Carole Middleton’s ‘Anti-Showroom’ Christmas Tree is a Masterclass in Heirloom Charm – and 2026’s Most Soulful Holiday Look
The tree serves as proof that the most enchanting decorations are the ones that are delightfully, perfectly imperfect
There is something refreshing about a Christmas tree that hasn't been decorated to match a particular color scheme, especially when that tree belongs to Carole Middleton.
In an archival photograph, she is reaching up to place a silver wire star on top of an evergreen. Its branches are covered in multicolored lights and an eclectic mix of ornaments, including a carved red heart and simple glass baubles. The combination gives the tree its character. It feels personal, with decorations brought out and hung up every Christmas rather than bought to create a particular look.
In recent years, Christmas trees have taken on increasingly specific looks, from pared-back neutral decorations to elaborate, color-coordinated displays. Carole's tree reminds us there's no need to stick to one palette. Its mix of colors, shapes, and decorations makes for a much more individual display.
The most personal part of decorating this way is that you can bring out the same decorations year after year, picking up a new bauble or two along the way without rethinking the whole tree.
To get Carole's look, start with a similar wooden heart (like this one from Etsy), then layer your tree with the pieces you love the most.
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Carole Middleton's carved red heart adds a traditional touch to her Christmas tree, and this wooden version has the same appeal. Its detailed carving and simple red ribbon give it a timeless look that works beyond the festive season (we're looking at Valentines).
Carole Middleton finishes her tree with a classic star, and this one looks very similar. I love the idea of pairing it with wooden ornaments for a tree that feels endlessly traditonal. It's truly a must-have.
This elf ornament is similar to the one on Carole Middleton's tree and would look lovely tucked between the branches. It's made from lightweight resin, is easy to hang, and its traditional design makes it a nice addition to any Christmas arrangement.
This artificial tree makes Christmas decorating easier. Its full, lifelike branches and built-in lights mean you don't have to spend hours arranging lights yourself, and it still gives you a lovely festive centerpiece without the upkeep of a real tree.
This garland is a nice option if you prefer a more natural look for Christmas decorating. Drape it over the tree, along a staircase, or across the mantel for a little extra texture without adding too much color or decoration.
If you prefer a simpler look, this tree topper is a lovely choice. Its classic design won't compete with the decorations on your tree, and it's the kind of piece you'll be happy to bring out every Christmas.
'Christmas decor trends evolve every year, but our approach has always been to look beyond the short-lived trends and identify the colors, details, and ideas that are exciting yet timeless and that we believe people will genuinely want to bring into their homes,' says Amy Thorley, Head of Buying at Floralsilk.
However, you don't need to decorate with antiques or heirlooms to get the look. These pieces are often souvenirs you pick up on vacation, or decorations passed down through your family, and they can all have a place on the tree. They're often the pieces you'll look forward to unpacking next Christmas again.
'There's something wonderfully reassuring about traditional Christmas decorating,' says Kirsty Gaunt, Head of Marketing at Floralsilk. 'We see trends change every season, but people continually come back to those elements that create an emotional connection to Christmas: beautiful reds and greens, berries, bells, ribbons, and a really fabulous tree.'
Traditional decorations have remained popular for a reason. Red and green, glass baubles, ribbons, and familiar ornaments are still some of the nicest ways to dress a Christmas tree. You don't need a complicated decorating scheme or for every decoration to match.
If you're decorating your own tree this year, follow Carole's lead and use what you already adore. Mix older decorations with new finds, embrace the multicolored lights if that's what you've always used, and don't worry about perfection. The decorations you've owned for years might just be the ones that make your tree feel most like Christmas.
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