Years Later, Katie Holmes’ Vintage Christmas Tree Still Shines Bright – A Masterclass in Nostalgic Holiday Design That Never Goes Out of Style

From retro baubles to warm twinkle lights, Katie’s tree captures everything we love about a classic Christmas

katie holmes on a neutral background
(Image credit: Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images via Getty Images)

As a lover of the Holidays, I'm secretly pleased that Halloween has now passed, as it means I can begin planning for Christmas. From shopping for gifts to prepping for the all-important feast, I love everything about the build-up to the big day, but one thing that I can always rely on to get me into the festive spirit is decorating my Christmas tree.

Like every year, November is when I start looking for Christmas tree inspiration. Deciding on my tree's scheme is a big decision, but after seeing Katie Holmes' throwback snap of a past tree in her home, I'm now set on embracing the vintage Christmas decor trend.

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Katie's tree is decked out in vintage ornaments that add to its lived-in, timeless feel. Luckily, I've found some rather similar alternatives that feel just as retro and kitschy (in the best way possible).

Proven with Katie's tree, the secret to decorating a Christmas tree successfully is not skimping on ornaments. Hers is covered with timeless accessories that feel charmingly nostalgic and so fitting for the holiday season.

Ann Couser Kittredge of Dabbling and Decorating explains, 'First, that post of Katie and her tree is a bit telling in itself. Retro and vintage Christmas decorations flood us with memories of our youth or days gone by. She's laughing and decorating a "simple" Christmas tree with what feels right to her. There's no caption or messaging on her post; the post speaks for itself, including the old Pottery Barn hutch in the background (I also had one)... It's a throwback to simpler, happier times.'

To recreate the look, Ann suggests, 'By collecting assortments of vintage Christmas tree ornaments at flea markets and thrift shops. They are plentiful these days and very affordable too. I would also repurpose my mother's Christmas ornament collections for that nostalgic look that Katie is enjoying in her photo.'


What I love about Katie's tree is its familiar, lived-in feel. Decorated with classic vintage ornaments, it's nostalgic without feeling kitsch, making it the ultimate way to style a tree, even years on.

Eleanor Richardson
Interior Design News Editor

I am the Interior Design News Editor at Homes and Gardens, covering mainly US-based designers and trending news stories. My love for interiors began when I interned in an interior design studio, working on commercial and private spaces. My passion grew while working in production, where I sourced beautiful locations for photoshoots and campaigns. Outside of work, I enjoy collecting antique decor and mid-century furniture for my home.

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