Decorate Your Tree in Five Easy Steps

By Southern Living

Take your traditional tree up a notch with these fresh ideas.

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The Color Scheme

Emily Followill

Amp up the classic Christmas palette by adding every shade of green, from chartreuse to moss, with a few well-placed punches of fiery red. Pile on the shimmer with silvery metallics for a bright sparkle and shine.

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The Topper

Emily Followill

Branches of red holly berries (either real or faux) make a grand statement when bundled with florist wire and attached to the top of the tree. The bright shade of red adds a modern pop.

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The Garland

Emily Followill

Combine fresh eucalyptus and other evergreen branches to make your own. Hang ornaments from the end of the banister using lengths of colorful ribbons.

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The Gifts

Emily Followill

Tie on seasonal accents—like silver jingle bells and greenery—with grosgrain or satin ribbon, and scatter packages along the staircase to extend the tree's festive vibe.

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The Trimmings

Emily Followill

At Christmas, more is more! Use three different ribbons (wide, wire-edged ribbons work best) to wind down the tree alongside the ornament garland for a showstopping effect.

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