights

Lights should be the first thing you add to the tree, followed by garlands, then ornaments. String lights from top to bottom, spread evenly, and try to conceal the wire as best you can. Clear lights are our pick as they work with any colour scheme, and look classic and whimsical. Large bulbs will detract attention from the rest of the tree so we recommend small, glistening lights in tiny twinkles.

Own it with ornaments

Choose charming, timeless decorations, the more unusual the better. We love Christmas trees which follow a theme – snowflakes, nutcrackers or woodland scenes are just some ideas you could try. Be careful that you bear your décor in mind when choosing ornaments though; whether your home is traditional, modern or shabby chic, find decorations to reflect the rest of your home.

Spruce it up

Forget everything you think you know about ‘less is more’. When it comes to Christmas, too much is a good thing. Experts advise that for every foot of the tree there should be 10 evenly-positioned decorations. Accent traditional ornaments with chocolate treats or even candy canes for a Hollywood Christmas look. Natural materials look great on a tree, so use ribbon to tie together clusters of dried flowers, berries and small twigs.  

Top it off

The crowning glory of any Christmas tree is its topper. The kind you choose is entirely up to you, but it should work well with your overall theme. The most popular option is a star or an angel, but something more unusual could work just as well – why not try a glittering snowflake, a snowman or a robin. 

Have you got ideas of your own that you'd like to share? Simply comment below.