When it comes to decorating my tree, I’m a bit of a traditionalist. I like to bring out the same decorations year after year. But each new festive season, I do add a few new pieces to my collection to refresh the theme slightly, and Shea McGee has just provided all the inspiration I needed to choose this year’s new style.
Shea has revealed her four Christmas tree looks, designed to inspire the undecided (a.k.a. me). From French country to cozy classic, her tree designs for 2025 nail some of the biggest trends of the season – and recreating them at home couldn’t be easier. Here, I’ve broken down each look and included all of Shea’s recommendations so you can shop them too.
1. French Country
Decorated with dried hydrangeas and plenty of vintage-style ornaments, the first look that Shea presents is the 'French Country' themed tree. Inspired by trees of the past, it's a refreshingly elegant display, featuring an array of pale blues, creams, and golds.
Shea says, 'I'm going to show you how to style four distinct tree looks today. The first is my favorite tree this year. I have old magazine tears from the '90s of these French country trees with dried hydrangeas, and I wanted to do that in a new way this year.'
Using the 9" Norway Spruce Pre-Lit Faux Tree as her tree of choice, Shea covers it in French-style Christmas decor, from golden pears to blue and white china ornaments.
These powder blue baubles are irresistibly charming. Scatter them around your tree for subtle pops of color and texture.
Give your tree some shine with the Gilded Pear Ornament. Reminiscent of vintage styles, they'll make a timeless addition to any tree.
Inspired by antique ceramics, these blue and white ginger jars are irresistibly charming and will give your tree some all-important lived-in charm.
2. Heirloom Family
Shea's second tree is undeniably nostalgic. Featuring a mix of ornaments and a striking color palette, it's a real feast for the eyes. While such an array of decorations could be chaotic in theory, the color palette connects the pieces and ensures the scheme doesn't overwhelm the space.
Shea says, 'In the study, we did our Heirloom family tree. The palette is reds, blues, and an eclectic mix of ornaments. I love this because anything goes, but we bring it all together with a unified palette on the ribbons.'
Shea covers the 9" Snowy Grandis Fir Pre-Lit Faux Tree in strikingly whimsical accessories as well as more traditional metallic ornaments, perfectly balancing old with new.
Delicate and timeless, fill this metallic laurel ornament with your favorite family photograph. You'll want to bring it out every Christmas.
No tree is complete without its skirt. This embroidered style is charmingly rustic and nods back to nostalgic holidays of the past.
Striking and bold, these whimsical striped baubles are oh-so retro in the best possible way. Pair them with gold accents for a balanced look.
3. Classic
Embracing timeless Christmas decorating ideas, Shea covers the 9' Grandis Fir Pre-Lit Faux Tree in an array of classic ornaments, from heritage-style bows to garlands of dried citrus.
Shea explains, 'This is our classic Christmas tree look. I say classic because we went really heavy with the red, green, and gold. We've done a few different garlands, we added the citrus and then mixed in this red berry that has a gold leaf surrounding it.'
Shea mixes red, green, and orange tones, creating a vibrant yet classic tree that feels familiar and still elevated. You'll notice all the typical Christmas motifs and more; the longer you gaze at it, the more it unfolds.
Bold yet classic, this striped threaded bauble is uniquely special. Finished in a deep green and mustard, it'll give your tree some color without going overboard.
Shea uses this dried citrus garland on the 'classic' Christmas tree look. It contrasts against the green foliage and evokes a wintery feel.
Covered in gold leaves and berries, this dainty garland is a no-brainer buy that will bring elegance and festivity to any area it's placed in.
4. Magical Wonderland
Last but by no means least is the 'Magical Wonderland' tree, inspired by nostalgic Christmases from our childhood. Featuring whimsical ornaments and striking colors, it's a fun take on tradition.
Shea says, 'And we can't forget the kids. We created something playful and full of wonders: our magical wonderland tree, for all those special ornaments your kids make and bring home.'
Shea uses the 7' Snowy Grandis Fir Pre-Lit Faux Tree as part of her display. Featuring delicately frosted branches, it's the perfect backdrop for the bold pops of color and kitschy decorations that catch the light.
Kitschy and fun, these adorable glass candy ornaments are nostalgic and charming. Scatter them with other edible ornaments for a feast for the eyes.
Inspired by vintage designs, this delicate snowman ornament feels familiar and sentimental. Pair it with red baubles for a cohesive look.
Bows are a Christmas staple. While ribbons can feel a little overdone, this brass topper is sophisticated and elegant and still provides that all-important heritage feel.
Shea McGee has covered all bases with her four Christmas tree looks. From charming nostalgia to enduringly elegant French country, no matter which one you choose, creating a memorable and uplifting display couldn't be easier with so much inspiration.
