As the festive season approaches and winter draws near, we often look to past eras for holiday decorating inspiration. For 2026, the ideal reference point comes from the turn of the millennium, courtesy of Sophia Loren. Although the legendary Italian actress is most widely associated with 1960s glamour, her most inspiring Christmas tree idea is surprisingly recent, originating in 2000.
Sophia originally showcased her tree for an auction at the 'Merv Griffin's 7th Annual Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony,' yet its gold, vintage-style design remains striking in 2026. Adorned with delicate porcelain angel figures, like these from Walmart, the tree has a nostalgic aesthetic that feels delightfully charming – proving that an older look can actually be a virtue when done well.
The combination of a classic gold palette and delicate figurines against deep green branches evokes the modern mid-century charm of the 1950s and '60s, yet it looks completely on trend as December arrives. That enduring quality is a true testament to its appeal. I have bookmarked this design as my primary inspiration for my Christmas decor this year, confident it will look just as classic decades from now.
Shop the Look
Sophia may have placed figures around her tree, but I’d take the idea to the top with an angel tree topper. The 12-inch figure wears a fur-trimmed coat and hat, finished with white feathered wings. It has a traditional look that would suit a tree filled with vintage ornaments and collected decorations.
Set of 12 Christmas Angel Ornaments
For a tree that feels a little more curated, I’d scatter these angel ornaments among the branches. The set of 12 has an old-fashioned look that works particularly well alongside vintage baubles, ribbons and other decorations you’ve picked up over the years.
Tiffany Fir Slim Tree With Clear Lights
The appeal of this tree is how little you need to do to make it feel finished. Its 2,000 branch tips create a full silhouette, with realistic needles and warm white lights already woven through the branches. There’s even a built-in outlet at the top for your tree topper.
Gold poinsettias are an easy way to bring a little more depth to a Christmas tree, particularly if you already have metallic ornaments in the mix. I’d place some between the branches alongside white baubles and ribbon, where their slightly more decorative shape can break up a tree filled with round ornaments.
Champagne Gold Christmas Ball Ornaments
Skip the predictable baubles and give the tree a few ornaments with a bit more character. These colorful pieces bring an almost collected feel to the branches, especially when mixed with older decorations, ribbon, and simpler glass ornaments.
Vintage Annual Angel Bell Ornaments
For a tree with a real sense of history, these vintage Goebel angel bells are hard to rival. The set of seven was produced in Germany as part of the brand’s annual Christmas series, with each hand-painted porcelain angel dating from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s.
More than twenty years later, Sophia's tree remains effortlessly captivating. Every detail – from the classic silhouette to the curated ornaments – feels as fresh and elegant for today's winter celebrations as when it was first unveiled.
It's a rare example of festive style that transcends short-lived trends, proving that true glamour and refinement are timeless. Then again, it is Sophia Loren's tree, after all.
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.