A Ralph Lauren Christmas tree is a holiday centrepiece that borrows from Ralph Lauren’s signature style: classic American heritage, rich textiles, and layered, masculine-leaning elegance. It pairs deep, timeless colours like navy and burgundy with tactile fabrics — think velvet, plaid, tweed — plus equestrian accents and warm, golden lighting. When done right, this style looks curated yet comfortable, luxurious but lived in.
Below I explain exactly what makes a Ralph Lauren Christmas tree different and then give a practical, step-by-step guide to decorating one in your home.
What Is a Ralph Lauren Christmas Tree?
A Ralph Lauren Christmas tree is defined by five clear features:
- A classic colour story. A restrained palette — navy, burgundy, forest green, gold, brown, and ivory — repeated across ribbon, ornaments, and textiles.
- Rich fabrics. Velvet ribbons, tartan plaid, tweed bows, and faux leather ornaments are hallmark elements.
- Equestrian and heritage accents. Small horseshoes, leather straps, brass buckles, and polo motifs nod to Ralph Lauren’s lifestyle roots.
- Layered, thoughtful placement. Ornaments are layered by size and depth for fullness without clutter.
- Warm, inviting lighting. Warm white or soft gold lights create a cozy glow.
People choose this style when they want holiday decor that feels timeless, masculine, and luxe — ideal for lodge-style rooms, wood-paneled studies, and classic living spaces.
How to Decorate a Ralph Lauren Christmas Tree — Step by Step
Follow these steps to create an authentic look in your home.
Step 1 — Pick the Right Colour Palette
Decide on 2–3 main colours and one accent. For a classic tree
- Navy + Gold + Ivory
- Burgundy + Bronze + Cream
- Forest Green + Red + Gold
Keep colours consistent across ribbon, ornaments, and tree skirt for a cohesive look.
Step 2 — Start with a Full, Quality Tree
Choose a full, tall tree with layered branches — real or premium faux. Use warm white LED lights and wrap them from trunk to tip to create depth.
Lighting tip: use around 100 lights per foot of tree height.
Step 3 — Add Rich, Textured Ribbons
Ribbons define the aesthetic. Use velvet, tartan, and leather-trim ribbons.
How to place:
- Start at the top and weave ribbons in loose waves.
- Layer one solid velvet ribbon with one patterned plaid ribbon for depth.
- Keep ribbon width varied but complementary to your tree size.
Step 4 — Choose Ornaments That Match the Mood
Select ornaments that reinforce the palette and texture.
Best options:
- Metallic glass in antique gold or bronze
- Matte burgundy and navy baubles
- Plaid and tartan ornaments
- Equestrian pieces: miniature horseshoes, leather tags, brass buckles
- Crystal cut-glass for subtle sparkle
Place larger ornaments deeper inside the branches, medium ones at mid-depth, and small accents toward the tips.
Step 5 — Add Natural Elements
Natural accents warm the tree and keep it from feeling flat.
Use:
- Pinecones dusted with bronze paint
- Cedar, fir, or eucalyptus picks
- Small bunches of deep red berries
- Dried orange slices for a rustic note
Step 6 — Top It Off with a Sophisticated Topper
Choose a topper that matches the palette: a velvet bow, a plaid fabric bow, or a softly antiqued star. Keep it refined and proportional.
Step 7 — Finish with a Luxury Tree Skirt
A tree skirt ties the look together. Select:
- Plaid or tartan skirts
- Navy or burgundy velvet
- Faux fur or tweed options
Match textures with the tree ribbons for a polished finish.
Styling Tips & Small Details
- Repeat materials: use the same velvet or plaid across ribbon, ornaments, and the tree skirt so the design reads as a single concept.
- Use odd numbers of key ornaments (3, 5, 7) — it looks more natural.
- Balance metallics: mix gold and bronze but keep one dominant.
- Layer lighting: add a few fairy lights under the branches near the trunk for depth.
- Add context: surround the tree with leather-bound books, plaid throws, or brass lamps to amplify the theme.
Quick Checklist to Build Your Tree
- Choose palette (navy/burgundy/green + gold)
- Buy a full, realistic tree
- Add warm white lights (100 lights/foot)
- Layer velvet + plaid ribbons
- Hang mixed metallic, matte, and plaid ornaments
- Tuck in pinecones, berries, and cedar picks
- Add a velvet or plaid topper
- Place a matching tree skirt and style the surrounding area
Following this checklist will give you an unmistakable look that feels elevated but comfortable.
Final Thoughts
A Ralph Lauren Christmas tree is both an aesthetic choice and a mood: classic, warm, and deliberately layered. By choosing a restrained palette, using rich fabrics like velvet and plaid, adding heritage accents, and placing ornaments thoughtfully, you can create a holiday centerpiece that looks luxurious and welcoming. This style suits traditional homes, rustic lodges, and modern spaces that need a masculine, cozy focal point.
Also check our other articles about christmas tree decor.
