You’ve finally got your tree looking decent. The lights are twinkling, the baubles are hung, and you’ve even managed to distribute the tinsel without it clumping in one spot.
Then you reach for the topper, pop it on, and… something’s off. It’s either too gaudy, too small, or looks like it belongs on someone else’s tree entirely.
Choosing the right tree topper isn’t rocket science, but it does matter more than you’d think. That final flourish sets the tone for your entire tree, and getting it wrong can make all your hard work feel a bit rubbish. So, ready to crown your tree properly? Here’s how.
Match Your Topper to Your Tree’s Theme
Your tree topper isn’t just another ornament—it’s the full stop that finishes your festive masterpiece.
If you’ve gone for a rustic vibe with wooden ornaments and dried orange slices, a glittery plastic Santa probably isn’t going to cut it. Instead, think of using natural materials. A twig star wrapped in twine, or a simple burlap bow, should do.
They blend in beautifully with pinecones and kraft paper decorations, adding charm without stealing the spotlight.
If you prefer something more traditional, a classic angel or silver star works brilliantly with glass baubles and tinsel. They’ve got that timeless quality that never feels dated, no matter how many trends come and go.
For those who’ve embraced maximalism, like bold colours or mismatched ornaments, go wild with your topper choice. A bright elf, a quirky animal, or even something completely unexpected can tie together an eclectic tree beautifully.
The key is colour coordination. If your tree leans heavily into golds and creams, a topper with similar tones will feel cohesive. If it clashes too much, it’ll stick out like a sore thumb, no matter how lovely it is on its own.
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Consider the Size and Proportion
Here’s where many people go wrong. A topper that’s too large can overwhelm a modest tree, while one that’s too small simply gets lost among the branches.
For a 1.8 m tree, aim for a topper around 10–15 cm tall; for trees over 2.1 m, 20–25 cm usually works without making it look top-heavy. The shape of your tree also matters. Slim, pencil-style trees will need a simple star or a minimal design, while fuller trees can carry something more substantial, like an angel or a generous bow with cascading ribbons.
Always hold your chosen Christmas Tree Topper for your UK home against the tree before buying. Trust your instincts. If it looks odd in the shop, it’ll feel the same at home.
Professional tree moving services across the UK can help transport your fully decorated tree safely, so you don’t have to worry about it toppling over mid-move.
Pick Materials That Last
The material you pick for your tree topper affects how it looks and how long it will last. Here are three options you could choose:
Plastic toppers
These are the workhorses of the Christmas decoration world. They’re lightweight, shatterproof, and perfect if you’ve got children or pets who view your tree as an adventure playground.
They certainly won’t win awards for being elegant, but they’ll survive being dropped, knocked, or accidentally sat on by the cat. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, which matters when you’re kitting out an entire tree.
Glass toppers
They bring proper sophistication, catch the light beautifully, and add a touch of luxury to any tree. The downside, though, is they’re fragile. One clumsy moment whilst decorating, and you’re sweeping up glittering shards instead of admiring your handiwork.
If you’ve got a tree in a quiet corner away from traffic, glass is lovely. In a busy family home, maybe not.
Fabric toppers
Fabric toppers, often bows or soft, sculpted designs, are wonderfully versatile. Many are handmade, giving them a unique charm you won’t get from mass-produced options.
They may not last forever, but they’re easy to swap out when you want a fresh look. They’re perfect for anyone who enjoys updating their decorations without committing to something permanent.
Think About Lighting
Some tree toppers come with built-in lights, which can create a stunning effect when done right. LED lights are ideal—they stay cool, which is important for a dry tree, use little energy, and last for years.
Make sure any illuminated topper has a long enough cord to reach a socket safely without creating a trip hazard.
Battery-operated toppers offer more flexibility in placement, though you’ll need to remember to switch them off each night or use rechargeable batteries. No one wants their topper glowing away all day and draining power.
If your topper isn’t lit, you can still make it sparkle by carefully weaving a few strands of fairy lights around it. This adds a magical glow without committing to a pre-lit model.
Add a Personal Touch
Store-bought toppers are convenient, but nothing beats the charm of a homemade creation. Family photos can be turned into a star-shaped frame topper, letting your tree tell your family’s story.
Children’s artwork, wonky stars or lopsided angels, brings a playful, heartfelt touch that shop-bought decorations simply can’t match.
For crafty types, fabric or felt stars and angels are easy to make. Personalise them with initials, important dates, or small meaningful symbols to create keepsakes that grow more precious each year.
Natural materials add warmth and character, too. Pinecones gathered on autumn walks can be wired into a circular wreath topper, filling your tree with a subtle, earthy scent. Dried flowers, seed pods, and twigs all work beautifully for a rustic, eco-friendly finish.
The real beauty of homemade toppers isn’t perfection. It’s the memories and meaning behind them. Plus, making decorations together can become a treasured family tradition, one that children will remember long after they’ve grown.
Conclusion
Well done for making it this far. You’re now equipped to crown your Christmas tree like an absolute professional.
The right topper ties everything together, turning your tree from merely “done” into a true festive centrepiece. Whether you opt for classic elegance, a quirky statement, or a completely DIY creation, pick something that brings a smile every time you see it.
After all, you’ll be gazing at that topper for weeks, so make it count.
