Christmas Tree Skirt vs. Tree Collar: Which is Right for You?

The base of your Christmas tree is more than just a place to set presents; it’s the foundation of your holiday decor. The right tree base can tie your entire festive display together, while a less-than-ideal one can leave your tree looking unfinished. When choosing a base, the primary decision often comes down to a classic Christmas tree skirt vs. a tree collar. Both options serve the same purpose—to conceal the tree stand and add a decorative touch—but they do so with very different aesthetics and practical features.

Whether you prefer a traditional, cozy look or a modern, streamlined feel, understanding the key differences between a tree skirt vs. a tree collar is crucial. The best choice for your home depends on your personal style, the type of tree you have, and a few practical considerations.

Everything You Need to Know About Tree Skirts

A Christmas tree skirt is a decorative piece of fabric that lays flat on the floor around the base of your tree. It's the traditional choice for holiday decorating and has been a staple for generations. The primary function of a tree skirt is to hide the unsightly stand and catch any fallen needles or debris, helping to keep your space clean.

Tree skirts come in a wide variety of materials and designs to match any decor theme. You can find simple, solid-colored skirts for a subtle look, or intricate designs with festive patterns, embroidery, or whimsical motifs. Popular materials include plush velvet, soft felt, faux fur for a cozy feel, or burlap for rustic charm. For a personal touch, you can even find crochet tree skirt patterns to make your own.

How to Measure for a Tree Skirt

To get the right fit, you should choose a tree skirt that is at least six inches wider than the full width of your tree at its lowest branches. For example, if your tree is 54 inches wide, a 60-inch tree skirt would be ideal. The Christmas tree skirt with a hole in the middle is split from the outside edge to the center, allowing it to easily wrap around the tree stand.

Tree skirts provide a soft, welcoming backdrop for gifts and can be easily switched out from year to year to change up your decor.

Find inspiration for your entire setup in our full collection of artificial Christmas trees.

Answering Your Questions About Tree Collars

A Christmas tree collar is a newer, more contemporary alternative to a skirt. Unlike fabric skirts that lay flat, a collar is a structured piece that wraps around the tree's base, creating a clean, polished, and sophisticated look. Collars are typically made from more durable materials like metal, wood, wicker, or even plastic. A wicker collar can add a rustic, organic feel, while a galvanized metal one provides an industrial chic edge.

A tree collar also provides a cleaner aesthetic, as it creates a firm boundary at the base of the tree and can prevent pets and children from accessing the tree stand. Many collars come in multiple hinged or segmented pieces that latch together, making them easy to assemble and store.

What Size Tree Collar Do I Need?

Sizing a tree collar is straightforward. For most artificial trees, the collar should be wide enough to fit around the tree stand. As a general guide, collars with a diameter up to 29 inches are typically recommended for trees under 7 feet tall, while larger collars (34 inches or more) are better for trees up to 12 feet.

Do You Use a Tree Skirt with a Tree Collar?

The short answer is no; a tree collar is designed to be a standalone alternative that conceals the stand on its own. However, some people choose to use a skirt and collar together, either to add a layer of texture or to cover a gap between the collar and the floor.

Can You Use a Tree Collar with a Real Tree?

Yes, tree collars are suitable for both artificial and real trees. For a real tree, you simply need to ensure the collar is wide enough to accommodate the tree stand and that you can still access the stand to water the tree.

Skirt vs. Collar: Which is Better for Your Home?

The choice between a tree skirt and a tree collar depends on the aesthetic you want to create and your home's unique needs. Here is a direct comparison to help you decide.

Styling Your Tree: The Final Look

No matter which option you choose, the right base will elevate your tree's entire look. For a classic feel, match the color of your tree skirt to your ornaments, or choose a complementary pattern like plaid or cable knit. For a more modern vibe, a tree collar in a neutral tone like white, galvanized silver, or natural wood can create a striking contrast against green foliage.

If you’re a fan of DIY projects, there are many ways to make your own tree base. You can sew a custom tree skirt from your favorite fabric, or try a simple project like making a collar from a galvanized metal bucket or wooden crates for a rustic farmhouse look.

Ready to find the perfect tree to go with your new base? Take our quiz to find your ideal tree and start building your perfect holiday setup today!