Ever walk past a display window and see a Christmas tree that screams “old money” and sophisticated charm?
That, my friend, is likely the magic of the Ralph Lauren Christmas tree aesthetic.
It’s not about one specific tree you can buy, but a curated vibe.
Capturing that warm yet refined lodge atmosphere, reminiscent of an Aspen ski getaway or a chilly winter evening by the fire, is the primary goal.
Let’s examine how to incorporate this effortlessly stylish style into your own house.
First, Understand the Ralph Lauren Vibe
This has nothing to do with flashing lights or vibrant colors.
Consider layers, naturalness, and refinement.
Usually neutral and rich, the color scheme conveys a feeling of timeless history and subdued elegance.
It’s what separates a great cashmere crewneck from a flashy holiday sweater.
Start with a Quality Artificial Tree
A realistic-looking tree is your foundation. Look for one with a mix of pine and fir textures, preferably in a deep green hue.
A high-quality artificial tree provides the perfect canvas for your elegant decor.
- Realistic Artificial Tree: Provides a perfect, lush backdrop every year. Ensures your base is sophisticated and sturdy.
- Tree Stand Skirt: Hides the mechanics and adds to the decor. Choose one in a luxurious fabric, such as velvet or faux fur.
Stick to a Sophisticated Color Palette
The classic Ralph Lauren scheme features a heavy emphasis on burgundy, hunter green, cream, and gold.
Navy and silver can also create a cooler, wintery feel. A restricted color palette is key to this look’s impact. IMO, it’s what makes it feel so expensive.
- Burgundy Velvet Ribbon: Adds instant luxury and depth. Perfect for creating those signature big bows.
- Matte Gold Ornament Set: Provides cohesive shimmer without being flashy. Creates a warm, glowing effect throughout the tree.
Check Out: 23 Festive Small Front Porch Christmas Decor Styles
Invest in Luxury Ribbon and Bows
Forget the cheap, shiny ribbon. You want wide, wired ribbon in velvet, silk, or burlap.
Use this to create large, lush loops and cascading tails throughout the tree before you add any ornaments. This is your tree’s “wow” factor.
- Wired Craft Ribbon: Holds its shape beautifully for professional loops. Makes creating dramatic bows actually achievable.
- Florist Wire: Secures ribbon deep in the branches invisibly. Keeps your elegant drapes from slipping.
Choose Ornaments with Meaning and Texture
Select ornaments that tell a story. Think mercury glass, matte-finish balls, natural wood, and felt.
Mix in classic sporting motifs, such as skiing Santas or tiny sleds, for that authentic touch.
Each piece should feel collected, not just decorative.
- Mercury Glass Ornaments: Catch the light with a vintage, sophisticated sparkle. Add depth and a bit of glamour to the greenery.
- Wooden Ski Ornaments: Nod to the classic Aspen ski lodge vibe. Bring that preppy, sporting feel to life.
Incorporate Natural Elements Everywhere
Weave in picks of pinecones, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, and frosted berries.
These elements bring organic texture and a subtle, festive scent, enhancing the rustic-luxe atmosphere. It’s what makes the tree feel grounded and real.
- Frosted Berry Picks: Add wintery texture and a pop of color. Make the tree look freshly gathered from a frosty meadow.
- Cinnamon Stick Bundles: Provide natural scent and rustic charm. Tie with twine for an extra cozy touch.
Layer in Plenty of Neutral Textures
Add depth with a variety of materials. Combine smooth glass balls with fuzzy felted ornaments, rough-cut wood slices, and metallic accents.
This tactile layering makes the tree incredibly rich and inviting. Your eyes should want to travel across it.
- Felted Wool Ball Ornaments: Introduce soft texture and muted color. They are surprisingly durable and lightweight for branches.
- Burlap Ribbon: Contrasts beautifully with shiny ornaments. Adds that essential rustic, masculine touch.
Use Twinkling White Lights Exclusively
Say no to multi-colored lights. You want only warm white lights, and lots of them.
Weave them deep into the branches to create a glow from within, mimicking the soft light of a winter cabin.
This is non-negotiable for the ambiance:
- Warm White LED Lights: Provide a soft, gentle glow without heat. They are energy-efficient and last for seasons.
- Light Tester: Saves you hours of frustration before decorating. Because a single dead bulb shouldn’t ruin your night.
Add a Statement Tree Topper
Skip the traditional star or angel.
Opt for an oversized, luxurious bow made from your main ribbon, a gathering of dramatic pheasant feathers, or a simple, rustic twig star.
This is the crown jewel of your tree.
- Pheasant Feather Spray: Creates a dramatic, natural, and unique topper. Epitomizes the equestrian and hunting lodge aesthetic.
- Twig Star Tree Topper: Offers a rustic yet modern finishing touch. Complements the natural elements throughout the tree.
Don’t Forget the Emblematic Equestrian Touch
A subtle nod to the Polo player is essential. Look for ornaments featuring horses, foxes, or riding boots.
This is the signature detail that truly anchors the Ralph Lauren theme and makes it authentic.
- Brass Horse Ornament: Adds a classic, preppy emblem to the mix. Feels weighty, valuable, and timeless.
- Fox Figurine Pick: Tucks into branches for a playful, hunting lodge feel. Brings a touch of woodland whimsy.
Create Depth with Varying Ornament Sizes
Start by placing your largest ornaments deep inside the tree to create depth, then layer medium ones throughout, and finish with small accents on the outer tips.
This technique makes the tree look professionally decorated and luxuriously full.
- Jumbo Gold Ball Ornaments: Place these first, near the trunk. They reflect light, making the tree glow from within.
- Miniature Felt Ornaments: Use these as final fillers on branch tips. They add detail without overwhelming the design.
Showcase a Few “Collector” Ornaments
Sprinkle in a few high-end, statement ornaments.
These are the pieces people will notice—a detailed glass horse, a velvet reindeer, a crystal snowflake.
Let these be the stars of the show and build your collection over time.
- Crystal Snowflake Ornaments: Catch and refract light beautifully. Serve as elegant, icy accents among the richer colors.
- Velvet-Covered Ball Ornaments: Introduce supreme softness and luxury. Feel incredibly luxurious to the touch.
Finish with a Luxurious Tree Skirt
Your tree skirt should be as elegant as the tree itself. Choose one in faux sheepskin, rich velvet, or a heavy cable-knit fabric.
It’s the final piece that grounds the entire display, making it feel complete.
- Faux Sheepskin Tree Skirt: Creates an incredibly cozy and luxurious base. Feels amazing underfoot when placing gifts.
- Cable-Knit Fabric Tree Skirt: Adds a quintessential, cozy winter texture. Looks like your favorite holiday sweater.
Step Back and Edit Your Creation
The Ralph Lauren look is curated, not cluttered. Once you think you’re done, take a step back and remove a few ornaments if it feels too busy.
Strategic editing is the final secret to elegance. Sometimes, you have to kill your darlings.
- A Critical Eye: The most essential tool you have. Ensures your tree looks curated, not chaotic.
- Storage Bins: For the ornaments that didn’t make the final cut. Keeps everything organized for next year.
Embrace the Feeling of Timeless Comfort Ralph Lauren Christmas Tree
The primary goal of this style is to create a warm, friendly, and classy atmosphere during the holidays.
It is a timeless sense of well-chosen comfort. Pour yourself a drink, light a fire, and take in your piece.
Making your own Ralph Lauren Christmas tree is a great way to embrace a subtle luxury vibe.
It’s an elegant yet incredibly comfortable style that never goes out of style.
Listen to some timeless holiday music while creating your own masterpiece. Which element do you want to test the most?
