The 1980s were the decade of maximalism. Think bold, bright colors, and excessive ornamentation. It was the decade to break away from tradition and embrace color, and creativity. Unlike in the previous decades, the '80s rang in a materialistic yet playful statement. For me, 'more is more' sums up the decade perfectly.
Fast forward, 40 years, and Christmas tree trends have become more grounded, neutral, and coordinated. So it was with gleeful surprise to see actors Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern show off this boldly-decorated Christmas tree. Minimalist Christmas decorating enthusiasts look away now.
The intoxicating arrangement of colorful ornaments and twinkling lights brought back cherished memories from the early '90s (the '80s never left our home), and suddenly, just like that, I was back in my childhood home circa 1993.
According to Martha Stewart, the popular Arts and Crafts movement paved the way for an eclectic style during the holidays. Family Christmas trees were oftentimes decorated with mismatched designs and colors – tinsel, colored fairy lights, and glass all combined to spectacular effect.
Trees simply lit with warm-white lights can err on the unimaginative side. Instead, throw the decorating rule book out of the window and go bold, brave, and just a tad daring this festive season.
If similar to Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern, you feel like taking a more irreverent stance this Christmas, try padding out the tree with as many decorations as the branches will withstand, using an array of different colors. It will bring an unmistakable air of cheeriness to the living room.
Having a Christmas tree theme for your tree helps to create a coherent look – and while it’s good to keep up with trends, the most important thing is to make sure it’s true to your individual style and suited to your home.
Shop the colorful Christmas tree edit
While Christmas 2023 might be a mere memory for most of us in 48 hours, now is arguably the best time to shop for Christmas decorations for the following year, especially if you are on a strict budget. Here is a curated selection of our favorites that are still available to shop.
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Should you choose your paint color or your furniture first? Trust me, there is a right order if you want a cohesive schemeDesign has no strict formulas. Nevertheless, there is a sensible and a not-so-sensible order to approaching designing a room – we ask the experts what comes first, paint color or furniture choice?
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The ultimate summer barbecue menu – stylish, seasonal, and so easyFrom our home-made rub and our best-ever grilled lamb to our smoky lapsang souchong ice cream and whisky cocktail, we can help you get your summer barbecue party started
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Reese Witherspoon upgrades her dressing room with this unexpected accent piece – and you can get the look beyond your closetReese's orange accent chair is bold yet versatile, adding just the right pop of color to her otherwise neutral dressing room
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I never thought this daring print could feel tasteful, until Reese Witherspoon's sofa immediately changed my mind
When used intentionally, this print can feel utterly timeless, and designers reassure that success is easier than I always thought
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The wicker sofa in Reese Witherspoon's sunroom is the perfect patio piece for summer 2025 – it brings the quiet luxury look outdoorsI found the answer to my patio furniture woes in Reese's mint-green sunroom – and following her example begins at under $100
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Inside Reese Witherspoon's property portfolio – including an English-style Bel Air manor and an elegant Nashville home
The Legally Blonde actress hails from New Orleans, but her real estate collection spans the country, from Bel Air to Tennessee
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I wanted to organize my bookcase in a way that would start a debate among guests – Reese Witherspoon's bold shelves are my blueprintReese's bookshelves master this controversial design ideology – everyone I know has a strong opinion on whether I should follow her example
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Reese Witherspoon and Martha Stewart's gray-green kitchen cabinets are decades apart, but they both perfect this modern color trendMartha Stewart and Reese Witherspoon have both opted for gray-green kitchen cabinets, which are as versatile as they are trend-forward for 2025
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Reese Witherspoon upgraded a small corner into a cozy reading nook – designers say you can replicate her 'ultimate little escape' (from $18)'It’s all about comfort, calm, and just the right amount of cozy': You only need three things to follow Reese's example – and it's not only for book lovers
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This Reese Witherspoon-approved spring table setting makes the case for a more is more floral mix – let it be your blueprint for spring hosting
The actress's spring tablescape features a floral tablecloth, printed vases, and fresh-cut flowers in a range of colors, for bold results
