The idea of a completely decked-out, full-kitsch Christmas tree is a romantic ideal, but is it always practical? For those of us with dogs or children, ornaments along the bottom branches sound more like a recipe for broken glass on the floor than a hallmark of beautiful design. Tan France demonstrates exactly how to 'kid-proof' your tree, while still creating a stylish impact.
The fashion designer took to Instagram to share the Christmas tree idea in his Tudor-style dream home in Salt Lake City, and it's a combination of stunning and practical. The tree has a traditional feel, with red, silver, and gold ornaments snaking up to the crown-shaped tree topper. However, the bottom bit of the tree is empty besides white Christmas lights and gold garland (like this fluffy one from Amazon).
In the caption, Tan explains: 'Ignore the empty bottom third of the tree. The kids can’t handle ornaments at arms reach. It’s too tempting for them🙄.'
However, I honestly don't think I would've noticed that the bottom half of the tree was empty if Tan hadn't mentioned it because his look is a masterclass in traditional Christmas decor ideas. So, how does he achieve this balance?
First, Tan creates continuity by bringing the lights and tinsel all the way down the tree, even though the ornaments don't continue. He is is also sure to create a striking balance of ornamentation and empty space, so the contrast does not appear too stark on the undressed portion.
Recreate Tan's Look At Home
Luckily, Tan's look is well within all of our grasps. Here are a few editors picks of decor to get you started with recreating his classic style.
Red and gold, holiday classics for centuries, bring instant festive elegance to any tree, just as Tan France demonstrates. This set of 100 ornaments suits both grand entryways and cozy, timeless living spaces, and you'll enjoy bringing them out year after year.
This pre-lit tree delivers an effortlessly glamorous holiday look without the effort. Featuring 2,000 branch tips crafted from realistic PVC and PE pine needles, it offers a lush, cashmere-like texture that feels completely natural. Perfect for the living room, it instantly creates a sophisticated, festive statement.
This set of 12 glass ornaments brings classic holiday style to any tree, featuring traditional designs like Santa, snowmen, stars, and angels. Each piece is finished in rich red, gold, and green tones with shimmering accents for a vintage-inspired glow.
Simple yet striking, these silver star-shaped ornaments bring a touch of celestial charm to your tree. Crafted from metal with a glittery fabric cord, they catch the light beautifully.
Add a touch of playfulness with this charming plaid bear ornament. Crafted from cotton and iron and suspended from a simple jute string, it brings cozy, homespun character to the tree.
Rich velvet and tailored tie closures make this tree skirt an instant classic. Its soft taupe hue pairs effortlessly with any festive palette, while the rich hue grounds your holiday scheme with warmth.
Though design is a worthwhile pursuit, sometimes, practicality has to take the lead. However, with thoughtful decor, when it comes to Christmas, you don't have to compromise.
