An Upside-Down Christmas Tree Is the Ultimate Statement-Making Holiday Trend

Every year, many people anticipate the day they can break out their holiday décor and begin decking the halls. From garland-wrapped banisters to window wreaths, these traditions are what make the holiday season so beloved. But sometimes, even our favorite Christmas decorations lose their luster when you've seen them year after year. If you're ready for a change, go big with an upside-down Christmas tree. Learn from our experts how to pull off this statement-making trend.

History of the Upside-Down Christmas Tree

While upside-down Christmas trees have experienced a resurgence in popularity, the inverted style has been around for centuries. In fact, upside-down trees date back to the 1500s in Eastern Europe, where they were once considered a symbol of Christianity. "It has historical and religious symbolism, as some believe it represents the Holy Trinity," says Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. European Christians would decorate their upside-down trees with fruit, nuts, and sweets wrapped in paper.

Modern Upside-Down Christmas Trees

Today, upside-down Christmas trees are hung as a creative alternative to the traditional upright position. The trend has even been featured in various hotel lobbies. In 2016, London's Tate Britain museum suspended an upside-down Christmas tree from the ceiling by its gold-painted roots. In 2017, the late Karl Lagerfeld re-envisioned the trend when he decorated Claridge's Hotel's famous lobby tree. The glittering evergreen was bedecked in everything from tinsel to a star-shaped tree-topper.

Beyond hotel lobbies, upside-down Christmas trees are also displayed in homes during the holiday season. "It's a unique and attention-grabbing way to display your holiday decorations, and it can save floor space, making it practical for smaller homes or those with curious pets," says Kelly.

How to Hang an Upside-Down Christmas Tree

While an inverted tree offers a fun twist on the traditional holiday décor, the question remains: How do you hang an upside-down Christmas tree? Robert Cottone, founder of RC Inc., a luxury floral design and installation company, has the answer.

1. Choose a lightweight or artificial tree.
2. Tie wire around the center of the tree.
3. Extend the wire so it's long enough to reach the trunk of the tree.
4. Tie the wire around a small, flat piece of wood so it's flush with the base of the trunk.
5. Drill the piece of wood into your ceiling.
   

Alternatively, there are specialized trees or mounting systems designed for hanging your tree upside-down.

How to Hang Lights on an Upside-Down Christmas Tree

Once you have your tree mounted, you can add lights. "To hang lights on an upside-down Christmas tree, start at the top and work your way down, wrapping the lights around the branches," says Kelly. "Use light clips or ornament hooks to secure the lights to the branches. Ensure the cords are safely secured and not dangling to prevent accidents."

How to Decorate an Upside Down Christmas Tree

Of course, it's not a Christmas tree without some personalized ornaments. "I like to use small pieces of floral bind wire to tie each ornament on the branch so there is no risk of falling off," says Cottone. As for the types of decorations to hang, lightweight and shatterproof options are ideal to avoid wearing down the installation, says Liz Curtis, founder of Table + Teaspoon, who notes that buffalo-check ribbon, leather, and tulle are all great décor options. When adding your ornaments, start with larger ornaments at the bottom and gradually use smaller ones as you move up, says Kelly. "Decorate the top with a beautiful tree topper or an eye-catching ornament," she adds.

Where to Put Presents Around an Upside-Down Christmas Tree

This part is simple—place presents wherever feels right for you and your family. "Presents around an upside-down Christmas tree can be placed on the floor, beneath the tree, or on a nearby table," says Kelly. "Some people prefer placing gifts in a circle around the base, while others simply arrange them in a traditional fashion. The choice depends on personal preference and available space."