The 'honeycomb' paper tree crept into the holiday scene the way good design trends always do – slowly, then all at once.
You probably first saw this Christmas decor idea as small, sculptural accents folded accordion-style, sitting neatly on mantels or consoles from modern, slightly contrarian brands like West Elm. Then came last Christmas, when the design-obsessed corner of the internet collectively decided that wasn’t enough. The trees grew – literally – scaling up to six, even seven feet tall. Now, in 2025, you're out of the loop entirely if you don't have one standing in your living room. The question is: could paper really dethrone pine?
According to the flood of home-fluencer videos featuring the Christmas tree idea (yes, already in early November), the answer seems to be absolutely. ‘I think it’s a beautiful evolution of a nostalgic idea,’ says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. ‘The honeycomb design brings a tactile, sculptural quality that feels fresh yet comfortingly familiar. There’s something joyful about the way it unfolds into shape, almost like origami meets holiday tradition. It’s approachable, sustainable, and whimsical in the best way.’
They’re also, frankly, a lot more practical. A paper tree doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s not trying to pass for a $4,000 fir, nor does it shed or demand storage the size of a coffin. These fold flat like fans, slip under a bed, and reappear next year just as crisp.
‘I love the honeycomb paper tree trend,’ says interior designer Elizabeth Vergara of Vergara Homes. ‘They photograph well, look stylish, make decor accessible, and are an easily storable option to other trees. They bring a fun yet sophisticated energy into a space. They look high-class, but the fact that they’re paper gives off a crafty feel that’s more homey.’
Fortunately for fans, the paper Christmas tree trend has graduated from the design with a capital 'D' corners of the internet to big-box ubiquity. You’ll find versions from Holiday Time (Walmart), Northlight Seasonal (Target, Wayfair), and even Nordstrom – a far cry from last year’s seemingly influencer-only drops. Suddenly, any reservations about the quality of a suspiciously affordable, avant-garde accordion Christmas tree the size of a sixth grader have vanished. They really are that good.
‘I’d pair them with simple materials that echo their geometry, such as woven baskets, felt garlands, or twinkling fairy lights,’ says Nina. ‘They’re striking enough to stand alone in an entryway or beside a console, but they also layer beautifully among greenery or metallic accents. The key is to let their shape breathe so their texture remains the star.’
As for the Christmas tree trend's staying power, opinions split. Nina thinks they’re here to stay – a modern classic in the making – while Elizabeth calls it ‘a fleeting TikTok moment.’ She adds, ‘I think some people will keep using them over the years, but it won’t be deemed a “classic.”’
Still, at these price points, is that really so bad? A few good years of joy – and the smug satisfaction of knowing your decor is smarter, chicer, and easier to store than your neighbor’s – feels like a fair shake. Shop six honeycomb trees that just might convince you to take the paper route this season.
For something softer, this cream (flirting with butter yellow) offers a more refined spin on the look. Available in four- and seven-foot versions, consider creating a monochrome cluster.
Northlight Seasonal, one of the heavy hitters driving this Christmas decor trend, builds its honeycomb trees with discreet magnetic fastenings that keep them perfectly in place for a display that’s sturdier (and more party-, pet-, and toddler-proof) than their delicate folds might suggest.
For those with a sweet tooth, this punchy patterned pick pairs best with red bows, white linens, cream cushions, and candy-striped everything.
We’re having a white Christmas indeed with this sharply cut, snow-hued style from Walmart. At under $40, it’s an elegant way to trial the trend.
This look is already unexpected, so why not double down in black? Holiday Time's soft, sinuous silhouette tempers the dramatic tone.
Cherry red has never felt more at home. At three feet tall, this style delivers a full dose of festive energy in a petite frame, offering a haute holiday hit for that underdressed corner.
For the festive few who like to color outside the gift box, the options go far beyond fir. Paper, tinsel, stacked books, even sculptural logs – there’s an alternative Christmas tree idea for every kind of aesthete. And if, after all that, you find yourself craving tradition, the thoughtfully bridled, tartan-clad ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ trend might be your cue to come home to classic.
