Ask Joshua: What Is a Christmas Tree Collar, and Do You Need One?

Hi Joshua,

This holiday season, I’ve noticed many stores selling Christmas tree collars. I’ve always used a traditional tree skirt, so I don’t understand the purpose of a collar. They seem rather bulky to me.

What does a Christmas tree collar do, and is there any advantage to using one instead of a tree skirt?

Thank you,

Samantha - Vancouver, Washington

AI rendering of a Christmas tree styled with a modern wood collar by virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

Hi Samantha,

A Christmas tree collar is a decorative cover designed to conceal the tree stand and give the base of the tree a cleaner, more structured appearance. It serves a similar visual purpose to a tree skirt, but the two create very different looks.

Tree collars are generally made from rigid or woven materials such as metal, wood, wicker, rattan, or fabric-covered panels. They can work especially well in contemporary, Scandinavian, modern farmhouse, bohemian, and transitional interiors because they create a tailored finish without fabric spreading across the floor.

They can also be practical in homes with pets or young children because they won’t shift, wrinkle, or get pulled out of place as easily as a fabric skirt. However, a collar is decorative and should not be treated as a safety barrier. The tree still needs to be properly secured, and children and pets should be supervised around it.

Before purchasing a Christmas tree collar, measure both the width and height of your tree stand. The collar needs to be wide enough to fit around the stand without pressing against it. If you have a live tree, make sure you can still reach the water reservoir easily. Hinged or multi-panel collars are often more convenient because they can be assembled around the tree after it is standing.

A traditional tree skirt may still be the better option if you prefer a softer, more classic holiday look. Skirts are also easier to store and can help protect the floor or collect some of the needles that fall from a live tree. Tree collars tend to require more storage space and may not fit every stand.

Ultimately, neither option is necessarily better. It depends on the look you prefer, the size of your tree stand, and how you use the room. If you want the base of your tree to feel clean and structured, a collar could be a great choice. If you enjoy a softer, layered appearance, continue using a tree skirt.

I’ve gathered several stylish Christmas tree collars in different materials and finishes below to help you find one that complements your holiday decor.

Shop Christmas Tree Collars

Warmly,

Joshua

Have interior design related questions? You can ask Joshua here.

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