When asked to picture a traditional Christmas setting, eclectic ornaments, rich colors, and hundreds of fairy lights will likely come to mind. This year, however, celebrities are keeping things notably more pared-back.
Victoria Beckham is the latest in a series of figures (including the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Michelle Pfeiffer) who have shared their Christmas trees – both of which lack traditonal ornaments on their branches. Victoria Beckham's is the most minimalist we've seen to date.
A product of designer Rose Uniacke's genius, the natural tree is almost entirely naked. Nothing but subtle string lights that bring a faint glow to Beckham's London store – reminding us that we don't need to overdress our tree to create a luxurious (but nonetheless festive) scene this Christmas. It perfects the luxury-minimalist trend at a time when maximalism often reigns supreme – and with an endorsement from Beckham, this look just got even more fashionable.
Shop the look
This pre-lit tree offers an instant Beckham look without any fuss at all. It has 2,000 branch tips with realistic green PVC and PE pine needles for a lush, cashmere feel that feels completely natural. Place it in your room exactly as it is to tap into the same, pared-back aesthetic.
These subtle yet clear Christmas lights are an understated solution to a Christmas classic. Unlike the brighter (or more colorful) alternatives, they offer a soft twinkle that doesn't demand attention in your space – much like the ones in Beckham's store.
Nothing says Scandi minimalism like intricate wooden ornaments that last a lifetime. This merry band of nutcrackers has been crafted using natural wood for an organic finish that will impress year after year.
Who says you need a Christmas tree to get the minimalist look? These faux winterberry stems (in a vase that's versatile enough to be used all year) are perfect for bringing a subtle festive look to smaller rooms, especially an entryway or atop your dining table.
This boho garland, measuring 12 feet in length, offers an alternative way to experiment with sustainable Scandi-style design over Christmas. It can be wrapped around your tree for a rustic display that feels both minimalist and sophisticated.
Arguably the most minimalist Christmas lights on the market, we love the fact that these LED icicles vary in size and length. The variation adds depth and dimension to your indoor Christmas lighting ideas, perfect for the mantle beside an ultra-pared-back tree.
In Beckham's case, she has chosen to avoid all ornaments; however, following her example doesn't necessarily mean you need to forgo your favorite pieces. Rather, design experts say the trend signals a movement towards more thoughtful and well-curated sustainable Christmas decor – all with a higher emphasis on quality.
'We have officially entered an era of minimalism because we've all realized we don’t need more stuff, just high-quality stuff,' comments Lauren Riddei, the founder of Haus Holistics. But why exactly is this look trending? Firstly, as Riddei explains, we're seeing an increased desire for quality craftsmanship, meaning consumers want to know who made their decor – was it a local artist, or is it vintage?
'Secondly, people are more intentional with thoughtful spending (how crafty can we get this year? What do we already have in our storage closets? It's more fun, too!),' Riddei says. 'Similarly, there's an increase in sustainability, health, and well-being,' meaning people prefer natural materials, such as wood, instead of plastic decor (notoriously often associated with this time of the year).
'I personally just finished wrapping up what I call a "compostable" Christmas tree where all decorations I sourced can be sustainably composted back into our garden,' Riddei adds.
'I sourced an old tablecloth made of 100% cotton from a second-hand store and cut it up into romantic bows. I dried lemon and grapefruit slices and simply tied them with string. It's natural, carefree and beautiful! And an added bonus? It's good for people and the planet.' It's impossible to go wrong with this look; we just need to remember to be mindful of the objects we hang and prioritize the ornaments that make us happiest – even if it's just one.
