Interiors:
Whether you go for an artificial or real tree, choose baubles that bring lots of festive joy to your home at Christmas
Best Christmas decorations
When it comes to Christmas trees, baubles and toppers, it might not feel like major changes happen from year to year.
But what we can definitely count on is more variety. Consider artificial trees a decade ago – they pale in comparison to what’s on offer currently. I’m not one to recommend buying a new tree more often than necessary, but I do have one requirement for Christmas decorations: bringing them out of storage must bring you joy.
If you have a Christmas tree with limbs that droop at the mere suggestion of more than one bauble, it might be time for an upgrade. Or if what would really make you happy is a pink Christmas tree, consider adding that to your wish list this year. Pulling your boxes of Christmas decorations out of the attic or hall press is something you should look forward to each year.
Our family stands firmly in the real Christmas tree camp, trekking out to Wicklow each year to cut one down, but artificial ones are giving real trees a run for their money – and they’re more lifelike than ever.
Baubles, of course, are an easy and relatively inexpensive way to add a little extra zip to your tree, whether it’s freshly cut or freshly plugged into the socket.
If you’re just starting your bauble collection, I advise considering two categories. First, get a set of baubles that will fill space and give your tree life while you build your collection over the years. Second, buy a handful of ornaments that are special and you really enjoy displaying every year.
They don’t have to be serious – the options are endless nowadays, with llamas, hamburgers and peacocks all in abundance in most shops. Choose baubles you’ll be happy to pull out every year, or perhaps that hold meaning for your family, from a trip destination or with one of your children’s photos.
Finally, every tree needs a topper, the pièce de résistance that you can add once all the decorating is complete. Something a little glittery, which adds a little extra sparkle to your tree, is always a good idea.