The holidays are about time spent with family, traditions, and joy – and Christmas tree decor should reflect that. Though perfectly coordinated, minimalist trees have gained popularity in recent years, many kitsch enthusiasts are quietly rebelling. Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan have joined their ranks.
An Instagram post from Tracy showcases the Christmas tree in the couple's Manhattan apartment, alive with lights and personal ornaments. Rather than being carefully curated, Michael and Tracy's ornaments look collected over time. It features glass-blown animal figurines (like this fox glass ornament from Anthropologie), homemade felt pieces, and pretty fabric people. The kitschy and nostalgic look is full of personality and warmth.
As we enter the holiday decorating season, Michael and Tracy's Christmas decor stands as the antithesis to overly curated minimalist schemes. It's a reminder that sometimes the least planned option is the most stylish.
Furthermore, this characterful approach to Christmas decor is emerging as a major decorating trend for this year. David Sumner, Design Expert at Christmas Tree World explains: 'For years, Christmas decorating was all about perfectly coordinated color schemes. But this year, decorators are embracing trees with a little more history. The heirloom tree celebrates family traditions, handmade ornaments, travel souvenirs, childhood decorations, and those slightly random baubles that come out of storage every December. Every decoration tells a story, and every branch holds a memory.'
The best nostalgic Christmas trees are collected over years, with a few new ornaments added to the tree each season. If you're searching for the latest piece to add warmth to your design, these are our editors' top picks.
A hand-painted monogram feels so much more personal than a standard ornament. This one has a timeless look that makes it easy to mix with your favorite decorations, adding classic tones to a nostalgic Christmas tree.
Have you ever seen anything cuter than this needle-felted barista mouse ornament? Its so sweet and I love that the wooly texture adds a touch of unexpected material to the Christmas tree.
Glass Floral Wreath Christmas Tree Ornament
Bring some playful energy to your Christmas tree with this ornament from John Derrian's holiday line. Complete with vibrant flowers and colorful baubles, this wreath is a fun, festive pick, and it's even adorned with a '2026' charm at its top.
Boxed Vintage Milky Ornaments, Set of 5
These vintage-inspired ornaments are absolutely gorgeous, with a multi-colored, multi-shape style. Spread them on your tree throughout true vintage pieces for a unique feel.
The Bridge Collection Glass Golden Lucky Horseshoe Ornament
Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan's Christmas tree features a horseshoe ornament and this glass version is such an elevated version. Pieces like this that point to a hobby are ideal for creating the sense that your tree was collected over time.
I love the idea of filling the tree with little reminders of the people and moments that make Christmas special. This braided brass frame has a lovely vintage feel, with space for a favorite photo that makes it all the more meaningful.
So, what's the best way to get Michael and Tracy's look? First, look into what you already have rather than buying something new.
'This year’s trees will feel curated rather than coordinated,' says Josh Branigan, a Furniture and Home Interiors Expert at home furniture retailer bedkingdom. 'Instead of buying a full set of matching baubles, people are building up decorations they’ll treasure year after year, mixing family heirlooms, vintage finds and handmade pieces with a few new additions.'
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Kitsch and color is a huge part of what makes Michael and Tracy's Christmas tree feel magical. Bringing in this brightness and whimsy is the best way to replicate this effect.
'On the tree, layer novelty shapes, glitter and clashing patterns so there’s something to spot on every branch. Then carry the look through the rest of your home with colourful lights, bright throws and cushions, and a few playful decorations on shelves and mantelpieces. If you’d prefer a calmer scheme, go all out in one room and keep the rest simple.'
In 2026, chic Christmas decor isn't about reinventing the wheel. It's about playing on the things we already love that make the season special.
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