8 Modern Christmas Tree Ideas That Are Merry And Bright
Modern holiday decor offers a refreshing departure from typical traditional ornaments (which can be a bit staid and predictable) by combining iconic shapes with unexpected materials and colors. To give your home a festive makeover in true contemporary fashion, look for clean lines, unique color combos, and unexpected flourishes. Feeling inspired to deck the halls? Here are eight modern Christmas tree ideas that are oh-so-merry and bright.
1. Go big or go home.
If you're a sucker for classic holiday decor, but long to put a unique spin on it, consider a modern Christmas tree idea with boho undertones, like this one by Amber Thrane. A restrained color palette of white, glass, and gold keeps the space feeling festive rather than cluttered.
Get the look: Norden 10" Planter, $130
2. Ombre for the win.
Can a modern Christmas tree idea be equal parts naughty and nice? If it features a black and white ombre color palette with curated ornaments, like this one by Little Inspiration, the answer is yes! Plus, color-coordinated gifts keep the look cohesive.
Get the look: Rust-Oleum Universal Matte Farmhouse Black Spray Paint and Primer in One, $5.98
3. Stick to the basics.
Bring home that festive feeling with a Scandinavian-inspired modern Christmas tree idea. Let this minimalist, wood peg beauty from Demelzahill be your guide — it's adorned with just the bare essentials and proves that less really can be more. Complete the scene with a wishbone chair draped in a sheepskin rug to add that cozy hygge vibe.
Get the look: Demelzahill Branch Contemporary Wooden Christmas Tree, $284.27 – $413.49
4. Use all of the lights.
Add dimension and a subtle glow to your abode with this eco-friendly modern Christmas tree idea constructed from plywood and string lights. And bonus: this one is easy to make, even if you don't consider yourself the DIY type.
Get the look: Room Essentials 100 count Outdoor String Lights Clear Mini, $7
5. Stray from red and green.
We love red and green as much as the next person (don't call us Scrooge) but when it comes to modern Christmas tree ideas, take notes from Brady Tolbert and go tonal. His non-conformist pine features twinkly lights and sparse ornaments that perfectly complement his modern decor.
Get the look: Balsam Hill Winter White Ornament Set, $79 – $89
6. Stick with a pared-down palette.
Make it a white Christmas with a monochrome tree bedecked with gold ornaments — we love a statement star topper — for a pared-down look that's equal parts glamorous and approachable. Sarah Sherman Samuel gilds the lily with an abundance of metallic-wrapped gifts that enhance the glam vibe, while a rattan hanging chair adds warmth and texture.
Get the look: The Holiday Aisle Glitter Star Tree Topper, $22.99
7. Put on the glitz.
For a modern Christmas tree idea full of glitz and glamour (that you could make with your kids this summer), take notes from creative guru Kelly of Studio DIY and consider one constructed out of reflective disco balls in varying sizes. Fuchsia- and red-wrapped gifts are an energetic contrast.
Get the look: 4" Silver Glass Mirror Disco Ball (4 pieces), $12.99
8. Make it rustic.
Inspired by Charm shows that a modern Christmas tree idea with the nostalgia of holidays past is possible when you combine timeless ornaments like snowflakes, icicles, and clip-on candles with an edited color palette and a slim-profile tree. The result is pure elegance with a rustic touch. A leather chair and thick-knit blanket enhance the winter wonderland vibe.
Get the look: Balsam Hill Vermont Signature Collection Stratford Spruce $479 – $1,599